New Lense or New Flash

[ontario_slacker]

Hi. I recently got a digital rebel XT with the kit lense. I am hoping to at one point get a new lense and an external flash. I shoot landscape, nature, macro and sports. I would like to get a lense with a good amount of zoom for nature, landscape and sports but also able to do relatively close shots as well(this isn't as important because the kit lense works fine as it is). I only have so much money to spend and would like to get a either one decent lense for what I shoot or a decent flash right now. What I would like to know is should I spend my money on a new lense or a new flash. The flash is mainly for the sports photos which I will be taking a lot of but the lense could be used for everything. What is more useful and worth upgrading for my new camera? Let me know some good lenses or flashes that meet my requirements. I don't want to have to spend too much so whatever is best for the money is great.

Thanks

[ontario_slacker]

The sports shooting will be in relatively dark conditions at times so a fast lense would be good.

[Photo-John]

Generally, a new lens is the best place to put your money. But if the sports photography you're doing requires a flash, then that might be a better investment. What kind of sports are you shooting? You might consider buying a less expensive lens to replace the kit lens and an entry-level or third-party flash. Think about what you really need.

[JSPhoto]

I'd suggest a good all-round lens, if you can afford it, the Canon 70-200 f2,8 USM IS, if not, then the Sigma 70-200 f2.8 and also a used flash. If you shop around you can find a good used flash for $55 and up.

JS

[ontario_slacker]

I'm shooting mainly mountain biking/ BMX. Its mainly dirt jumping in the trees and possibly indoor and outdoor skateparks. How much could I expect to pay for a less expensive lense and an entry level flash etc. I am relatively new to using these flashes so I probably won't use all the functions to begin with anyway. I asked a guy at my local photography store and he seemed pretty sure that I should only stick with a canon flash for my camera. I was looking at a cheap sunpak flash and he suggested not to get that. What flash would you recommend?

[ontario_slacker]

just looked at the prices of those two lenses. Not sure if I'm willing to spend that much just after getting the camera is their anything a little cheaper but nearly as good. Maybe I might be better off to just get a flash and make due with the lense I have now.

[JSPhoto]

You can get a flash used, from $55 and up to $798
The Canon 70-200 USM IS is around $1800
The Sigma 70-200 can be found around $650

The 70-200 is really the best all round lens, and if you go with cheaper stuff you run the risk of not getting good quality glass.

JS

[ontario_slacker]

yeah I was refering to the canon lense pretty pricy for a first upgrade. the sigma seems more what I am looking at. Where would you recommend getting used camera stuff and does it work just as well normally. Ebay? Like does a flash last for a long time or could I be buying a flash that might give out in a month.

[JSPhoto]

I bought my used flash at Roberts Distributors in Indianapolis (they are online too) about a year or so ago and it still works great. You never know though. I have not bought through Ebay.

JS

[ontario_slacker]

whats the website for them. I think I have narrowed it down to a flash a lense just isn't as important right now for me. That can come later. Plus the flash is also a little cheaper and easier on the wallet. What's a good flash for the canon digital rebel XT. Should I go canon or go with some other brand?

[Liz]

I have the 420 ex - it's excellent - same camera btw.....this is a great deal - better call or send email........


http://www.keh.com/OnLineStore/ProductDetail.aspx

KEH has a great reputation

Liz

whats the website for them. I think I have narrowed it down to a flash a lense just isn't as important right now for me. That can come later. Plus the flash is also a little cheaper and easier on the wallet. What's a good flash for the canon digital rebel XT. Should I go canon or go with some other brand?

[ontario_slacker]

I noticed a 420 EZ on that sight as well whats the difference? I was considering the 420 EX just wasn't sure if it was any good any other opinions?