I'm heading off to Europe, Italy in particular, for a few weeks. I
currently own a Canon Elan IIe with the Canon EF28-80 F3.5-5.6 IV USM
lens with a Speedlite 420EX. I also have a lightweight tripod. I am
an amateur that plans on growing significantly in this hobby. I have
noticed recently a need for a telephoto lens and would like some
advice.
I've considered some big bucks, but think it may be foolish at this
stage to go for the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM. I don't
mind spending that amount on a good, quality lens IF it makes sense.
On the more reasonable side, I've also looked into the Canon EF
75-300mm f/4.0-5.6 IS USM but have read some less than flattering
reviews of the optics when pushing the 200-300mm range. I know that is
possible when pushing the limits of a lens that has lower quality lenses, but
this one seems to be receiving more bad reviews than others.
I am also looking at the Cannon Zoom Tele 70-200mm f/4.0L EF USM
as it is much cheaper than the 100-400, but lacks the IS. I would certainly
use my tripod with this lens, but the IS makes me feel better.
A couple of other possibilities...Get the Canon 28-135mm f3.5/5.6 IS EF USM
and carry my current 28-80mm as a spare. The other possibility is the
Zoom Wide Angle-Tele 28-200mm f/3.8-5.6 LD Aspherical IF Super II Macro Auto
Focus Lens.
Now, the decision criteria. I am going to be traveling often. In the
near future, I'll be in Rome. I am also planing a trip to Nicaragua
in July on a mission trip. I am active with mission trips, but they
are not going to involve serious backwoods trekking. More the urban,
poverty areas such as Kingston, Jamaica or Haiti.
I also am an avid outdoors person finding myself camping and sailing.
I love to photograph the wild outdoors on these trips.
I guess that I'm asking the question that everyone asks...What
telephoto lens should I buy?
I'm not particularly stuck on Canon brand, but don't want any
compatibility problems. Also, if I change to a different EOS body in
the future, I'd like to be able to keep my lenses.
I'm open to any suggestions for my travels...film, flash, lens, bags,
any tips from the experience of this group is appreciated.
I'm leaning toward a runoff between the 70-200 and the 28-135. Can anyone
provide reason for one over the other?
Thanks
---
Rick Huebner
