best lens opinions for beginner?

[crystal]

Hi all, new to these forums, hoping I can get a little bit of feedback.

My husband is getting me a camera for Christmas (no, not a surprise!) and, first, I am trying to decide between the 40 and 50d. Any input?

Secondly, I am looking for opinions on what the best lens/combo of lenses would be.

My goal is to take a local photography class as an intro. and then hopefully get a little more serious about photography. My first SLR was a 35mm Canon Rebel Ti, about 7 years ago. At the convincing of my husband, we finally went digital when my second child was born, but we just got a point and click, and the SLR got put away.

I have always had a love for photography and am ready to take on an SLR again. Right now I am using a Sony Cybershot, which I'm really unhappy with. I attempt to use it manually, but using settings which I would expect to give me a good shot, I am not getting it. I am so ready to retire this camera.

Anyhow, my ultimate goal would be to have a small side business where I do maternity, baby and children/family shots. I also would just like to be able to take a better quality of photo of my children and family.

So, with that in mind, I would love some suggestions on what my best lens combos would be. When I did have an SLR I was using a pretty basic lens (EF 28-90mm 1:4-5.6), that came with my camera. I know there is a whole other world of lenses out there, I just don't know where to begin!

Thanks in advance for any and all input!

[mjs1973]

Welcome to the Forum Crystal. If you still have your 28-90mm lens, I would start with that. It will work just fine on a 40D or 50D. Other than that, my suggestion would be to start with the 50mm f/1.8. It's a very inexpensive lens but it's very sharp, and has a very fast aperture for taking indoor/low light photos.

[crystal]

Mike, thank you. I do still have that lens. Glad to know I should be able to use it with a 40 or 50d as well.

I just looked up the 50mm f/1.8 - nice price! I also see the 50mm f/1.4 is fairly reasonable as well. In your opinion, is the lower f-stop (or would it be considered higher, confusing!) worth the increase in price between the two?

I have been researching tonight and reading about the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L and have it on my short list. Any thoughts on that lens? If I were to go with that, would I even want to bother with the 50mm? I guess I am unsure of the differences I would see.

Also, I forgot to ask before, can you explain the difference in the filters to me. I don't really understand the difference in mm in regards to the filters.

Thanks, again!

btw, I just checked out your website. You have some amazing photos there!!

[mjs1973]

I have no experience with the 50mm f/1.4 lens but I have heard nothing but great things about it. The build quality of that lens is much better than the f/1.8 version. You would also be able to get a little shallower depth of field with the f/1.4 lens vs the f/1.8 and you would also gain a little bit of shutter speed in low light. Is that worth the extra money? That's up to you.

I have the EF24-70 f/2.8L lens and I love it. Very fast and very sharp. It's also very heavy! This lens isn't going to be as fast as either of the 50mm's but you will have a the versatility of a zoom lens. I wouldn't be surprised if Canon comes out with an IS version of this lens soon.

The filters are sized based on the thread size at the front of your lens. I believe the 50mm f/1.8 takes a 52mm filter but I'm not positive. The 24-70mm lens takes a 77mm filter. What filters are you thinking about buying? If you're thinking about a polarizer, I would suggest getting one that fits the largest lens you think you will need, and then buy step up/down rings so you can use it on all of your other lenses.

[w.slayman]

I am a Canon user from way back and am still a dedicated film photographer. With that being said, Canon has set the standard, NO THEY ARE THE STANDARD, when it comes to lenses, especially their Legendary "L" Series. My advise would be to use your current EF and as soon as you can affort it Get a Wide to Short Telephoto "L" Series Zoom. I use an old 1980's Manual Focus FD 20-35mm F3.5 "L", and except for the loss of speed it is as good as any of Canon's Prime Lenses of that era. I beleive that the new EF "L" Lensess are the standard by which other lenses are judged. But I can not advise you on what body to get.

Good Luck

Bill

[Franglais]

Sorry about this, I have no experience of recent Canon lenses so this is really not my discussion, but just the same - nobody has suggested a real transstandard lens that goes from moderate wide-angle to moderate telephoto. This is what usually comes in the camera kit and this is what the poster has with the 28-90 (when fitted on her film SLR, not on a DSLR). Canon and Nikon's lens lineup is rather similar. Reading from the reviews:

- 18-55mm f3.5-f5.6 = can give good results but it's an entry-level lens (plastic)
- 18-55mm f2.8 IS = excellent Pro lens even if it doesn't have the "L" marking
- 17-85mm f3.5-5.6 IS = ageing, tests say the resultion doesn't do justice to the 50D
- 15-85mm f3.5-5.6 IS = brand-new released with the 7D
- 18-200 f3.5-5.6 IS = good compromise between quality and versatility if you just want to take one lens

The one I would look at would be the 15-85. It's the equivalent of the 16-85 Nikon (which I have). The Nikon lens is a heavily-built yet compact lens which gives excellent performance at all focal lengths and apertures. It's the one I use most at the moment.

[w.slayman]

The 17-55mm F2.8 IS USM is a fine lens @ US$1,179.00 List Price, however for the US$270.00 difference I would prefer the 24-70mm F2.8L USM US$1,149.00, unless you require the Image Stabilization. This opinion is based on almost 30 years experience with Canon FD and FD "L" lenses. The "L" series always seem to provide prints and slides that are a little crisper, with less deviation in colors and gray scales. Also their resale values as a percentage of new prices are higher than the standard lenses.

By the way, Charles, your opinionis always welcome even if you use a Nikon. hahaha

[w.slayman]

I had a typo in my last post the List Price of the 24-70mm F2.8L USM is US$1,449.00 Not US$1,149.00. Sorry

[Loupey]

Hi, crystal, and welcome to the site.

A couple responses to your inquiry:

1) I think there is very little difference between the 40D and 50D. If you can still find a 40D, I think the savings in $$$ could be better used on lenses.

2) I've had both the 50mm f/1.8 and f/1.4 versions. The image quality is virtually the same at similar apertures between the two. The f/1.4 version has better AF, build, and handling. Can't say which would be better for you. I sold my f/1.4 version and still have the f/1.8

3) the 24-70mm f/2.8L is a fine piece. Extremely heavy, expensive, limited zoom, and no IS. Again, I can't say that this would be a wise choice for you. You'll definitely hold it mounted on a 40D/50D and determine if you can hold it for an entire shoot. I sold mine in favor of the 24-105mm f/4L IS.

Good luck.

[readingr]

I have the 24-70 L and love it. its my most used lens and I can carry it around all day.

Yes its heavy but the quality is excellent. If your into landscapes then the wide angle might not be enough because of the APC sensor on the 40/50D. I have the full sensor 5D.

I have the 50mm F1.8 and would not go for the F1.4 because with the 24-70 I don't kneed it and I only use it when wanting to use a prime and concentrate on the photography you can take with it. I know I'm weired :-). You can buy 3 1.8's for a 1.4.

I have never need IS on the 24-70 and therefore would not be a problem.

Roger R.

[crystal]

Hi everyone! Thanks for your welcome and great input. It's good to know I am atleast on the right track, even if I am still confused about which combo to get!

Franglais, thank you. That is a lens I had not even looked at yet. Have it on my short list so I can research it further.

Mike, I assumed I should atleast have a uv and polarizer. What do you think?

Commenters on the 24-70, thank you! That is the type of input I was looking for. I should probably try and find some place locally where I can try this lens and see if I would be okay with the weight. Never held it or seen it, so I have no idea!

Thanks, again! Very helpful!

[mjs1973]

Mike, I assumed I should atleast have a uv and polarizer. What do you think?

This is a topic that could be it's own thread, and is. This is kind of like the Nikon vs Canon, or Mac vs PC debate. Some people won't leave home without a UV filter on their lens as protection. Others (like myself) won't wast the money on a UV filter. I don't find that I need them as protection and I think they cause more problems than what they solve.

Here is a recent thread that gives one side of the debate.

Stay away from CHEAP filter ... and here's why.



As far as a ploarizer goes, yes. This is one filter that I think just about everyone should have. When it comes to photography equipment, you get what you pay for so don't skimp on this purchase. No point in putting a $20 filter in front of a $1000 lens. Get the best you can afford. I have a B+W polarizer that I love. There are other good brands out there as well, but B+W is the only one I have experience with.

[crystal]

Thanks, Mike. You have been a big help. Going to read that thread now...

[mjs1973]

If you want to hear the other side of the UV filter argument, listen to episode 116 of This Week In Photography. You can download it free from iTunes. I don't see that it's posted on their website yet but I'm sure it will be soon. www.twiplog.com

[w.slayman]

Crystal,
By now you must be totally confused and freaked out. HAHAHA Some advise that all of us can agree on.
1. Get a body that is comfortable and has the resolution and features you need.
2. Keep your current EOS Lens and use it until you find the best quality lens that
a. You are comfortable with feels good on your body and in your hands.
b. Will allow you to take the photos you want to.
c. Can carry all day or the length of your longest shoot.
d. You can afford/justify (Not every on can justify a "L" Series Lens)
3. Keep on shooting

[photophorous]

I think the Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 has to be one of the best deals available for a general purpose lens. The image quality is so close to Canon's 17-55 f/2.8 IS lens that you will probably never know the difference, except that the Tamron is smaller, lighter, and cheaper. Don't underestimate the size difference. Check them out in the store and read some reviews.

If you really want the image stabalization, Tamron just introduced a VC (vibration control) version of this lens and even it is half the price of the Canon. Don't get caught up in the name. Canon makes some really great lenses, but they also make some pretty mediocre ones. This is true of almost any lens manufacturer. You have to read up on each specific lens to find the winners.

My two cents.

Paul

[JETA]

Welcome to pr. I love this place because everyone is so nice here and the knowledge is insurmountable.

I'm a female and about 5' 4". I'm also not the youngest hen in the house. I own both the 24-70 f2.8L & 24-105 f/4L. It's such a toss up, but the 24-70 is becoming my lens of choice. It's always on the front of my camera if I'm not shooting football. The weight difference hasn't ever been an issue for me.

I started with the 24-105 and have to say I absolutely LOVE that lens. However, I found myself in situations that the f/4 wasn't cutting it in the low light situations I found myself in. I worried about the loss of length between 70 & 105MM and it hasn't been an issue once for me.

Everyone's needs are unique to themselves. Define your needs and if you can get equipment that you can grow into.

I'm not techy at all, but just wanted to throw my thoughts in here. Good luck, welcome again and most of all have fun!

[crystal]

Thank you everyone for all of your input! I don't have a lot of time to reply always, but I want you to know I am reading...and taking notes when I can! ;)

I'm sure once I have camera in hand I will be back with more questions. Glad to have found such a welcoming board.

Oh, and here it is, I am going with the 50d (it is actually less expensive then the 40 on Amazon, weird) with the 24-70mm EF f/2.8L and a 55mm, not sure which one yet. Does this sound reasonable? I mostly plan on using this for closer up portraits so a good zoom lens isn't a necessity...yet!

[w.slayman]

Crystal,

Congrats on your selection, from what I have read the 24-70mm F2.8 L is a fantastic lens(the equivilent of a 35mm film 38-112mm zoom). One last suggestion make sure you are buying from an authorized dealer and not getting a gray market camera, which can lead to problems if you require warranty work.

[readingr]

Thank you everyone for all of your input! I don't have a lot of time to reply always, but I want you to know I am reading...and taking notes when I can! ;)

I'm sure once I have camera in hand I will be back with more questions. Glad to have found such a welcoming board.

Oh, and here it is, I am going with the 50d (it is actually less expensive then the 40 on Amazon, weird) with the 24-70mm EF f/2.8L and a 55mm, not sure which one yet. Does this sound reasonable? I mostly plan on using this for closer up portraits so a good zoom lens isn't a necessity...yet!

I would not bother buying the 55mm prime until you spend time with the 24-70mm, it may make it redundant. I would either get a wider angle view for the APC sensor or a telephoto.

When I bought my 5D I got the 24-70 and 100-400, It was 18months later when I bought the 50mm and only because I wanted to take part in 50mm picture thread and I had the cash to spend and did not need any other equipment.

Roger R.

[crystal]

Just thought I would give a quick little update before I leave here with my tail between my legs...;) I went with my husband to get my camera this week, and was so sure the Canon 50d was what I was getting. Well, I am currently uploading pics from my new Nikon D90, and no one hurt me please, but...I love it!

After trying out both of them I realized that the Nikon's menu setup was closest to what I was used to and really easy for me to navigate. I knew before I chose that it was the Canon d40/50 or the Nikon, and I had decided on the Canon, but after having them both in my hands, I changed my mind!

Anyway, I did want to say thanks again for all of the help. I have similar lenses as to what I was planning on and am getting the 50mm f/1.8 because it's a great price and I hope to be able to use it as my daily lense here at home. I'll probably scoot over to the Nikon board and hope everyone there is as nice and helpful as you all were.

[Frog]

And we will welcome you at the Nikon board.
We all have our preferences and try not to get into manufacturer wars here.

[w.slayman]

Crystal,

I am disapointed, I had high hopes you would get a Canon FD series and come into the light. But you went over to the dark side with a new digital, and the darkest side with the Nikon. :lol:

Seriously the most important considerations when choosing a new camera, if it is a major brand, are: Does it feel comfortable?, are the controls where you want them?, and will the camera / system do what you want.

CONGRATS :thumbsup: and ENJOY

[Anthony Reiss]

Get the 40D and save money. Upgrade when the 70D comes out, 10 years down the track... Spend more on quality lenses which outlasts the camera bodies.
The EF 17-40mm F4L is a great choice all around lens. It is a Full Frame lens so when all cameras are full frame in a decades time, this lens is still relevant. It will fit any EF-S mount camera.

[Anthony Reiss]

Just thought I would give a quick little update before I leave here with my tail between my legs...;) I went with my husband to get my camera this week, and was so sure the Canon 50d was what I was getting. Well, I am currently uploading pics from my new Nikon D90, and no one hurt me please, but...I love it!

After trying out both of them I realized that the Nikon's menu setup was closest to what I was used to and really easy for me to navigate. I knew before I chose that it was the Canon d40/50 or the Nikon, and I had decided on the Canon, but after having them both in my hands, I changed my mind!

Anyway, I did want to say thanks again for all of the help. I have similar lenses as to what I was planning on and am getting the 50mm f/1.8 because it's a great price and I hope to be able to use it as my daily lense here at home. I'll probably scoot over to the Nikon board and hope everyone there is as nice and helpful as you all were.

Ooh! So it's Nikon...
D90 is great! The Auto ISO and color are awesome!
If you can score a Nikkor 20-35mm full frame lens, that's a beauty!
Cheers!