Newbie would like advice on a new (ish) lens

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jockodiounto

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mark leeming
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Hello all,
I am very new to the world of photography and am currently using a Konica Minolta Dynax 5d in order to learn skills before deciding whether this hobby is for me or not. I do know that this is quite an old camera but I am impressed with the photos I have been able to take and the usability.
The only lens I have is the stock lens that was with the camera (AF DT 18-70). I am interested in taking detailed photos of the moon or close up photos but I know that the current lens I have won't give me the level of detail I am looking.
Can anyone recommend me a telephoto type lens that will get me in good and close?
As far as I know the fitting is an A-mount and I also realise I will likely need to buy second hand or refurb which I am happy to do as I don't want to spend a lot of money until I am sure photography is for me.

Any thoughts or recommendations will be gratefully received for this.
Many thanks
Mark
 
If looking for things relating to the Minolta / Sony A-Mount it's worth looking at a site called 'Dyxum', which is dedicated to A-Mount and E-Mount cameras and lenses, and has a wealth of information on them.

As regards cheap lenses, you can probably pick up a Sony 75-300, Tamron 70-300 or Sigma 70-300 fairly cheaply, but these were all 'budget' lenses, which is reflected in the image quality to some extent.
The next step up in quality would be the Sony 70-300G or Tamron 70-300 USD, then up again with the Sony 70-400G (though these look to be ~£900 on ebay, so not that cheap!).

With your 5d you don't have much scope for cropping the images in post, so getting good shots of the moon on a budget may be tricky, I'm afraid.
 
Okay cool - thanks for the response and the honest feedback on moon possibilities.
Cheers
 
Even with the latest bang up to date super cameras and lenses ,you will find the moon a very hard subject to get right ,personally I would lower your sights a bit and look at more everyday items around you .cars,buildings ,people etc
 
Moon requires a long focal length if you want a close up of it. A 70-300 would be a minimum, but thats a useful focal length to have. Its not a high megapixel camera so you can't crop much.

Close up of small objects nearby would require a macro type of lens, or a lens adaptor such as a Raynox 250.
 
Check out a Minolta 100-300 apo, there a very good lens as the reviews on Dynux will tell you, I have one and its a great lens which can be picked up for £50-£100. Here is a moonshot taken with one on a Sony A580.
Moon-1.jpg by R Hillman, on Flickr
 
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