Optional telephoto lens: Am I mistaken?
313569
your query is vague but I reply as I can: FZ18 has 18x zoom lens built in and does not require another lens to operate, but you can add a telephoto extension lens or teleconverter to it, which usually come in 1.7x, 2x or 3.2x ratios, giving you 30x, 36x or 58x zoom combined; there are also wide angle extenders because the built in zoom lens extends outwards, most extension lenses require an extension tube to fit onto the camera; the tube has female threads for the lens on one end and male threads for the camera on the other; maybe you are missing this tube with high zoom focusing on a small object far away, the camera receives little light energy on its sensor, and usually need a long exposure time, making it susceptible to hand shake; it need to be held steady during the shot; in bright conditions, holding the camera against the eye, because you use the viewfinder rather than lcd screen, helps to steady it, but it is safest to put the camera on a tripod hope this helps
1041573
Are you comparing it to the lens without VR. I work for Nikon and the price was actually the same price I get with my employee discount and it didn't include the extra filters. I used the lens on my d3100 to get some incredible shots of the lunar eclipse
1367140
I bought both the Vivitar wide angle and the telephoto. I use them with my PadCaster to change the focal length of the iPad. I have been satisfied with both lenses, especially given the price. I have suggested to PadCaster that they design a turret so I can mount both lenses and easily switch between them. No response from them. (They are not Carl Zeiss, Canon, or Nikon quality, but they work for me.)
537007
Thanks, Tech. Funny that teleconverters are available for so many other size lenses but not this one. I could have lived with a 1.4x. Like you said, I'll have to live with what I've got... until I can pony up $1500+ for Canon's 100-400mm zoom.I guess I'd better plan on having a good number of 8mb and 16mb cards with me and shoot JPEG and RAW so I can seriously crop and/or enlarge the best shots (which will be many if the weather is good). I want some 20" x 30" or 24" x 36" posters from what I'm shooting. A telecoverter would have helped.
351594
Speed of lens/allows more light in therefore can take pics in low light situation without a flash
335127
No, there's a tele zoom in it's accesories buy I don't recommend it, if you want to play with lenses buy a DSLR, they're pricier but it's worth it.
1254979
N8TE - Thanks for the advice. I will look into the AF-S (especially the 70-300 VR) but it's good to know my old lens is still an option.
672482
I think my question is what do you define as need. My "need" was for a travel lens for a trip to Europe so I would not have to switch lenses for distance. Took over 3000 pictures with it with no issues except some errors in picture composition by the photographer. If your need is a versatile travel lens that gives you closeup and distance capabilities at a lower price point. Then this is the lens for you.
1999602
Briefly, yes. The quality of the lens is good and therefore it can yield a good image. As you know, the telephoto lens will draw the background closer and that aspect can promote an interesting perspective (relationship between foreground and background). Ideally, you are best disposed to go into the field with both a telephoto and a wide angle lens. Enjoy the lens. While not an 'L' series lens this "glass" will give you pleasing and sharp images. Hope this helps.
1915106
Correct; you unscrew the smaller lens to access the macro lens. These lenses are garbage, but to get the desired effect you have to be right on top of the subject you want the picture of.
2257567
no you will need a lens but a canon 18-55 is pretty reasonable. I've even got a few laying around at school, but I can't sell them. I only tell you that because they are ubiquitous and, therefore, inexpensive.
322289
Lens no problem, don't know the size of the teleconverter, but likely the answer is yes to both flash an everything else. To be honest, I hardly use it as instead went wit ha backpack and one of these "sling" bags as felt it was a more practical way to carry the stuff around
1326797
No. This is a Microscope attachment, not a telephoto lens attachment. There are telephoto lens attachments, but ensure you read the full description to ensure you are getting what you need.
1987174
I am very sorry Pat since I bought this as a gift fro my friend. I am afraid of I am not able to answer your question correctly. All I know my friend who is a professional photographer was so thrilled when he got it. He thought he was getting a lens. Eddie
1699820
It is not a must. But L lens in general have better IQ and better build than non-L lens. I have EF-S lens, EF zoom lens, EF prime lens and L lens. And the L lens is way better than all my other lens.
405
Thanks everyone for your help. You've explained a lot and it really helps. After your explanations, I looked at my past photos. I'm thinking that maybe the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 will fill my needs. Thanks again.
392884
OK, well here are my thoughts on the kit lens. It is lighter, so for backpacking orhiking it could be a really good thing. As you say, it is only an extra $75 or so,so there isn't much wrong with having it along with a truly fine lens, unless $75makes or breaks your budget. Get the kit lens AND as many other lenses asyou can justify.