What lenses do I need?

[rob_de_r]

Hello, I bought a EOS20D with the following lenses: EF 75-300mm 1:4-

5.6 III, EF 17-40mm 1:4 USM and the one that I got with the camera

EFS18-55mm. I'm just starting (and have much to learn). Is this a

good alround set to start?

[randy_almquist]

absolutely! i just got my 20d a week ago,(upgrade from drebel) and have enjoyed digital slr photography greatly. i use the 28 135 most of the time but use the 18 55 when i want a little wide angle action. i have waited a year to decide what lens i really want and miss. my next purchase will be the 10-22 and then the 70-200 f4. you will probably get the most use and satisfaction from the 17-40, and will soon find that you wont have much use for the 18-55. you cound sell it and buy the 50 1.8 for an even swap.

[ziskar]

I'm about to order my 20D any day now. The reason for delay is I couldn't decide on the first lenses to go with it.

So my short list is a prime 50mm f/1.8, Sigma 12-24 and Canon 24-70 f2.8L.

A strong contender is the Tamron 17-35 Di.

[mendonphoto]

Sell the 18-55 kit lens (you don't need it now that you have the 17-40) and buy the 50mm f/1.8 to fill the gap between the other two lenses.

[lotsawa]

Congratulations. I think you've got a lot to start with. If you like portraits and low light shots, you may get a fast prime like the 50/1.8.

 

Although you don't really need the 18-55 since the 17-40 is a much better lens, you may still keep it 'cause its so small and light weight. Sometimes I find the 17-40 a bit bulky when the cam has to fit in a small bag. If that doesn't apply to you, get rid of it (and take the money to buy the 50/1.8).

[phil vaughan - yorkshire u]

As others have said, sell the 18-55 and buy a 50mm 1.8.

 

However once you get used to the quality of images from the 50mm and 17-40, you might want to start saving to replace the 75-300. (or you might decide you're not using your camera gear and buy a new hobby).

[aljaz_.]

Why do you ask after you've already bought the kit and why did you buy two lenses that cover very similar ranges? Return the kit lens.

[steve santikarn]

you won't get much for the 18-55 mm lens. I would just keep it for travels and snap shots. It's light, reasonably good, and covers a decent range of focal length.

[Greg M]

I've finally put together my "complete" 10D lens outfit. 15mm f2.8, 17-40 f4L, 85mm f1.8, 100-400L.

 

You'll be able to determine with your current lenses what focal lengths you like. If you turn out to be a tele-shooter, that 75-300 will be replaced....soon.

[phyrpowr]

Don't sell the kit lens, you won't get anything for it to speak of, and for the low price, it's worth it just to have a backup or "knockaround" lens

[rob_de_r]

Thanks all for the respons. You are right...it's a bit dumb to buy first and then start asking questions. I bought at least two good things...the camera and the EF 17-40mm 1:4 USM. I see that some of you don't like the EF 75-300mm 1:4- 5.6 III that much? I'll take the advise of getting the EF 50mm f/1.8 II and read everything in this forum.

[andys]

It's been said before but it is worth saying again.

 

Keep what you have and use it. See what it doesn't do that you want it to do, then you will know what you need. All the rest is just stuff you (or others) want.