Which lens 28-300 or 70-300

[ppassehl]

I have a Canon Rebel XTI and I want to get an telefoto lens. But I am unsure if I should get the 28-300 or the 70-300. I do alot of different types of photography. I can go from portrait to nature photography to action. I currently have both the kit lens 18-55 and the 20-80. Please help me decide on which one I should get.

[Photo-John]

While having a zoom lens with a huge range, like the 28-300mm, might seem like a good idea. The reality is that the longer the zoom, the more compormised the image quality will be. There are exceptions. But they cost thousands of dollars. So what's your budget? If it's unlimited, then I absolutely recommend the Canon 28-300 f/3.5-5.6 IS L lens. It's awesome. Otherwise, I would recommend a shorter zoom that compliments the kit lens you have now. The Canon 70-200 f/4 L is relatively inexpensive (about $600) and it is a wonderful, wonderful lens.

Give us some more information and we'll give you some more direction :-)

[ppassehl]

Thanks for the advice. I have a limited budget right now trying to set up an studio and I was looking at the sigma 28-300 lens and was trying to figure out if it was the lens to go with or if I should go with a 70-300. I had a 70-300 with my older film camera and it did not work on the rebel so I had to sell it. I loved it but was a bit of a pain for some nature photography where I can go from macro to wide angle in the space of a few frames.

[Photo-John]

I have a limited budget right now trying to set up an studio and I was looking at the sigma 28-300 lens and was trying to figure out if it was the lens to go with or if I should go with a 70-300.

Personally, I wouldn't cut corners on optics. Especially not if I plan to sell my photo services. You still haven't said how much you plan to spend. But if you want to invest in something with excellent quality that you won't want to replace in a few months, go with the 70-200. It will blow away any 70-300mm lens.

[ppassehl]

I was looking to spend about 300- 500 on a lens.

[Photo-John]

I was looking to spend about 300- 500 on a lens.

I think the Canon 70-200 f/4L is perfect, then. Maybe you can find a used one and spend a little less. But in general, I think spending a little more for a much better lens is the best strategy. You can always buy the Canon 1/4x tele-extender later if you want more reach. And if you do that, you'll still have a better lens than any 70-300 you'll be able to buy for $500 or less.