Have you considered looking at second hand. I have noticed a number of Minolta zooms in the 75-300mm range recently.

I have, yes – and I may make a bid for one or two on eBay, but they usually quickly exceed the price I’m willing to pay – I certainly couldn’t afford a ton, or even half of that, and I like to take pictures now – rather than budget forever and a day.

One of the problems is that Minolta mount AF lenses are useable on both digital and analogue cameras, so remain in demand if in good condition.

Anyway, who knows? I might get some money in the future that I can apportion to this.

It’s really great that you don’t have to print your photographs these days, and can view on any number of TVs, computer monitors, projectors, web sites, etc., etc.. I post some of mine on my website, so that others can have a look, if they’re masochistic enough to want to do so.

Thanks to those of you who have made constructive comments.