Nikon 55-200mm lens
 

I just bought a D3100 body with the standard lens that comes with it. I would like to also buy a telephoto lens for the camera. I have read online info but would like to hear from the local group on here.

Is this a simple cut and dry just get the Nikon 55-200mm lens? I am new to the photog world and this is a side hobby that I really hope to grow into. Any thoughts on what your would get. I guess I am at the experimental stage of the camera and cant wit for the sun and clear nights to enjoy it.

Any comments would be appreciated.

If you are new to photography, focus on learning the functions and how to handle the camera. Why do you think you need a telephoto lens at the moment. For most people, the 18-55mm range is suitable for just about anything, unless shooting lots of sports and wildlife.
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Honestly, I would just get the camera body and buy a prime lens. If you really want to go into photography, rather than just a slight upgrade from the usual point and shoot photography, prime lenses can do wonders.

I guess zoom lenses might be fun to play with at first (say, if you want to use it to shoot events where you can't get up close, 55-200 might be useful), but eventually you will want to look into the the prime lenses. the prime lenses give best bokeh (blurs in background) when you plan in the future to take nice, artistic pictures :)

I bought the camera with the zoom lenses but now my zoom lenses are just lying around used as paperweight LOL. I'm using the prime lenses a lot more.

Pick up the 35mm 1.8.

I have the 55-200 and honestly, I barely use it

Perfect decision made. I am going to focus more on the camera and the lens that came with it. Learn more about the features, setting etc.

Thanks for the help and excellent information.