D70s with DX lens kit from B&H?

[Photo-John]

I was wondering if you were going to be shooting at the track. Now I have to suggest that you also post on the sports forum. We've got some very good track photographers there. I actually used to do a lot of motorcycle roadracing photography. The first lens I bought was a Canon 300mm f/4L. For motorosports, your lenses can never be good enough. It's one of the most demanding types of photography you can do. Franglais mentioned that the long lens you're considering has a reputation for slow auto focus. That's a recipe for some serious frustration at the track. Auto focus speed and accuracy are critical for motorsports photography.

Now I'm not sure what to tell you to do. It might be best for you to skip th telephoto altogether, work on learning to use the camera and taking good pictures, and then buy a good lens when you have the money. I would be very concerned that you will be let down and frustrated with the kit lens. The only way you'll really be able to get good photos with is is by prefocusing and timing your shots well. Since you're in Lincoln, I'm guessing the track you'll be at most is Thunder Hill. You can shoot corners with short lenses. But for the long shots you want at least a 200mm. The lens I'd recommend costs more than the whole kit you're considering, the Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8 AF-S VR: http://www.photographyreview.com/cat...6_3128crx.aspx

As an alternative you might consider the Sigma equivalent. It gets very good reviews on this site.

[BMWJNKY]

My problem is that I'm on a budget and this kit is all I can really afford right now. I look at like this, this kit is going to be a huge upgrade from CoolPix 775 and get me started in DSLR's. The tracks I usually go to are Laguna Seca and Sears Point. Thunderhill is nice but unless I'm racing it isn't much fun to go there. But I only go to the races a couple times a year and at this point spending more than $1200 on a lens just isn't in the cards for me. The majority of use this camera will see is going to be outdoor still life.