boatdetective's reviews

  • Tokina 12-24mm f/4 AT-X 124 AF PRO DX SD

    9 out of 10 points and recommended
    build quality, price
    focus motor, optical short comings

    This lens is a compromise- but a fine one at that. I appreciate the fine construction and smooth operation- it's not like other plasticy third party lenses. Yes, there is some distortion, but it's not objectionable. the range of 18-36mm is pretty darned useful- so i'm willing to sacrifice a little in order to get perfect framing. In the end, the reasonable price really seals the deal. I would recommend this lens highly

    reviewed November 21st, 2006

  • Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED VR DX AF-S Nikkor

    7 out of 10 points and recommended
    Range, optics, VR!
    Creeeeeep

    This is a great evry day lens. I have it mounted on a D80 and have to say it takes the vast majority of my shots. The longer reach combined with the VR is a great boon. The VR absolutely works. I'd say it's good for at least three stops. As for construction, there's a definite price you pay for VR & compact, and it is spelled c-r-e-e-p. Man, what a pain. The lens will not hold its zoom position at all if tilted down.

    Well- Here I am several years later and I'm just sick of this lens. It just doesn't seem to focus any more and the creep is worse. I've changed my review as I can't honestly recommend somethingthat won't hold up.

    reviewed November 21st, 2006

  • Nikon 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5D AF Nikkor

    8 out of 10 points and recommended
    Nice range, surprisingly good optics
    poor macro

    For the money, this is a great little lens. I had it on my F100 and used it daily- never a flinch. The supposed 1:2 macro feature is a total waste of time. Buy a micro Nikkor if you want decent macro ability. The construction quality of the lens is very light weight & plastic. However, it never gave me any problems. There are many great deals out there on older nikkor glass for you film buffs. However, if you want n every day lens that will cover most subjects with decent optical quality- go no further.

    reviewed November 21st, 2006

  • Olympus 60mm f/2.8 M.Zuiko Digital ED

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Light, compact, sharp
    AF at max magnification iffy

    Truly excellent macro- and I've been shooting forensic stuff for over 20 years. This is a very, very light lens compared to my Nikon 105 and doesn't give up anything in performance. You have to get used to the unky switch on the side, which allows you to get all the way down to 1:1. However, it's not bad. At this magnification, you must switch the camera over to manual focus (typical of any critical macro work). Once you get the hang of it, you'll find this lens very impressive indeed.

    reviewed October 23rd, 2012 (purchased for $600)

  • Olympus 12-45mm f/4 Pro M.Zuiko Digital ED

    7 out of 10 points and not recommended
    Light and compact
    macro only at extreme wide angle loss of speed is noticeable

    I picked this lens up to see if it would be able to substitute for my trusty 12-40 2.8. It doesn't. The "macro" rating is a cheat. As the lens must be at 12 in order to get anywhere close focus, you are virtually touching the subject. In short- this is a cheat. The loss of lens speed absolutely is noticeable. While the compact size is very handy, you sacrifice quite a bit. Honestly, if I want a replacement for my 12-40, the old 12-50 will do in a pinch and has a very useable macro feature.

    reviewed November 2nd, 2022