Noob... I need a starter lens for my rebel xt

600mm check out the search facility

Tried the EF Lens FAQ? Link there to the Top Ten POTN Recommended Starter Lenses.

The thing is, without knowing what your interests are and what you shoot, it is very hard to make a recommendation.

People here love the 70-200 - for me, it is my least-used lens. And even if the price were equal, I'd still stick with the 70-200/4 rather than the 70-200/2.8. The 50/1.8 is a steal at $70, but I havent used mine for 2 years (although I am starting a book project shot solely with primes, so it will get some work now).

So you need to figure out what *your* needs are. I have an article here that might help:
http://www.photosafari​india.com/articles/beg​2-lenses.html

Vandit

Get the kit lens. Learn its strengths and weaknesses. Learn to make good shots with it. Push it to the very limits. Then go back and look at the pictures you have taken. Do you tend to use one focal length range more than others? Do you take more of a certain type of picture - landscape, portrait, bugs, birds, flowers?

Then you will be able to eliminate what you don't need, and make a more informed choice of what you do need.

My .02
Keep the change

Take a look at this thread in 'marketplace'

http://www.photography​-on-the.net/forum/showthre​ad.php?t=212421
$ 350 for a 17-85 IS lens sounds like a very decent deal.

Best regards,
Andy

i'd suggest saving for a decent lens such as the sigma 17-70.

Thanks for everyones advise! I picked up a kit lens with UV filter from a local private seller for $70. Im sure when Im done with it I can sell it on ebay for $130! LOL. I will be sure to consult you guys when I decide to move on up to a better lens.

I need some suggestions on Tripods and Camera bags. Suggestions welcome, links appreciated. -Chris

The 28-105 f/3.5 USM II is a great lens and within your budget.

Vandit, good article for those getting started and for some of us "experienced" folk who get caught up in lens lust! (yeah we're all guilty). Thanks for sharing.

If you hadn't bough the lens I'd say buy my lens for $290.

But before you buy any lens always look here....

http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/

Dorman - thanks and glad you liked the article. It sounds funny coming from me as I own a bagful of pricey lenses, but I honestly think that for most people, the lens is NOT the limiting factor in their photography. People can take a compelling photograph with any lens.

Rather than suggesting specific lenses to beginners, the goal should be - go out there and shoot, find out what you are missing the most and then buy something to fill that gap.

Vandit

vkalia, Thanks for the article!! although i didnt read it until after i bought my kit lens, it will come in handy in the future. I will be making another lens purchase soon... once i find out what is it what I like to shoot. I think one of my main uses is going to be for cirty/ streets and cars. I will be going to the auto show "Sema" in las vegas in about a month, and will need a good lens for that.
-Chris

Chris, well done on resisting the urge to over spend on this - the kit lens will surprise you1 It's a bit flimsy but sharp enough stopped down to f/8-11 or so. And it has a good zoom range. by the time you are ready to upgrade you'll have a pretty good idea what way to go!

Now go shoot some stuff!