question about some lenses

hey i was looking at a few lenses online today they were Canon EF 90-300mm f/4.5-5.6 and Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0L and i was just curios why the 70-200 was so much more expensive and what ur guys and gals suggustions were for a good tele zoom for me to start out with

The cost is caused by the infamous "L" designation at the end. The "L" signifies that most of the lenses are made from natural diamonds, and the rest of the lens is solid gold or platinum.

Just kidding. The "L" lenses are Canon's top line, and as such are priced accordingly, or so Canon thinks.

As someone that thrashed around with "budget" lenses when I started shooting, I have to say that there is a discernable difference between a Canon L or Sigma EX lens versus the so called consumer grade lenses. I think alot depends on what's important to you at this particular time. If you have a casual or passing interest in photography, or, just can't justify the expense, then go to your local store and try some of the less expensive lenses (not all are trash).
However, if you are fairly serious, I would humbly suggest that you target the higher grade glass. Check the threads on this forum. they contain a wealth of information that may effectively guide you to your final decision.

All that being said.......a $2,000. lens will not correct poor technique and composition. Let your ambition and interest be your guide.

That's the truth. I have the Canon L and love it.

Those 2 lenses are chalk 'n cheese. as everyone has said, ones a "pro" version if you like with far greater build and optical quality and the cheaper is a low-end consumer grade lens with a build quality that matches the price. There are better consumer grade lenses in that range for the same or less money though.

As for helping you choce, well without knowing what you want to shoot and a rough budget it's hard to suggest. Give us some ideas on what type of shooting you want to do and people will be able to give you better information on the lens choices .

Check out the lens reviews over at Fred Miranda's website , it is a nice place to compare with pictures of most of the lenses.Photography is NOT an inexpensive hobby, and unfortunately as with most things in life you get what you pay for and the best aint cheap.