Expert: John Oliverio - 9/17/2006

Question
Hi John,

Thanks so much for your reply. After much research, I am going to follow your advice and get the Rebel XT with the 17-85 USM IS lens. You mentioned the 70-300 USM IS lens, which I am also interested in, but would like your opinion: given the choice between this lens and the 70-200mm f/4.0L USM, which would you suggest? I'm not sure if I should stick with the image stabilization feature and the extra 100mm, or go for the L series glass. They are almost the same price, which makes the decision more difficult!

I appreciate your help,
Heather Allem

PS- I am also considering the Telephoto EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Autofocus Lens- any experience with this one? I LOVE macrophotography.
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Followup To

Question -
Hello,

I am in the market for a digital SLR camera, and was hoping you could offer some advice. There are so many on the market right now- I am having trouble narrowing my choices down! I have a regular Canon digital camera and a Minolta 35mm, but would like to switch to a digital SLR for the bulk of the pictures I take. I have been taking pictures for several years, am enrolled in a professional photography course, and take photos for a variety of uses: personal/family, weddings, newspapers, sports, etc.

I am leaning toward a Canon or Nikon- I would like high image quality for enlargements, and something versatile for still portraits as well as action. Alos, a long battery life would be preferable. (My Canon PowerShot is GREAT on battery life).

I'm looking to stay around $700-800 for the body only, or around $1200 with lens. I do need a 300mm lens for work, if you could suggest something in that area as well.

Thank you so much!!

Sincerely,
Heather Allem

Answer -
Heather,

You've got a pretty decent budget to play with.  I think you should consider the Canon Rebel XT with the 17-85 USM IS lens.  That's the "upgrade" lens kit and is much better than the regular kit.  I don't know what your budget is for the 300mm, (and I assume you mean a 300mm zoom, not prime).  But if you can afford it, I'd suggest the Canon 70-300 USM IS.

John

Answer
I'd definately choose the 70-200 f/4 L.  It may not have the IS, but it is sharper and brighter.  It is actually one of my favorite lenses from Canon.  I usually don't suggest it because people think they need the 300 and can't understand why they should pay more (or close to the same) for less power.  And I've found most people don't want to be lectured at about the quality differences.  

John