Nikon D60 Lens suggestion? Help!

[Daremo]

Hey guys,

I just picked up a Nikon D60, and I'm looking to use it to shoot group portraits, like bands, or 4 and 6 people. Something between torso to head, and full body shots, being able to clearly frame everyone. Also, some close-up portrait shots.

Is there a lens that will allow me to shoot in this range, and also use it for general use, and relatively inexpensive? (under $200)

I was thinking of the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization Lens, but please tell me if you have a better suggestion.

Thanks!

[88888888]

35mm f/1.8g

[AlexH]

I'd go with the Nikon 50mm f/1.8D lens. It's nice and fast, really sharp, and I think you can work comfortably with 50mm. It should allow you to get 4-6 people in a shot (depending on space), and will give you really nice close-up portraits.

I like the way the 35mm f/1.8 lens sounds, and wouldn't mind getting one, but I'd still go with the 50mm f/1.8. It fits your budget nicely too, as it can be had for well under $200 (more like $75-80 used, and $100-120 new).

[zflauaus]

Just be aware that the 50mm f/1.8D lens does NOT autofocus with the D60 body as the D60 doesn't have an internal motor.

[AlexH]

Just be aware that the 50mm f/1.8D lens does NOT autofocus with the D60 body as the D60 doesn't have an internal motor.
You know what dude, I completely forgot about that! That's definately something to consider when making your final choice! Now I'm leaning towards the 35mm for the autofocus... :D

[Daremo]

So, the 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR won't be decent for what I'm looking for? Forgive my ignorance, I'm pretty much a beginner with a camera like this.

So what would the 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR be good for?

[svndmvn]

The wider the aperture,the smaller the number(1.8 vs 3.5 in the 18 end and 5.6 in the 55mm end) the more light you get in your shots. I also believe primes have better quality than zooms and are usually faster. Autofocus would be important and I agree a 35mm 1.8 would do the job brilliantly. The other lens is probably more of a general purpose, kinda ideal for shooting both landscapes/cityscapes and some portraits but with good lighting, I suppose. I advise you to check out on flickr some pools with these lenses checking out the metadata as well.
PS with a wide aperture I think VR would be of no help/ not needed.

[leighonigar]

Shooting six people in a group would be fairly tricky in an average room with the 50mm, I'm not sure you would be able to get far enough back. You're a bit better off with the 35mm. Personally I'd be tempted to go for the general lens (as it's cheap) and a flash - say the SB400 or 600.

[Daremo]

Thanks so much guys! You've all been a great help to me. I'll grab the 18-55mm for my general outdoor type shooting, and I will be picking up the 35mm f/1.8g next month when it's available for the portrait stuff, and see how that goes.

Thanks again for all the great info!