First off, I know this is not exactly the right forum, but I can't post in the Gear Reviews forum because I'm not a full member (I'll get around to buying a subscription sometime...). I'll understand if someone moves/deletes this.
While my old Digital Rebel (300D) has served me well for the past 4 years, more experience and interest in photography has persuaded me to upgrade to upgrade a little bit. While I've decided on a new camera (the Canon Digital Rebel XSi/450D), I thought I'd save the $80 by not getting the kit lens, and instead invest in a higher quality lens. Unfortunately I'm still a poor college student, so I can't really afford the 40D or 50D or any of the L series of lenses.
I'm interested in getting a good mid-length zoom lens, and after much looking around and comparing reviews, I've arrived at the Canon EF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II USM. It's got most of the focal length I want, good reviews, and a good price of $222. I'm planning on ordering everything (camera, lens, accessories, etc.) once I get my paycheck this Friday, so I've still got some time to decide.
I was mostly wondering if anyone here had any experience with this lens and/or camera, and if they would be a good choice for someone who's been consistently interested in photography for 4 years. I mostly shoot landscapes, and also own the Sigma 10-20mm. I realize I'm leaving 8mm or so between the two lenses, but I figure I can just take a step forward or back if absolutely necessary
If it makes a difference, my budget is around $1000, and with this setup (including accessories), I'd be at a little over $900. I would love to hear any other suggestions/advice. This is only the second "big" camera purchase I've made, so I'm still pretty wary of it. Thanks in advance!
Nathaniel
Posted by Steve Foss on October 14, 2008 at 5:21 PM
Nathaniel, that's going to be a big upgrade for you. Congrats on the decision! The 28-105 is a great walkaround lens, and it'll do you well for portraits, as well, and when you don't want to go as wide for landscapes as the 10-20. Good decision to dump the kit lens. I doubt you'll notice the 8mm gap in any meaningful way.
Posted by John Mumaw on October 14, 2008 at 5:55 PM
That lens gets generally high marks over at Fred Miranda's reviews, and those folks can be tough customers to please!
I also own that Sigma lens and find it to be an excellent performer. Needless to say, the camera body is excellent, and won't hold you back from producing high quality images. A great deal at $575!
Are you using an image editor?
Posted by Adam Schallau on October 14, 2008 at 6:49 PM
I'm a fan of the Canon EF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II USM. I had one until I smacked it (and the camera) into the wall of a slot canyon. I think it's one of the best 'budget' lenses in Canon's line-up. I agree with Steve, I doubt that on a Rebel you'll miss the 8mm gap between 20mm and 28mm.
Thanks for the feedback, glad to know I at least have some idea of what to shop around for after 4 years....
Steve: Yeah, I enjoyed the kit lens that came with the original Rebel while it lasted, but after a few years of use it's autofocus motor died and now only works with manual focus. This one looks much sturdier, and the better image quality is also a plus
John: Fred Miranda is usually the first place I go for reviews, they are definitely a great help when it comes to picking stuff out! They helped me through picking out my Sigma when I was looking for a wide-angle. I'm currently using Adobe Photoshop Elements 5.0, and it's been serving me very well. While I occasionally wish that I had the "full" Photoshop power, I can usually find ways around it by being a little creative.
Adam: A shame about the lens...at least in Illinois I don't suppose I have to worry about treacherous slot canyons. Though I do miss the few slot canyons I saw when I lived in Albuquerque.
Thanks for the helpful responses,
Nathaniel
Posted by William Brozy on October 14, 2008 at 7:01 PM
I'll throw in a plug... the least expensive, most economical way to become a better photographer is to drop a mere $49 and join as a member.
Posted by John Mumaw on October 14, 2008 at 8:51 PM
PS Elements is just fine! Obviously, I won't be recommending an image editor for you.
Best of luck with your new gear, and come back to ABQ soon!
Posted by John Klotz on October 15, 2008 at 3:00 AM
If you don't already have it check out Scott Kelby's book "the Photoshop Elements 5 Book for digital photographers". I can't say enough good about this book. I contains many tricks, tips, and work-a-rounds to get Elements 5 to do stuff that would require CS3 etc.
Hope you enjoy the new hardware!
John
Discussion
7 repliesWhile my old Digital Rebel (300D) has served me well for the past 4 years, more experience and interest in photography has persuaded me to upgrade to upgrade a little bit. While I've decided on a new camera (the Canon Digital Rebel XSi/450D), I thought I'd save the $80 by not getting the kit lens, and instead invest in a higher quality lens. Unfortunately I'm still a poor college student, so I can't really afford the 40D or 50D or any of the L series of lenses.
I'm interested in getting a good mid-length zoom lens, and after much looking around and comparing reviews, I've arrived at the Canon EF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II USM. It's got most of the focal length I want, good reviews, and a good price of $222. I'm planning on ordering everything (camera, lens, accessories, etc.) once I get my paycheck this Friday, so I've still got some time to decide.
I was mostly wondering if anyone here had any experience with this lens and/or camera, and if they would be a good choice for someone who's been consistently interested in photography for 4 years. I mostly shoot landscapes, and also own the Sigma 10-20mm. I realize I'm leaving 8mm or so between the two lenses, but I figure I can just take a step forward or back if absolutely necessary
If it makes a difference, my budget is around $1000, and with this setup (including accessories), I'd be at a little over $900. I would love to hear any other suggestions/advice. This is only the second "big" camera purchase I've made, so I'm still pretty wary of it. Thanks in advance!
Nathaniel
I also own that Sigma lens and find it to be an excellent performer. Needless to say, the camera body is excellent, and won't hold you back from producing high quality images. A great deal at $575!
Are you using an image editor?
Steve: Yeah, I enjoyed the kit lens that came with the original Rebel while it lasted, but after a few years of use it's autofocus motor died and now only works with manual focus. This one looks much sturdier, and the better image quality is also a plus
John: Fred Miranda is usually the first place I go for reviews, they are definitely a great help when it comes to picking stuff out! They helped me through picking out my Sigma when I was looking for a wide-angle. I'm currently using Adobe Photoshop Elements 5.0, and it's been serving me very well. While I occasionally wish that I had the "full" Photoshop power, I can usually find ways around it by being a little creative.
Adam: A shame about the lens...at least in Illinois I don't suppose I have to worry about treacherous slot canyons. Though I do miss the few slot canyons I saw when I lived in Albuquerque.
Thanks for the helpful responses,
Nathaniel
Best of luck with your new gear, and come back to ABQ soon!
Hope you enjoy the new hardware!
John