Expert: John Oliverio - 5/1/2009

Question
I'm doubting what lens i have to choose for my canon eos 450 d wich i'm going to buy.
I'm going to shoot my children at skating, tabletennis and portrait inside.
I'm thinkinf of the canon 17-85 usm lens, or 18-55 is with 28-105 lens of canon 18-200 is lens?
L lenses are too expensive for me. Wich one can i choose best for action and portrait? Maybe you have another suggestion. o i have lend for now a 50mm 1.8 lens.

thanks already,
Mary

Answer
Mary,

The 50mm f1.8, while not a handy focal length for all subjects because it doesn't zoom,  is the brightest of the lenses you mention.  It is best for portraits indoors and out. And it is the best for sports if you are able to move around and get closer or farther from the action.  If you want your own, they only cost about $100.  

If you must choose a zoom from the ones you mention, I would suggest the 17-85.  It has a decent mechanical build and the least optical compromise.

So, what this all comes down to is this:  The 50 f1.8 is will give you the best quality and since it is very bright, the best chance of getting a decent action shot in lower light.  But it makes you work much harder because you have to move around a lot since it doesn't zoom.

The 17-85, since it zooms allows you much more freedom to compose your shots.  But doesn't work as well for action under low light since it won't allow the higher shutter speeds of the 50mm.  

I've got both a 50mm and a basic zoom and use the 50mm much more often.  But it is a very personal choice.  You've used the 50mm.  If you find it too difficult, then I would go with the 17-85.

John