Advice with buying...

[NC_Photo]

The time has come where my family is starting to really bug me about what I want for Christmas. I always pull the "nothing" card because lets face it, most everything I want is $$$$ and nothing I'd expect family to buy.

I've been out of school for a year and working for a studio that shoots Nikon. Because of this, I'm always using their stuff (because I have to) and so little time for personal work that I haven't really had time or money to add to my personal collection.

I've got a 20D, kit lens, 240 EX flash, 75-300 1.4-5.6...

Last year my family decided to gift me with a 70-200 IS 2.8, which I LOVE. Finally this year I've told them that honestly I'd rather they all just went in together to get me the things I actually want/use rather than spend money on crap just to buy me something.

Here's what I want:

I'd like another lens, something that I can use for portraits and possibly wedding...the kit lens just doesn't cut it. I also need a new flash (mine SUCKS). What type of lens would y'all suggest that isn't going to break the bank? The 70-200 was a lot of money (and't I'm very thankful they bought it, but I also feel bad) and I'd rather they buy me something that is good, but isn't that expensive so they would be able to get a couple things.

[jolyn928]

Hey NC_Photo! I can't tell ya what to ask Santa for...just wondering where in NC you're located?

[NC_Photo]

The Outer Banks.

[jolyn928]

Cool, only been there once, but we need to get back! We're from right outside Greensboro. Hope you loads of great gear!

[printguy]

TI've got a 20D, kit lens, 240 EX flash, 75-300 1.4-5.6...

I'd like another lens, something that I can use for portraits and possibly wedding...the kit lens just doesn't cut it. I also need a new flash (mine SUCKS). What type of lens would y'all suggest that isn't going to break the bank? The 70-200 was a lot of money (and't I'm very thankful they bought it, but I also feel bad) and I'd rather they buy me something that is good, but isn't that expensive so they would be able to get a couple things.

The EF 100mm f/2.8 USM macro is a very good portrait lens and will also give you one of the better choices for macro. It's lots cheaper than the last lens they got you.

[Woolburr]

You could simply ask for a gift card from B&H...then get whatever lens you want.

[NC_Photo]

Thanks for the suggestions.

I guess I should also add....most of my portrait sessions are with families of at least 10 or more (usually its between 15-20). We're a big vacation spot where whole families vacation together in one rental house so its not like the typical portrait of a small family or just the kids.

[Ultimate CC]

the 17-50/55 variants would be the way to go from what you are describing...some of the third party ones can be had at great prices, the 17-70 sigma is another great one, its just not great with low light...

[Oneslowz28]

85L f1.2 is an awsome portrait lense.

[NC_Photo]

What do ya'll think of this.

Canon 85mm f/1.8 - It seems that for $314 it can't be beat and has some great reviews.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/12182-USA/Canon_2519A003_85mm_f_1_8_USM_Autofocus.html

As always, more suggestions are always welcome. I don't know if I've just been on B&H too long today or I'm in a turkey coma..but I just can't seem to find anything else listed. Feel free to send me links. :)