dinolova Loc: Chicago, IL

Hello everyone, :)

I'm fairly new to the forum and fairly new to photography. I've had my Canon T2i Rebel for almost a year now (present from Santa) and want to upgrade it a little bit. It original came with 55-250mm lens but I exchanged it for the standard 18-55mm lens, because I wanted to take everyday shots from a closer distance. I've been looking into buying an external flash for my camera and a new lens. Something affordable that will make a difference. I just ordered "Canon EOS Rebel T2i/550D Digital Field Guide" and I'm going over the manual for the first time. I know I should have done it long time ago but it seems so difficult to read. I've been playing with the settings without really knowing what I'm doing and luckily have some great hits :) The more I read the more I learn everyday and this forum really helps me understand things I never knew existed! :) I have my eyes on Canon 85mm f/1.8 lens and Canon Speedlite 580EX II. Should I go for it since I'm a newbie ?

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

Before you spend money on an expensive lens, take your camera to a good-sized camera store, and play with a few lenses inside the store. Renting one for a weekend shooting can also help you decide.

You cannot go wrong with a Canon Speedlight. Take a look on eBay for "Refurbished", which means technically new with warranty, but previously owned & repaired, display model, missing original packaging, etc. Significant cost savings.

P.S. - YouTube has excellent instructional videos about using your camera and lenses.

photoninja1 Loc: Tampa Florida

The 85mm f1.8 is a very good lens, but you need to begin with a statement of what you want to do with it, not just "I want to upgrade". The question really needs to be, "What do I want to do?" Then the proper tool becomes fairly obvious.

dinolova Loc: Chicago, IL

Thank you so much, I thought about going to a store but never knew you can rent lenses! :) And I looked at your 500px.com pictures - amazing

:thumbup:

dinolova Loc: Chicago, IL

I thought about that, but that's how you can tell I'm a newbie... If there's an universal lens I guess that's what I need. Photography is just a hobby for me and I take pictures of everything... Friends, family, outdoor, indoor, flowers, nature... etc. The more advanced I get the better idea I'll have of what exactly I want to do. (I guess)

johndodd Loc: Delaware, USA

I'd go with a good all around lens like I started my Nikon off with an 18-200 f3.5....It's pretty good for starts....

jwegge11 Loc: Stillwater, MN

I sold my Canon T2i and got a used Canon 40D---actually bought the 40D for less money and then I used that on a more universal lens. I love my Canon 28-105 L lens--pretty much fits any and all uses except super wide and for things like super long. I also own a Canon 16-35 L that is a super sharp lens but for a catch all still prefer the 28-105--ya just can't go wrong with it.

Good Luck Newbie---we've all been there--heck I still am!!

photoninja1 Loc: Tampa Florida

A "universal" lens may seem like an easy, inexpensive option; but like my grandpa told me, "cheap ain't good and good ain't cheap." The problem with long zooms is that the design tries to circumvent the physics of light..one lens - one focal length. It involves compromise in design that usually leads to image softness. Notable exceptions are EXPENSIVE and HEAVY. Assuming you don't want to lay down $1500 - $2500 for glass; high quality, prime lenses and short zooms should be at the top of your list. Again, the one you choose should be targeted at a specific need. Buying a lens without a specific use in mind is kind of like buying a car and then trying to figure out if you and your five kids will be able to go to Disney Land in the Smart Car! Holiday Cheers and good luck.

eglide02 Loc: Titletown USA

Been there done that, I have a T2I and for me I bought a bunch of lenses before I found my favorite, Tamron 18-270 pzd, its on my camera 90% of the time, its great up close zoomed out as well, its around $650 so its pricey however it covers a whole array of needs. but its my opinion and you need to find what works for you, good luck hunting.

dinolova Loc: Chicago, IL

Thank you all for the great advices/suggestions! I will rent and try few lenses and see how I like the difference. I also signed up for a Three-Hour Photography Boot Camp Course (today's deal on Amazon $35) and after reading few books I hope I'll get a better idea of what I really want. I want to find an "everyday use" lens that gives me sharper look and GOOD colors. My letter to Santa just got postponed :) Thanks again and have a blessed holiday season!