Which lens is better?

[arsondesign]

I recently purchased a Canon 40D. I haven't received it yet but want to know as much as I can about the lenses before I get them. I'm very new to photography and don't understand "lens speed" or much about lenses at all.

I'm going to be shooting mostly concert photography (dim lighting that is random and colored), as well as promotional photos in daylight. The two lenses it came with are an 18-50mm f/3.5-5.6 auto focus, and a 55-200mm 4.5-5.6 auto focus. I'm not sure which would be better for what and if I should get a better lens (I don't want to spend a lot since the Camera was already a huge investment for just beginning). Someone suggested a couple lenses..

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...e_EF_35mm.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...0mm_f_1_8.html

but if anyone has other suggestions I'd really love to know!

 

[usayit]

This is an apples to oranges comparison.... one isn't better than the other.. other than the fact that one is 35mm focal length and the other is a 50mm.

Honestly.. buy both... the 50mm f1.8 is a known good optical lens and at $75 there is no reason not to have it.

For street shooting on a cropped sensor... 35mm is my focal length of choice BUT only you can make that decision.

 

[Big Mike]

The two lenses that you ordered with the camera, will be good in bright light (outdoors etc)...but would struggle in low light. Either of the other lenses would be much better for low light shooting, concerts for example.

I'd suggest the 50mm F1.8, if only because it's very affordable.

 

[Sideburns]

the 50mm 1.8 is great, and since you're on a budget, that's probably your best bet.

 

[soylentgreen]

The 50 f/1.8 is unbeatable for the price. I find the AF a bit slow for my liking so went with the 50 f/1.4 which has a USM motor. Also has a better build quality to it.