Canon XS vs Canon 5d Mark ii--HELP! =)

[brittaniphotography]

Yes, I know.

My title makes you think that I am clueless, if I am comparing the XS and the 5d mark ii.

That's not actually my mission...

I am currently the proud owner of a Canon Rebel XS, and I am looking to purchase a 50mm 1.8 lens.

I have every intention of upgrading within the year to the 5dMii.

If I buy a 50mm 1.8 lens for my XS, will it be compatible with the 5d? Or should I wait for that lens until I get the camera I want?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[OsmosisStudios]

The 50mm f/1.8 is an EF lens, so it's compatible with all Canon EOS cameras, from the older film bodies to the newer digital ones.

If you want to score, see if you cant find a Mk1 version of the 50/1.8... its got a considerably better build than the current mk2

[CaptainNH]

You'll have no problem with the 50/1.8 & your 5DII when you upgrade, but.......

Whilst you're still planning your purchases, take a look at the 1.4 version (which, being USM, is far faster focusing) or the Sigma 50/1.4.

[brittaniphotography]

Thanks for the help guys! That is quite a relief.
I know I need to learn more about my lenses...

So the 1.4 (what does USM mean?) is a better choice? I will look into it for sure!!



[SusanH1970]

USM = Ultrasonic Motor.

The 50mm f/1.4 is a much better build than the 1.8. I have the 1.8 and I do love it, but pine for a 1.4. The 1.8 is very light and made completely of plastic, and feels almost toy-like.

[brittaniphotography]

Aahh yess, not what I'm looking for. I'm very bad with plastic and toy-like. I've done a little bit of research on the 1.4, and I wanted it before (it's the favorite of my favorite photographer) but I think it will def be what I go with now.

Now, for another question.

It's pretty obvious I have just started out here..
I need to get some off camera flashes and catchlights.

Do you guys have any recommendations on what I should get first?

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by brittaniphotography

Aahh yess, not what I'm looking for. I'm very bad with plastic and toy-like. I've done a little bit of research on the 1.4, and I wanted it before (it's the favorite of my favorite photographer) but I think it will def be what I go with now.

Now, for another question.

It's pretty obvious I have just started out here..
I need to get some off camera flashes and catchlights.

Do you guys have any recommendations on what I should get first?

You can get catchlights in the eyes using natural light - just be sure before you click the shutter that you see light reflected in your subject's eyes. Using a reflector also helps with this.

The OCF I use is an Alien Bee 400 with a 32x40 softbox, and I love it! There are quite a few folks here that use AB's. They're great for starting out with, have great customer service, and a whole starter kit will cost you less money than a 580EX II speedlight (which I also have, and plan on buying a stand, modifier, and trigger for to use as a 2nd OCF).

[brittaniphotography]

You, Susan, are a doll.
Thank you for your help.

Here's another silly question::
Do you recommend I get my lights first or my lens?

I prefer portraits, but most of them are done outside anyways.

[private]

If it were me, I would get the lens first - I LOVE my 501.4 - So far, I've only had enough space to play with it outside, so the 24-70 is on my camera most of the time...

I might have to take my kid out for a spin!

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by private

If it were me, I would get the lens first - I LOVE my 501.4 - So far, I've only had enough space to play with it outside, so the 24-70 is on my camera most of the time...

I might have to take my kid out for a spin!

+1. Definitely get the lens first!