Camera Labs

I need a telephoto/macro lens for my Sony a300.

I have been looking on these,

Tamron 70-300mm http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/4 ... Di_LD.html

Tamron 18-200mm http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/3 ... Di_II.html

I don't know if i should take both or just one of them.
Money are not so important.

PLS HELP!

_________________
Victor
Nikon D300 - Nikkor 16-85 VR - Nikkor 70-200 2.8 VR I
www.victorhoffmann.com

I own the Tamron 70-300mm myself. It hasn't really left my camera since i've gotten it.

Here are the good and bad points that I see.

Pro's

-Very affortable lens
-offers 1:2 macro mode
-long 300mm range

Con's

- The auto focus can be a bit slow
-At 300mm, it has noticable camera shake (unless shooting at a fast shutter speed or mounted on a tripod)
-You must be at least a meter away from your subject or AF wont work.

Overall I've become very reliant on this lens. The image quality is pretty good and i've found ways to combat its flaws such as manual focusing, AF on area before moving subjects get there etc.

I reccomend this lens if you need a cheaper solution for a telephoto.

The 18-200mm has been a valued range by photographers. Pentax and many other companies offer a 18-200mm kit lens. The better part of having a range from 18-200mm is that you wouldnt have to switch lenses if you wanted a wider angle shot.

_________________
Flickr
Model Mayhem
Facebook

Your compairing two totally separate focal lengths.. DO you want WIDEANGLE to a mid telephoto? or do you want a short tele to a longer telephoto?

Do you need the 18mm or the 70mm?



Cheers

_________________
"If I want a 'snapshot'... i will use my phone.."

My Photos:
http://mistycreek.deviantart.com/

The lens you should choose depends on your need. Normal kit lenses are 18-55mm or so. So, if you have another lens with focal length greater that the one you already have, it makes more sense.

If you are interested more in wildlife and bird photography, than you must go for the 70-300mm one.

If you want an all-purpose mid-telephoto lens that you can use for everyday purposes, the 18-200 is an excellent choice, though it is usually the more expensive of the two!