Spec me a lens

[SCMRubix]

I recently got myself a Nikon D3100, and have absolutely loved taking pictures on it. First time DSLR user, so I still have plenty to learn involving everything to do with my little machine.

In regards to lenses, I don't really know where to start looking. I currently have the standard 18-55mm but would like a much larger one to start taking pictures of people surfing.
I'm a little confused with how high I need to go to get close enough shots, and if I need a teleconverter to go with it. The shots I'd like to take involve people being anywhere from 20m up to 100m away at. 100m would be the very most that the subject would be away.

My budget is $500 but could probably stretch it a little more if it was really worth it.

If anyone knows any sites worth reading about zoom lenses I'd really appreciate it to expand my knowledge a little.

TL;DR - Lens to shoot surfers up to 100m away budget $500 AUD

 

[Snapshot]

I'd look at something like the Nikon 70-300mm f4-5.6 G VR for starters. It's a cracking lens and you should find a used sample within your budget. You may find 300mm isn't enough but after that you'll need to consider some sort of support like a tripod or monopod. At this point, the price also tends to climb steeply.

 

[D.P.]

I'd look at something like the Nikon 70-300mm f4-5.6 G VR for starters. It's a cracking lens and you should find a used sample within your budget. You may find 300mm isn't enough but after that you'll need to consider some sort of support like a tripod or monopod. At this point, the price also tends to climb steeply.

As above, buy the Nikon 70-300 VR (make sure it is the VR version), it is the best you can do for your budget. The Nikon 55-300 DX VR is similar and a little cheaper, but not quite as good.