Modest $ zoom lens

[roadsclr]

Well, I've had my D20 for a couple of weeks and so far I'm very impressed. My workhorse lens is the Canon 17-85 IS USM. I've been very happy with it but I'm now looking for a 2nd lens that would take me to 200mm - 300mm. My point of reference is my trusty A1 - I'm accustomed to using it with a 70-210mm Canon FD lens. I rarely felt limited with its range so I'm thinking a 200 -300mm on the 20D will be more than enough range for my needs. I've narrowed down my choices to 3 Canon lenses: 1) 55-200 f4.5-5.6 II USM; 2) 100-300mm f4.5-5.6 USM; 3) 75-300mm f4-5.6 IS USM. My budget is < $500. I am not considering other brands.

Any input is greatly appreciated!

Jeff

[tim]

Why not consider the 70-200 F4? It's a great lens, a little over your budget, but if you buy one of those you'll probably sell it and get a better one some time anyway.

Have you read this thread (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=56752)? Also have a look at reviews on http://fredmiranda.com and here (http://www.photographyreview.com/Lenses/PSC_3787crx.aspx).

[roadsclr]

I have considered that lens too but I'm concerned about its size and its high profile as an "L" lens. I will be taking the lens on vacations and I'm thinking a non-descript black lens will be less conspicuous as well as more practical.

[Skip Souza]

Too bad you are not considering other brands. The Tamron 28-300 f/3.5-6.3 XR Di is every bit as sharp as the 75-300 IS USM, the only lens on your list that I have used. The Tamron is very stealthy, smaller and lighter than any on the list and wider range. Under $400 new.

[ed rader]

none of the above.

i have a 70-210/3.5-4.5 USM canon zoom. lightweight, ring USM and great optics. got it used for $220 and i love it.

ed rader

[jyrgen]

Second vote for the 70-210/3.5-4.5 USM.

[condyk]

My budget is < $500. I am not considering other brands.


Translation, I prefer to spend more of my hard earned cash for what could well be a worse lens :lol: :lol: Just joking! What's wrong with other brands tho'?

If I was FORCED to choose I would go for the 100-300mm USM, in fact I almost did a while back but bought the Sigma 70-300mm APO Super II Macro instead. Nice lens and sold it for just £1.50 less than what I paid for it. I would actually try and find a SH Canon 70-200mm F4 esp as you say you don't really need longer. I liked mine but needed much longer. Highly recommended. Difference in image quality is like night and day. It's not that big really, tho' the beige colour is a bummer!