I have a lens and no body??? T2i vs T3i - 18-200 vs 18-55 vs EF 50mm ?

[kysersosai]

Hi,

I just watched a ton of t2i vs t3i video and I’m still stuck. I’m completely new to photography but I am interested in cinematography and photography equally. I have a Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens given to me from a friend. I just can’t decide on what camera to buy for the bucks. Right now in Canada there is a deal on Trade in your old camera and SAVE up to $100 on new Canon cameras! See how.

Here is what I am choosing from.

Option 1:
$750-$100 camera trade in = $650
Canon EOS Rebel T3i 18.0MP DSLR Camera - Body Only

Option 2:
$829 – $100 Camera Trade in = $729
Canon Rebel T3i 18MP DSLR Camera With 18-55mm IS Lens Kit

Option 3:
$750-$100 camera trade in
Canon EOS Rebel T3i 18.0MP DSLR Camera - Body Only

+

$120
Canon EF 50mm f1.8 II Lens

Total : $770

I guess my question revolves around the lens.

1. If I have a 18-200 do I need an 18-55 or the EF 50mm?
2. What would be the best combo for a beginner?
3. Is there any other gear I should get as an essential?

Thank you kindly for any help
Kyser S


ps there is also another option ARGH!

Option X:
$999 – $100 = $899
Canon EOS Rebel T2i 18MP DSLR Camera Kit With 430EX II Flash/ Bag/ 18-55mm Lens/ EF 50mm Lens

[inkista]

My opinion is you don't need the 18-55 if you already have the 18-200. You may need the 50/1.8 II or you may not. It's probably better not to get it until you know if you need the larger max. aperture of the lens and that the focal length is a good fit for you. However, the 50/1.8 II utterly sucks for manual focus, which makes it less useful for video than for still images if you want to focus pull.

[ceremus]

I haven't used my T3i to take a ton of video, but the prevailing wisdom would seem to suggest that its articulated screen would be more favorable than a fixed one for live view and video shooting.