Jun 21 2009
nikon camera lens do i really need to pay more for Vibration Reduction?
tomtom
should i really pay more for .Vibration Reduction in a lens for a nikon camera?
Please comment!
4 Responses to “nikon camera lens do i really need to pay more for Vibration Reduction?”
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Depends on the lens.
It’s very handy on your standard primary and budget zoom. If you use both/either as your general walk around lenses the VR is a real bonus. You can do without, BUT it’s useful if you’re the sort that likes to take his camera everywhere and likes to shoot alot.
However, higher end non VR lenses produce sharper images than many VR lenses. Better glass, faster focusing, etc.
Though for a walk around lens VR is highly recommended.
No, unless then lens you want only comes in the VR model.
The best VR or IS compensation is done in the lens … any other scheme is a compromise. Actually the 55-200 mm VR lens is not that much … $200. Actually the VR version of the 400 mm f/2.8 and 600 mm f/4 cost less than the non-VR versions. The perception is the customer is paying more for this feature. Probably not. They are just part of the design of certain lenses.
Vr is a fairly new innovation on cameras ( in the large scheme that is ). So no you don’t. VR will let you use a slower shutter speed handheld with the same length lens. If you are not using VR use the reciprocal of the lens focal length as your slowest handheld speed ( eg 200 mm lens 1/250 sec slowest shutter speed) or use a tripod or monopod when you are slower.
If you are just starting out in photography, the VR option really is useful. When I first started with my Nikon, I couldn’t get clear photos in low light with a low shutter speed. I regretted not getting the VR lens. However, now that I have more experience and practice, I have adjusted and feel as though it’s not imperative for good photos.
My advise: if it’s the first camera and lens you are getting, opt for the VR option. It will make a difference and take some frustration out of taking pics. If you’ve been taking pictures for a while, and can hold your camera steady or have a tripod, you shouldn’t need to pay extra for the VR. Photogs from the past didn’t need it!