Originally posted by Photomom2 Can you make a recommendation on a telephoto lens for my k3?
As noted by @ehrwien, there are quite a few options for your K-3, depending on your purpose, budget, and desired optical quality.
The basic choice is between a
zoom lens (a lens with a range of focal lengths) or a
prime lens (a single focal length). In general, zoom lenses are more versatile, while prime lenses can give better image quality. Certain lenses are compact and lightweight, while others -- such as the D FA* 70-200 -- are relatively heavy and big.
Some of your choices could include (current online prices at B&H Photo Video):
Pentax DA 50-200mm WR, USD $200.
Pentax DA 55-300mm PLM, USD $400.
Tamron 70-200mm, $800.
Pentax DA* ('DA-star') 50-135mm, $800.
Pentax DA* 300mm, $1100
Pentax HD D FA* 70-200, $1800
Pentax HD FA 150-450mm, $2000.
There are also other possibilities at various prices.
Personally, on my K-3 II, my main telephoto lenses are the DA* 300mm and DA* 50-135mm. Both are excellent.
If you could mention what you would like to use the telephoto for, that would help to narrow the options.
- Craig
PS. Welcome to Pentax Forums!