Camera Labs

kk

Hi Heather,

I wouldn't be so presumptuous as to recommend a lens but, if Gordon will forgive me for including an off-site link, I found the reviews at
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Revi ... views.aspx helpful in making my own choices about lenses that Camera Labs hasn't reviewed yet.

As you have a zoom which covers the 50mm you mention I am interested in your reasons for choosing this focal length. With the 1.6x multiplier of the 400D that gives a full frame equivalent of 80mm which some might argue is quite long for casual indoor work although it is a classic length for portraits.

Bob.

jj

Hi Heather,

Glad the link was of use. As far as the lens focal length you need is concerned it might be an idea to see what focal length you use the most when shooting with your kit lens. If you mostly use the long end of the 18-55 range then obviously 50mm would be right for you.

The only problem with choosing a lens that is slightly too long is that some pictures may be slightly cropped. If you choose a lens that is slightly too short then you can at least recover the situation with a bit of digital zooming with your image processing software, albeit at the expense of a slight loss of resolution.

With the kit lens you at least have the luxury of being able to take your time making the decision without losing any of those precious family moments.

Bob.

ll

Hi Heather, blimey, you've only had a DSLR for a couple of weeks and you're already looking for more lenses! That's committmet!

Bob is absolutely right - before buying a fixed lens, try and work out what focal length you use most often on your kit lens. Also have a think about what it is you're really looking for. The faster focal ratio (smaller f number) on the 50mm will gather more light and will more easily allow you to blur the background, but if you just want to shoot in low light, you could try increasing the ISO. The 400D still looks good at 400 ISO, so it might be worth trying before splashing out...

There may alternatively be a more appropriate zoom lens for your requirements... let us know more info and we'll try and advise!

Gordon