Need quick help...

[subtle_spectre]

I have to make a quick decision today as the holiday is comming fast. Let me ask this: as far as image quality, which wins? The 17-40L or one of the non-L primes in that range, e.g. 28/1.8; 35/2, etc?

Thanks....

Scott

[defordphoto]

For "holiday" shooting and such a zoom is best as people move around and the scene changes. I love my 17-40L so that's my vote and I won't change my mind! ;)

[condyk]

I'd agree with Mr Sports ... on a 20d the 17-40 is pretty cool as a walkaround.

[LightRules]

You're giving the primes a running start by comparing them at f4 (17-40 wide open). I wouldnt be surprised if they outresolve the L zoom at f4, though the L still may deliver more punch and contrast (being an L). Really you can't go wrong. I wouldn't base your choice in IQ per se since they're all good but rather what kind of shooting will you be doing?

[defordphoto]

You're giving the primes a running start by comparing them at f4 (17-40 wide open). I wouldnt be surprised if they outresolve the L zoom at f4, though the L still may deliver more punch and contrast (being an L). Really you can't go wrong. I wouldn't base your choice in IQ per se since they're all good but rather what kind of shooting will you be doing?

Of course they will out resolve the zoom. However, the 17-40L is one of the best out there and for what he is shooting (holiday stuff) the zoom is the clear winner.

[CoolToolGuy]

It was not among your original list, but I would seriously consider the EF-S 17-85 IS. There have been comparisons of it with the 17-40 L where it came out ahead. The biggest knock seems to be at the wide end. With the IS and the length at the long end, it is certainly worth a look.

Have Fun,

[defordphoto]

Good idea CTG! Yeah, on the 20D that lens is definitely worth a consideration.

[CoolToolGuy]

Two more notes on the EF-S 17-85 - it works very well with the built-in flash, which is absolutely useless with the 24-70 L, but if you go with the 17-85 don't use the hood with the built-in flash - it produces shadows in the foreground with long shots (like a room full of people). That said, the 17-40 L may also produce shadows due to its large diameter and its length.

Have Fun,

[LightRules]

However, the 17-40L is one of the best out there and for what he is shooting (holiday stuff) the zoom is the clear winner.

...Unless he's shooting lots of indoors, no flash.

EDIT: Ahh, I see he DOES have a bunch of flashes...ok then, zoom it is.

[subtle_spectre]

Thank you all very much. Part of my dilema is already having the 24-70, and the kit lens if needed. And, I can make all the light I will ever need.

So, I went at lunch and examined the 28/1.8. I really liked it...so a copy is being overnited from Canoga Camera! Issue resolved for now.

[CoolToolGuy]

Thank you all very much. Part of my dilema is already having the 24-70, and the kit lens if needed. And, I can make all the light I will ever need.

So, I went at lunch and examined the 28/1.8. I really liked it...so a copy is being overnited from Canoga Camera! Issue resolved for now.

Not a bad choice - as a normal lens, it works well. I think you'll like it.

Have Fun,

[LightRules]

So, I went at lunch and examined the 28/1.8. I really liked it...so a copy is being overnited from Canoga Camera! Issue resolved for now.

Well then, prime it is.