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Choosing my next Canon lens

Need lens-buying advice from Canon photography nerds.

The Mrs. and Me are starting to really dig taking photos again -- she with a Rebel XT and me with a 30D. We currently share joint custody of 1) the XT's standard 18-55mm zoom (blech) and 2) the glorious and much-loved 50mm f1.4 (yay!).

So, let's say, hypothetically, a fella wanted to pick up a new Canon lens to add to these two cameras' modest arsenal. If we wanted a fast, flexible lens (that would mostly get used for baby picture-taking), what would you guys recommend? Possibly a higher-end, faster zoom?

conekt's picture

Recommendations

Best all-around lens [period]:
Canon 24-104mm f/4L IS

Points:

  • Ideal focal range for 90% of pictures most people take
  • Professional Optics
  • Image stabilization helps you take super sharp photos (really works)
  • Very good price for spec (about $1,000)

Best medium range telephoto zoom:
Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS

Points:

  • Absolutely fantastic for portraits and most walk around situations
  • Basically top of line in every way
  • Killer image stabilization as well
  • Kinda spendy (about $1,700)

Personally, I think you should go with the 24-105. I don't know anyone who owns one that doesn't adore it and if you go out with only one lens it will cover almost any situation.

Don't let the f/2.8 vs f/4 aspect fool you. Maximum f-stop is just another spec and they don't fundamentally add up to a better lens by any means, just different intended applications. For example, personally, I spend most of my time at f/8 (esp. during the day). If you need a bright, fast lens for lower light situations... use your 50mm prime.

 
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