Canon or Tamron 55-200mm

[trueblue]

Just getting into photography, and got a Canon EOS 400D with standard 18-55mm lens. Now want to add a second lens so when I take children to the zoo I can actually get a close up of the animals, or when I go motor racing I can get a close up of the action etc.
I'm no professional, just a family man who wants to take good photos on family days out, holiday, sports events etc.
I've read that a 55-200 mm lens is a good second lens, but having read some threads it seems 70-200 or 300 is best.
Any ideas please would be gratefully received.

 

[Big Mike]

Welcome to the forum.

What's your budget? The best option in that range is the Canon 70-200 F2.8 L IS, followed by the other versions; 70-200 F2.8 L, 70-200 F4 L IS & 70-200 F4 L. There is also a Sigma 70-200 F2.8.

The 55-200 should be a decent lens...but not as good as any of the 70-200 lenses.

You might also consider a 70-300 lens...of which there are several to choose from. The cheaper ones are OK but not great. I would suggest the Canon version with IS, but I think the 70-200 lenses are still at the top of the list, in terms of quality.