How important is the extra lens? DSLR Question?

nikon d5100 dslr camera vr lens kit image

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I have asked many questions and I am so thankful for the responses and they have all been really helpful in narrowing down what to get before I spend the big bucks on a new DSLR :)

Now, I am for sure wanting a Nikon D5100, that part is easy. I am wondering, how important is it for me to spend the extra 200-300 bucks for an additional zoom lens like 55-200mm such as this one in this deal from best buy ...

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Nikon+D5100+16.2MP+Digital+SLR+Camera+with+18-55mm+Lens+%26+Extra+55-200mm+Lens/9999156300050042.p?id=pcmprd156200050042&skuId=9999156300050042&st=Nikon%20D5100&lp=9&cp=1

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What I am aiming to accomplish in my photography is to be able to zoom in on things from far away using the shallow depth of field technique. For example, zooming in on a butterfly from far away without startling it, etc.

Is that what this lens is for? I am not very educated on lenses though I have learned a lot just from questions being answered, such as how important a VR lens etc, etc.

SO, my question is... should I find a package deal that includes an extra lens now that you know what I would like to do with it?
I guess my question is , What is this lens going to allow me to do?

Answer
The D5100 is a fine camera.

My advice for any first time buyer is to buy the camera with a kit lens, with nikon a 18-105 would be preferable over the 18-55 in my opinion. Use that, get to grips with proper photography, gain some experience and then decide what you want your next lens to do.

If you still want to do macro and insect photography your money may be better spend on a dedicated macro lens than on an allround telezoom

DSLR kits/bundles vs buying separably?

Jack

So i finally have my list of camera/lenses and accessories i just need to buy them. But when i started peaking around it appears most find the kit lenses to be fairly crap compared to others on the market (18-55 mm lenses). My question is when i start buying in the next few months is it better to grab a bundle/kit or just buy the body and lenses separately do you lose anything by buying separately(cables, software, ect? Also what would be cheapest method since budget is to a degree a concern for me? have a budget somewhere around 800$ and plan on buying the nikon d5100. Bundles/kits all seem to come with the 18-55 When it seems id prefer the 18-135 unless you save money by buying the bundle/kit. (Links are fine but keep in mind i need a US version and sales wont do good if i end up having to wait a few months).- Thanks in advance, Jack.
Also looking at the 55-200mm lenses but keep in mind ive heard other companies can make better lenses (?). Mostly i just want the cheaper method without sacrificing the quality of coarse.(If thats the bundle/kits then just give me the word.

Answer
OK, lets get started with dealing with the crap kit lens
18-55mm one as you mention
Lets look at a better alternative
Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX Lens
$1,399.00, http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/300490-USA/Nikon_2147_17_55mm_f_2_8G_ED_IF_AF_S.html
Have to admit this one makes the 18-55 kit lens seem crap

Second, 18-135mm - there is no such Nikkor lens to my understanding (Canon make that one)
Nkkor have 18-105, 18-200 & 18-300mm
Nikon 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Autofocus Lens
$396.95, http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/582443-GREY/Nikon_2179_18_105mm_f_3_5_5_6G_ED_VR.html
But then this family should be crap, by your definition

You mention a budget of $800, so I'm afraid you dont have too many options
Check this bundle out,
Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm & 55-200mm VR Lenses
$846.90, http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/836592-REG/Nikon_D5100_Digital_SLR_Camera.html

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