If You Could Only Have One Lens, What Would It Be?
Creative Commons Copyright Steven Wong
It’s time to open up your favorite photo gear catalog and pick a page! My question to you is this: If you could only have one lens for the rest of your days, what would it be and why?
The reason I ask is because the bittersweet decision says a lot about a photographer and their style. When I’ve asked other photographers it’s helped me to understand more about them and the art of photography. For instance, those that want a simple 50mm lens tended to be more practical and versatile in their approach. While others hooked on wildlife photography long for a coveted 600mm unit of the finest quality. Other’s still insist on a wide angle zoom or telephoto zoom. I’ve also found that it forced those I asked into truthfully evaluating what was important to them. What type of photography was paramount in their mind if they were faced with such a choice.
Sure, it’s hypothetical. But exercises like this, I feel, help stop my quest for the next-best-thing and really simplify. What is the minimum I need to enjoy photography. The rules are simple for this mental drill.
- Price is no object. The sky’s the limit and this includes telescopes on the top of Mauna Kea. :) It can also be a lens you already own.
- Please specify a particular lens. Yes, I know there will be new lenses in the future, but let’s just deal with what’s available today.
- Most importantly, let us know why you chose the lens you did.
For me, it’d be a Canon 28-300mm L. I already own this lens and it has been a super lens to use while traveling. While I can nit-pick about what needs improving, all in all, it has been a solid performer once I’ve learned its limits. And I admittedly love zoom lenses when I don’t have space to pack multiple prime lenses.
Your turn! Use the comments below to let us know which lens you’d pick and why.
385 Responses to “If You Could Only Have One Lens, What Would It Be?” - Add Yours
October 30th, 2009 at 6:40 am
My Hasselblad Distagon CF 60mm, anytime!
October 30th, 2009 at 6:48 am
For my current APS-C camera, the Canon EF-S 17-55 IS USM. Otherwise, another walkaround 2.8 zoom for whatever system I’m using. I find that “standard zoom” range to be the most useful, even if it’s not too exciting-
October 30th, 2009 at 6:57 am
For me, right now, it would be the EF-S 60mm Macro lens. Its fast enough for indoor photos, long enough for portraits on APS-C cameras, and its macro! This lens comes with me everywhere I take my camera and I always get great shots with it.
October 30th, 2009 at 6:58 am
Zuiko Digital 35-100 f/2
Why? Good focal range. Constant fast aperture. Weather sealed like my E-3
It’s a Zuiko lens…So it is VERY good as far as optics are concerned!
Lens page: http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/product.asp?product=1335
Samples: http://www.flickr.com/groups/zuikodigital/discuss/72057594065853717/
Drool
October 30th, 2009 at 6:59 am
For me, it would have to be my 50mm f1.4G Nikkor AF-S. Makes every picture pin-sharp, and the greatest bokeh for the price! I know it’s a fixed focal length, so it won’t suit every occasion, but I just have to take a few steps forward or back instead… It’s so good, it’s hardly ever off my camera!
October 30th, 2009 at 6:59 am
My Hasselblad CF 60mm, anytime. It’s wide enough to bring you into the stage but not too much to distort your subject if you get up close. It’s a terrific lens that will react wonderfully to any light conditions. Using one fixed focal length as your main lens makes you squeeze the most out of it and the reduced number of variables really helps you create your own style. http://bit.ly/2JTYLA
October 30th, 2009 at 7:04 am
In my limited experience thus far I’d have to go with the . It’s got the range that I typically shoot in with a bit of telephoto. The VR has also helped my images and so I would have to go with that.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:04 am
My Canon 24-105 (which I own) would be my choice if that was the only lens I could keep.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:05 am
My one and only lens would be the 50mm 1.4 Nikon I already have. I just love it.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:07 am
Sorry messed up the formating.
Repeat:
In my limited experience thus far I’d have to go with the Nikon 18-200mm VR lens. It’s got the range that I typically shoot in with a bit of telephoto. The VR has also helped my images and so I would have to go with that.
If this isn’t right then just ignore my comments lol. Maybe a preview comment?
October 30th, 2009 at 7:09 am
Oh man, do I have to choose?! :) Currently my Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L … can’t live without it.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:11 am
i think i’d choose a canon 35 1.4L. Superb Image Quality and on my 5D MKII a field of view that matches my photographic needs almost perfect.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:16 am
Currently my all-round lens is (was) also 24-105, but since I’m switching to primes I guess my answer should be: 35L. And it could still be smaller =)
October 30th, 2009 at 7:17 am
Nikon’s 18-200 VR. Although I love my 50mm 1.8 lens and the 80-200 2.8, 90% of the time I have that lens attached. Its the best all-in-one I’ve seen. Now, if nikon created a version of that lens with a constant aperture of 2.8 I would buy it no matter how expensive it was.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:17 am
My SIGMA 18-200mm is all i want…
October 30th, 2009 at 7:17 am
The Pentax DA* 16-50mm f/2.8 AL IF SDM. It’s weather-sealed, fast, quiet, sharp, and covers a very useful focal range on APS-C.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:20 am
Same as Peter…. Canon EF 28-300mm F3.5-5.6L IS USM. Wish I could afford it (and the body 1D to go with it).
October 30th, 2009 at 7:23 am
If I had to that’s the one,
Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR [Vibration Reduction] DX Lens
Connie
October 30th, 2009 at 7:24 am
If I had to pick a lens I own already, it would most certainly be my beloved 17-70 Sigma starting at F2.8. This is my everyday lens and on my Camera with a 1.6 crop factor it’s quite versatile. If I was to buy a new lens things would be harder. There would basically be two choices. It would either be a fast 30mm fixed focal length lens or the 28-300 Canon L glass you mentioned. I’d probably decide for the L since it’s quite versatile but I would hate to carry it around in some instances.
So at the end it’s either the 17-70 in the case I had to stick with a lens I own or the 28-300L if I had to buy a new one.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:26 am
@Connie Kurtew
That would be my choice as well. :-)
October 30th, 2009 at 7:27 am
I will have to second Connie and say the Nikon 18-200 VR lens, It takes great photos and that 18-200mm range is just too good to be ignored. (My only caveat is I wish it didn’t have that stupid lens creep problem, but that is minor and at the end of the day that is just a convenience thing, it doesn’t change the fact that the lens performs extremely well)
October 30th, 2009 at 7:31 am
My AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.8 is all I need :)
October 30th, 2009 at 7:32 am
I would go for 16-35 f/2.8..
October 30th, 2009 at 7:32 am
Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon 35/2.4
October 30th, 2009 at 7:32 am
Canon EF 24-70mm f2.8 L USM
October 30th, 2009 at 7:33 am
For me the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX works just great on my D90 and D300.
Yes, I have the 18-200 and others but the 35mm (equiv to a 50mm or so on Full Frame) forces you to think and compose carefully….and you need to walk backwards and forwards to get your shot! For more inspiration on this type of photography, check out Bert Stephani’s 50/50 blog… it inspired me! http://bertstephani.com/2009/09/02/the-5050-project-day-1/
October 30th, 2009 at 7:33 am
my nikon 70-200 2.8 without a doubt.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:44 am
Gotta agree with
Andre the GiantJacob. For my K-7, it’s the one I own and love: Pentax DA* 16-50mm f/2.8.October 30th, 2009 at 7:46 am
I would go with a Canon EF 70-200mm F2.8 L USM. Its probably the best available zoom telephoto lens from Canon these days. Its quiet expensive tough…
October 30th, 2009 at 7:46 am
Honestly, if I could only pick ONE for my personal work, I’d pick the Sony 18-250mm 3.5-6.3
I prefer to shoot with primes, but that lens would let me do almost anything.
E.g. if I want to get that shallow depth of field of a 50mm 1.4 lens, I could shoot from REALLY far away, and zoom to 200 or 250mm, thus getting the reduced depth of field I want.
The only thing it would be useless for is low light, but the question didn’t say anything about having a flash.
If I could only pick one lens for professional work? The Sony Alpha Zeiss-branded 24-70mm 2.8. Hands down.
Again, I’d prefer to shoot with a compliment of primes, if possible.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:48 am
The rest of my life is just too long.
I´ll Stuck with DX and the Nikon 18-200 VR.
Almost like the 28-300mm L, bud MUCH Lighter.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:48 am
Canon EF 50mm 1.4 USM
On an APS-C camera.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:49 am
The Canon 16-35 f 2.8 L. I chose this lens because I used it of 90% of my portfolio. It’s a keeper, I am never going to get rid of it.
October 30th, 2009 at 7:51 am
A Sony/Minolta 35mm f/1.4 G-Series would be perfect. Low light. Not too big. Great optics. Versatile:
https://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=11039113
Barring that, the Sony 50mm f/1.4 lens, which would be just one notch better than the 50mm f/1.8 that I already own and use most of the time anyhow:
https://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=11033562
October 30th, 2009 at 7:52 am
24-105 L I think )
October 30th, 2009 at 7:53 am
The 70-200 2.8L IS. It is short enough to act in a “point and shoot” capacity on a full frame camera yet can zoom to fill the frame with just about any subject. Although it is on the heavier side, I can walk around with it all day and get consistently sharp photos without a tri/monopod. The only thing type of image for which I have found this lens wanting is landscape–obvious there you need a wider angle. However, all these short lenses everyone is mentioning would not get the results I look for based upon what I typically shoot (street scenes, carnivals, “natural” portraits, etc.)
October 30th, 2009 at 7:54 am
For me this question is a very simple one. It would have to be a canon 50mm f1.2 L. My reason would have to be because I love portraits. I love to be close to my subjets, not standing far away using a zoom lens. One of my favorite quotes is by the great photographer Robert Capa and he says this. “if your pictures are not good enough, you’re not close enough.”
October 30th, 2009 at 7:56 am
I really really really want the Canon 70-200 IS
October 30th, 2009 at 7:58 am
my canon EF 35L…. 35 is soooo universal….
October 30th, 2009 at 8:00 am
Nikon 50mm f1.8
I took 90% of my pics with the lens..
October 30th, 2009 at 8:03 am
Tamron 60mm f/2 macro but I hope Canon can pull an equivalent for that lens. My choice could’ve been EF-S 18-135mm but the lack of USM was a dealbreaker.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:07 am
It’d have to be the one I keep on my camera most of the time: Canon’s 24-105 f/4. The only thing I’d change about it would be the aperture…I’d like it wider. But it is a good all around lens. :)
October 30th, 2009 at 8:12 am
I have a Tamron 18-250 that I’d keep over my other lens. If it came in 1.4 and still was just as compact (not possible yet apparently) I wouldnt ever take it off the camera.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:15 am
I have shot around 2000 images this year and most shots have been with my 17-50mm f2.8 Tamron so guess its my favourite!
October 30th, 2009 at 8:18 am
I’m on a bit of a depth-of-field control kick lately, so I’d want something f2.8 or faster, which unfortunately rules out the Nikon 18-200mm VR. If only they could pull that off in a contant f2.8 sigh… so… I’m also shooting mostly people and kid’s sports, which means I want something longer than the Nikon 24-70mm f2.8. I think if I looked at my EXIF data, the lens that gets me closest to covering what I actually *shoot* is the Sigma 50-150mm f2.8. It cuts off some of the long and short ends, but it’ll have to do until Nikon can roll out an 18-300mm f2.8 VR…
October 30th, 2009 at 8:19 am
For me it’s the Canon EF-S 17-55 IS USM, which I already own. I’ve been using this lens more and more, leaving my longer lenses in the camera bag. It fits the bill perfectly for the type of shooting I’ve been doing lately. I’m happy with the results.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:24 am
I have really been loving my Nikon 70-200 VR on my D80… So right now, that would be it. I have been eyeballing the 35 1.8 DX though, so playing with it as a prime could sway my decision if/when I expose myself to it a bit.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:26 am
I dunno, maybe it’s because I’m currently enjoying the urban street art/graffiti phase that I’m in, and so while I own some dream lenses, I find that my Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM spends an inordinate amount of time on the camera body.
The minimal focal distance is great for tight spaces; its reach brings otherwise too distant opportunities down from rooftops, second stories, etc. The IS allows me to slink around dicey areas without a tripod and shoot down to 1/15 or so and remain sharp.
It’s a lens that seems to receive a thumbs-down from some photographers, but it’s going places where the 70-200, 300 f/2.8, and the 16-35 f/2.8 aren’t flexible.
It wasn’t until you posed the question that I truly realized that it’s my constant companion.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:27 am
I would definitely pick the Panasonic Standard 25mm f/1.4 Leica D Summilux Aspherical Lens. Becaus I’m using Olympus I would achieve 50mm in the end. I think single focal length lenses can massively define a photographer and his style. 50mm are the perfect focal length to capture the world as it really is…
October 30th, 2009 at 8:29 am
Canon EF 14-600 f/1.2L IS USM.. ups, this one is not on stock at the moment :-), so I would go for Canon EF 24-70 f/2.8L
October 30th, 2009 at 8:32 am
I would be lost without my DA* 16-50 mm f2.8. It is without doubt, my favorite lens.
This lens is a real workhorse, fast, quiet, and quite wide, but still has the zoomy goodness to use as a portrait lens on a crop sensor (All Pentax have crop sensors).
Without a doubt, this would be THE lens for me.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:43 am
I’m a devoted landscape shooter who likes his wide angle lenses (that Nikon 14-24 f/2.8 is a sweat beast). I also do love the convenience of shooting my Nikon 18-200. In a real world that would be my lens choice for everything it could do since we could only have one lens. BUT – this is a fantasy world so I’m going to ignore all my beloved Nikon lenses and actually be the very first one in the comment stream I believe to pick my favorite lens of all time – the Canon 85 f/1.2L. It’s bokehlicious – and you need that to get through eternity.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:52 am
If I had it my way, I’d have a 35mm – 40mm, f/1.4 for my Nikon D300. It’s wide enough to capture nicely, w/out much distortion. The aperture options open up a massive variety of uses as well.
(Side note: When your survey overlay appears, and I’m viewing the site from my iPod touch or Android phone, I can’t make it go away, in order to complete reading and/or commenting. You might consider having it sense that I’m on the mobile WebKit browser, and NOT have it appear.)
October 30th, 2009 at 8:52 am
Olympus ZD 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 SWD. No doubt.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:53 am
Just for sheer versatility, I would use Tamron’s new 18-270. The sharpness is acceptable with surprisingly low vignetting.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:53 am
50 mm f/1.4 on a DSLR. On my full frame Nikon body I prefer the Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM over the Nikon 50 mm lenses. Details can be found here http://www.sigmaphoto.com/lenses/lenses_all_details.asp?id=3354&navigator=17 .
Some examples from my flickr stream: http://flickr.com/photos/geopirat/3192639688/in/set-72157594425165308/
Why the 50 mm? Beautiful bokeh and shallow DoF. The right angle for my style of shooting. Not too big. Not too wide. Perfect.
50 mm f/1.0 on a Rangefinder camera. Leica’s Noctilux is outstanding in its creamy look. Even the sharp areas are a bit creamy / dreamy.
Examples:
http://flickr.com/photos/geopirat/3859553834/in/set-72157594425165308/
http://flickr.com/photos/geopirat/3478805891/in/set-72157594425165308/
Why this 50 mm? Sharp pictures (big DoF) can be done by everyone. Good bokeh is better. ;-)
Have fun and keep shooting!
Carsten
October 30th, 2009 at 8:55 am
For me, it would be a Nikkor 35mm f1.8 AF-S DX. It is the equivalent to a 50mm, besides, it’s a super-fast and a super-sharp lens.
I’d love to get one, but here in Chile it’s REALLY expensive, and in sites like B&H or Adorama it is out of stock.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:56 am
It would be the canon 24-70 2.8 L USM.
I have the sigma non hsm model and aim to get the canon one in the future.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:57 am
Probably a Nikkor 50mm f/1.4
Of course, the Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 would be fun too! For you, only $38,000.00
October 30th, 2009 at 9:01 am
I’d have to choose my Canon 70-210mm f/4. In my opinion this is a great all around low light lens. My oldie but true buddy!
October 30th, 2009 at 9:06 am
Canon 35mm f/1.4L.
It’s a much more useful focal length than 50mm for street photography, but not too wide for portraiture. Small, light and incredibly sharp. It pretty much captures what the eye sees.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:08 am
I’ll take that 28-300 Canon.
I’ve got the 100-400 IS L, and the 24-105 IS L, and those 2 go everywhere with me. Looks like that 28-300 makes an excellent balance between these 2.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:08 am
It will be Nikon 18-200 mm VR lens ( I have only this lens :D though)
October 30th, 2009 at 9:10 am
It would HAVE to be the 70-200 f/2.8 L IS USM Canon lens, combined with my 5D mkII, If I could get a bigger studio to enable me to use this lens I really would never take it off! :)
October 30th, 2009 at 9:11 am
Nikorr 18-200 3.5f (or 2.8 better but i dont know if its to heavy)
October 30th, 2009 at 9:12 am
Pentax 31mm F1.8 LTD
October 30th, 2009 at 9:15 am
one lens? Nikkor 200-400 f4 VR Why? Because when I look at my pix most of them (wildlife + aircraft) are shot at over 200mm.
one lens + one or more TCs? Nikkor 70-200 f2.8 VR Would still let me get the far stuff + chop minimum range down quite a bit.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:22 am
for full frame, the EF 200mm f2.0L IS USM, because shooting long is good for portraiture, and has better background blur. for a crop frame, the EF 400mm f2.8L IS USM because great for big field sports, especially if you can’t get close. leave the closeup shots for the other photographers. This is my preference, with portraiture and sports, usually, and primes are just awesome (try one!!)
October 30th, 2009 at 9:22 am
Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX is my favorite lens for my Nikon D60. With the 1.5 crop factor, it really works great for the type of photography I enjoy.
I have a wide angle zoom (12-24 mm) that would be an extremely close second but in the end it is not as versatile as my 35mm.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:24 am
That’s a tough question, but my favorite all around lens (which I own) is the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L. It seems to be on my 5DMKII 90% of the time.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:27 am
I agree with johnp, the Tamron 18-250mm does seem great. I’ve only had it a few days though so yet to really test drive it. I’m going hiking for 2 weeks in New Zealand over Christmas so then it’ll get a real workout. Anyway, ultra telephoto prime would be a nice thing to have, but my girlfriend won’t sell her car so I can buy one. Ha!
October 30th, 2009 at 9:31 am
I DO MOTOR SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY WITH OLYMPUS CAMERAS MY DREAM LENS WOULD BE THE
OLYMPUS 90-250 2.8 LENS [ 35MM EQV 180MM -500]
October 30th, 2009 at 9:32 am
I’d pick my Nikon 18-200 VR – got it the same time as I got my D90. I like to do concert work, this gives me a good zoom range and good low light – esp with the VR.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:33 am
I`d go for the Leica Noctilux f/0.95 or the 21mm Summilux. Mainly because I like a 50mm lens on FF, but f/0.95 would let me get some nifty pictures. The 21mm f/1.4 would feed my street photography hunger. Though decision between these two!
I guess the 50mm lens would be more versatile… so i`d go with that.
Does anyone know Santa`s 2nd phone number, `cause he stopped answering the first one after I sent him last year`s wishlist…
October 30th, 2009 at 9:34 am
My favourite lens will have to be Nikkor 24-70mm f2.8. Stays on my camera 95% of the time. The pictures are sharp in the whole zoom range and great in low light conditions. Gotta love it!
October 30th, 2009 at 9:37 am
its got to be my 50mm 1.8. no other lens has made me a better composer than this lens. i respect the heck out the work of landscape / nature photographers so i understand how limiting a 50mm will be to their craft, but for street / urban photography, 50 mm is the way for me to go.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:49 am
If you asked me that question a month ago, I would have said the Voigtlander Nokton 50/1.1. Having now played with that for a while, I think I’d return to my original lust:
Petzval projection lens 150/3.7.
Swirlies on large format. It doesn’t get much better than that.
(That’s not to say the Nokton isn’t a brilliant lens – it is – just that my want for the Petzval outstrips the want for the Nokton.)
October 30th, 2009 at 9:54 am
Tamron 18-270 VC Nikon mount. I travel a lot and this is the best all-purpose lens. Not the fastest, but the quality is fantastic, at both ends of the zoon. When weight and convenience matters, and you can only carry one lens, this is the best. If you haven’t tried it, find a demo and you’ll be impressed.
.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:02 am
Of the lenses I now own, my favorite is my Nikon 80-400 VR………If I could have any lens regardless of price, I would pick the 600 1.8.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:03 am
I’ll go with the Tamaron 60mm F2 Macro a super all around lens
October 30th, 2009 at 10:04 am
I forgot to mention, when I’m not traveling, I use the new fast Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 VC, Nikon mount; and I throw my Sigma 150-500 OS in the trunk, just in case I’m at a sporting event or out in the woods shooting nature.
.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:11 am
Nikon 17-35 f 2.8 AF-S
It’s wide, sharp, bright, durable, allows a bit of composition by zoom rather than by position and it fits on my camera. I love it.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:11 am
The Nikon 50mm f/1.4 is all I’d need. This was my first lens and my first love. I adore the push to be more creative and ingenuitive when I use it. Can’t get over the DOF and the beautiful way it captures natural light. This is the lens for me!
October 30th, 2009 at 10:15 am
Would have to be the “AF Zoom-NIKKOR 24-85mm f/2.8-4D IF”. Its fast enough, sharp and covers the average range of what I enjoy shooting. I can do architectural work, landscapes, portraits. Granted I lose the opportunity for good wild life work but its a sacrifice I am willing to make.
Cheers,
P.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:15 am
I would choose the Canon 100-400mm L lens. I have had it about 10 months and rarely use anything else. Add an extension tube and I’m set for just about anything that comes along. I’ve used that lens for nature and wildlife shots as well as portraiture and it never fails me. Sometimes I wish for a longer reach but as far as an all-around great lens, this is the one I choose!
October 30th, 2009 at 10:20 am
October 30th, 2009 at 10:23 am
canon 35mm f 1.4
if you are not a wildlife photographer its universal.
great coverage
great portraits
and you right in the middle of event ;)
October 30th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Nikkor 70-200mm ED VRII. Its optical quality is superior and super fast AF allows accurate capture of wildlife. It would be a great tool for portrait due to its overall superior quality.
"
October 30th, 2009 at 10:44 am
for me, it is will be the lens that i already owned, the tamron 17-50mm for my nikon d80.
basically, i shoot alot of landscapes/citscapes and street photography, the lens is one of the best walkabout lens, and the focus length almost cover everything i wanted to shoot.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:49 am
I would keep my Nikon 55 f/2.8 micro. It’s takes amazing macro and razor sharp portraits!
October 30th, 2009 at 10:52 am
I would choose the nikon 18-200mm lens. It’s the best choice so far. You do a little bit of wide-angle,close-up and zoom
October 30th, 2009 at 10:53 am
The Tamron 18-270 would be my lens of choice for a Canon 20D.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:00 am
I’d have to go with my Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM. Nice fast and quiet auto-focus (compared to the Sony 18-70 that I was used to anyway), a focal range that suites me fine with some versatility, and it’s as sharp as I need it to be. I don’t plan on printing any images at this time any larger than an 8×10, so any limitations that the lens has as far as resolution isn’t noticeable.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:04 am
I am wrestling with either my Nikon 50 f/1.4 or my Nikon 70-200 VR f/2.8 but, in the end, the versatility of the 70-200 wins out.
Portraits, live events, sports, wildlife, it does it all and with always stunning results. The 50 f/1.4 is a great lens and I could “get by” with it for sure. Dear God if the 70-200 was f/1.4 well, I can dream can’t I? Bottom line is the 70-200 makes me a better photographer or at the least, gives me great shots if I do my part.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:05 am
The smc Pentax-FA 31mm f/1.8 Limited on APS-C (or the smc Pentax-FA 43mm f/1.9 Limited on film or full frame digital).
October 30th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Right now, I have only one lens and I really love it. Canon 24-70mm
October 30th, 2009 at 11:45 am
This should be in the Camera’s and Gear section, but anyway..
I love my 55-250mm EF-S IS lens.
Having said that, if money was no object, I would get the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM. Not bad for a zoom range, has max aperture of 2.8, it’s USM, IS, etc. Looks like a nice lens,
October 30th, 2009 at 11:45 am
Canon 50 f/1.2L, no question!
October 30th, 2009 at 11:48 am
My Nikon 18-200 would be an irreplaceable solution for all-in-one lens
October 30th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
i would choose the Canon 50mm 1.4, if cost isn’t a factor. I love my 50mm 1.8, but I would like to have the higher quality of the 1.4, which I couldn’t afford at the time I bought the 1.8 Interesting topic to think about :)
October 30th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
canon 24-70 f/2.8 on my 5d mk II or the EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 on my 50D
October 30th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Ah.. don’t I love this question? It is going to be Canon 70-200 f/2.8 IS for me. The one that lets me shoot most of the landscapes that I love to, and also a decent amount of people, portraits and indoors. The quality is great. I would miss shooting birds but that’s something I don’t mind much.
October 30th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
For me there is no doubt the Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR DX Lens. It covers a wide range of applications in a single quality lens
October 30th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Definitely the Nikkor AF-S F/1.4G. Mainly because I absolutely adore the bokeh effect. Also because I find the fact that I have to physically move around more with the lens in order to properly frame a subject, I’m a lot less lazy and will actually look at my subject from more interesting angles when using a 50mm lens. Don’t know why… but the 50mm always makes me more active in taking photographs.
October 30th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
For a Nikon owner, it’s a tough choice, but if I was really pressed to make a selection, it would be between Nikkor AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8G VR and Nikkor AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8G. Mind you, Nikkor AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8 G ED N would also be very appealing. I’d probably take the telephoto over the other ones, since I prefer longer lenses to wide. I often take my old 80-200 F/2.8 mounted on camera, stick the 35mm f/2.0 in my pocket and leave my bag with the rest of glass at home. With that setup I often come with some nice shots, so I must say that a nice telephoto is definitely something to be had. But again, its a matter of shooting style and subject. There is definitely some nice expensive glass out there to choose from, just wish it paid for itself better.
October 30th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
I would have to say my Canon 50mm 1.4. Just love it!
October 30th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
oh this is easy:
Leica Noctilux 50mm f/0.95. I would settle for the f/1.0
I don’t own a Leica, but if money wasn’t an object, I’d get this lens and a camera of course.
I suppose I could settle for the Canon 50mm f/1.0L, but would you really settle for a Canon if money wasn’t an object? I don’t own a canon either.
But seriously, the most useful lens for me right now would be a Schneider Super-Angulon XL 72mm f/5.6 for my 4×5 cuz that’s all I shoot for the moment.
October 30th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Without hesitation my Canon 50mm f1.4. I LOVE that lens so so so much.
October 30th, 2009 at 2:09 pm
For my full frame Kodak digital camera (an oldie, but I love it): Nikon 50mm f1.4.
For my Nikon D2x: 35mm f1.8
That 50mm effective focal length makes me think, but gives me heaps of light.
Rob
October 30th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
My Nikon 10-24mm AF-S might as well be superglued onto my camera body. Im all about “getting it all in” and getting up close and personal with my subjects!
October 30th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
For me I can not wait to get my hands on the Canon 24-70mm F2.8. I do a lot of family and portrait work and this seems to be the lens of choice by many a professional. Someday I hope to be able to get it.
October 30th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
Since I’m shooting on a APS-C sensor Nikon camera, I’d have to say the one lens I want over all others is the Nikon 10-24mm DX f/3.5-4.5 AS-F. I like to shoot wide, which is something I don’t get to do much of with a crop-sensor camera.
If I was shooting with a full-frame DSLR, I’d probably choose something else.
October 30th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
The lens that’s on my camera most often is my Sigma 50mm f/1.4 on my Canon, but the lens that makes me the most money is the 70-200mm f/2.8 IS. Gotta love fast glass…
October 30th, 2009 at 3:09 pm
gotta say the Nikon 17-55mm 2.8 af-s dx. It’s built like a tank, shoots pretty well in low light, and gives enough range for most compositions.
October 30th, 2009 at 3:13 pm
Sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM Nikon Mount
OR
Nikon AF-S 50mm 1.4G
I already have a Nikon AF 50mm 1.8D, but it doesn’t autofocus on a D5000.
October 30th, 2009 at 4:06 pm
My Canon 24-70mm F2.8. However, if price is no object, I love to have that Canon 28-300mm.
October 30th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
Pentax FA*50mm f1.4 – I’d miss my other lenses, but for the versatility and sharpness, I can’t beat it. I’ve learned to “be the zoom” and it really helps me focus on how I want the resultant image to look. With the control over depth of field and lovely bokeh, it would fit the bill for most of my shooting provided I can get close or far enough away from my subject. Here’s a depth fo field example:
"
October 30th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
Although my favourite lens is my 50mm 1.4, if I was limited to one lens only, instead of the 5-6 I normally carry around, it would have to be the Nikon 18-200 VR. Anything else would result in missed opportunities.
October 30th, 2009 at 4:34 pm
is it a trick question? :) probably 50mm 1.2.
October 30th, 2009 at 4:36 pm
On my D70s: 50mm 1:1.4 with crop is this 75mm
On my properly next camera D700: 85mm 1:1.4 (has no crop)
October 30th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Nikon 35 1.8G always stick to my D90. Make my camera compact and easy to carry in my backpack. Love it.
October 30th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
A really good quality 100mm Macro.
October 30th, 2009 at 5:27 pm
As art photographer 50mm 1.2 with Full Frame Camera.
October 30th, 2009 at 5:33 pm
That would be Canon EF 28-300mm 1:3.5-5.6L IS USM. From my point of view the best choice between wide angle and zoom.
October 30th, 2009 at 5:47 pm
My Nikkor 18-200 VR II ED.
October 30th, 2009 at 6:01 pm
Probably the Leica Summilux F1.4 50mm. The F0.95 Noctilux is tempting, but too bulky for most work, so I’d go for the summilux.
October 30th, 2009 at 6:03 pm
Well, I’d choose Nikkor 70-300 VR. Why? It’s robust like a soviet-tank, I have taken it almost every where and it still working fine, I like shooting birds and candid portraits.
October 30th, 2009 at 6:03 pm
Hmmm, only one pops to mind, the canon ef 50mm f1.2
October 30th, 2009 at 6:06 pm
It’s certainly a lense around 100mm for me.
I will say HASSELBLAD HC 120MM F/4 MACRO.
It’s versatile (portrait and 1:1 macro) and absolutely the sharpest lens I have ever seen!
As a more “normal” lense, I like a lot the CARL ZEISS VARIO SONNAR T* DT 16-80 MM F/3,5-4,5
October 30th, 2009 at 6:17 pm
Such a hard question; ok, to fit a 450D, cropped and for maybe printing, and also website content only, it would have to be the canon ef 24-70mm f/2.8L usm. Such a versatile lens; ok it does not have image stabilisation so the 70-200mm is tempting with the IS (either f/4 or 2.8, both are amazing) but the 24-70 makes you a better photographer; you need to think and it will repay your thought and input (with lens hood)….
October 30th, 2009 at 6:50 pm
24-135 f/2.0 IS
October 30th, 2009 at 6:55 pm
For me ..I still love one nikon 50mm f/1.8
October 30th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
For me, on my 5D mk II, the answer would have to be the 24-105 mk because of it’s useful range.
Otherwise, it’s the 5-400 f1.2L IS.
15cm long, weighs only 300g, and is an optical match for the 135 f2 at all focal lengths. Oh yes, and it’s under 1000 €.
You didn’t say we couldn’t dream :-)
- Peter
October 30th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
My 24-70mm if you left me with my D300. My 70-200mm which is going on sale soon (replacement version for FX is on order) if you were kind enough to let me keep my D3X. The 70-200 is also compatible with teleconverters if in a crunch.. Do they count?
October 30th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
That’s easy to answer! That would be my 50mm f1.8, of course.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
I would need to choose between my Canon 50mm f1.8 EF and my Canon 70-200mm f4 EF L IS. If I owned a full frame I would definetely go for the 70-200mm since it gives me wonderfull results. The 50mm if it were any other camera because I love the lightness, the great effect and the large aperture.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:09 pm
Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L :)
I already own Sigma DG EX 28-70 f/2.8 and I know that Canon is a lot sharper in 2.8-4.5. This focal range is everything I need for my portraits and ocassional landscapes.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:10 pm
I have so many I love, but I would have to say my Canon 24-105 IS 4.0 L hardly ever leaves my camera until the situation requires. It has been the best all around lens for clarity, at least a two stop or more stabilization, color stability and all around range of reach without moving that make it my workhorse. I have shot an entire wedding without changing it, other than going to the 85mm 1.2 for the bride and groom individual portrait session.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:14 pm
My 24-70mm f/2.8L. Looove that lens. If I can’t have that and the 50mm, then let it be the 24-70!
October 30th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
I’d love to try out the Canon EF 50 f1.2. On my cropped body (I’m talking about my camera btw, not myself) this should be a good equivalent of the 85 f1.2 that I see a lot of the great wedding photographers using.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:42 pm
I’ve been thinking about moving back to primes recently.
When I was a student I used only my 28mm, 50mm and 70-210mm.
I think if you don’t physically limit yourself to one focal length, you never will – although I’ve been finding that a lot of my images at weddings are falling into fairly specific ranges – mostly 24mm, some 85/105mm and 200mm.
If I had to choose one lens – I’d stick with my 24-105, however, if it had to be a prime – I’d probably go for a 35 1.4L Wide enough to be wide, but still able to get ‘normal’ portraits.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:47 pm
I would probably pick my Sigma 30mm F1.4 along with my canon 40D anytime.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:55 pm
Since I’m a prime guy I would pick my Canon EF 200 2.8L lens if I could only have one lens. I’ve taken more photos with that one lens than all of my other lenses combined.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:36 pm
Canon 70-200/2.8, which I own. On my camera 99.9% of the time!
October 30th, 2009 at 10:43 pm
My Nikon 50mm f/1.8 gave me most satisfying results under all situations…
October 30th, 2009 at 10:47 pm
Canon 24-70 f/2.8L. I love my primes, I love my 70-200, I love my 16-35. But the 24-70 is still the most versatile lens I own. If I only had one, that would be it. It was also the first of my ‘real’ lenses, so I may be a bit biased by that too.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:54 pm
The one lens would be the Nikon 1.8 50 mm. It is on my D700 90% of the time anyway.
October 30th, 2009 at 10:59 pm
100-400 L USM is,
A close winner in my comparison with the 300 L USM is, but the versatility tipped the balance in its favor.
And still my 50mm 1.8, keep it in my pocket all the time.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:00 pm
Nikon 18-200 VRII.
I like the versatility, with decent wide angle, telephoto and macro capabilities.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8. I’m fortunate enough to own this lense and find myself using it more than any other lens I have. I especially like the sharpness of the pictures I get with the 70-200.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:04 pm
5DMkII 21/2.8 ZE
M9 50/0.95
October 30th, 2009 at 11:04 pm
I have to go with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II. While not the fastest lens I’ve worked with its walk around compatability works well for me. I’ve only test driven the lens but I rent it quite a bit when I take trips. I am saving up to own one real soon.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:07 pm
I use my 85mm 1.4 all the time for work, but if I could choose just one, it would be the 50mm 1.4, absolutely.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:12 pm
I have always wanted a prime 600 lens even before 1989 when I got into photography as a hobby….but just now (yesterday) I received my new Outdoor Photographer magazine …and I was drooling over the new Sigma APO 300-800mm F5.6 (telephoto) EX DG HSM. It is for digital cameras It has a close focusing distance of 3 meters….to get smaller animals and birds…
I photograph mainly small critters/wildlife native to my area of Tennessee. ……and while I have a 70-300…it just always leaves me wishing for a bigger/better lens…..for my Nikon camera….I doubt that I will ever have the pleasure of owning one of these… but…as always I can dream can’t I? (here is the review on it)
http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/lenses/sigma-300-800.shtml
October 30th, 2009 at 11:27 pm
Funny; my favorite lens right now is a Sigma mini-wide II (macro) 2.8 28mm
October 30th, 2009 at 11:28 pm
Canon 24-70 f2.8L
Love this lense and use it for almost everything also own and love the 70-200 f4.0L but right now it would have to be the 24-70.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
something that goes from 17 to 300mm so I can photograph anything. After all, if it’s truly the only lens I can have for the rest of my life, I don’t want to be limited.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:41 pm
I covet the Canon 24-70 F2.8. I currently have an aps-c sensor but I would want this lens regardless of sensor.
October 30th, 2009 at 11:53 pm
I’m in love with Nikon 50mm 1.8, so I’d stick with it…. I shot with a Pentax 50mm all my life and zoom is nice, but this lens is great in every light condition….
October 30th, 2009 at 11:55 pm
Nikon 24-70
October 30th, 2009 at 11:56 pm
If price was no object than I’d love to have Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8. But the one i have right now (sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OS) is not bad either since it has a good range and i don’t have to pack different lenses when i travel.
October 31st, 2009 at 12:01 am
Sigma 18-250mm on A nikon
October 31st, 2009 at 12:06 am
AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II
October 31st, 2009 at 12:10 am
Nikon 18-200 fits most of my shooting.
October 31st, 2009 at 12:13 am
Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8. This is an incredible lens and covers most of what I shoot.
October 31st, 2009 at 12:17 am
I would take my Olympus E-620 and my Zuiko 18-180 (equivalent to 36 – 360). I know there are faster lenses and this isn’t a perfect lens, but for my money, it’s a hot set up. Perfect for travel photography.
October 31st, 2009 at 12:27 am
Nikon 50mm F/1.4
October 31st, 2009 at 12:38 am
i always want to have 50mm f/1.4 for my nikon
October 31st, 2009 at 1:16 am
Tamron AF18-270mm/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Macro. In my opinion it’s the most general lens I can think of; relatively wide aperture on the short end, long zoom and image stabilization; good for almost any situation (excepting low light).
October 31st, 2009 at 1:24 am
the 50mm is enought
October 31st, 2009 at 1:24 am
If I had to pick one it’d probably be my Tokina 12-24 (on my D90). Wide enough for lots of keepers and the 36mm equivalent at the long end is close enough to “normal” for a totally different look…all with great sharpness, constant f4 and awesome build quality. Really makes a great “1 lens for the day” to push myself to think differently.
October 31st, 2009 at 1:28 am
owwwwww … bittersweet question and hardeasy to answer: only one lens …
Well, once price doesn’t matter so the imagination neither: NIKON AF VR G 50mm F/1 (FX !!!!).
BUT the size of this babe has to be at most the Canon 50mm F/1.2, so, using the best of the best of the best glasses in the world, even though not natural, but built in laboratory. Could you imagine the bokeh it will give to you? Shallow like a hair … LESS than this!
Why not a zoom instead a prime? Well … I like to have some interaction with my subjects.
October 31st, 2009 at 1:43 am
Canon 24 – 105 F4 IS L, I have this lens on my camera most of the time. This is the range that I took 80% of my shots. I just wish there is a 2.8 of this lens.
October 31st, 2009 at 1:47 am
maybe a Leica 50mm f/0.95 Noctilux :)
October 31st, 2009 at 1:49 am
For me as a sticktly amature photog….My favorite is the Sigma 18-200 Tele lens. A great all around lens.
October 31st, 2009 at 2:07 am
I am new to photography. I purchased a Tamron 18-270mm zoom lens. I shoot mostly lanscape and zoo animals. The Tamron lens can be used for other types of photography I’m sure.
I own the Nikon D40, so by not having to remove and switch lenses it helps to prevent or at least slow down the accumulation of dust on the sensor.
I am very happy with this Tamron lens. It’s very sharp and the stablization (vr) does an excellent job.
The barrel on the lens has the tendency of sliding down if you don’t use the lock provided.
Paulie
October 31st, 2009 at 2:09 am
I say a Canon 24-70mm L f/2.8… do they have an IS USM version coming out in the future?
October 31st, 2009 at 2:40 am
Nikon 18-200…..covers just about everything
October 31st, 2009 at 2:49 am
I have an Olympus e-520 with a Zuiko Digital 18-180 mm, 1:3.5-6.3 lens. I take a lot of pictures for the school where I teach. I take pictures for the yearbook, school publications, and they are of games, student activities, candid shots, etc.
October 31st, 2009 at 3:18 am
For the last 2 months I’ve almost exclusively used a nikon 35mm f1.8. There are times I wish it was wider, or times I wish it was a 600mm f1.8 with IS and a 2x teleconvertor, but the reality is, it is just a great lens and doe 90% of what I want better than anything else. I’d probably choose to keep it over one of the more versatile but lower quality 18-200mm or such.
October 31st, 2009 at 3:25 am
Nikon 105mm f/2 DC. I do mainly portraits and this thing is king.
October 31st, 2009 at 3:57 am
This is a toughie, as I have two favorites. I mostly shoot with a Canon Full Frame and tend to favor the Canon 28-135 and the Canon 70-300. I’d be hard pressed to pick one of the two.
October 31st, 2009 at 4:11 am
Ah the great debate, Full frame I would go with the more modern 50mm F1.4 I like to shoot with natural light as much as I can, just a preference in my style, you can capture great landscape and people with it. I makes you move around a lot which is good. helps you chnage your perspective.
DX frame I would have to say the 18-55mm f3.5 -5.6 great combination of wide plus I go back to the comment about the 50mm F1.4 ( I do wish this lens was faster. I think they could make it faster…..2.0 faster It would be a totally awesome lens for DX)
You have to understand you have made this a very difficult choice since I like to shoot from wide to long.I like to go up to the mountains , compressing a scence is fun and creates very interesting scenes.
October 31st, 2009 at 4:29 am
In a household of absolute novice adults to the world of DSLR just 4 short months ago, we tied our photo capturing to a Nikon D90 and the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II. Some 3K saved shots later of whooshing by West Coast USA road trip scenery on down to angelic portraits of our only child, this lens was absolutely the right choice for us. One lens, one camera body and one flash (Nikon SB-600) has made quick amateur photographers of these not so long ago novices. With vast improvement in our composition, lighting use and post production understanding from sites like this, we are soon headed to pro-am status. Happy capturing to all!
October 31st, 2009 at 4:38 am
Without a doubt, once I can afford it the Canon 24-70 2.8L. I like that range (although I’d like to see a little more wider angle since I have an aps-c format camera (canon 40d)) and the quality I’ve seen that lens do is amazing. Also the 2.8 constant aperture since I like to do a lot of lower light photography.
October 31st, 2009 at 4:47 am
Ideally, I wish I had a 18-300mm f:2 <500g. I know its too imaginary. Now, I pick my 35mm f:1.8 and 70-300 f:4.5-5.6 together. And if I have to choose only one lens, It would be the 18-105mm lens.
October 31st, 2009 at 4:52 am
Pentax FA 31mm f1.8 would be my poison. I shoot a LOT with my DA35 2.8 macro now but for general purpose I could sacrifise 1:1 macro for a bit wider angle and low light capability.
October 31st, 2009 at 5:25 am
First choice Canon 70-200 f/2.4 IS USM
Second choice Canon 24-105 f/4.o IS USM (wish it was faster but with the high ISO caoability of my iD Mk3 it’s not too bad).
October 31st, 2009 at 5:44 am
When I shot film – it was my Canon 24 f1.2 but now that I have moved to Digital (Canon T1i) it has to be the base zoom as it has both image stabilization and a low enough wide angle to be an wide angle). Someday I will buy full size digital where the 24 becomes my favorite again.
October 31st, 2009 at 6:10 am
28-300 Rocks! I love it. I have a Macro lens, a very wide angle lens and the 28-300 L. That’s it.
October 31st, 2009 at 6:13 am
I would go with a Canon EF 70-200mm F2.8 L USM. My favourite lens.
October 31st, 2009 at 6:30 am
the Canon 24 -105 f/4. It hardly ever left my 20D (1.6 crop) camera and after my last trip with my 5DMkII, It was usable even more of the time. It’s really a great general purpose lens for a full frame camera and with the high ISO on the MkII, you don’t really need 2.8 for speed (maybe better bokeh).
October 31st, 2009 at 6:51 am
This is tough. It would probably be my Nikon 24-70 f2.8 ED G or my Nikon 18-200 VR II. For traveling I definitely prefer the one lens solution of the 18-200 on my D300s. If I got two lenses, the 24-70 and 18-200 let me do just about anything I like to do.
October 31st, 2009 at 7:24 am
Canon 70 -200 F2.8,
I like the speed, and the capabilities of working well in low light and still get a sharp picture.
October 31st, 2009 at 7:30 am
Well if I was choosing from my bag then it would be the Nikon 70-200mm f2.8. It is a great piece of glass that captures portraits, sports and landscape. It’s a versitale and dependable.
Now if the money was not an issue I would jump on the Nikon 400mm f2.8. I am really into sports and this would be the perfect piece of glass for just abbout all outdoor sports. This is the “get up close and personal” lens.
October 31st, 2009 at 8:23 am
While I’d love to get the “six” (Nikkor 600mm f/4) or the Nikkor 400mm f/2.8, if I could only have one lens, it would be the Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 VRII. I own it and it’s amazing. A fast and sharp lens that produces some really high quality pics. I don’t leave home without it!
October 31st, 2009 at 8:38 am
First let me say God forbid that this should ever happen!
But hypothetically my Canon 24-105L not because it’s my favorite but because I use it far more than any other.
October 31st, 2009 at 9:32 am
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L :D
October 31st, 2009 at 10:26 am
If pricing would not be an object, I would get the Canon’s 24-70mm 2.8 – perfect for portraits…Thankfully I can still dream and maybe one day I can purchase it :)
October 31st, 2009 at 11:32 am
Sorry – so your lens (28-300) would be one that covers nearly everything? Is’nt that cheating? A bit like choosing you re favourite colourbar and choosing spectrum?
October 31st, 2009 at 12:46 pm
My Olympus Digital ED 12-60 SWD has been permanently attached to my camera since I bought it. Great image quality and provides a focal length range that is adequate for most situations.
October 31st, 2009 at 1:03 pm
For my Sony/Minolta system, obvious choice it’s the walk-around the Calr Zeiss 24-70mm 2.8, if I had the money obviously and on a FF camera :)
October 31st, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Nikon 14-24mm f2.8
October 31st, 2009 at 4:54 pm
( if it existed ) a 10-800 lens with AF and a Canon mount ( because i want a canon dSLR )
October 31st, 2009 at 5:49 pm
EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
good range
nice build, great sharpness. image stabliser at 105 mm is very much welcomed.
its a good size, not to bulky yet good for the range it has. its got ultrasonic motor focusing, good for some macro work.
good portrait ranges. and its not to much of a telephoto that taking group shots is imposible
October 31st, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Even with it being heavy I put my nikon 70-200 2.8 VR on most of the time. I do not have anything in my bag that is sharper.
November 1st, 2009 at 12:32 am
My sigma 70 2.8 lens is sure winner for me…..sharp and not that pricey….
November 1st, 2009 at 1:08 am
i do not have a dslr. i have p90 nikon. kindof close.
November 1st, 2009 at 1:49 am
Nikor 50mm f/1.4 AF-S.
Yes, it has limitations, but limitations force one to be creative and you just can’t beat the speed and image quality.
November 1st, 2009 at 2:02 am
“and the winner is ..” Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS USM … at the moment I can only drool (online) over the superb images this lens can produce
November 1st, 2009 at 2:18 am
Canon 50mm f/1.8 :)
November 1st, 2009 at 3:09 am
My contact lenses; without them I can’t see anything…
November 1st, 2009 at 4:22 am
I just recently purchased a 18-50mm, 2.8 fixed lens for my Nikon D300. With the wide appature and a 28-80 equivilant, I am finding it pretty much perfect for about 90% of my photography. I have the 18-200 for anything I need to reach out for.
Still, we always want more options, don’t we.
I recall using a 50mm 1.8 on my first Pentax SLR, and it worked well. Of course, the addage, “if your subject is not large enough, you were not close enough” held true.
November 1st, 2009 at 12:08 pm
50mm f/1.4 on the outside and a 18-200 VR in the studio.
November 1st, 2009 at 12:16 pm
After reading excellent reviews I purchased the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM lens. Image quality great and a good all rounder lens also in low light conditions.
November 1st, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I just realized I have not left the house without my canon 24-70L f2.8 lens on my canon 30d for a long time (I am thinkging back to January of this year!) know anyone that needs/wants to buy some used canon lenses(lol)?
November 1st, 2009 at 5:25 pm
SIGMA 18-250mm 18-250 OS DC LENS
it’s less than 600$, has the OS feature ( IS in canon) and great for walk abouts…. i will get it someday
November 1st, 2009 at 10:53 pm
Canon ef18-200
November 1st, 2009 at 11:18 pm
I would love to have the Tamron SP AF 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 Lens!!! Would be the next addition to my gear.
November 2nd, 2009 at 1:34 am
The Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L USM. I love landscapes and wide angle photography. But for this I’ll need also a FF camera, like the EOS 5D Mark II!
November 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 am
Sony 50mm f1.8 – I’ve never really tried out expensive lenses, since there’s no point in spending that much money while I’m in university, but I really like the 50mm for almost anything I take pictures of. Simple but effective.
November 2nd, 2009 at 1:26 pm
I have only one lens for now but I’m in love with it: Nikon’s 18-200 VR. GREAT in every situation.
November 2nd, 2009 at 1:58 pm
NIKKOR 18-200mm but I seriously need to use the 50mm 1.8 more.
November 2nd, 2009 at 3:51 pm
Thanks for asking the question! I just bought my first DSLR and shopping for lenses is quite a daunting task! All of these EF’s are great suggestions for me. Thx!
November 2nd, 2009 at 7:12 pm
it has to be the 50mm 1.4…….. I never got more satisfaction using this lens…… and its more like a natural lens for me…. its true that I’ll lose other focal lengths, but the kind of frames that I love most belong to this focal length…… now, the question is, why am I not picking up another zoom lens that has the 50mm in it?….. well, that would give me the convenience, but take away half of my creativity…… I believe the “forced” 50mm is what brings the best out of me……..
November 3rd, 2009 at 12:19 am
Canon 50mm f/1.4 USM
November 3rd, 2009 at 1:26 am
Hello, i use a bridge camera, if i have a dslr camera i think i chose 12-24mm from sigma.
Best regards. Mihai.
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:04 pm
I would go with the new Nikkor 70-200mm F2.8G VR II lens, though I do not own it. I would go with this lens because I like to let the lens get me into the action more, and anything wide doesn’t let that happen, and anything longer is too hard to carry around.
November 5th, 2009 at 6:03 am
Canon EF 24-70mm f2.8 L USM hands down.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:33 am
If money wasn’t an issue, maybe the Nikkor 70-200 f 2.8, I love street/concert photography and sports. On the other hand, since money is an issue, a great walkaround lens for me would be the Sigma 17-70 mm, 17 is wide enough for most landscape shots and the 70 gives you decent reach for portraits and otherwise. Plus it’s sharp and the 3.5-4.5 aperture is decent. Costs only 400$ or so here.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:43 am
There is no doubt with me, the Nikon 18-200 VR lens. One lens and I can do all types of photography. I love it! It goes everywhere with me and my Nikon D90.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:44 am
I’d go for a 28-120 (35 mm equivalent); maybe a little larger. My current 28-90 (standard with Panasonic Lumix G1) is juist a little to short.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:49 am
I’d probably have to choose the Canon 70-200 2.8 IS (which I own, got it in August). I shoot a lot of sporting events and this lens is great!! I’d need something else for the landscape shots I shoot but there’s no way I could cover the sports that I do without the 70-200 2.8 IS.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:50 am
Mine would definitely be the Tokina 11-16. I’m fond of it and got used to “creeping yet closer to the subject” . It is god in low-light situations and (relatively) short.
Hans
November 6th, 2009 at 2:51 am
It would definitely be my Canon 24-105 L lens. It’s become my main lens.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:52 am
I’d definitely have to say that my “go to” lens would be my 50mm 1.4 (Nikkor). Love, love, love that lens. It is so bright and buttery – you just can’t go wrong with its results. I’m constantly amazed at the images it captures and the DOF. Gorgeous.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:55 am
I would have to say that even with all the money in the world I would choose a Nikkor 50mm 1.4 lens. I own the 1.8, but since I’d have the extra money why not go for that little bit extra? I do alot of portraits and find this to be my favorite lens for it. I rarely use my telephotos anymore because the 50mm provides much better clarity. The nice thing about this lens is it’s versitle….you can use it for portraits, but also a wide varitey of other things. The focal length can work for landscapes as well as flowers even though it wouldn’t be ideal for either, but if I could have only one lens you know what I mean. Aside from this hypothetical question I think everyone should have this type of lens in their camera bag because it is soooo cheap for the awesome quality it provides and it doesn’t take up much room at all! :~)
November 6th, 2009 at 2:59 am
No question about it – my Sigma 10-20. Definately my most creative lens.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:59 am
It would have to be my Nikon 24-70mm f2.8. Its the lense I most frequently shoot with. I like how fast it is and how sharp it is.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:02 am
Mine would be … aaah uhmm… the Canon 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM! Its a great walkaround lens for my Canon 40D. When it does get specific like indoor portraits or macros (ofcourse), I switch loyalty to the Canon 60 f/2.8 Macro USM. But, its mostly the 17-55 lens that stays on the body. Top in my wishlist is 70-200 f/4 (or f/2.8) L IS USM. Someday…! :-)
"
November 6th, 2009 at 3:03 am
I enjoy outdoor shooting and particularly the wildlife along the lake and canal behind my house. I have found that I don’t have time to step back or forward to get most of the shots… so a prime lense as the only lense is not feasible. My Nikon 18-200 seems to work the best, and I have no problem with the results.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:03 am
My lens of choice is the Canon 135 2.0 L
November 6th, 2009 at 3:07 am
Bueno, yo tengo 4 lentes, y el que más me gusta es mi Nikon AF-S DX VR Zoom-NIKKOR
55-200 mm f/4-5.6G IF-ED. Es ideal para tomar retratos de personas en la calle.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:09 am
I love my new Tamron 18-270 macro lens with Vibration Compensation (VC). That would be my one and only if limited to just one.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:13 am
Mine has to be the 10 – 20mm Sigma. Hardly ever off my camera.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:13 am
Hm, tough one…but i would go with my Canon 50mm f/1.4.
Although I have 70-200mm and 10-22mm, I noticed it is my 50mm that sits on my camera most often (it is not FF).
i can shoot indoor with little light, beautiful bookeh, outdoor, I can move around, do not mind that at all, and it is sharp and LIGHT.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:14 am
I just bought this AF-S 35mm 1.8 (Nikkor). It does amazing things for the price that I paid for it. I seldom use the others now. This little beast provides me a lot of versatility. I am very impressed.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:31 am
Only one lens … If I had to choose it would be my Canon EF 70-200mm F2.8 L USM. An excellent lens and carrying it counts as exercise. I use it for portraits and outdoor band events.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:38 am
I’ve learned, (as everyone else should), to make do with whatever lens I presently have. Most of the time I leave a zoom on so I can be lazy and cover as much as possible but it really doesn’t matter. If I had to choose one, a small zoom is easy to take out and put back into my camera bag.
If you really want me to mention something that I favor the most… it’s something that works well and gives great results!
November 6th, 2009 at 3:38 am
I’ll NEVER be able to afford this but oh how I would love a Nikon 400MM F2.8G EDVR AFS Lens because it would be such a thrill to use for nature and wildlife photography which is my absolute passion! I’d be in the woods forever with that. But for now I must be satisfied with my Tamron 70-200mm lens. I keep hoping to win the lottery :)
November 6th, 2009 at 3:39 am
So hard to choose just one. I use just two 99% of the time anyway. It would be between my Nikon 50 mm f/1.4 or my Nikon 18-200 mm VR. While I have to say my favorite is the 50 mm, for overall use, I would choose the 18-200 mm.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:42 am
I’d choose the Canon 28-300 L without a second thought.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:45 am
It would have to be the one on my camera right now, Sigma 24-135mm 2.8-4.5 in the Pentax mount. Others are faster, wider, longer, and/or sharper; but this one is my “go to” lens for the majority of my shooting. A good 70-200mm 2.8 might sway me for portraits, but I loose the wide end and any longer zoom looses aperture width. I might drool over some of the “long glass”, but unless I need to change lenses, the Sig is mounted and ready.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:46 am
My cannon 18 to 200 its just so versatile!
November 6th, 2009 at 3:47 am
my Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 IS, it’s a great live concert photography lens which is what i like to shoot most.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:50 am
Shooting birds 100-400L, studio shots 85L1.2, walk around lens 17-85.
JMHO
Fred
November 6th, 2009 at 3:52 am
Id have to say the Nikkor AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8G. Its super sharp, A decent mid range zoom and Im on a crop sensor. Its bokeh is creamy. I can get full body as well as 3/4 and head shots with it. Other than my 105mm 2.0 DC, the 24-70 doesnt leave my body.
November 6th, 2009 at 3:57 am
My first pick is one I don’t own. It would be the Canon 35mm f1.4L lens. It would be a nice wide angle lens on my full-frame camera and a nice standard lens on my APS-C camera.
November 6th, 2009 at 4:04 am
Price is no object? Canon 28-300L IS. I’m presently using a Tamron 28-300 XR VC & really like it…but…”price is no object ” ?
November 6th, 2009 at 4:06 am
My one lens would be the Nikon 35mm f1.8 which on my Nikon d90 equates to 50mm on 35mm cameras.
I like the quality of a prime lens and having to move around to get the frame you want rather than just twisting a zoom ring conentrates my mind on the picture taking process. Moreover I can normally use indoors without flash which suits my style.
November 6th, 2009 at 4:10 am
Been meaning to purchase the Canon 16-35, but seeing as i’m a Nikon user most of the time, i’m shooting for the 10-24 Tamron for Nikon. Already own a 70-300 VR / Nikon. Also own a Canon 40D.
……………………………………………………………..reply ends…………………………………………………………………………………………….
November 6th, 2009 at 4:17 am
Canon’s 100-400L, I use it for wild life as well as high resolution panoramas!
November 6th, 2009 at 4:27 am
I am using a Tamron 18-270 VC on my Nikon – works great at all lengths, even closeup. Only time it comes off my camera is when I am doing super close ups and then I reach for the Nikkor 60mm macro….very nice lens as well!
November 6th, 2009 at 4:28 am
I would love to own the Canon 70-200 2.8 IS. I think this lens would suit me perfectly for what, I do presently and what I have plans to do down the road. I think this is a pretty good all around lens for capturing a large range of totally interesting subject matter. I have an interest in photographing sports and occasionally low or limited light events,rodeos included. I thoroughly enjoy stopping the action and adding to the picture/story by doing so. No doubt about it, the lens of my choice…..Just waiting for the price to drop just a tad more
November 6th, 2009 at 4:44 am
EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM
November 6th, 2009 at 4:45 am
Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G AFS N – I’ve got this and it is unbelievable. I’d like to try the 24mm PC-E, which might take top spot, but I haven’t tried it yet.
November 6th, 2009 at 4:45 am
Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM Lens, also. I have a Sigma 28 – 200 mm (no IS), which was my first and only lens for several years … and I survived. =)
November 6th, 2009 at 4:46 am
Canon 70-200L F/2.8…….
November 6th, 2009 at 5:02 am
Before I got my Nikon I used Canon and I never used any other lens other than my 18-300 lens.
November 6th, 2009 at 5:10 am
My choice would be Nikon 18-200 f3.5. Great range of wide and zoom! Works for me!
November 6th, 2009 at 5:11 am
I love my Canon 28-135 IS. It is my “go to” lense for just about everything I do.
November 6th, 2009 at 5:13 am
Nikon D300: 18-200 for versatility; I would think 17-55 f/2.8 would beat it out, but I have never owned one.
Nikon D700: 24-70 for veratility; Again you have to add 50 f/1.4 for portraits and 70-200 f/2.8 for far reach.
I love dSLRs…I can’t live with just one. I have:
50 f/1.4, 35 f/1.8, 17-35 f/2.8, 70-300 VR, 105 f/2.8 VR, 10.5 f/2.8, 12-24 f/4, 18-200 VR.
Looking to get 24-70 f/2.8 and 70-200 f/2.8.
I salivate over Nikon lenses!
November 6th, 2009 at 5:20 am
I already have one, but I probably would go with the Nikon 18-200 3.5. It is an all around lens capable of doing close-ups and telephoto.
November 6th, 2009 at 5:21 am
Sorry but being new to DSLR photography I have to say my D90 kit lense-18-105mm. It captures lovely shots of my Grandchildren as well as great landscapes.
November 6th, 2009 at 5:23 am
I own a Nikon D300s previously I have a Nikon D80. If I can have only one lens I will buy a Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II Zoom. It is ideal for traveling so you don’t have to carry so much lenses.
November 6th, 2009 at 5:34 am
Of the lenses I own I would have to say the Canon 24-105 L lens but I would probably trade it for a 24-70 L F2.8 if I had to get rid of my primes.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:10 am
I love my Sigma 50mm f1.4 — fast, buttery smooth bokeh, and great in low light.
If you haven’t tried one out, please demo it and check it out. Much better than the Canon 50mm 1.4 and I’m a Canon guy.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:13 am
Would have to be the Canon 24-70 f2.8 L I currently have the Tamron 28-75 2.8 It never leaves the camera. I think the Canon one would be a nice replacement.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:15 am
Since getting the Canon 18-200 IS, I have seldom used anything else. I have both the 24-70 and the 70-200 IS but due to their size and weight I prefer the18-200. When traveling, I also cary the 50mm 1.8 to use indoors in low light.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:28 am
The Zuiko 35-100 mm f/2 ,it has to be one of the finest lense in the whole Olympus family.
It is super fast,the optics are incredible and the reach is good for the kind of work I do.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:31 am
I would definitely stick to the digital-camera equivalent of a “classic” 50mm, fast lens. In my case, as for many Nikon Dx format owners comenting above, this is Nikkor 35 mm f/1.8G AF-S DX. It corresponds to approx. 52 mm in full-frame scaling and gives bonus of usable s-stops under low lighting.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:31 am
Although my favourite lens is my 50mm 1.4 ( just for special portraits ) if I was limited to one lens only, instead of the 50 f1.4, I would definitely pick the nikkor 18-105 f3.5.. I have taken it almost every where and it still working fine & I don’t have to worry about the sharpenest or the composition.. is already ready to use.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:50 am
IMHO answering with a zoom lens provides is a cop out easy answer. A more useful answer is a single focal length. I’m torn between a 35mm F2 and 90mm F2.8. For years I traveled the world with those two lenses on a Lieca M2. My default lens was the 35mm. When I changed to Canon SLRs my favorite was an 85mm F1.8 perhaps because of the ability to use depth of field more creatively.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:55 am
Personally, I like my 28 – 300 zoom. Doesn’t much matter whether it’s Canon, Nikon, or Tamaron. While many would argue and be reluctant to admit it, unless you’re doing professional shoots for National Geographic Magazine, the offbrands perform pretty much to the same quality as the fancy ones! I have yet to have anyone complain about the quality of the print produced due to lens imperfections wether it’s a Tamaron. a Canon, a Nikon or a Tamaron! (Maybe that’s because I gave them enough to complain about in other aspects of the whot and they just never get that far, but I’m a believer that lens qualities even with the offbrands has improved so much over these past 10 years that the brand name is inconsequential).
November 6th, 2009 at 6:59 am
My choice would be the Nikon AFS VR 18-200 F3.5-5.6G ED DX
November 6th, 2009 at 7:06 am
Like Zach above, my Sony 18-250mm 3.5-6.3 is a wonderful all-purpose lens. It’s not ideal for any one situation, but it’s adequate in just about every situation.
November 6th, 2009 at 7:06 am
This is really a tough call. I recently bought a f1.8 50mm for my canons, but if it had to be just one lens it would be my 70 to 300 mm.
November 6th, 2009 at 7:15 am
My first love was a Pentax f1.4 55mm for all around. Current would Nikon 18 to 200 mm. If I needed to get closer I would do that by editing.
November 6th, 2009 at 7:18 am
For me it would be my canon 70-200 2.8L IS. Best money I’ve spent so far. As someone said earlier, it’s on my camera 99.9% of the time.
November 6th, 2009 at 7:18 am
I couldn’t live without my Nikkor 18-200 VR. It’s so versatile and the best go-anywhere glass. 2nd choice 105mm Micro Nikkor VR.
November 6th, 2009 at 7:22 am
For DX format, it would be the Nikon AFS 35mm f1.8 – excellent lens especially mated to the D40 for low light shots – and good value. For 35mm SLR, the Nikkor 50mm f1.4 is the best all-rounder,
November 6th, 2009 at 7:22 am
You opened a can of worms there, Peter.
November 6th, 2009 at 7:32 am
I have about 12 lens and most are 2.8 zoom and prime, but if i had to choose on one lens only for my nikon d300 and d700 it would probable be my general purpose 18 -200 vrll nikons new lens with lock.I choose this because of the wide range it gives me and is generaly gives sharp pictures and fast focus,i still love my new 70-200 2.8 vrll , but no wide angle so my 18-200 gives me it all.
November 6th, 2009 at 7:33 am
On land – Nikon 105mm Macro. The macro world is amazing. I sweat the small stuff.
Underwater – Sigma 17-70mm Macro. It’s a great “diving around” lens.
November 6th, 2009 at 7:52 am
It’s my Canon 60mm macro… Why? it’s small and light, and takes amazing close-ups and people pictures with my EOS Xsi. My new mantra is “light weight.” I also have the Canon 24-105 L lens, which takes bee-yoo-tiful pictures, but the thing is WAY too heavy for me to carry for more than a little bit, so the little 60mm is my latest fave!
November 6th, 2009 at 8:01 am
This is a tough one, i own a nikon d300 and a d700,i have 50mm1.4, 35mm1.8, 85mm1.4, 17-55mm2.8, 28-7.mm2.8, 70-200mm2.8, 18-200mm3.5, 70-300mm, but only one lens i would choose the new 18-200vr because of its range and all purpose. I always use this lens when i have avaliable light or flash,strobe ect. I always get sharp pictures and fast focus and i could get all shots with this lens,money not a issue dosent matter its what you shoot,via landscape,portrates,weddings all different, but the 18 to 200vr is general purpose and still sharp.I guess i would still stick with it althouth i love my new 70-2002.8vrll lens so awsum and sharp.
November 6th, 2009 at 8:08 am
I’m with Catlev. I love the Nikon 18 to 200 zoom but wish it had a 2.8 aperture.
November 6th, 2009 at 8:11 am
AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G
I *love* this lens. This is the first time I’ve had a lens that opens wide enough to truly isolate subjects from their surroundings. I feel this lens gives me excellent control over exactly where I want the viewer to look, what things I want to emphasize in the photo. I use this lens wide open as much as possible and am fascinated by what it does to the backgrounds, especially the bokeh. Sometimes I get unexpected results that make the subject just pop off the image. I do not know why I waited so long in my life to buy a lens like this, I was sucked into zooms all my life and forgot how powerful a prime can be.
November 6th, 2009 at 8:21 am
Canon 28-300mmL I feel that this is the most versital lens made by Canon. With this lens I am able to shoot in any sittuation.
November 6th, 2009 at 8:29 am
Canon 10-22mm
November 6th, 2009 at 8:34 am
None other than the infamous… Nikkor 70-200mm ED VRII
November 6th, 2009 at 8:36 am
I think, the ideal lens is that it should have a focal length of wideangle to telephoto so that at any given time you can take pictures. Though I do not have Nikkor 18-200mm VR, I’ll pick this one. Currently, I do not have it but instead, I opted to have Tokina 12-24mm wideangle, Tokina 10-17mm fisheye, Sigma 30mm f1.4, Nikkor 50mm f1.8, Tokina 50-135mm f2.8, Nikkor 80-200mm f2.8, Sigma 50-500mm (Bigma) and a lensbaby. Out of these of lenses, the most seldom lens I use is the Nikkor 80-200mm and the lensbaby. Everything from the wideangle to 200mm can be done by 18-200mm. I also believe that, a VR, IS, etc. is sometimes better than f1.4, 1.8, or 2.8 on lowlight because, shake is something you can’t control. But I am not saying that I will sell my gears for a single lens, this is just my opinion. Among my lenses, my favorites are Sigma 30mm, Nikkor 50mm, and Tokina 50-135mm.
November 6th, 2009 at 8:41 am
Canon EF 70 – 200mm IS
Don’t leave home without.
November 6th, 2009 at 9:21 am
50mm f1.4
I already have it (the canon one) and I dont regret any penny.
The detail is incredible, it works well with low light, and it takes amazing portraits. This lens give the perfect DOF to any image.
November 6th, 2009 at 9:24 am
It would have to be a Tamron AF 18–270mm. I really don’t like to change lenses…to much dust and dirt blowing around. Too many shot missed because I didn’t have the right lens on. I like the Nikon VR18-200mm lens but also like the extra reach of the 270mm. Can I have more than one lens with this wish?
November 6th, 2009 at 10:06 am
Have it, love it and would go it alone with my Nikon 18-200 VR
November 6th, 2009 at 10:29 am
I would have to say my Zuiko 40-150mm. This gives me enough range to photograph about anything. I do lots of car shows and cruise-ins, this lens allows me to get close ups with out getting close to the high dollar cars.
November 6th, 2009 at 10:46 am
18-250 Tamron on my Sony A700
November 6th, 2009 at 10:48 am
My 50mm f/1.4 would be the lens. It’s light, shoots crisp photos, has nice bokeh.
I have about 10 different 50mm primes, and it’s still the only one I take on critical projects.
November 6th, 2009 at 11:17 am
These days the most used on my camera is the 35 1.8, Never have to worry about light.
November 6th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Tough choice: I love my Nikon 105 mm macro on my D3X. It is razor sharp and 1:1. Please note: I only use it for macro work about 15% of the time. I use it for flowers a lot and often by backing off to get the whole flower in focus and then cropping in. (Hey with 24MP there is room to crop a lot.)
If I was being more pragmatic I would have to choose my 24 – 70 F2.8. Ironically though, that lens gets the least use in my kit.
Kit: in order of most frequent use.
1) 105 macro F2.8;
2) 14 – 24 F2.8;
3) 300 mm F4 (with 1.4 teleconverter);
4) 135 DC F2 and 24 – 70 mm F2.8 (about equally used.)
Note: The 135 DC F2 is a tricky little lens to use. It has its uses, and it can produce a beautiful image, but it is a little finicky.
November 6th, 2009 at 11:44 am
I would have to say my favourite lens is the canon 100mm macro – does wonderful macro shots plus it isn’t too shabby for portraits. It also forces me to be creative and make shots count like any good prime. I have other lenses but that is the one that I keep on putting back on.
November 6th, 2009 at 12:10 pm
I don’t own it yet, but my favorite lens would be the Canon 35 1.4 L. I own the 35 F2.0 and use it with my 40D. The quality is pretty good but I hear the 35mm 1.4 is much better.
Once you have the option of using huge apertures it is hard to go back to only an F4 or F2.8. And, the 35mm focal length on a cropped sensor ,like the 40D, is the perfect focal length for me.
I love all my lenses but the 35mm F1.4 would my first choice if I only got to use one lens.
Currently I have the following lenses
Canon 100 macro F2.8
Canon 70-200 F4
Canon 50mm F1.4
Canon 35mm F2.0
Canon 17-40 F4
November 6th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Tamron 18-270 mm. It’s a great, lots of flexibility.
November 6th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I love my Tamron AF 90mm F2.8 DI. Great for portraits but I got it for it’s Macro abilities. I have been very happy with this lens and would not give it up.
November 6th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
This would be my trusty Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8, attached to my D200 this translates to 36-105mm still at f/2.8. Either way it covers almost all my shooting preference, from close-up portraits to group shots and landscapes, indoors or out there. Its sharp with great bokeh to isolate subjects. Its on the heavy side which means I need to bring my backpack which is all good since I can also bring additional gear.
Would I trade this for something else in the Nikkor lens line? I’m saving up for the 70-200mm f/2.8.
November 6th, 2009 at 1:26 pm
It would be the new sigma 18-250 I have a bunch of nikor lenses & the 18-135 nikor hangs off my d40x 99% of the time but would love the extra yards the 250 would give me for the shooting I do. If I had this lens I would hang the “nifty 50″ from my D40 & the 18-250 off the D40x
November 6th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
I am ready to start venturing out and experimenting with new lenses besides my kit lens. I’m defiantly lusting after the Nikkor 50mm f1.4 AF-S!
November 6th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
If money was no object I would have a Nikon 600 f4G ED VR. I like to take wildlife photos. I already have a 24-70 f2.8 ED, 80-200 f2.8, 50 1.4. I shoot wildlife, portait, sports ( Grandkids ) and just a variety of everyday pictures of animals, people and landscape.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
I’m very happy with my Olympus Zuiko Digital 35mm (70mm equivalent used on a 4/3rds camera) Macro Lens which also makes a very good general purpose lens.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
If I had to only have 1 lens in my bag it would be my 28-200 2.8L. I can shot action and selected wildlife, Almost anything out doors to a degree.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Sorry I made a typo it’s a 70-200 2.8L not 28-200.
November 6th, 2009 at 2:46 pm
Tougher question than it first seems. While I love my 28-70mm 2.8, If I could only have one lense I’d have to go with my Sigma 70-200 2.8. Great optics, very versitile, great range, quiet and fast. Everything I ask it to do, it does well. That’s good glass!
November 6th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
Canon EF 85mm USM II L 1.2 would (and maybe one day will be) glued on the Canon!
November 6th, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Canon 24-105mm — my ALL PURPOSE LENS FOR A FULL FRAME CAMERA
November 6th, 2009 at 4:12 pm
My favourite len has to be nikkor 50mm f1.8 but I think I started to love my nikkor 10.5mm fisheyemore each day. So, it juggles between these 2 lens at the moment.
November 6th, 2009 at 4:17 pm
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED because it is so sharp that you can make deep crops, effectively doubling it’s range. Quick focus, great build and reasonably nice bokeh. I’ve rented this lens and was very pleased with the results. I plan to add it to my kit eventually.
November 6th, 2009 at 4:55 pm
I am hoping to buy it soon – the EF-S 17-55 IS 2.8. Currently I have a 24-70L 2.8 on (borrowed) and really love it, but for two reasons I want to purchase the other. (1) I have APS-C so 17mm vs 24mm on the lower end will make a big difference, and (2) I have really been enjoying the challenge of candid low available light + hand held on the fly photography – the IS function will help in these circumstances.
November 6th, 2009 at 5:01 pm
My Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM any day, any time – a bit on the heavy side after a while but man oh man the results speak for itself!
November 6th, 2009 at 5:38 pm
My choice would Tamaron 18mm – 270mm canon mount lens. I am a traveler and I always come into situations where I have no time to switch between the wide angle and the zoom lens. If I’m allowed to carry only one lens, this would be it.
Currently I don’t own it! I tend to own one very soon.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:02 pm
My best lens would depend on the genre of photography I am currently doing. If I were to have only one lens, and I am doing landscapes (which I do most of the time), it would be a 24-70 f/2.8.
I love to shoot landscapes. The 24-70mm gives me the freedom to compose my landscapes better. The lens is tack sharp (I am referring to the full-frame 24-70mm f/2.8 Nikon lens). It is on the heavier side (being f/2.8 throughout) but that does not bother me.
November 6th, 2009 at 6:55 pm
Definitely my Olympus E Series 40-150 Kit lens. Use it for most of my photos anyway
November 6th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Oh dear… terrible question. I always carry with me a Canon 400D with 50/1,8 adapted. But for sports or portarits I use Sigma 28-70/2,8 or/and Canon 70-200/2,8 USM. So for one that fits all I would go for Canons 28-300/3,5-5.6 L IS USM. Hardly fast enough for indoor sports, but covers the whole range. So that would be my choice.
November 6th, 2009 at 9:20 pm
I use a Sony DSLR and my choice is the old Minolta AF 28-135 4-4,5. This lens has a good zoom range and excellent image quality eaven at f/4. It is sharp, has no ca. I just love it although it is heavy and flare is an issue.
November 6th, 2009 at 9:24 pm
Probably my old Nogaku 50mm f1.4 for my nikon FM2. Its fast old clean glass, sturdy, reliable and actually rather good for macro shots when turned upside down. I try to avoid long zooms, and prefer the move-about approach. Although I use my 35mm-85mm AI-S quite a bit because of its light weight and versatility for compositions, Im going back to my roots with the basic 50mm that got me in this lovely mess in the first place.
November 6th, 2009 at 9:39 pm
The Nikkor 18-105 f4.5 VR would do for me, mainly because I already have it. It just seems to be a great compromise lens that goes virtually anywhere and does most things in its’ range very well. Remember, this is the only lens for the rest of your life so, unless you are a serious specialist . . . . . .
November 6th, 2009 at 11:08 pm
for me the canaon 35-350L, the best general purpose lens i know….
November 6th, 2009 at 11:19 pm
I just love my Nikor 18-200 DX VR. I do a lot of Beach Portraits and this lens allows me to get a wide range of shots without backing up or moving closer. There is no time to change lens while shooting Beach Portraits so this one works great for me.
November 6th, 2009 at 11:41 pm
I would have to say the Canon 24-105mm. It is not the fastest lens, but stays sharp at all ranges, good Bokeh for portraits, and good walk around lens for the kids soccer games, zoo, etc. IS is helpful too and adds to range of possible uses for the lens. Best for what I do now. My wish lens is the 85mm 1.2L. Every time I rent it there are tears on the box as I send it back…
November 6th, 2009 at 11:47 pm
I have only taken my Nikon 50mm 1.8 off my camera once since I bought it. I only wish that I had sprung for the Nikon 50mm 1.4 instead. But this 1.8 prime is great fun.
November 7th, 2009 at 12:16 am
My Canon 17-85 USM IS is as good as it gets for an all purpose lens. Decent wide angle to mild telephoto and not too heavy.
November 7th, 2009 at 12:24 am
My AF-S NIKKOR 17-55mm /F2.8 ED is the greatest one!!..working all day long with my D300..
November 7th, 2009 at 12:40 am
I must say that the nikon 18-200 is my favorite. I always carry a tripod and I get great results with it. However when I shoot sports and or any moving thing I would have to go with the nikon 70-200 2.8 a bit heavy but amazing results.
November 7th, 2009 at 12:54 am
Nikon’s 24 – 70mm 2.8 lens…can’t live without it.
November 7th, 2009 at 2:30 am
The lens on my camera,most [Nikon D300] most of the time is the Tameron 28 to 300 VC. When I need a wide angle lens its the Tokina 11to 16 f2.8,for macro its the Tameron 90mm f2.8, for sports and portraits the Nikon 70 to 200 f2.8. The Tameron 18 to 270 would be my ideal lens if it was a constant 2.8 or even a f4.0. especially if it could be used on a full frame camera like the Nikon D700. That would make it great for night shoots, especially sports.
November 7th, 2009 at 3:01 am
No doubt about it! Nikon 70-200/2.8 VR. The right focal range for my work. Sharp across the entire range. My best pictures come from this lens….
November 7th, 2009 at 3:24 am
The very best in my collections is my SIGMA 18 – 200 mm lens 1:3.5-6.3, its my all around lens.
November 7th, 2009 at 5:33 am
For my Nikon D700, I’ll have to say I’d choose the Nikon 24-70mm f2.8. I actually use my 70-200mm VR far more (right now due to cross country season), but the 24-70mm zoom range on a full frame camera would easily cover all the bases, from portraits to landscapes and even sports … but I might have to stand in the middle of the XC course. :-)
I must say the 14-24mm f2.8 is close behind, just because it’s such a fun and incredibly sharp lens – but too restrictive for general photography.
ALTERNATE – If I was stuck with my D200 or another cropped sensor camera, I would probably choose the 18-200mm VR; it served me quite well until I could afford to move up the scale, just a little too soft and not so great in very low light.
November 7th, 2009 at 5:37 am
24-70mm 2.8L (which I own), 70-200mm 2.8L (which I want)
November 7th, 2009 at 7:51 am
Canon 24-70/2.8 L USM
November 7th, 2009 at 10:23 am
Nikon 18-200 mm VR II
November 7th, 2009 at 10:24 am
For me it would be the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L. I don’t have it yet, but I REALLY want one. Right now I’m stuck with Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 and it is horrible.
November 7th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
it would have to be the Canon EF 60mm
November 7th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Easy – a Voigtlander Apo-Lanthar f4.5 105mm. For my Linhof Technika IV 32. There is no other lens that even approaches its capabilities and cover just about any situation requiring a photograph.
November 7th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
And the winner is… Nikon 18-200mm!
No one mentioned of Canon 18-200mm of which I am earger to buy. . .
Any comment on this lens?
November 7th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Easy..my Sony 18-250 3.5-6.3. Not quite as fast as I’d like but acceptably sharp over the range. Also does a good job of macro with my extension tubes. I also love my Sony 50mm SAM but it’s nowhere near as versitile as the big zoom.
November 7th, 2009 at 8:36 pm
I need 24mm to 200mm, 2.8 thro range and good all over detail @ 24 And Central @ 200 is there such a lens for Pentax!
Dont get too ambitious just make what you have work.
Dedicated occasional? photography lover.
Derek
November 7th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
nikon 28-200mm f2.8..the best choice for this period..it matched terribly with a newly received gift, my D700.
November 7th, 2009 at 9:45 pm
for me, it would have to be the 50mm f1.4G Nikkor AF-S, very sharp & very light
November 8th, 2009 at 1:41 am
On my 300D it would have to be my Canon 50mm f/1.8. Simple, inexpensive, usable in low-light., decent bokeh, light weight. As long as you are willing to move a little, there is not much to dislike.
Next one will be the 1.4 version.
November 8th, 2009 at 8:39 am
With my Canon 50D, I use:
a Canon 50mm f1.8
a Sigma 18-55mm f2.8
a Sigma 10-20mm f3.5-5.6
and a Canon 70-200mm f4.0 L
I love them all, and each are top-class for different types of shot; but the Sigma 18-55 f2.8 is the one I use most.
I can’t see the need for image stabiliser lenses; learn to use a tripod/iso/shooting at a higher speed…
November 8th, 2009 at 9:29 am
Leitz 35mm f/2 Summicron
November 8th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Canon 70-200 2.8L is
OR
Canon 24-70 2.8L
November 8th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
canon 1200mm 5.6 af
November 8th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
A vague question – for what camera or format? Fifty-some years ago I “upgraded” to a used Leica IIIf w/ 50mm Elmar lens and that was my standard. Today with the M8 it’s the 35mm Summicron. I dislike so-called zoom lens; they’re a compromise and they’re clunky, but to each their own.
November 8th, 2009 at 6:32 pm
For me, most definitely my 70-200 f2.8 LIS on my 5D mk1.
It only gets replaced by the 100mm macro … :-)
November 9th, 2009 at 8:07 am
if i had a choice, with my limited exp… hmm… i think the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Zoom Nikkor Lens would be pretty rad. i got to shoot with one in a parking lot for 45 minutes or so out side a click camrea store and it was absolutly magnificent. so yeah.
November 9th, 2009 at 8:35 am
I purchased a Sony A300 twin lens kit which gave me a 18-70mm and a 55-200mm. My next lens I’d like to own would be a 50mm f2.8 with macro. I love shooting flowers and insects as well people so I’m sure that this lens will do to trick.
November 9th, 2009 at 9:25 am
If I to pick one it would be the EF 28-300, BECAUSE i just love it for most of my photography.
November 10th, 2009 at 3:53 am
Write now I have 18-55 and 55-200 F3.5 for my D-60 which are basic lenses. I have tried many ways with those lenses. But when it comes to shoot in less light, it shows the significance of fast lenses.
By next week, I will have either f2.8 150 or 24-70 f2.8
After all it matters with cost.
November 10th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
My one lens would be my Canon 100-400L. It can be used for everything from macro to portraits and, of course, wildlife photography.
November 10th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
The EF 18-200mm IS Lens for my Canon
November 10th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
The Tamron 18 -270 mm 15 X ?? Any one checked this lens ???? would appreciate any comments or feedback. Many Thanks !! Ajay
November 11th, 2009 at 2:51 am
I would keep my present Nikon 17-55mm f2.8 It covers most lengths I usually use,and is quite fast! If it had to bea prime I would keep either a 24mm or 100mm.
November 11th, 2009 at 10:32 am
for me it is the tamron 18-200. good all purpose. shoot a lot of sports so it covers both close up and far away shots
November 11th, 2009 at 10:13 pm
Without question my favourite lens is Nikon’s 18-200 VR. This lens is versatile enough for travel and the low end is good for landscapes, while the high end will get you close to the action. Although I have several other lenses if I could take only one lens on a trip this would be the one.
November 12th, 2009 at 12:19 am
canon EF 50mm f/1.2L
November 12th, 2009 at 1:01 am
What lens would be good for concert photos inside and outside and not just 1 lens.
November 12th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
This has to be one of the most difficult survey questions to date. As mentioned in all the previous posts there’s some fine glass out there to purchase and am fortunate to own 6 Nikon pro glass lenses, but I did not find (Icould have missed it) anyone mention two of my favorite lenses, two of Nikons best keep secrets.
(1) The NIKKOR 50mm f1.2 ( 9 blade), still available but not advertised, is great for DX & FX, outstanding bookah and color, brite viewfinder for night photography, razor sharp out to edges by f2.0. which allows for very high shutter speeds on D3 or D300 (75mm) w/ 800+ ISO’s. (manual focus lens only)
(2) The NIKON 35-70mm f2.8D+macro, available used only. DX (52mm-105) & FX This lens is as good as it gets for size/weigh and price. Color saturation, sharpness and contrast are terrific. One of the best zoom portrait lenses in my opinion for the money, and very little plastic is used in its construction. (62mm filters)
November 14th, 2009 at 7:33 am
I recently purchase a Sony 18-250 lens for my Sony a350, and I LOVE it!
I’d also really love to have a great macro lens someday.
November 18th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
Canon 24-70L 2.8 That is my next lens. Fast and clear. A great all purpose lens.
November 20th, 2009 at 3:54 am
Zuiko Digital ED
35-100mm
F2.0
$2499.00 suggested retail
with a 2x doubler you have 70-200mm f4.0 good range and fast lens with very sharp images
November 20th, 2009 at 4:16 am
Zuiko Digital 35-100 f/2
This lens provides image quality that is simply amazing. The fast constant aperture across the focal length range makes it very versatile for low light portrait work. When combined with an E3 body with its built in IS you can be confident of great results in almost any lighting situation. Great bokeh, viruall zero CA, wonderful contrast characteristics, imperceptible distortion, and extremely high resolution are all hallmarks of this fine optic.
This lens is another example of just how good the Zuiko optical engineering team truly is.
Dan Ferrall
http://www.portlandphotographic.com
November 20th, 2009 at 4:17 am
Just recently I was asked to shoot a dance show. Immediately I thought about the lighting challenge and the need to use super fast zoom or even a fast prime lens. I ended up hiring the Canon EF 28-70mm f2.8L and I must say that it was more than I expected. Everything about it was amazing. It performed extremely well back stage with the dancers getting ready and also while the show was on. I got every shot that I wanted and shot wide open too. It was just amazing. For portraits it just shone beyond my expectations. the contrast, clarity and sharpness are just absolutely amazing.
This is my lense of choice to complement my Canon EOS 40D.
November 20th, 2009 at 6:25 am
When I have to travel light, the only lens I’d take with me would be Zuiko kit lens 40-150 f3.5-4.5. It is very versatile, provides a good quality, and is light and small enough to have it on camera all the time.
Leave a Reply