Hi there Nikon-aholics There has been much discussion about how does a person justify the purchase of this item over that item. I'd like to offer a thought or two. Now I'm not trying to start a flame war, this is only my opinion and everyone has one of those. I can see two possible scenarios; 1) photography is a hobby, 2) photography is your business. When you do something as a hobby do you REALLY have to justify the cost? If you like a particular item more than another, regardless of cost (provided you can afford both) why try and explain away why you want the more expensive item? As a hobby you take photographs for pleasure, so you may as well have the equipment that gives you pleasure from the beginning. The pleasure of owning a Nikon accessory over a brand X accessory is justification in itself or vice-versa if you prefer brand X. Why do you have to justify it? On the other hand, a professional does have to justify the cost of an item. Will it make the pictures taken with it more saleable? Can the cost be covered by charging it to a client who MUST have THAT shot and only THIS item will do it? Do I NEED an F5 with AF-S lenses to take pictures on the weekend? No, probably not. But the enjoyment I get from them out weighs the cost factor (to me at least). I suppose you could say that this is justification in itself. So why do I have AF-S lenses made by Nikon? Because I want them! I offer this suggestion, if you can afford two similar items, one more expensive than the other ask your self which one do you WANT? If you can afford it, get that one. I've found that I take better pictures with the equipment I have that I really like, regardless of any other consideration. Please consider this note food for thought as Nikon equipment is usually the most expensive for a given item. As it's nearly that time of year, my very best wishes to all on the digest for Christmas and the New Year, a special thanks to Andrew for his work to keep us informed as well as we are, and above all, have a safe and happy time. Keep shooting great shots. Eric
