unsure of which focal range; should i buy a used kit-lens first?

thanks guys. i'll see if i can find a cheap used kit lens at the local shop before i start searching online.

the 50mm / 85mm prime duo seems really attractive too, but perhaps another time

unix04 wrote in post #2129350
i've got nothing against the kit lens, but since i can buy a nicer lens, i thought i might as well.

Well, for starters, I would suggest sticking to a "standard" focal length zoom - ie, something that is more or less equivalent to your kit lens.

If you want to get a better quality lens than the kit lens, that is not a bad option - Canon, Sigma, Tokina and Tamron all have a bunch of f2.8 lenses covering this range that will be significantly better.

But before running out and buying other focal lengths, wait and shoot with this setup till you figure out what you're missing - the wide end or the long end.

I have an article which might be helpful:
http://www.photosafari​india.com/articles/beg​2-lenses.html

Vandit

If you like to shoot landscapes then you have to go for something no longer than 18mm

If you like to shoot landscapes and portraits I would recommend something like 17-40 and a 50mm prime.

I'm basically recommending my setup! I think it's ideal for landscapes, portraits and the occasional wildlife shot.

If you don't shoot landscapes then something like 24-70 or 24-105 would be fine.

George