Nikon. If you can't afford the zoom, look into an 85 1.8 and 180 1.8. They are both excellent. Or maybe an in between like the 135.

Larry's right on this one. Buying less expensive glass is almost always a mistake - something I've discovered the hard way. Save your money and buy the good stuff.

If you absolutely must have it now, the Nikon primes are not only less expensive, but they're actually better lenses than the zooms. If new isn't possible, try used. eBay can get you good results, but you're generally better off going to your local camera shop - they'll often have used glass and you can judge the condition for yourself by looking at it and even trying it on your camera body before purchase. Most local shops will let you return it if you discover problems soon after purchase too.

And finally, if you really wish to go with the non-Nikon option, I've had pretty good luck with the Sigma lenses. When I was a kid, they were sturdy and usable lenses and I still own several. I don't have any experience with the Tokina lenses.

OK, good advise to save and get the best. However as an amateur, I'm drawn to zooms because of their flexibility. I can't always get into the right position, but can zoom in to catch that moment.

How does the Nikon 70-200 f2.8 with VR rate? Additionally, for more flexibility (he's such an amateur) is it suicide to use a 1.4 or 2X converter. I know I am negating the speed of the 2.8 but would it better or worse than my sigma 50-500 f4-6.3 bigma?

Thanks, I appreciate your advise.

The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is legendary as one of the best lenses ever, and I can't believe that the quality of a similar Nikon product would be much different. I know what you mean about zooms too - I currently use the Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM as my everyday lens. In fact, I hardly ever take this lens off the camera since it gives me such a useful zoom range and has the advantage of Image Stabilization.

Though I can't speak for the Nikon equipment, the general sentiment with the Canon stuff seems to be that the 1.4x TeleConverter is good and the 2x is serviceable.

Thanks Chip, (or is it Doc?)

Then it's settled, I'll start saving and shopping for the Nikon. Like you, I bought the Nikon 18-200 VR and have not regretted it.

Why didn't someone tell me this was going to be so expensive and time consuming before I got started?

Bruce