On 29 Oct 1998 18:01:35 +0100, George Smiley wrote:

>Last week, I bit the bullet and splurged for a Nikon N-70 Kit.
>The thing came with a 35-80/4-5.6 and built-in flash. While this might
>be okay for general photography, I am considering buying some primes
>and an external flash.
>
>---------------- PART ONE ----------------------------
>
>I want to start out with a general purpose lens. I shall be primarily
>shooting people, but the scenarios can change. It can be inside,
>(where flash might be necessary) or outside against a
>variety of backdrops.
[...]

The ultimate close-in people lens is the 35mm...; with a little
distance, the 85mm. The two make a great pair. Add a 20mm and a 180
later, if desired (or the 80-200 f2.8, if practical for you...).
On a really tight budget, the 50mm f1.8 is sharp, light, fast,
and cheap (I would not pair it with the 35, since they are too close
in FL - maybe with the 28 *D* and 105 macro later...).

>1) Which of these choices would you recommend for my purpose, considering
>that I already have a cheap 35-80?

Um, I would sell the 35-80 quick! ;-)

>2) How much difference does a D-lens make over a non-D lens?
>Will the 50/1.4 D offer me anything (except aperture) that the
>50/1.8 cannot?

Not much, and no...

>3) Does `D' actually do any good or is it just a clever marketing ploy
>to get poor saps like me to plonk down more cash than we can afford?

The second, for the most part... With flash, and very light or dark
primary subjects, it can help, but generally the effect is subtle.

>---------------- PART TWO --------------------------
>
>I am also considering getting an external flash. The Nikon flashes
>are pretty expensive, but I have decided that I can afford an SB-27
>(gray market) if push comes to shove. However, I can live with a 3^rd
>party flash if need be.

I would look for a good, reasonably-priced used SB-24 for its greater
versatility and power - though the SB-27 is a good second choice.
A "third-party" flash can serve well, also - though Nikon's
flashes are REALLY good these days...! ;-)