Learn Low Light and DOF Shooting

I've been a lurker here for three years or so and only rarely post. I literally spend hours reading threads and have learned so much here. Now I'd like some advise

I have a 20D and most often use the 28-135 with it as it is versatile. I prefer low light shooting and really want to improve my skills and learn more about managing the DOF and do some shooting with primes.

After lots of reading, I'm debating between the 35mm f/2.0 and the 28mm f/1.8. I've read good reviews on both but the USM on the 28mm appeals to me as the crackling that my kit lens (18-55 older version) makes annoys me and it seems like the 35mm would be similar.

Is this a good place to start or am I thinking about this all wrong?

Eventually I will purchase a flash and work on that as well and am considering an upgrade in a year or two to a FF.

Mickey

I'd prefer the 28/1.8 because it is a little wider and for the ring USM.

Getting a fast prime is fun, so go ahead and get one. You will have a ball (probably taking shots with too thin of a DOF really) for a while and probably learn a lot.

And down the road you will get that flash and stop down more.

You're right on the money. The 28 f/1.8 is great for indoor low light shooting. I've got one, and it practically lives on my XT.

Did you consider the 50 1.8 or 50 1.4? I have the 1.4 and love it on my crop body. Then again, I tend to shoot pretty tight. You can venture into primes for about $100 with the 1.8. Great place to start.

I have both the 50 1.4 and 28 1.8 and strongly prefer the 50 1.4. I think it is both from a focal length and sharpness perspective. I could give up the 28 1.8 but would not give up the 50 1.4. I had the 28-135 and could and do live without it...

I am tempted to try the 30 1.4 but since I don't really love the 28 fl I am not sure I will use it. Good luck

Thank you everyone for writing. I had some computer issues right before Christmas so wasn't able to get back to this.

After much thought I finally decided on the 28 f/1.8. I considered the 50 f/1.4 but I think that is really a bit too long for inside my house on my crop camera.

I was so busy over the holidays I didn't take nearly enough pictures, but did take some and now I need to upload them and see how they came out.

Mickey
(back to lurking)

Mickey, I think you did well. The 28 f1.8 should suit you just fine. Although not as sharp as the 35mm f2 wide open, having USM is a nice feature.