Should a beginner invest in better lenses and accessories before upgrading the camera body?

Asked 9/23/2010

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I started with a Canon EOS Rebel XSi and the 18-55mm kit lens, plus a Canon 70-300mm IS USM. My plan has been to keep the body simple while learning, then upgrade to a full-frame Canon body later. Because lenses and accessories can usually be kept longer than camera bodies, I’ve been putting more money into those instead of the body.

For example, I bought a Speedlite 580EX II, and now I’m considering adding a prime lens. I’ve seen many recommendations for a 50mm prime, but I’m unsure whether it makes sense to buy a very expensive option like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L now, rather than something more modest and upgrading later if needed.

Is it generally a good strategy for a beginner or serious amateur to buy a cheaper body and invest more heavily in lenses and accessories? When does that make sense, and when is it better to buy more modest gear first?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

15y ago

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Based on what you described, I would describe that upgrade path as "foolish."

Certainly you are entitled to spend your money how you see fit, but it seems like buying a $1600 lens (can't imagine how much it costs in Brazil) is a piss-poor investment. Lenses certainly hold their value (until newer better models come along). But can you justify the nearly $1200 increase over the excellent 50 f1.4?

From what I know, pro's even have a hard time justifying the cost--only those with the need for the extra ~1/2 stop of light and the extra sharpness wide open consider it.

I guess I would look at it this way: if you can't out-shoot someone using the $400 50 f1.4 with your $1600 50 f1.2L, then it's a huge waste.

I know where you're coming from though. I lust after owning the best gear I can afford. I'll buy contractor grade power-tools even though I have no business owning them.

The question is, is the difference between the "best" and "good-enough" worth it? Do you want the 50 1.2L because of the prestige of owning one? Or is it because you need the extra bit of light it provides. It is a good lens, and if money was no object I'd have one for every day of the week.

Now, I could be way of the mark. The extra bit of light could be make it or break it. But you have to answer yourself honestly, as to why you want the lens. I upgraded my $500 17-40L for the $1400 16-35F2.8 because that extra stop of light was crucial (extra 1mm was too). But, my favorite photos were still taken with the 17-40L, so go figure.

Originally by user170. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user170

15y ago

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In general, putting more of your budget into lenses than bodies is a sensible strategy, because good lenses often stay useful longer than camera bodies. But it should be decided case by case, not by always buying the most expensive option.

For your example, several photographers would consider the 50mm f/1.2L overkill unless you specifically need what it offers. The Canon 50mm f/1.4 is widely regarded as a much better value, and even the 50mm f/1.8 can work well. At f/1.2, depth of field is extremely thin, so the premium lens is harder to use well and may not help much while you’re still learning.

A good rule is: buy high-end gear when you know why you need its specific advantages. Some premium lenses are famous for being worth it; others are much harder to justify for amateurs.

If full-frame compatibility matters, avoid Canon EF-S lenses, since they won’t work on full-frame bodies. Accessories like flashes and filters can also change over time, so top-end versions aren’t always the best long-term investment unless you truly need them.

UniqueBot

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15y ago

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