Merlin’s weekly podcast with Dan Benjamin. We talk about creativity, independence, and making things you love.
Choosing my next Canon lens
Merlin Mann | Dec 18 2007
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? 36 Comments
POSTED IN:
 Life is too short not to own fast glass (f/2.8 and faster)Submitted by pmcgavin on December 19, 2007 - 10:29am.
I shoot both Canon and Nikon and think both are great, but you have to take some care in purchasing your lenses. Canon L/Nikon Pro lenses are all great and very $$$. The consumer lenses for each co. are a mixed bag: some OK and some downright disappointing. You already have a fast 50/1.4, so you understand the virtues of fast glass. Don't settle for a f/3.5-f/5.6 zoom. Also don't buy a lens designed for APS-C size sensors. The "sweet spot" of full-frame lenses on an APS-C sensor are one of the main benefits of having a less-than-full-frame sensor. Here are two suggestions: [1] If you have unlimited $, buy an adaptor to allow Canon camera bodies to mount Nikon lenses and buy the new Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 zoom (21mm - 36mm equivalent). It's that good. [2] A more affordable (as low as $325 new), but still very good option is the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Macro lens - a great portrait lens with the ability to focus very close - which makes it flexible. You can see sample baby photos shot with this lens here. Happy shooting. » POSTED IN:
|
|
| EXPLORE 43Folders | THE GOOD STUFF |
