New Camera vs. New Lens upgrade?

[Cfitz]

The 50mm f/1.8 is one of Canons sharpest lenses despite it's low cost. Go over your techniques and method of shooting and then decide whether or not a new lens is needed.

 

[belial]

I have the same combo you do. I've never had a problem with soft images. Even the kit lens is known for being decently sharp. Make sure you aren't using auto settings and keep the shutter speed as fast as you can manage. An don't be afraid to crank up the ISO when it's needed

 

[Dao]

Yes, the kit lens has limitations, but it is not bad as far as sharpness goes. In fact, at f/8 (one stop from wide open) and 55mm, it is as sharp as the 50mm prime (based on the MTF charts from Photozone).

If you like to shoot with wider aperture, then you may need to take a look at those fast standard zoom lens from Canon, Sigma and Tamron.

 

[bentcountershaft]

Hey sorry guys, I thought my gear was listed in my signature. I have a Canon T1i, with the kit 18-55mm, a 50mm 1.8, and a 55-250. So, now that its generally been established that a new lens would probably be a safer bet than a new camera, what kinds of lenses would you all recommend? By the way, thanks for all the feedback! This is a really cool forum =]

A flash.

+1 Way better bang for the buck right there, especially for portraits.

 

[TheBiles]

+2 for the flash. You'll be able to get some amazing shots that you couldn't before.


--
Sent from my Droid Bionic.

 

[KmH]

Flash definately gives you more control of the light, but it adds a level of complexity too, which again goes back to the need to be sure the photographer is up to speed.

 

[JGarlant]

Santa brought me a flash for Christmas, Ill let you all know how they turn out! =]