I recently ditched my 55-200 VR partly due to lack of use and partly due to the fact that the IQ was noticeably poorer than my other lenses (Tamron 17-50 non-VC and 50mm 1.8G). I happened to pick up an 18-105 VR to try out and to my amazement it's a super lens, I would say at equivalent apertures as sharp as my Tamron (which I consider a great copy). It's so good I'm thinking of ditching the Tamron to make room for an ultra wide in my bag. I wasn't expecting this from a kit lens, as I said, my previous 55-200 VR was poor in comparison and a previously owned 18-55 VR was good, but not great - have I stumbled across an unusually good copy or was I simply unlucky with the other kit lenses I've used?
Nikon 18-105 VR - wow!
- Thread starter Dmac60
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- Andy
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i think this lens tends to get mixed reviews depending on where you look. I always found mine to be a good lens, not fantastic wide open but stopped down its a nice little lens 
i've found myself using mine more and more despite also owning a Tamron 17-50 especially for studio work with f/8-11-ish
i've found myself using mine more and more despite also owning a Tamron 17-50 especially for studio work with f/8-11-ish 
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- Steve
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I'm quite a fan of the 18-105 VR lens too. Not great wide open - but still useable - but step it down a stop and it's lovely. I have great trouble prising mine off my grandson's D40 
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- Name
- Paul
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If you are talking about losing contrast in a back light scene then that is common with many lenses I think. Using a hood and/or shading with your hand or similar can help.