Honestly I'm so done with this 18-55mm kit lens that came with my D5300. I was taking some shots at a local park here in Seattle yesterday and looking at them on my computer later just made me want to cry lol. Everything is just... soft? Like there's no detail at all even when I think I nailed the focus. I really need something sharper but I'm on a super tight budget since rent just went up again so I can't spend more than $150 or maybe $200 tops if I find a good deal on ebay. Does anyone know what the best budget glass is for these older DX bodies that wont break the bank? I just want my photos to actually look crisp for once...
Man, i totally get the kit lens struggle. Those things are basically paperweights once you actually want to see some detail. I had the same issue with my first setup and it drove me crazy... honestly if you want sharp and cheap you gotta go with a prime lens. Zooming is convenient but that's why your photos look like mush right now. I would suggest looking at these two specifically because they are super sharp for the price:
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G
- This is basically the gold standard for DX shooters. It is wide enough for street stuff but tight enough for portraits. You can find these used for like $120 all day long.
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G
- If you like doing headshots or more artistic close-ups, this one is a beast. Be careful tho when you are browsing eBay or whatever. Make sure the lens says AF-S and not just AF or AF-D. Since your D5300 doesnt have a focus motor in the body, those older lenses wont autofocus for you. I made that mistake early on and it was such a headache... basically ruined half my shots trying to focus by hand. Also, maybe check out places like MPB or KEH instead of just random sellers on eBay. They usually give a short warranty so you dont end up with a lens that has fungus or a stuck aperture. Prices there are usually right in your $150 range too, so it wont break the bank even with the rent hike.
