Lens Recommendation Please
Jan 2, 2019 20:26:53 #
Seven years ago I bought a Canon SX20 "bridge" camera with a built in 560mm lens. With it, backyard bird pictures has become my favorite hobby.
(These made with SX20)
Last month I was given a Canon EOS Rebel 1000D with a 55mm lens. This camera has several advantages over the SX20. Focus is better, remote capable, etc. To continue my hobby with the 1000D I feel I need a 500mm lens.
I am now 82 years old on a fixed income. I can't afford a really nice telescopic lens for my "fun time". I am hoping I can find something for a lot less money, cosmetic damages is not important.
My problem, what is my best choice lens that fits the 1000D. There are lots of lenses online, however, I know little about what fits the 1000D. Do I need mounts, what kind, UV lens, etc.?
Without laughing out loud- can someone in UHH help me find a "satisfactory" 500mm lens for under $300 or is it possible, or am I just fooling myself? I am looking for suggestions either new or used. If you know of something I would appreciate your input.
(These made with SX20)
Last month I was given a Canon EOS Rebel 1000D with a 55mm lens. This camera has several advantages over the SX20. Focus is better, remote capable, etc. To continue my hobby with the 1000D I feel I need a 500mm lens.
I am now 82 years old on a fixed income. I can't afford a really nice telescopic lens for my "fun time". I am hoping I can find something for a lot less money, cosmetic damages is not important.
My problem, what is my best choice lens that fits the 1000D. There are lots of lenses online, however, I know little about what fits the 1000D. Do I need mounts, what kind, UV lens, etc.?
Without laughing out loud- can someone in UHH help me find a "satisfactory" 500mm lens for under $300 or is it possible, or am I just fooling myself? I am looking for suggestions either new or used. If you know of something I would appreciate your input.
Jan 2, 2019 20:48:26 #
Davoallen wrote:
Seven years ago I bought a Canon SX20 "bridge... (show quote)
Telephoto and zoom telephoto lenses are pretty expensive. Good luck on your search.
Jan 2, 2019 20:57:33 #
Davoallen wrote:
Seven years ago I bought a Canon SX20 "bridge... (show quote)
Check with KEH for used equipment. I like the Tamron 150-600mm, but it may be too heavy for you. KEH did not have that lens, but they had a couple of 18-270mm for around $195.00 that may work for you. Good luck with your search.
Jan 2, 2019 21:06:15 #
I like your bird pictures!
I used to have a 500mm Nikon "mirror" lens when I shot film. It was terrific.
Mirror lenses are small, lightweight and cheaper than conventional lenses. They work more like telescopes. Take a look at third party lenses like this one. B&H has a "if you don't like it, send it back promise".
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/618734-REG/Bower_500mm_f_6_3_Manual_Focus.html
I used to have a 500mm Nikon "mirror" lens when I shot film. It was terrific.
Mirror lenses are small, lightweight and cheaper than conventional lenses. They work more like telescopes. Take a look at third party lenses like this one. B&H has a "if you don't like it, send it back promise".
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/618734-REG/Bower_500mm_f_6_3_Manual_Focus.html
Jan 2, 2019 21:36:17 #
Davoallen wrote:
Seven years ago I bought a Canon SX20 "bridge... (show quote)
If you look around you should be able to find a used Sigma 150-500mm OS lens for under $500. It would give you the results you want. New the Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary can be had for $939 if that was in your budget.
500mm mirror lenses are very cheap, but are all manual focus and fixedF6.3 to F8 aperture, and your Rebel body has a penta-mirror system that makes manual focusing at F8 difficult in the best light. In low light its worthless.
Jan 2, 2019 21:44:57 #
Thank you. Bspraque, I reviewed this lens on line but don't know much about them. This may the answer.
Jan 2, 2019 21:50:10 #
Jan 3, 2019 02:34:12 #
You seem to get good results with the Canon SX20. Why not buy the newer version?
I have a buddy who travels a lot he shoots with the SX. He upgrades every couple years. His travel slides are fabulous.
I have a buddy who travels a lot he shoots with the SX. He upgrades every couple years. His travel slides are fabulous.
Jan 3, 2019 06:03:33 #
Wow, your bird photos are gorgeous!
I currently have a Canon SX520, and enjoy it, however looking to advance some, so have been looking at(make that) drooling (LOL) over a Canon EOS SL2, so I can change lenses. I was just looking on B&H Photo, Video for 500mm lens for a Canon EOS for you, and they do have a few used ones at $79.95 and $89.95 that seem to be in good condition. Some say they require a T mount. So, not certain if these would work for your camera. I just put 500 mm lens in the search box. Go all the way to the end though, because they seem to skip around price wise. Hope you find what you need.
PhotoNat
I currently have a Canon SX520, and enjoy it, however looking to advance some, so have been looking at(make that) drooling (LOL) over a Canon EOS SL2, so I can change lenses. I was just looking on B&H Photo, Video for 500mm lens for a Canon EOS for you, and they do have a few used ones at $79.95 and $89.95 that seem to be in good condition. Some say they require a T mount. So, not certain if these would work for your camera. I just put 500 mm lens in the search box. Go all the way to the end though, because they seem to skip around price wise. Hope you find what you need.
PhotoNat
Jan 3, 2019 08:31:00 #
PhotoNat wrote:
Wow, your bird photos are gorgeous! br I currentl... (show quote)
I TOTALLY concur!! Excellent bird images - AND you fill the frame with your subject!! Well done!! ....Whooohoo!!
I just wanted to say that.... I have no recommendation for your question as I don't photograph birds, per se.
Davoallen, Have a great day!!
Jan 3, 2019 08:45:33 #
Jan 3, 2019 09:33:57 #
alby
Loc: very eastern pa.
great pics........... like JD said above.... upgrade from what you know... at 75 i would not want to learn a new system. you do a real good job with what you have. just upgrade....... but that is just my humble opinion.
Jan 3, 2019 09:35:38 #
alby
Loc: very eastern pa.
alby wrote:
great pics........... like JD said above.... upgrade from what you know... at 75 i would not want to learn a new system. you do a real good job with what you have. just upgrade....... but that is just my humble opinion.
Jan 3, 2019 10:27:48 #
If you live in or near a city, check the DAV or other thrift shops for lenses. I've found new in the box lenses for my Pentax for less than $30. I know the Wichita DAV has several Canon lenses that are available. Good luck
Jan 3, 2019 10:35:03 #
it depend of the pics quality you want .a 500mm lens new go from $ 100 to $ 12000 .i started birds with a $ 90 lens [ bower 500 long lens ] moved on to a used vivitar 600/1000 zoom [ $ 60], those 2 lenses are T mounts .moved on to a used [ like new 800 nikon nikkor f8 from the 80 s [ $ 700 ].this is what i use now , more then a year .very heavy , tripod only [ cannot be hand held ] descent pictures .that was the lens back then .the 2 others lenses under right conditions will work ok , very light , Today i would get a used 150/600 tamron or sigma , prices are coming down , just wait a little longer , it will be worth it .[ used around $ 500 ]
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.