reasonably priced set of lenses for canon eos 5d?

Question

I've asked this question before, but i would also like advice concerning the expense of such lenses.

Basically, i'm looking to spend no more than $1,000 for an initial set of lenses for an EOS 5D. I'll get more later on, but i need something that can handle most situations until i get more money. A general use lens, macro, and a telephoto zoom would be ideal. I would like at least two lenses, probably no more than three.

I usually do a lot of stillife and macro street scenes for my personal use. But i would also like a nice lens i can use to work with people, as i've been starting to shoot for events indoors - parties and important meetings and the such.

Probably, i would be hunting on ebay or other online sites for these, so consider their general prices.

Answer 1

In that case, you'd still be better off buying good lenses and saving money by getting a less expensive body like the 30D. Any of the sensors at 10+MP now in a good digital SLR have tons of resolution, and the limiting factor will be the lenses. Truly, a top body with mediocre lenses will produce mediocre results. Unfortunately, even the big names (Canon, Nikon, etc.) produce some mediocre lenses and the difference is very noticeable. I started out with the "kit" lens (18-70mm) on my Nikon D200 but noticed right away that the images just weren't that sharp, and there was light falloff (vignetting) at the corners of the image. Also, it was fairly slow (f/3.5-f/4.5) which limited it's use and slowed down the auto focus in lower light. I loved the zoom range and the size, though, and it still took some good photos. However, I sold it and got the 17-55 f/2.8 and WOW what a difference. Much sharper and less distortion, and the big max aperture is just a joy to use. Easier to focus, nice short depth of field for portraits, etc.

In the past, I've even bought into complete systems just to get access to the lenses, like for the Contax G1 with those stellar Zeiss "G" lenses. Still haven't found anything to match them, but the inconvenience of film and the generally awkward G system had me finally switch to digital. Once you've shot with really good lenses, you won't want to go back.

OK, end of sermon.

Answer 2

Another vote for Koko's answer.

Camera bodies go obsolete in 2 years. SLR lenses can last a lifetime. Spend money on the best lenses you can afford and spend less on the camera body.

Another alternative is to contact your local camera stores to learn if they rent lenses. You can then spread out your lens budget and always have just the right lens you need that week.

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Disclosure: I am the owner of www.lenslenders.com lens rentals in Canada.

Answer 3

You got the 5D and your cheaping out on a lens...... wow....

I would say spend no less $1000 cause you imagine quality will suffer DRAMICALLY if you do not spend money on a lens. If you cant afford at least the 24-105mm f/4 for a walk around lens or the 24-70mm f/2.8 then you should invest in a prime.

Answer 4

Your camera have better processing power on the image it receive thru lens. But if you have bad lens which deliver ugly image. The Image Sensor won't be able to fix it.

The closest to $1000 Is Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 USM L IS It cost a little bit more but you will use it for long time.

Answer 5

With a 5D, you owe it to yourself to only but L lenses. Maybe get fewer but better lenses.

Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM Ultra Wide $637
Why? the 5D does beautiful wide angles. http://www.timecatcher.com/

Then get an L higher zoom when you can afford it, like the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Zoom.

Amazon and BHPhotoVideo.com are good sites both for prices and product.

Answer 6

I agree with Koko... I know everybody has a budget, but in my opinion, the lenses are more important than the body! Why buy cheap lenses now only to replace them later? (At least that's how I look at it...maybe my perspective is warped.)

If you're looking in the used market, I think my earlier answer still applies. (24-70 and 70-200 f 2.8)

Answer 7

Current Canon promotions:

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=PromotionsAct&promocat=140