Should a beginner buy the Canon 550D with the 18-55mm kit lens or add a telephoto lens?
Asked 3/28/2011
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I’m buying my first DSLR and the Canon 550D is one of the cameras I’m considering. As a beginner, should I start with the EF-S 18-55mm IS kit lens, buy the body only and choose a different lens, or get a two-lens kit with the 18-55mm IS plus a telephoto zoom? I’d like to know what makes the most sense for learning and general photography.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
7
It depends on A) your budget and B) what kind of photography you plan on doing. The longer lens (55-200) will be useful for wildlife and sports shots, but if you're not bothered about those, why spend the money on it? You could get yourself a decent tripod and bag for the same amount, which you will probably have much more use for.
Personally I started off with just an 18-55mm and happily used that for well over a year - they're very good beginner's lenses as they cover everything from landscapes to portraits. Once you've got used to your camera and discover what you really enjoy, you can look at investing in a new, appropriate lens.
One final tip, that I've given a few times this week, is not to just go with online reviews when buying your camera: go into a store and try a few out. Not just the Canon: try a couple of Nikons, Sonys and Pentax cameras too. Then you can be sure you're getting a camera you like.
Originally by user3205. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user3205
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For most beginners, the best starting point is the 18-55mm kit lens. It’s a good general-purpose zoom for learning and can handle everyday subjects like landscapes, travel, and portraits. It also gives you time to discover what you actually enjoy shooting before spending more on specialized lenses.
A second telephoto zoom is mainly worth it if you already know you want more reach for things like wildlife or sports. If not, that money may be better spent on useful accessories such as a tripod or bag.
Another all-in-one option is a superzoom like an 18-200mm, which trades some convenience for not having to switch lenses as often.
In short: if you’re just starting out and aren’t sure what you’ll shoot most, get the camera with the 18-55mm kit lens and learn with that first. Once you know your needs, you can add the right lens later.
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