First L series lens question

WlknDtPt · May 29, 2010

Hi guys!

I've been agonizing over what lens to get for some time now and thought I'd ask around and see what you all think.
Some background - I've got a canon rebel xti and I've been shooting for several years now. I'm in art school and I work for several wedding photographers, but because of a small budget (and the better equipment I get to use through the photographers I work for) I've never gotten the chance to upgrade.

Within the next year, I want to buy a 1D Mark III, but right now I'm just looking into getting my first L lens. I'm leaving for an internship in Europe and will be shooting a lot, so I'm contemplating getting an EF 24-70mm f/2.8L US, which I feel will be pretty versatile and has gotten great reviews. Do any of you use this lens on a canon rebel? I've heard it's fairly heavy and I want to make sure it'll be completely compatible with my camera.

Thanks for any advice!

mtfd635 · May 29, 2010

The 24-70L is my first L and I love it. I have several other lenses that are quite capable , but tack sharp pics are much easier with the 24-70.
I use it on 30D & 40D and it is indeed Heavy, but well worth the weight.
Matter of opinion but I love this lens.
The 'sweet spot' exists in a wide range if apertures and focal lengths.
Cost n weight - worth it

cfusionpm · May 29, 2010

My first L lens was the 70-200 f/2.8L IS mkII, but I already had an excellent crop-friendly mid range zoom already (the 17-55 f/2.8 IS). the 24-70 doesnt go terribly wide on a crop body, but IQ and longer range are good. Also look into the 24-105 f/4L IS as another option if you don't need f/2.8.

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens Review

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens Review

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM Lens Review

The 17-55 is NOT an L lens, and since it's an EF-S, it will not mount to full frame bodies. Something to keep in mind regarding your future upgrade considerations.

Lightspeedfoto · May 30, 2010

Everyone is partial to whatever lens they have purchased, but with that being said, I purchased the 24-105L to go with a rebel xti. Now I have a 5dmkII and love the combo. The only "regret" is that I would have gotten the 24-70 because I am mainly shooting indoors and the 2.8 would be better for me. If you're "mainly" shooting outdoors and want more versatility before you can buy a few of the L series Primes, I'd go with the 24-105. I also have the 70-200 2.8IS and it's FAN-Tabulous!, but it's a commitment to bring that puppy out to play!