Lense issues (Rebel XT)

I've been using my new digital Rebel XT and it came with a lens that was 18-55mm and 58mm filter size, and I don't like it. I'm a lover of macro shots and adore my macro filters which are unfortunately 55mm. So I used my other lens, the quantaray 28-90mm 55mm filter size. But even with a tripod and auto focus the photos come out slightly out of focus and it's very annoying.

I've heard this lens was not that great after I went looking for why it was acting up like this. So I need help finding a new lens that I can use. Can anyone recommend a lens or lenses to me?
My old one wasn't much for zooming on far away things, so a lens that is capable of that would be appreciated as well.

You might want to start here... with the first link in the series of links. Lots of good info here: https://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthre​ad.php?t=42034

Thanks.

I would try extension tubes on the kit lens. It does require a slight modification if you use Kenko tubes, but I have gotten awesome shots with the kit lens.

Welcome to the forum and do search the threads already going. You will find lots of advice. I came on in Oct. last year and have already gained a lot of knowledge and made some choices that have been very good. This forum has saved me so much aggravation, but costs me in purchases.

I'm actualy looking for personal reviews... Which lenses have you used? Which one's do you love/would you stay away from etc.

If you're interested in a macro lens, the Tamron 90mm and the Canon 100mm f/2.8 are both great. I researched them thoroughly before purchasing the Canon lens. I guess what sold me on Canon was not only the image quality but also the internal focusing mechanism.

do you understand the basics of photography, in particular mm and all that

If you want a lens with some macro facility, the Sigma 17-70 wouldn't be a bad choice. I don't think its a true macro lens, but it has close focus abilities that extension tubes or close up filters would turn into a macro lens.

It has a mm on the wide end, and 15mm on the long end that give you more reach.

Unfortunately I've never used one (its on my wishlist though). I believe they are pretty good though, but not the greatest (but then unless you go into L's, what are?)

Leo

Sigma 17-70 is nice and sharp, relatively affordable and has a 1:2 "Macro" feature. It may make a great one lens solution.