still can't decide! Help plz

I got my new 20d last week, but can't make up my mind which lenses to get. Everytime I read the threads here I get more confused. I do a little bit of everything but mostly my children and landscaping. So here are the option:

1- Tokina 12-24(not FF compatible), tamron 28-75 (calibration prob), ef 85 1.8

2- Ef 17-40, ef 28-135(not sure it is the best option for the buck)

Or just tell me which lenses you would get if your budget was 1200 USD.:p

After getting my camera the other day and playing with it more and more I realize that I still have no idea what lens I REALLY want because I have not been able to shoot anything other than some stuff in the house. My suggestion is to buy the 50mm 1.8 and start shooting. Figure out what you are most interested in shooting to narrow down you possible lenses and then buy the best one you can. You never know what YOU need until you start shooting.

I'd go for your option 1 ... problem lenses are rare despite what you might think reading stuff here. If you have a problem take it back. The Sigma 24-70 2.8 is also recommended as paert of this all around duo.

You might also be able to stretch to the 17-40mm L and the 50mm 1.8, 1.4 or 85 1.8 which might or might not be a better option depending what, how and where you shoot. Nice for landscapes and walkaround in cities and the primes can do lower light nicely.

The 28-135 IS L is disappointing compared to any of these above on a crop body like the 20D.

The 17-85 IS might be nice enough as an all rounder.

My advice would be to only buy one lens for now and use it until you frequently find yourself wishing you had a different range. This will let you learn your new camera well without getting overwhelmed with lens issues. Speaking from my own experience, I would have saved a lot of money if I could have been more patient and made sure I really needed what I was buying.

Looking at what you are considering, It seems like it would be hard to go wrong with the Tamron 28-75 as your first. This is an extremely popular and versatile lens. Although I don't have it, it is what I would get if I was starting from scratch. Once you get used to shooting at the 28mm end of things, you'll be in a better position to know how much wider you'll want to go.

I think for a first lens, the 85 1.8 or 50 (1.8 or 1.4) is too restrictive as well. I have the 28-135 IS and I have uses for it, but it doesn't let in enough light for me, but I keep it on my camera for outdoor use. I would try the Tamron 28-75 for your new digital because it's great for the price and save your money for when you want to get the 85 1.8 because that lens is a prime and the portraits are amazing. I made the mistake of buying lenses not understanding how I use my camera. I must have wasted hundreds at a time. You don't have to spend all the money you have in hand right away.

SuzyView
Learning the hard way sometimes
10D and stuff