First lens choice OMG

It is likely that I will be purchasing a 20d in the coming week or two.
I have heard that the 18-55mm in the lens kit is basically comparible to garbage.

I have already decided to pick up a Canon 50mm f/1.8 because it's basically a no-brainer at the price. However, I also want a zoom lens under $200 that starts down at ~18mm and ranges to ~60-80

The only other lens I have found that fits the above criteria is the Sigma 18-50 f3.5-5.6 DC

What do you guys think of the Sigma? Compared to the Canon kit lens? Any other suggestions?

Did you look at the top of the page - Sticky thread on best beginner lenses.

I wouldn't describe the kit lens as "garbage". Admittedly it is VERY plasticky but optically (for the price) it really isn't too bad. If you can only afford $200 at the moment then I would say stick with the kit lens for now as for that sort of money you are not going to get a zoom in that focal range which performs noticeably better.

The Sigma is almost identically priced. I was wondering if I should take it over the Canon.

I'll check out the sticky, I hadn't noticed it. Thanks

Canon EF 28-105 F/3.5-4.5 II USM would do a decent job at your price. For a little more the Sigma 24-70 EX DG MAcro or the Tamron 28-75 2.8 can be recommended. A 350D with better lenses would do a better job for most people than a 20D with average stuff.

After having used both 350d and 20d, I have decided for sure that I want the 20d. It just feels so much better in my hands. That plus a couple little things like the usable 3200 iso pushed me toward the decision.

I cannot afford both one of the mentioned lenses and the 50mm prime I want. Now it's basically up between the Sigma 18-50mm f/3.5-5.6 DC, or the Canon kit lens.

Is there noticable difference between the two? Which one should I go with?

If I were you I'd go with the kit and save my $$$ for some other glass down the line.

So would I ...

How about 28 f/2.8 and the 50?

That's a decent starting package.

But the kit lens is a good bang for the price... Just set it to f/8 permanently and you'll get OK results. LOL

I would go with the "garbage" lens. It really is decent for the cost.....Read the other posts that suggest that it is decent in the right situations. I have two, if only for the wide end.

Me too.

Yep, save up for a decent lens. The 50mm should keep you busy for a while.

All I have is the kit lens right now with my 20D and have pretty good results. Some people have posted being surprised that some of the shots I've shared are taken with it. So I wouldnt put it in the "garbage" class either

My next lens will be the 50mm 1.8 for portraits. And then move to some L's if I make any money off some pictures

Pamela