Photoshop vs New Lens

Definitely the lens! I find myself having to use photoshop less with my better lenses.. very nice. You can pick up an older but better version of photoshop, or find some other way of getting it.

On balance I think the new lens would be the best choice. CS3 is excellent but you could make do with perhaps photoshop 7 or CS or CS2 for now and probably be able to pick those up for very little. In your case I'd say definitely go for the lens.

Of course, just which lens is a whole new question...

I'd go or a fast prime, but I do admit to being somewhat biased on that issue!

cheers

RAPhotography wrote in post #5326801
mostly landscapes.

This is a really boring answer, but why not throw the money at a trip to someplace pretty to shoot those landscapes? The best lens isn't worth much without a subject. The kit lens really isn't *that* bad stopped down to f/11 or so. A polarizing filter and tripod wouldn't hurt if you don't have them. If you were shooting sports, wildlife, indoors you'd have much more reason to throw money at a lens.

Otherwise, an ultra wide lens could be fun. Ask yourself how your version of Photoshop is limiting you, you can answer that better than anyone here. If you can't think of anything by looking at the specs on Adobe's website, chances are it won't magically come to you when you install CS3, most people who have it don't have a clue how to use it.

LENSSSSS!