Amateur considering a new lense

[JeffKnob]

For a while now I have been considering getting the Canon EF-S 17-85 IS lense for my Rebel XT. I see B&H Photo has it for $515. I also noticed that they have a EF-S 18-55 IS lense for $170 and a EF-S 55-250 IS lense for $280. I can get the second two lenses for less than I can get the first lense I mentioned. Why is that and what should I do? I do mostly photography of my friends and family. My current lense is a Canon 28-135.

[A.M.D.A.]

First of all, the 17-85mm costs more because it has a higher zoom ratio, and is also of a better quality than the other two, which can be described as “kit lenses”.

The best lens? This depends on several factors.
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So before I can help you further, take a moment to consider the following points:

~Do you mind changing lenses often? If not, then a “super-zoom” might be a good alternative.
~What would you want to photograph most with the new lens?

#1. Indoor/scenics/wide vistas.
#2. Birds/wildlife/sports.
#3. Macro/extreme close-ups/insects.
#4. Portraits/people pictures.
#5. Other subjects?

~Finally, set up a budget.

[JeffKnob]

At this point I don't have the time to devote to really get into photography. Because of this I mostly use my Rebel XT for pictures of family and friends inside and outside of the house. I don't want to be changing my lense much at all. The $515 for the 17-85 lense is at about my limit at this point. I know going to the L series lenses would give me a much better picture but I just don't have that kind of money budgetted. It almost sounds like I answered my own question. I should probably get the 17-85 IS lense because of the quality and the overall range of zoom in one lense.

[A.M.D.A.]

The Canon 17-85mm IS should be a good choice then. With the Rebel XTs CF applied, it has enough zoom to go from wide-angle and through the entire “portrait range”. Also, this lens has an optical stabilizer to help prevent “camera shake”.

You’ll also have a slightly less heavier load to carry, than with the 28-135mm.

[Frog]

What's the closest Canon equivalent to the nikon 18-200vr.?
Whatever it is that would give you a lot of range. I think 17-85 is rather limited for your needs and that you'll find yourself using a larger zoom more often.

[frleal70]

Oooh! A Canon 18-200 w/ IS would be cool. Even better if I can get it @ f/2.8. Is there such an animal? I would get rid of all my other lenses if there is!