My First Lens Choice

mmayo · Sep 7, 2011

Finally taking the plunge into DSLR! After doing a lot of research, I have chosen to buy (haven't done so yet) the Canon 60d. I would love to buy it and use it right now, but now I am stuck on researching lenses, and I am going insane! I have never used a DSLR and altho I have done a lot of research, I am still like a fish out of water with all the lingo. I have read many threads on this as well... but they are all a little more advanced that me at this point. So, I need help! I would like to choose a lens, instead of just taking the kit lens, but I am so confused now.

I am a military wife and mom of small kids. We are stationed in Europe - I know, what an awesome place for photos, right? So, this is what I need... I don't want to loose zoom - I do a lot of travel photography of places, and NEED zoom to pull some shots off. I also need it for kids sports and things like that. Also, I have been getting into portraits - I'm not good yet and I need lots of practice, so I need a lens that will be great with that, typically outdoors, but it's europe - rain pushes me inside more often than I would like. However, I LOVE Macro photography as well!!!! See why this is so hard for me? I realize, I am probably not going to find a great lens for all of that... and this being my first DSLR, I don't want to spend too much time switching lenses. So, I am thinking about choosing 2 lenses, but would like to keep within the $500 - $700 range for Both! (My military husband is already stressed that I am about to spend $800 on a camera body, lol. He knows it will be more for the lens, and I'd like for my first shots not to be of his heart attack!)

Oh, one more thing... weight IS an issue. I plan to carry this guy with me everywhere, and will probably have it around my neck all the time. I'd prefer not to look like the Hunchback as I am taking shots at Notre Dame.

Ok... 2 more things... Image Stabilization - I like that stuff too! I need all the help I can get!

Please help! Any and all suggestions and detailed "beginners" information is welcome!!!

***should i consider backing down to my original choice of the Rebel T3i, in order to put the extra $200 into the lenses?***

Jan Matis · Sep 7, 2011

mmayo said:
***should i consider backing down to my original choice of the Rebel T3i, in order to put the extra $200 into the lenses?***

If you have real reason for canon then yes rather go for 600d than 60d as your first dslr (because of size: you are female- so you probably have smaller hands, it's lighter (as you've mentioned traveling) ). but then - have you even considered different brands than canon/nikon ? you could get reasonable value fro your price in sony for example.

It is really hard to give and advice on lens though I'll give it a try:
for a "travel zoom" lens try to consider something like following (look up prices, obviously in quality perspective you'll get what you pay for

but definitely search for reviews ) :
Canon EF-S 18-200mm f3.5-5.6 IS
Tamron 18-270mm f3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD
Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM

and if you wish to add "macro" capability you can think about Auto Focus Macro Extension Tubes/Rings (e.g. Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube/Ring For Canon EOS L9A | eBay )

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dericcainphoto · Sep 7, 2011

I hate to mention a different camera with all of the research you have done, but I would recommend the 50D over the 60D. I have had experience with both cameras and like the 50D more. The reason being that it is more geared towards a prosumer camera than the 60D. The body is made of magnesium allow, which is a lot tougher in weather conditions opposed to the body of the 60D. I have had my 50D for over a year now and it shoots great pics. You can pick one up on ebay with less than 10,000 clicks for around $700 or less. That is, if you do not mind buying a used camera. As far as the lens, Jan made some good suggestions. I have used many third party lenses, but I am not in favor of them. Canon lenses seem to always work better for me. A lot of Sigma lenses have auto focusing issues and I sold one due to that very reason. I used the Canon 28-135mm kit lens for the longest and it produced some sharp images for me. If you did add the extension tubes onto the lens, then it would be macro capable. I believe you can get the lens for around $350 and a 25mm extension tube for about $150. I hope this helps and doesn't confuse you.