5D vs. 7D and which lens?

[sophiadanielle]

Hi...
So, I'm new to this whole forum thing, but I am desperately seeking some reliable advice on a decision I have to make soon.

I'm looking to upgrade from my Canon Rebel Xt. Basically, I'm not sure if it would be better to get the Canon 5D and go with a cheaper lens. Or if I could get away with buying the Canon 7D and get a nicer lens.

Then, I'm wondering what lens would be best for me. I mostly do portraits.
I have a 50mm f/1.8. I've been wanting something wide enough for everyday activities, but something that will also produce sharp pictures for portraits. I'm hoping for less then roughly $600 depending on which camera I go with.


........help!?

[jdepould]

Cheaping out on glass on a 21MP full frame body isn't going to end well. While there are some lenses that are good value, they're still not bargain basement.

[veritasimagery]

Since the 5D is a full-frame camera, there really aren't any "cheap" lenses for it. Really, the best way to go is get the 7D and spend the extra on lenses. Plus it will still be able to use all the lenses you already have for the Xt. The full frame cameras can't use the EF-S lenses. Rule of thumb, always get good glass.

As far as lenses go, I'd go with a fast 85mm. That's a real good all around lens.


Kevin
Veritas Imagery NW

[RichardTaylor]

+ jdepould suggestion

Unless you are shooting environmental portraits wide angle don't usually work too well for "standard" portraits. You may find you need two lenses especially if you don't get a full frame body..

If you are not shooting birds in flight or sport etc I would consider a a 60D and put the money towards a good lens (Canon 24-70 F2.8.L would make for a great general purpose/portrait lens, but not real wide ) otherwise go for a 7D.

Do you have a kit zoom lens?

Were you thinking of a 5D or a 5DII?

For a portrait lens for under $600 (US?)I would be looking at a Canon 85mm F1.8 or Canon 100 F2 for a full frame camera.

[sophiadanielle]

Originally Posted by RichardTaylor

+ jdepould suggestion

Unless you are shooting environmental portraits wide angle don't usually work too well for "standard" portraits. You may find you need two lenses especially if you don't get a full frame body..

If you are not shooting birds in flight or sport etc I would consider a a 60D and put the money towards a good lens (Canon 24-70 F2.8.L would make for a great general purpose/portrait lens, but not real wide ) otherwise go for a 7D.

Do you have a kit zoom lens?

Were you thinking of a 5D or a 5DII?

For a portrait lens for under $600 (US?)I would be looking at a Canon 85mm F1.8 or Canon 100 F2 for a full frame camera.

I have an 18-55mm and a 55-200mm (or somewhere around there), but since I'm selling the Xt, I'm considering selling both of those with it.
I was thinking 5DII.



Thanks for all the input.

[RichardTaylor]

If you are going with the 5DII (and I don't own one, however I own a 5D) I would not skimp on lens purchases.

Ideally the Canon 24-70 F2.8 would meet all of your needs, except cost.

The alternative would be a pair of fast primes for approx 60% of the cost of the 24-70..
Canon 35 F2 for the wide stuff and Canon 85 F1.8 for prtraits

[sophiadanielle]

Would it be unwise to try and find something close to that in another brand?

[oldwolf]

Have to agree with jdepould.

Don't forget to look at 3rd party lens as well if you're trying to save some money. Sigma, Tamron, Tokina all make good lens. Not as great as Canon L lens but pretty good. Be careful with what lens you buy though. Some lens only work on crop sensor so if you want to carry them over to full frame later it won't work. That goes for Canon as well as 3rd party manufacturers.

[RichardTaylor]

Third party lenses can be ok, however do your homework first and if buying fro "grey market" importers double check warranty details.

[sophiadanielle]

Thank you all so much!

I think I'll go for the 7D. My overall impression has been that with a good lens, my photos will turn out almost just as well. Correct?