Which zoom lens for a newbie?

S

shamykebab

Messages
4
Edit My Images
Yes
Hi all!

I have 40D with the 17-85mm ESF lens. I also have a Canon 75-300mm zoom lens which I originally bought for my old SLR. It's an ok lens but I'd like to upgrade...but which lens?! I'm still quite new to all this but would like something that would last for a while. My main subjects are animals (mainly working dogs in action), landscapes, and portraits. What would you guys recommend?

Thanks in advance! :)

Sham
 
Firstly, do you really need a zoom lens for landscape and portraits?
Would you not be better off investing in a wide angle lens since you already have the 70-300?

Also what is your budget?

Welcome to the forum btw :thumbs:
 
Welcome to TP :)

Your 75-300 lens is well known for being a bit average.

Fortunately, the 70-300 IS is known for being very good! The next step up, either one of Canon's 70-200L lenses or the 100-400L, are much more expensive.
 
Gah! And newbie ignorance is revealed! :lol:

Thanks for your replies!

Ok, so the zoom would be used for the dog photography - with the lens I have now I just can't get a decent action shot (or maybe it's just me!) I suppose the 17-85 is good enough for my attempts at landscapes at the moment.

I'd like to make this an investment buy, but as funds are currently a bit sad it won't be for a while yet. Budget would hopefully be around the £1000 mark, but I don't mind something second hand either. Also, am I limited to Canon for lenses? Which are the other good uns out there?

Cheers!

Sham
 
shamykebab said:
Actually, what am I thinking?! Budget of £1000??? More like £500-£600 at best.

Sham
Click to expand...

I also enjoy photographing working dogs, springers and cockers. I have recently purchased a sigma 120-400 hsm (£570) so far the results have been very good. If i had the money then i would have probably gone for Canon 100-400L. But very satisfied with what i have got.

regards
Riu
 
Canon EF 70-200 f/4 L USM, £529 at Jessops.
Or for a better deal-Kerso on here is highly recommended..
The 70-200 obviously doesnt have as much reach,but the IQ is simply stunning.
Also worth a mention (As always) is Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II.
Best lens for the money bar none,and well worth having in your kit.
 
Mischief said:
Canon EF 70-200 f/4 L USM, £529 at Jessops.
Or for a better deal-Kerso on here is highly recommended..
The 70-200 obviously doesnt have as much reach,but the IQ is simply stunning.
Click to expand...

Not to mention it's sharper, has faster & more accurate AF and is a stop (at least) quicker at the long end than the 75-300.
If you can push the budget a little, you maye even manage a 2nd hand 70-200 F/4 L IS.
 
The Sigma 70-200 f2.8 is also a decent lens if you want the wider aperture and they regularly pop up in the classifieds (just make sure you get the canon fit!) :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top