BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Answers

Lenses for my Canon EOS Rebel XTi/400D

Currently, I have the Canon EOS Rebel XTi along with the kit lens and the Canon 28-135 IS lens.

I would like to replace the kit lens - or get something to complement this. Preferably I would like to have a total of 3 lenses - one day getting a larger zoom lens (up to 200 or 300).

For the low end of the range, I was considering the Canon 17-85 IS (although I've heard conflicting feedback on this and whether it's worth 4-5x $$ of the kit lens) also thought about the 12-24 Tamron, although that still leaves me with the kit lens as a good walk around lens. I have heard good things about the Canon 17-55 IS, but I would mind extended the zoom range for greater flexibility and less interchanging.

About 85-90% of my pics are outdoors - either agriculture, construction, or other outdoor photography.

Any suggestions on a good lens to replace the kit? Ideally < $500.

Thanks,

J-

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February 19, 2007

The only benefit of the kit lens is the IS which is for Image stabilization which means a sharper picture at slower shutters speeds. I thought most IS lenses were generally very expensive, though.

A lot of people here have recommended the following site for lens reviews.

http://www.fredmiranda.com/reviews/

I will be curious what you end up. Hope this helps....

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February 20, 2007

As you consider acquiring new lenses, here are some factors to consider.

1. Chances are good that eventually you will buy a new camera body. When that time comes, you want the lenses that you have to work regardless of the body. For that reason, I encourage you to consider buying EF rather than EF-S lenses. The EF lenses are designed for use on all of the Canon EOS digital SLRs. Remember that lenses are the single largest investment that you make in your photography system, so careful planning that extends lens longevity into the future is important.

2. Optics, or the glass, is critical to getting sharp images with good contrast. All of the tricks of Photoshop can’t replicate the results that a great lens offers. Even on a budget, it’s sometimes advisable to wait and save $$ so that you can buy a better lens than you can currently afford. By waiting and saving your dollars, you can get faster glass (wider maximum apertures such as f/2.8) which is more versatile than slower glass. Certainly IS helps offset the need for the fastest glass, but this is still an important consideration.

3. Over time, you’ll want to sell and buy lenses. You really want lenses that you can resell. I had some third-party lenses that I literally couldn’t give away. The make expensive paper weights though. You may not think that you will upgrade your system anytime soon, but, as we grow in skills and as our shooting becomes more specialized, we like new and/or different toys. ;)

Another consideration is whether you want a set of lenses that covers the focal range from say 17mm to 200 or 300mm? If you do, then you’re due for a telephoto lens. If not, then the 17-85 IS has gotten good reviews. I look at the Popular Photography lens reviews because they include lab results. The reviews aren’t infallible, of course, but they are generally better than random hearsay.

I haven’t told you what lens to buy, have I? ;) My best advice is to go to a store that lets you rent the lenses that you’re considering and try them for yourself. Look for sharpness, snappy contrast, and good sharpness edge to edge for starters. I’ll be interested to know what lens you choose.

Best wishes,

Charlotte

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February 21, 2007

Charlotte

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February 21, 2007

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February 21, 2007

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February 21, 2007

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February 21, 2007

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February 21, 2007