starwrecker wrote:Okay, have another question related to lenses too:
I was researching the L-series lenses and I assume they are worth every pretty penny on their price tags...
As I've said I'm just starting to learn a lot in photography but I know I plan to upgrade my camera body someday...is it worth considering the L-series lenses for my Rebel, or do I save those for when I have a better body on which to use them?
Thanks again for the input and patience with my newbie questions. =)
well... yes and no....
to a professional, a experienced enthusiast or a cashed up collector - yes
if you're just starting out or learning then - no definitely not.
Rather than spend the money on them instead spend time learning your camera, composition skills, post production skills (ie photoshop).
Use this time to work out what sort of photography style/shooting you like. Even your kit lenses will get you through this phase.
No point spending big money on glass that you don't end up using (though at least L's hold their value pretty well in the second hand market)
Once you have your basic chops down then look at replacing your most frequently used lens with higher quality glass L series or otherwise.
as for using an L lens (or any quality glass) on a entry/prosumer camera then the answer that unless you have a specific need for a higher end body then spend money on lenses
before you spend money on bodies. An entry/prosumer body with good glass will focus faster, give better image quality, allow lower light shooting than the same camera using kit lenses and makes more sense than sticking cheap glass on high end (5D) and pro bodies (1Dxxx).
back in the film days the adage was that a camera is "just a light proof box you fit with good glass and load with good film" the digital medium skews this adage but the importance of good glass stands.
Note that Sigma make some good lenses that are optically up there with the L series, also many Canon non L primes are first class and even a couple of the EFs non L zooms are L's in all but name.
Be wary buying second hand L's. A good lens is a good lens and there are some savings and even bargains to be found if you do your research but some of the older ones are a bit dated image quality wise - I own a 17-35 2.8 L which is my main walkabout lens, but, truth be told, my Sigma 10-20 is actually a sharper lens (though the L still wins on other factors such as build quality, speed, and usable range). I purchased the L at about 1/5 the street price of the newer and better 16-35 L so to me the price/image quality trade off is acceptable.