Recommended Wide Zoom?

[Kangaruu]

Well after making the telephoto zoom thread...and phaqgm saying I should get a telephoto zoom that can be used for more different situations...I've been thinking maybe I should get a better wide zoom lens instead of a better telephoto zoom lens.

I currently own a Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5 DC Macro lens. It has served me fine until I bought only that lens to a dimly lit karaoke room :faint: The slowness at the long end was really hurting me, forcing me to bump the ISO all the way up to H2 (12800 equivalent).

I was looking at the Canon 17-55mm f/2.8 IS. It's kind of expensive and the minimum focus distance is around 15"...

So...anyone have recommendations for a bargain fast wide zoom lens? Preferably something that goes as wide as or close to 17mm and the long end being 50mm or greater. Aperture must be constant around f/2.8 or less. Third party lens is okay and I don't really care if there's no IS.

[phaqgm]

I'm pretty much in the same boat as you, and have been looking a fast lens that's on the wide side. I've pretty much narrowed my decision down the the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II as it can be had for under $500 and has gotten pretty good reviews. Check it out at http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Tamron-17-50mm-f-2.8-XR-Di-II-Lens-Review.aspx

[mrluilou]

i suggest you get joey's 17-40 L lens. Its a great lens while shooting in low light situtations

[phaqgm]

i suggest you get joey's 17-40 L lens. Its a great lens while shooting in low light situtations

While it's a GREAT lens, it's not all that fast at f/4.

[Kangaruu]

Yeah I saw that Tamron...but not sure if I should get it. Thought maybe someone would know other alternatives.

F/4.0 is definitely not fast enough, otherwise I'd pick that up for what Joey's selling it for :drool:

[mrluilou]

While it's a GREAT lens, it's not all that fast at f/4.

have you ever used one in low light?

[Kangaruu]

I used a lens at f/4.5 in low light and it's horrid.

[mrluilou]

^was it an L lens?
trust me, I've seen pictures that joey has taken in somewhat dark rooms and the pictures come out great

[Kangaruu]

Somewhat dark or very dimly lit?

I want something that will work in a very dimly lit room...

[mrluilou]

poorly lit

[Kangaruu]

I'd like to see an example :gap:

[mrluilou]

too late he sold it

[phaqgm]

have you ever used one in low light?

Unfortunately, I have not. I know all about the lens. It's a fantastic lens, but because it's an L it doesn't break the rules of light to the sensor. It still has to adhere to the shutter speed/iso/f stop rules for proper exposure. I'm not in any way, shape, or form saying it's a bad lens. In fact, I would love to have the 17-40L, as it's SUPER sharp, and the color/contrast is amazing.