So I finally caved and bought a used Nikon D3500 off a friend because I really want to start taking photos of my golden retriever, Cooper. He is super fast and my phone camera just cant keep up with him at the park. I am so excited to learn but honestly the lens that came with the camera is kinda confusing me? Like I dont know if I need something else or what. I am totally new to this so sorry if this is a super basic question but I have no idea what to look for.
Here is what I am working with:
- Budget is around 150-200 bucks max since I just spent a bunch on the body.
- Need something that works for outdoor dog photos and maybe some casual travel shots.
- Really just want something that makes the background look blurry because those photos look so pro.
Are there any cheap lenses that actually make a difference for a beginner? I see people talking about prime lenses but I dont really get the difference between those and the zoom ones. Does anyone have a specific model number I should search for on eBay or something? I really dont want to waste money on the wrong thing...
Building on the earlier suggestion, honestly, I used to chase those blurry shots with the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G but found the focus motor struggling when my pup moved fast. It was honestly kinda frustrating when I missed the shot.
- Try the Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di LD Macro 1:2 for park days.
- Its way cheaper than Nikon glass.
- Focus is okay for the price. Just dont expect perfection, ya know?
Congrats on the new camera! I started with a D3400 and honestly getting that blurry background was my biggest goal too. You definitely need to look for a prime lens. Unlike the zoom lens that came with your kit, a prime lens doesnt zoom in and out but it lets in way more light which makes the background melt away. It is honestly magical for dog photos. You have to try the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G. It fits perfectly in your budget if you snag a used copy on eBay. Since Cooper is fast, just set your shutter speed high and keep that lens wide open. It made such a massive difference for me when I was first starting out. You are going to love it!
To add to the point above: honestly, primes are cool but dont discount the utility of a fast telephoto zoom for a dog like Cooper. If he is running, fixed focal lengths can be a nightmare to frame. In my experience, you should look for some third-party glass from brands like Tamron or Sigma.
- Look for a decent variable aperture telephoto
- Check for quick autofocus motors
- Prioritize sharpness over just background blur