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04/26/2006 01:34:09 AM · #1 |
As I mention in my portfolio, I am a longtime Web developer trying his hand at photography (and enjoying every minute of it). I am upgrading to DSLR and believe I have done due diligence in my research and browsing previous threads on the topic, but I am in need of some help on a choice for an additional lens. Feel free to link me to a thread if my specific questions are asked :)
I am purchasing the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT from beachcamera.com as so many of you highly recommend them. I already have two lenses from my old Canon Rebel (35mm):
1. Canon EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6 III
2. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8
I think (based on these two lenses I have) that I should just get the XT Rebel without the lens kit (EF-S 18-55mm) ΓΆ€“ since (1) I believe my 35-80mm is similar and I have read posts where folks have suggested it is not a great lens, and (2) I could use the savings to purchase another lens.
I have two questions:
1. Is my assumption correct ΓΆ€“ my current lenses would not require an additional 18-55mm?
2. What lens would you suggest to buy in lieu of my current ones?
I have around $300 to spend on a new lens.
If this helps, I tend to enjoy outdoor photography, street photography, landscapes, nature and seascapes. I live in Arizona and there is just so much to photograph outdoors. My wife and I are going to Disneyland next week with our three daughters ΓΆ€“ and would like to have the new lens by then (beachcamera.com ΓΆ€“ 2 day delivery ΓΆ€“ yeah!).
Thanks for any assistance ΓΆ€“ I have learned so much from you all. |
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04/26/2006 01:37:53 AM · #2 |
Well, I'm not as familiar with Canon lenses, but I would skip the kit lens in your case.
If you want to shoot wide angle, I'd put that $300 towards something of a higher quality than the 18-55 kit setup. I know Bear_Music is always suggesting a couple of wide lenses for landscapes, but I can't remember what he says....
Kit lenses aren't terrible, but you already have such a nice range covered. Again, I'd put your money towards a NICE wide lens, or maybe some kind of macro if you enjoy that. |
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04/26/2006 01:41:53 AM · #3 |
Agreed, I despise my kit lens.
The range is good, but the problem is your images have about (or mine at least) a 15% of being super-sharp if you shoot a couple in a day.
I am going to upgrade to the 17-85 USM IS lens soon though.
But yeah, you dont want that kit lens. Some ppl dont have problems with it, but I for one have had lots of tears spilled...
:) |
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04/26/2006 01:48:51 AM · #4 |
If you go look at DPC photos taken with the 18-55 kit lens I think you will be surprised. It does take pretty good pics. My 2nd place ribbon in the Texas State fair in 2005 was using the kit lens and it was a very colorful, sharp and hi contrast photo. Many times I wish I had something wider than the 18 although I usually just take two lenses with me now, the Canon 70-200 f/4 and the Sigma 24-70 EX DG f/2.8 and then I also have a 2x extender if I need to reach out in good light conditions.
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04/26/2006 01:49:06 AM · #5 |
Skip the kit lense, and ebay the 35-80 and pickup a Tamron SP 28-75mm 2.8 (the sharpness and especially the 2.8 will come in handy indoors for meetings, parties etc when you can't use flash)... or if you would rather go wide... try the Tammy SP 17-35mm 2.8-4 and keep the 35-80.
Either can be had for around $300 After rebates and watching for deals...
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04/26/2006 03:11:21 AM · #6 |
Thanks for the great replies. Very helpful indeed. I had not considered a wide angle or macro lens. I was thinking more zoom.
On a side note, would my $300 be better served going for the Canon EOS-20D over the EOS Digital Rebel XT? I have read the reviews on DPReview.com. Just wondering (out loud) if the 20D is too much for a beginner like me.
Thanks again! |
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