Travelling to San Francisco and Vegas...is my 18-55mm IS kits lens sufficient?

[mlam86]

Hi everyone,

Brand new to these forums, dSLR cameras, and photography in general.

As the title states, I will be travelling to San Francisco and Vegas, as well as the Grand Canyon in June.

My question is, would my 18-55mm IS kit lens which came with my T1i/500D be sufficient enough to bring with on my trip? Would a wide angle prime lens be a good addition to bring as well?

As for filters, would a polarizing and/or a UV filter be helpful? I will be likely on the water while in San Francisco, am slightly worried about ocean water/spray on the lens, so would a filter be a good idea?

Any comments & suggestions would be greatly suggested/accepted!!

Thank you,
-Marco

[Tee Why]

I'd probably recommend an ultrawide zoom like a Sigma 10-20, Tokina 11-16 or a 12-24, or a Canon 10-24.

Having said that, if you have the kit lens, it may be enough. Unless you are getting misted by salt water, I'd not bother with any protection for the lens. You can get a lens cleaner and clean it instead. A polarizer maybe nice but if you are new to photography and such, I'd just spend the time brushing up on composition techniques and learning exposure. That'll probably help out more than a lens or a filter.

[Mike]

It all depends on your budget of course and how much you are willing to spend on new glass.

I think your 18-55 is sufficient in terms of, it will get the job done and you'll get some good pictures. It all depends on what you want of course. As was suggested, a Sigma 10-20mm would be a great addition to your line up, as would something in the longer focal range.