Which lens is better?

[daydreambeliever]

OK so I have a problem, after researching A LOT online, I think I've finally found my two front runners on my search for my first DSLR. I'm very much a beginner and have decided to take the leap. It's either the Sony A200 or the Canon EOS 1000d I'm going for, with the latter being the preference due to the live-view option. If anyone has any suggestions or advice regarding my decision, MORE THAN WELCOME. I'm still going back and forth on this and both seem to have pros and cons.

ANYWAY, after researching costs online I have found two options when it comes to the lens included with the Canon. After learning a lot through reading online, I now realise that the lens is more important than the camera itself in most cases, so I have the option of purchasing the Canon with either a EF-S 18-55mm non IS Lens or a Tamron AF 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 Standard Lens. HELP?!? As a beginner I do not have a scooby doo...

 

[MatBin]

We have a 450D with the cheapo 18/55 non IS Kit lens, which if you believe the reviews is a rubbish lens, we must have a good one in that case, sometimes I struggle to see if my wife has used that lens or my Canon 100mm 2.8 macro (which cost more than her camera and lens combined).
Perhaps quality is variable and you may get lucky, I have no experience of the Tamron lens.
I like the wider angle of the Canon lens though, the Tamron's extra reach (80mm) may suit you better, only you will know that.

Matt

 

[Nadeem]

My advice is either go for a canon 450D or 500D, i know the 1000D is cheaper by a bit. But if you don't have money try Jessops 0%.

As for lens i'm in similar dilemma decided on the 500D but not sure if i go with kit lens or buy another.

 

[jb1972]

Re lenses, thing to bear in mind is that both of these camera's are cropped sensors, so the effective focal length of your lenses is multiplied by a factor of 1.6 (for the canon) and not sure about the sony, but think it's 1.5. What this means is that the 28-80mm tamron lens you're looking at is going to be quite restrictive (not much wide angle coverage at all) so if you're only looking at these lenses then go for the 18-55mm, have a play for a while then look at picking up something better second hand.