Looking for a lens...

[Braeden]

to replace the Canon 17-85 IS USM lens that I currently use with my 40D.

My eye keeps being drawn to either the 24-105 f/4 IS L or the 24-70 f/2.8 L but I'm struggling to decide between them and am also wondering if there is something else I should be considering.

I would be grateful if anyone has any advice to offer to solve my dilemma and even more grateful if they would share it with the rest of us ;)

[chewyuk]

Why are you looking to replace the 17-85 ?
What type of shots are you looking at taking? This will probably decide yur choice of lens.

[Braeden]

The 17-85 has been sold along with my redundant 350D and a few other bits.

Reasons I sold it on are because I want something faster, higher quality and with less barrel distortion at the wider end.

The 17-85 is a great lens and it has been used to take some great (in my opinion) photos so it's not that I thought it was bad as such, just that I want something better :)

As for what it is used for, well everything except my motorsport shots really, portraits, landscapes, still life.

I'm still studying photography at college so I haven't got a particular favourite type of shot but since I'm studying and this year am doing location and studio work for both landscapes and still life and portraits I need it to be a good all rounder.

[chewyuk]

Fair do's, I think the two you have selected seem to fit the general range of shots you will be taking.
The 24-105 seems to be a very popular choice for a walkabout lens these days..

I always use these sites: http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-24-105mm-f-4-L-IS-USM-Lens-Review.aspx

Check the final footnote on the review of the 24-105 ;)

[Braeden]

I've read that one and the one on photozone and they both seem to edge towards the 24-105.

I must admit my first thoughts go to the 24-105 as well as the extra reach and IS look incredibly tempting.

I don't do a huge amount of indoor shooting so 2.8 although very nice to have possibly wouldn't be used as much as the extra reach would.

I think I've made my mind up...

I think...

thanks for your help by the way

[photostar_1]

I currently have both these lenses and I would say, if you don't do much low light work, go for the 24-105mm. It's a lovely lens and that extra bit of reach is very useful. I do love my 24-70 and its wide aperture capability, but it is fairly restrictive........both from cost, weight, lack of IS and relatively short reach.

[Braeden]

I took delivery of a 24-105 f/4 yesterday and used it at my daughters 2nd birthday party today and am very impressed! :thumbs:

Yay! finally I have L glass.... now I just need more ability please! ;)

[RobertP]

It is good on a crop sensor. Don't try it on a full frame camera though or you will start wanting one ;)