Lens suggestions needed for Rebel XT

TristanP

With Christmas coming and the Canon rebates in full effect, I've been thinking about upgrading my gear. My 717 has served me well and I'll keep it for the IR capabilities. I need some advice on lens selection.

Budget dictates an entry-level body. The 70-200/2.8 IS is way out of my league, so I'm looking for more reasonable suggestions. I shoot a variety of things - landscapes, macros, candids, astrophotography, studio - and I'd like to have at least the same range as the 717 (38-190) with more on each end being a bonus. This is all assuming I go with just the Rebel XT body, and skip the kit lens.

I was originally thinking the 70-200/4, 17-40/4, and 50/1.4 or 1.8. Then, I started considering the 70-300 IS and 17-85 IS for the better range and IS capabilites. The 17-85 isn't part of the rebates, but throwing in the 50/1.4 would work to get the 3x multiplier. Your thoughts?

Also, has anyone gotten the Canon rebates to work when buying lenses with coupons via Dell?

Ozrockrat

28 135 Is ??
Have you considered the 28 - 135 IS. It should give you about the same range as your existing gear and it is $420 at B & H. It is part of the Canon rebate scheme as well.

TristanP

Ozrockrat wrote:

Have you considered the 28 - 135 IS. It should give you about the same range as your existing gear and it is $420 at B & H. It is part of the Canon rebate scheme as well.

I hadn't because with the 1.6x crop that makes it ~45-216 - not quite wide enough on the XT. The 17-85 is almost exactly 28-135 with the crop factor thrown in. I don't think I can get my current range with decent quality in a single lens. I'm also open to suggestions for non-Canon lenses.

T(h)orsten

TristanP,

be aware that the EF-S lenses work only on the XT and 20D. If you want lenses that outlast your camera and can be used on future gear, better go with the EF lenses.

The line-up you listed sounds good to me: "70-200/4, 17-40/4, and 50/1.4 or 1.8"


T(h)orsten

gluwater

I think you have a good idea of what you want and have choosen accordingly.

I definitely agree with you on the 50mm. I have the 1.4 and it is my favorite lens. But beware that it can be a little too long indoors but you will love it in low light. Here is a pic from this weekend at ISO1600 f/1.4 in terrible lighting.

I have never used the 70-200f/4 or 17-40f/4 but they are very popular on here. I have the 70-200f/2.8IS and I love it. Have you considered the Sigma 70-200f/2.8? That seems to be another very popular lens and gets you a little more light, but again I have never used it myself. Check it out at Sigmaforless

Whatever you decide I hope you have fun with it!