This is why they are cheap, and they are deliberately made this way by manufacturers because there is so much competition, so they try to keep their camera’s price down by using inexpensive plastic materials. Tipping the scales at exactly 195 grams, the AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II is one of the lightest APS-C lenses that Nikon produces. Coupled to the Nikon D3300, as seen in the photos below, the lens feels well-balanced. This 18-55mm VR focuses closer than either of the more expensive lenses, weighs less, is smaller and has less distortion at the long end. So there.

There are two versions of the lens. The one I am reviewing has a built-in optical image stabilization system known as “Vibration Reduction” (VR). The second version is identical in every way, except it does not feature VR and has a slightly lower price tag. Below the focus mode selector is a similar sliding switch for the Vibration Reduction system. Nikon claims an advantage of “up to four stops” for the Vibration Reduction II system employed in the AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II lens - and while such good results are probably the exception rather than the rule, we had no problems taking sharp hand-held shots with the lens mounted to a Nikon D3300 body at shutter speeds at least 3 stops slower than the focal length would allow.No switches; VR and AF/MF now controlled in camera menus (but you can just grab the ring any time for instant manual-focus override). Over time, you’ll develop a keen eye for understanding and utilizing light to its fullest potential. You’ll learn to adapt your shooting techniques and settings to the specific lighting conditions, maximizing the capabilities of your kit lens. 4. Experiment with creative techniques It has strong barrel distortion at the wide end, and no distortion in the middle and at the long end. First, set your shooting mode to either Aperture Priority or Manual. This will give you control over the aperture setting. (If you’re unsure of how to switch between modes, consult your camera manual.) This new Nikon 18-55mm AF-P is a significant improvement over the old 18-55mm VR II, and it's better than any other 18-55mm because no other 18-55mm is sharper, it focuses essentially silently, and most importantly it focusses instantly and has instant manual-focus override. Other brands are softer, and no other 18-55mm offers autofocus anywhere near this fast or has instant manual-focus override.

You can learn how to use the camera and the lens, as well as how to use your subject to get great photos. Remember, any good photographer makes the best of what they have. This VR version is a tiny bit bigger than the non-VR 18-55mm II, and weighs two more ounces (60g). This 18-55mm VR is still featherweight and tiny. At 35mm it's just a little softer in the corners, but with no lateral color it's sharp enough for anything.You're now ready to start shooting. You can get your model to hold the reflector, but for the best results you'll need an assistant to hold it, so your model's movements aren't restricted. Final Tips on Setting Up The widest aperture can open in a variable aperture depending on how far it is zoomed. Thus, the kit glass is not your best option if you want to shoot a photo with an aperture width of more than f/5.6. It's perfectly damped with no creep. It feels much better than a lens this cheap has any right to feel. If you’ve decided that you like the idea of shooting with a kit lens, here are a handful of tips to start you off: 1. Carry your lens with you everywhere The retractable design enables a small carrying size of 65x63mm, although even that looks relatively large compared with the new Z DX 16-50mm for Nikon’s mirrorless Z system cameras. It’s also worth noting that the competing Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is pretty much the same size and weight, without resorting to a retractable mechanism.