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Photography Question 

Cathy Goldman
 

Can I only use an EF-S lense with a Rebel XTi ?


I've had my XTi for about 8 months and am looking for a medium range lense with image stabilization. I like to take pictures of my grandchildren,who are never still, and close-ups of flowers. After reading about the Canon L series, I almost bought the EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM but don't know if this is compatible with my camera. My second choice is the EF-S 17-85 mm f/4-5.6 IS. It's a lot cheaper and maybe a good place to start. The other option is a sigma lense, but then again, I don't know if it is compatible with the XTi (APS-C sized image). Sigma 50-150 f/2.8 EX DC HSM was recommended, but I don't think is has an image stabilizer.
Can anyone help me? I have two grandchildren coming soon and would love to actually take professional looking pictures of them. THANKS.

Cathy


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December 30, 2007

 

Stephanie M. Stevens
  You can use EF lenses with your camera, the only difference is that the smaller sensor crops off part of the image given by the lens, which is designed for film/full frame sensors.


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December 30, 2007

 

Cathy Goldman
  Stephanie,
Thank you for the quick response. This does help me quite a bit in making a decision. I'm leaning towards the EF-S anyway. I have so much to learn and am looking forward to more research on this great site. I already have Jim Miotke's book and found those basics good to know.

Cathy


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December 30, 2007

 

Jon Close
  I would consider the EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM. This lens has faster f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range, has "L" image quality despite the lack of the red stripe and L in the name, has fast ring-USM autofocus motor, and image stabilization. The zoom range is more appropriate for a normal or walk-around zoom on the XTi, especially indoors where the 24-105L is too long (and one stop slower maximum aperture). Economical alternatives include the Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 XR Di II, and Sigma 18-50 f/2.8 EX DC Macro, though they don't have IS or USM. The Sigma lens allows a bit focusing which would be useful in flower close-ups.

If you don't already have one, also consider a high powered accessory flash, such as Canon's 580EX II, 430EX, Sigma EF-500 DG Super, EF-530 DG Super, Sunpak PZ42X, etc. These have tilt/swivel head so that the flash can be bounced off ceilings/walls to give a more natural diffused light rather than the straight ahead flash that gives harsh light, red-eye, and shadows.


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December 31, 2007

 

Jon Close
  dropped a word somehow. should be:
"The Sigma lens allows a bit _closer_ focusing ..."


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December 31, 2007

 

Cathy Goldman
  Thank you so much for taking the time to give me all that detailed information. I think you are right on in recommending the EF-S 17-55 IS. That should allow me to capture running grandkids. In researching the 24-105L I found that it is just too heavy for my camera. Since IS one of my main considerations I am pretty limited.
It's been three days of research and anquish and I'm ready to either give up altogether or order TWO. thanks again for you advice.
I have an old flash from a 35mm film (Promaster FTD 5200) it works on my camera, but I don't know if I'm damaging it. It also doesn't swivel, so that is another good idea.


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December 31, 2007

 

Cathy Goldman
  John,
I just checked that lense out and it is pretty heavy. (also expensive) Should I assume that since it is an EF-S it will work just fine on my XTi?

Thanks


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December 31, 2007

 
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