Another Damn Newbie!

[Tubthumper]

Evenin' all.

Just signed up as I'm looking forward to a little windfall later this year, and so have decided to replace my Fuji S7000 with a 30D. My problem is lenses: I'm really spoilt for choice.

Any recommendations for a decent portrait lense, perhaps a zoom over the shorter focal lengths with a nice, big aperture.

I was reading a magazine review on the Sigma 18-55mm f2.8 for less than £300, so that's the kind of thing I'm talking about.

So please, any and all advice gratefully received.

[BTBeilke]

In general, longer lenses are preferred over wide angle lenses for portraits as wide angle lenses tend to distort and exaggerate features such as a person's nose. I've seen many people mention the 70-200 f/2.8 as a good portrait zoom or for the ultimate a 85 f/1.2 prime. However, that may be a little long on a crop camera like the 30D depending on the amount of space you have. Something around 50mm (80mm crop equivalent) might be good for you. I have the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 and it is a very sharp lens and is quite affordable (about $380 US).

[no5094]

I agree, the longer lenses are a whole lot better for portraits. The 85 f/1.2 is a great prime, however, it is a bit steep in the area of cost. So, I like my 28-105 for portrait, but its not an "L". For an "L", the 24-105 is good, but again it is a bit pricey. The advantage to these lenses is that you can double it for a wider angle. Welcome to POTN!!!

[Steiglitz]

Just want to add that a longer focal length lens compresses perspective for very interesting compositions.

[overclock]

Some photo mag I get really liked the new Sigma 70mm lens. Got rave reviews.

Like it has been said previously, the 85mm lens can be a little long on a crop body. I had one and sold it. I liked the lens well but it just did not fit my style.

But what shines is the Canon 24-105 L with a nice set of lights. Talk about sharp and fast.

You might also consider the Canon 50mm 1.8. Cheap as dirt, built like dirt, but does a good job for the money. Don't whack it on a door jam or drop it and it will serve you well.

Just stick to P&S. This stuff gets too expensive too quick. You'll be better off not to get sucked into the black hole of camera equipment. At least you're in Scotland and not in the USA. Between B&H, Adorama, Dell, I am a broke man.

[Steiglitz]

But what shines is the Canon 24-105 L with a nice set of lights. Talk about sharp and fast.


F4 is fast?!?

[overclock]

F4 is fast?!?

I meant fast focus in comparison to a non-USM L lens. Thanks for asking for clarification.

[Tubthumper]

I don't know, we're not exactly spoilt for high-street camera shops over here. Jessops is the only one really, and their prices are seldom described as competitive. It's only because I found a UK on-line retailer that is doing the 30D body only for £670 that I decided to go for it, and not the 400D or (gasp) the Sony Alpha.

But a friend who has been using his 10D for years convinced me that I will not be disappointed in going the extra for the 30D.

As I'm not going to be buying until August, it'll be a while before I have anything to show for it. I just want to make sure that I make an informed decision, and get what's right for me. So thanks for the advice so far, it's proving to be very useful.