What Flash and lens

SpikeK6

SpikeK6

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Spike
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Hi all

My first post so be gentle.
I have done a search but as always you get too much info and not a direct answer to what you need to know so here goes.

I have just bought my first proper camera a Canon 400D on advice from a relative that is reasonably newish to photography himself and I think after reading reviews he gave me good advice.

But the camera is second hand so does not come with an external flash or an extra lens
Now my budget will not be massive so looking for a good flash for little money, what can you advise????

The lens can wait awhile, as being new to photography i will probably think the standard kit lens will be the best thing since sliced bread, even though all reviews say the camera is really good the lens is not. Again my budget will be little so want a good lens for little money what would you advise|???

As I am just starting out I will probably not be focusing on any particular theme of photography so will be taking pics of everything from landscapes to sea views (I live on a small island) sun sets, maybe the local sand racing etc etc so will need a lens to cover most eventualities.

Oh also is there anywhere on this site that explains all the terminoligy you guys use, I am finding alot of what you guys say to be double dutch at times as alot is abbreviated or just letters but they mean nothing to me???

Thanks

Spike
 
First and foremost, welcome to TP :).

The kit lens is fine for starting with, and using it for a while will give you an idea of what you like to shoot, which will then shape your future upgrades. I started with a 350D, and the kit lens, and used it for about 6 months before moving on to a Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5, which is noticeably sharper, and highly recommended. Second hand, they go for £150-£200, and you get a lot of lens for the money - check a TP review of it (not mine) here.

You may find you want something with a longer focal length as well - again, Sigma is your friend :) - the 70-300mm APO Macro is a great starter telephoto, and usually around £90-£100 used. After that, well, wide-angles, macros, primes...it gets expensive if you're not careful ;)

Oh, and post your shots on here for everyone to see - it's the quickest way to learn.:thumbs:
 
Welcome to TP!

Again, not sure on your budjet, but I would suggest getting a 50mm F1.8 (Nifty Fifty)

So a search on the forum for it. Prime 50mm lens cost around £60. Was the next thing I bought when I got my 450D and kit lens last year. Never looked back!

430EX would also be a good buy, but (if like me!) you are on a tigh budget, maybe the Jessops 360AFD. I am in the marker for one of these now.

Good luck - and get posting some pics!
 
Hi
Thanks for the replys, it will be mostly second hand gear i will be buying as to be honest i have just started out in photography so do not want to spend a fortune then decide its not for me.
I was thinking the same about the lens, just play with it for now and see where it leads me then get a more specific one later.
The flash I would like sooner so will look at those models and see if I can pick up a decent second hand one,

Is there anything I need to look for when buying second hand flashes.

thanks

Spike
 
Hi just managed to buy the jessops 360AFD for £45 second hand

As far as i am aware I am sorted now till I get used to things and want to change, then i can see it getting expensive ha ha

Spike
 
You kit lens is the non-IS one I think? The newer IS version is completely redesigned and much better, plus it has IS.

The popular second choice is the Canon 55-250 IS which is also very good and excellent value.

For flash, the Canon one to go for is the 430EXII.

This sticky thread was written with folks like you in mind. It explains most technical terms and jargon http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=99841
 
hi there, i know you have already bought a flash, but i dont think flash is what you need right now for the type of photography you mentioned (mostly landscape?). I would buy a decent tripod and get those winter misty sunrises/moody sunsets across the island. A tripod will allow you to keep your camera rock steady and keep the shutter open for a longer period of time (a must for low light, night photography).
 
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