Which second lens and which bag?
chopsky
Registered Users Posts: 104 Major grins
Hey guys
Im going to be purchasing a 350D in a couple weeks time (during my 1 week trip in NYC). This will be my first venture into the world of SLR (bar the film SLR I've been using for the last week - its lenses arent great at all).
I'm set on getting the Canon 10-22mm as I love taking scenic/landscape shots (especially since I live in a city that lends itself to it).
Im really unsure what to get as second lens. Im looking for something that I can use more as a 'walk-around' lens.
A good friend of mine (and someone i believe to be a respectable photographer) has adviced me to get the 50mm 1.8. Probably a steal at $70 as well. Im looking at the 85 1.8 as well. I'm aware there's a relatively significant price difference, but I'm willing to spend a bit more cash, if it means buying more of an investment, rather than a lens I'll outgrow sooner. Is the 85 too narrow an angle for every day use? If I'm taking portraits, will I get significant bokeh with the 50?
I obviously want to be 100% happy with whatever I buy and not have to replace the lens in 6 months to a year.
Secondly, Im looking into buying a backpack for my camera. Assuming I successfully purchase my cam when I get there, Im going to be walking around New York hopefully every day with it, so I figured a backpack would be the best (most comfortable) solution for this. Do guys find that the backpacks make the camera gear extremely inaccessible when needing to change lenses etc.? Should I rather look into a slingshot?
Thanks!
Im going to be purchasing a 350D in a couple weeks time (during my 1 week trip in NYC). This will be my first venture into the world of SLR (bar the film SLR I've been using for the last week - its lenses arent great at all).
I'm set on getting the Canon 10-22mm as I love taking scenic/landscape shots (especially since I live in a city that lends itself to it).
Im really unsure what to get as second lens. Im looking for something that I can use more as a 'walk-around' lens.
A good friend of mine (and someone i believe to be a respectable photographer) has adviced me to get the 50mm 1.8. Probably a steal at $70 as well. Im looking at the 85 1.8 as well. I'm aware there's a relatively significant price difference, but I'm willing to spend a bit more cash, if it means buying more of an investment, rather than a lens I'll outgrow sooner. Is the 85 too narrow an angle for every day use? If I'm taking portraits, will I get significant bokeh with the 50?
I obviously want to be 100% happy with whatever I buy and not have to replace the lens in 6 months to a year.
Secondly, Im looking into buying a backpack for my camera. Assuming I successfully purchase my cam when I get there, Im going to be walking around New York hopefully every day with it, so I figured a backpack would be the best (most comfortable) solution for this. Do guys find that the backpacks make the camera gear extremely inaccessible when needing to change lenses etc.? Should I rather look into a slingshot?
Thanks!
0
Comments
http://lights.lightrefineries.org/?page_id=67
I also really enjoy my new 24-105, but it's really expensive if you're just getting into the DSLR world. but if you get it, you won't regret it!
as you can see I decided on the Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 as my walk around lens. the price is definitely right and it's a great focal length for the walk around.
are you sure you wouldn't consider getting the Sigma? it'll save you some money that you could put towards other things, like a battery grip or different accessories like filters.
well, good luck!
- RE
www.rossfrazier.com/blog
My Equipment:
Canon EOS 5D w/ battery grip
Backup Canon EOS 30D | Canon 28 f/1.8 | Canon 24 f/1.4L Canon 50mm f/1.4 | Sigma 50mm f/2.8 EX DI Macro | Canon 70-200 F/2.8 L | Canon 580 EX II Flash and Canon 550 EX Flash
Apple MacBook Pro with dual 24" monitors
Domke F-802 bag and a Shootsac by Jessica Claire
Infiniti QX4
Art, that lens looks to be around $1100, which is way of my budget for a second lens.
As for the 300AW, that looks to be a great choice. Will look into it further.
Ross, I've never been mad about bags like that as they seem to sit around the ass area and dont sit as well as a backpack, especially for walking around all day with.
As for the Tamron, I was looking at something with a wider aperture for portraits (hence the 50 1.8).
I was considering the Sigma, but after reading head-to-head reviews, I decided the Canon was the better option.
THANKS TO BOTH OF YOU FOR THE PROMPT RESPONSES.
body: canon 400d
lenses: 50mm 1.8 & 10-22mm
Grant Shapiro Design & Photography
LowePro Slingshot 300 AW
also, I think you'll find that if you want a good walk-around lens you'll want a zoom. the primes will be great for portraits, but you might regret having those as your only "walk-around" lenses. just my thoughts.
good luck with your purchases!
- RE
www.rossfrazier.com/blog
My Equipment:
Canon EOS 5D w/ battery grip
Backup Canon EOS 30D | Canon 28 f/1.8 | Canon 24 f/1.4L Canon 50mm f/1.4 | Sigma 50mm f/2.8 EX DI Macro | Canon 70-200 F/2.8 L | Canon 580 EX II Flash and Canon 550 EX Flash
Apple MacBook Pro with dual 24" monitors
Domke F-802 bag and a Shootsac by Jessica Claire
Infiniti QX4
Check out Sigma and Tamron lines of lenses....also look for USED....great deals can usually be found and would save you tons....
Siince discussing the 300aw...I just bought it at Sell-N-Send on Ebay...less than $97 with insurance...should arrive friday or monday since it is coming from Co.
However... I do think a backpack is a little cumbersome for city shooting. Your body and lenses are not big or heavy, so a shoulder bag won't hurt your shoulder or unbalance you. I'd recommend one over a backpack, simply because it's so much easier to change lenses, pull out your camera, etc.
There are tons of shoulder bags out there. I have a couple of Lowepros, and am very happy with them. You might want to consider one of their "Stealth Reporter" bags, they're very nice.
I seem to have recommended all Lowepro. I have many brands, they're the equal of any.
As for lens, the 10-22 rocks. An excellent choice. Either the 50 1.8 or the 85 1.8 is also an excellent choice. The 85 is not too "narrow." It will give you better bokeh than the 50.
Catapultam habeo. Nisi pecuniam omnem mihi dabis, ad caput tuum saxum immane mittam
http://www.mcneel.com/users/jb/foghorn/ill_shut_up.au
Chopsky....
I went looking on Ebay..found this approx 275 +s/h
Sigma 24-70 on ebay
24-70 at BH.....429 +S/H of course you can pick this up also
24 - 60 f2.8 at BH $399 +s/h......again you'll be able to just pick this up also...
I have extremely happy with my 24-70 2.8 siggy...I have always had great luck with my Sigma Lenses over all the years I have used them (around 25 yrs).
Im just worried that walking around for 10 hours at a time with a shoulder bag (which I will be doing during my week in NY) might get frustrating, given its losely hanging compared to a backpack. Also a shoulderbag will make it look far more obvious what I'm carrying. I guess both offer pros and cons.
Even though the 1.6 crop makes it 136mm?
body: canon 400d
lenses: 50mm 1.8 & 10-22mm
Grant Shapiro Design & Photography
Thanks Art! Will look into it.
body: canon 400d
lenses: 50mm 1.8 & 10-22mm
Grant Shapiro Design & Photography
When you put the strap around your neck and over one shoulder, it doesn't dangle, it stays put.
Can't help you on the security issue, luckily it's not been a problem for me.
I just found that I was a lot more reluctant to change lenses when I had to take-off a backpack, set it down, unzip it etc., than when I could slide a bag from from my back to my front, and reach in while simply standing there. Much more convenient.
The crop factor is definitely an issue with the 85's focal length. But remember, the 350D's smaller sensor will make it harder to get good bokeh with the 50mm.
You'll need to decide what you're more likely to shoot: wider, or tighter with blurry backgrounds?
Hey, these are the fun problems to have!
Catapultam habeo. Nisi pecuniam omnem mihi dabis, ad caput tuum saxum immane mittam
http://www.mcneel.com/users/jb/foghorn/ill_shut_up.au
hah fair enough.
Does it make sense me getting both? Or will I most likely end up with one of them collecting dust?
Besides for dpchallenge, are there any other really good sites for seeing example photos of the different lenses?
body: canon 400d
lenses: 50mm 1.8 & 10-22mm
Grant Shapiro Design & Photography
Lots and lots of pluses to having both.
Of course, it's easy for me to spend your money!
Reviews here. Or Google.
Catapultam habeo. Nisi pecuniam omnem mihi dabis, ad caput tuum saxum immane mittam
http://www.mcneel.com/users/jb/foghorn/ill_shut_up.au
Before I decided on my camera gear (just got it last November), I spent much, much time reading user reviews on Amazon, DP Review, and the Fred Miranda lens review forums.
I enjoyed the "So You'd Like To..." series on Amazon (just one example here), which combined with their user posted images with each lens and user reviews were a fine resource.
It took me WEEKS, but I eventually read every user review on lenses at Fred Miranda.
Note, in mentioning these other places I am in no way trying to slight the info here at Dgrin. I did not learn about Smugmug and Dgrin until *after* I did all my initial research and purchasing, and next time will either use the search function here and/or ask directly here, just as you did.
Now, all that said, about your lens...I will agree with what others have said about the 24-70 focal length. Although you mentioned the Canon 24-70 lens I got is out of your price range, I see some recommendations for similar ones at more affordable rates. I think this is a fantastic walk-around lens; very versatile!
And the bag---I too wanted a backpack, and went with this one, which was highly recommended. I wanted a backpack because my shoulders/back are prone to gimpiness and I figured the backpack would give me a more equal weight distribution. I like it, but I do not love it, as I hoped I would. If I try to fit all of my lenses in the bag, it bulges awkwardly at the sides and can be difficult to zip at that point. I have seen many good threads on bags here at Dgrin, and I will shop more carefully in the future. For the lenses you mention, I think this bag would work out quite well for you.
Have fun selecting all of your goodies!
happy day,
wren
tristansphotography.com (motorsports)
Canon 20D | 10-22 | 17-85 IS | 50/1.4 | 70-300 IS | 100/2.8 macro
Sony F717 | Hoya R72
the other choices and that makes it a great walkabout lens.
If money is an issue, the 17-85 is a good choice too.
As far as something to carry it in, I would suggest something that combines
convenience with security. A Crumpler backpack is a great way to carry things
about without looking too much like a camera backpack. A bit on the pricey
side.
Let us know what you decide and do show us the results from your trip.
RE: walking around NYC, I would go for the slingshot, or messenger bag style that goes across your chest but allows easy access. I have backpacks and they are great for lugging stuff on airplanes, hiking, into the country, etc. but not what I use in The City. When (not if) you use the subway, the backpack will be a major inconvenience.
Again, buy your camera/lenses/accessories at B&H and then head to the bag section. You are there - take advantage of it. Since this is your first bag, leave a little extra room for that next lens, flash or whatever you are going to buy next year.
BTW - you will see TONS of people being anything but discreet with their camera bags and equipment. Go to WTC, Chinatown, you name it. Relax, be smart and have fun!
-Fleetwood Mac
Catapultam habeo. Nisi pecuniam omnem mihi dabis, ad caput tuum saxum immane mittam
http://www.mcneel.com/users/jb/foghorn/ill_shut_up.au
As for lenses to complement your 10-22:
The 85/1.8 is a great lens but on a crop body it is pretty long. You will want something between 22mm and 85mm for certain. If you are looking at primes, I'd consider the 50/1.4 or the 35/2.
Everything I have heard about the Tamron 28-75 has been very good. I'd put that high on your list of lenses to consider. My impression is that it is unmatched among midrange fast zooms in bang for the buck.
After many yrs, it seems as a dGrin photographer, I finally decided I need a normal lens. And I know an excellent photographer who uses that lens, I have also read the reviews.
It is close to 400.00.
Does anyone want to sell me one before I buy one? I know lenses hold their value, so I am not concerned about paying full price at B&H.
It is much cheaper than the aforementioned Canon. To me f 2.8 is a good low light lens with some depth of field. I mean, 1.8 might be a good low light aperture, but a very narrow DOF, plus it is not a zoom.
So, not having read the last post, that is what I am doing and have to say.
Also, I have a Crumpler backpack and a belt. I agree that either one might be a bit much in NYC, Andy should know on that. But I hate my belt mainly because it hurts to wear.
Anyone want to buy it. It is a very good belt with things for just about every lens available. I have not kept it wrapped in cotton, don't know where the boxes are, but neither have I used it much.
It is very nice to carry water, but it cost me about 150.00 to get that water carrier. Other than that my back can't take the wt around my waist, and neither can my legs. I don't hold up all that long with the backpack, but it is much better than the belt. My husband, also with a bad back, but better lungs and 5 yrs younger, he wears the backpack with ease. Did I mention again that it is a crumpler. Pretty big one, too.
I had the Canon 10-22, loved it, it was stolen, replaced it with the Sigma 10-20. Liked the Canon better, but either is a good lens, and you should love the Canon.
ginger (Uh, you probably don't want to spend the 200.00 to get a backpack like that unless you are old like I am or have a premature back problem. Mine is not for sale, only my belt, and I am not pushing that as I might need the water this summer.)
Jake: Hit it.
http://www.sissonphotography.com
www.flickr.com/photos/sissonphotography
http://sissonphotography.blogspot.com/
I think right now, Im just going to stick with the 10-22 & 50 1.8 for my first purchase. I really cant decide what else to get and I figure the 50 1.8 is so cheap I cant go wrong there. I can't yet afford canon's 24-70 2.8, so Im going to wait until I can instead of settling for 2nd best.
So here is what Im hoping to walk out with as my first SLR purchase:
Camera: Canon 350D
Lenses: Canon 10-22 & 50 1.8
Filters: B+W Polarizer, UV, Cokin A120 and A121 Grad ND
2 x 4gb Sandisk CF
Spare Battery
Naneu Pro U120 backpack (going to have to source this from someone other than B&H)
Hopefully an external flash and tripod if budget allows for it.
Thanks for all the advice.
Grant
body: canon 400d
lenses: 50mm 1.8 & 10-22mm
Grant Shapiro Design & Photography
You can't really go wrong with the $80 50 1.8, I had it for years, but now that I have the 50 1.4 I wish I would have had it all along. It works great for portraits on my 20D, and you can see the difference in the image.
I'm just saying..............:D
A full ND filter will be more useful than a split.
If you have photo editing software, you might save some money and not buy the Cokin, either: in real life the split doesn't match horizons the way it does in the sales shots; and the same effect is easy to achieve in post with multiple exposures from a tripod, or with multiple exposures of a highlight protected RAW file.
Catapultam habeo. Nisi pecuniam omnem mihi dabis, ad caput tuum saxum immane mittam
http://www.mcneel.com/users/jb/foghorn/ill_shut_up.au
The bag: http://www.naneupro.com/products.mdv?p=ug-u120
A review of the bag by popular photojournalist Chris Weeks: http://barbecuediguana.com/archives/2006/12/01/i-heart-the-u120/
It looks quite amazing to say the least, and is very well priced.
body: canon 400d
lenses: 50mm 1.8 & 10-22mm
Grant Shapiro Design & Photography
I began my digital excursion over a year ago with a 350D. It is a great camera. However, the stock lens is very mediocre and I purchased a used EF 28-105 f/3.5-4.5. The quality exceeds the price you pay. There are three versions, make sure to get the Japan made version. For backpacks, there is no competition for the Lowepro Slingshot series. I began with the Lowepro Trekker AW II because I needed the room for camera, two alternate lens, Flash unit, batteries, charger, etc, etc, However, the Trekker became storage. It was simply too heavy for daily use. Then I purchased the Lowepro Slingshot 100 and it is perfect for short lightweight trips when I do not carry everything. I have since traded up to a Canon 30D and replaced the 28-105 with a EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM lens. And, I replaced the Trekker with a Slingshot 300. I use the Slingshot 300 for days I need it all and the Slingshot 100 for a more abreviated shooting day. The Trekker and the 28-105 are headed for eBay. You cannot go wrong with one of the Slingshot bags. There is just nothing as handy. And depending on your budget, a great start for a walking around lens is the EF 28-105 f/3.5-4.5 lens. It is near L quality for a bargain price. And, because of that, when you trade up, you will recover most of what you paid. I will sell you mine right now, or look on eBay. The non-Japan version sells for under $100 and the Japan version sells for under $200 on eBay. All the camera bloggers strongly recommend the Japan version. I had good luck with mine. Good luck.
Joe <Anavado>
Catapultam habeo. Nisi pecuniam omnem mihi dabis, ad caput tuum saxum immane mittam
http://www.mcneel.com/users/jb/foghorn/ill_shut_up.au
Also, it balances SO well on the 350D body and the "near L quality" bit is no exageration. Honestly, can't go wrong with this one. Also... the advice on the 50 1.4 vs. 50 1.8 is well worth heading. Yes, the 1.8 is a bargain, but the 1.4 is an incredible bargain considering the jump in quality... I've agonized over every lens purchase (since I'm still paying VISA for all of them) and the 50 1.4, 28-105 F/3.5-4.5 II USM, and 85 1.8 have all been the easiest to justify in terms of value vs. quality in retrospect. These are lenses that you may never outgrow and very smart buys.
Jake: Hit it.
http://www.sissonphotography.com
www.flickr.com/photos/sissonphotography
http://sissonphotography.blogspot.com/