Too new to figure out my next lens???

I've just got a Rebel Xti with the kit lens and I did buy the "niffty fifty" since it comes so highly recommended and the price was right.

I'm still learning my camera ...big time...but next weekend I'm going up to Cherokee NC I'll be doing everything from group shots to trying to capture the dancers. All the shots will be outside, some from quite a distance (the dancers). On a big note, a friend does the website for a world champion hoop dancer and will post my photos on her site sooooooo

After reading thread after thread about lenses I think my next two should be the 70-200 f4 and the 100m f2.8 macro....but which one would suit my purposes best right now.

By asking this question you can tell I'm soooo way a nooobie to DSLR and photography in general. This board has been adictive for a nooobie and VERY helpful and I want to also thank the powers that be who created it and run it

Why would you want a macro lens for shooting dancers?

angryhampster wrote in post #5537623
Why would you want a macro lens for shooting dancers?

The 100 f/2.8 macro is also a great 100 mm telephoto and really sharp, though that may not be long enough for shooting the dancers from some distance. The 70-200 f/4 is probably the best initial choice for that outing.

It's best not to rush into a lens purchase unless you have a clear idea in mind what you plan to shoot. There are a bewildering array of lenses available; not just from Canon but third parties as well. Otherwise you might end up with a lens that doesn't really work out. Then again, it may get you inspired to work with a lens that is "outside the box" for you.