Best lens for situation

I currently have a Rebel XTi with a kit lens. I am looking to move into the "L" class for some better shots. Note after I get the lens I would plan on getting a new camera for FF. I am specifically looking to do portrait photography, but also as an all around general lens. I have narrowed the search down to the 24-105 f4 and the 70-200 f4.

Budget? For a great starter L go for the 70-200 f4L

I would say around $1,000.

Both are great lenses. The 24-105 is my preferred every day lens on my FF (and my crop for that matter). The 70-200 F4 is amazingly sharp and a great lens but that range of focal lengths is limiting for general use. I do use my 70-200 for event photography and for portraits, but I'm finding I prefer the intimacy of shorter focal lengths for portraits.

85mm F1.8 is another excellent choice for 1/3 the cost. Not as flexible, but a great lens.

24-105L was my choice of first lens purchase.
Don't forget the ol' Nifty Fifty. Worth every penny.
I'd recommend the 10-22 as your third lens, after those two.

grettig25 wrote in post #16673268
I would say around $1,000.

70-200 F2.8 Non-IS if that is your budget.

70-200 F4 Non-IS if you want to save some cheddar or you also want to get the 24-105. You could potentially get both for $1,000.

70-200 on a crop body is too long for portraits unless they're all exclusively outdoors. Go for the 24-105. Later when you move to a FF you probably want a 70-200 f2.8 anyway so you'll ditch a 70-200 f4 but the 24-105 will still have a place in your bag. I think in your situation a 24-105 will be best suited.

35mm f/1.4 is great for portrait and every day use. It's also a great focal length for indoor/outdoor situations. They can be had for around $900-$1000.

I'd be inclined to borrow or hire a few lenses before spending. Find which focal lengths suit your style and get a few primes and/or a zoom to match.

Don't leap in to 'L' fever blindly. There are many equally sharp lenses perfect for portraits. My faves are Canon 60mm Macro and Sigma 30mm.

The 70-200 f/4L IS is my go-to lens for most situations, including portraits. Fast and reliable focus, super sharp, works like I want it to every time.

I agree that the focal length is a little long for full-length portraits if you're using a crop body - you'll need a lot of room to work. For Head/bust portraits, it'll be great.

The answer is neither. Get an 85 1.8, Getting F4 zooms for portraits isnt optimal just because you want an L on the lens.

For your first L I think both are a great choice, mine was the 70-200 f4 IS. If I had to make the decision for you I'd say go for the 24-105.