Originally posted by anthropas Hi everyone,
1. Our 1st baby is due in November, (half the reason for this purchase!) I want great baby shots with natural light and if flash is needed, would want bounce only. Should I get a fast lens or buy an outboard flash?
2. I enjoy macro photography, but don't have any experience with a real macro rig other than my p&s. This could be bought later as it's not as big of a priority.
Since I can put a macro lens on hold for a bit, I guess I'm looking at a standard zoom lense correct? I guess I'd rather get a quality one from the start but the 16-45mm isn't that fast and I like taking natural light pictures. Can you guys give me some suggestions? I know I could just buy a 50mm prime, but I think a zoom would be so much more practical. Should I get a zoom & a macro lens for portrats and macro work? I heard they're good for portraits. What are your thoughts on that idea? Can you recommend some lenses to research? I'm open to any ideas!
You do not specify a budget. If you can afford it, the soon-to-be-released Pentax DA* 16-50mm f2.8 would be ideal for the baby pictures. It is faster than the DA 16-45mm f4 so it will be better for available light use. And the SDM motor will be quick and quiet when focusing. It should be out in August or September.
While you wait for the DA* to be released, pick up a Pentax D-FA 100mm f2.8 Macro and have some fun taking macro shots! The 100mm will be a nice compliment to the DA* 16-50mm: it will work well as a long portrait lens and for general telephoto use when the 16-50 is too short. And with an f2.8 maximum aperture, it is also reasonably fast for available light use. The Sigma 70mm Macro lens is another option, and the 70mm focal length is more suitable for portrait work. I think it is also an f2.8 lens, and it's a bit cheaper than the Pentax D-FA 100mm Macro. But the 100mm lens is better for insect shots since it has a greater working distance, and those little critters start to move when you get too close.