Community Forums

KarenS144 · 05-13-2015, 12:28 PM

I hope the experts will help me decide a couple of things!

1. IF I really need another lens/es and
2. Which one/s

My trusty Olympus died and I've replaced it with a Canon EOS Rebel SL1. It came with the 2 "kit" lenses (EFS 18-55mm & EFS 55-250mm). I've not had much chance to really get to know the camera but wonder if there is another lens that might be better for landscapes.

I do not claim to be a photographer... I take pictures & "Auto" is my friend.

I've done a bit of reading and these 2 seem to be in the running:

Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM

Canon 50mm f/1.8 II

I don't feel my photography skills warrant a really high quality lens.

I'd appreciate advice!

scbwr · 05-13-2015, 01:30 PM

For landscapes, you want something in the 9-14 mm range if you want to capture the widest view. If going with a prime (non zoom) lens gives you a lower f/stop capability and cost less, that would be the way to go. I'm familiar with the Olympus micro 4/3 line of lenses but not Canon, so I can't really help you pick out a lens.

Get on one of the camera forums....such as fredmiranda.com and I'm sure you will get a lot of help. The used gear forum at fredmiranda.com is a great place to buy used lenses and save some money. I've purchased a fair share of gear there and the registered sellers have some excellent track records. Pay with paypal and you have some protection as long as you don't opt to make payment a "gift".

scbwr · 05-13-2015, 01:35 PM

Amazon.com : Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM Lens : Camera & Photo

This seems to be a really good budget lens that would work. And....I see it is one of the two you listed. The other lens at 50 mm is going to have a very narrow view for landscapes.

scbwr · 05-13-2015, 01:40 PM

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-EF-S-24m...s=canon+lenses

This one doesn't have as wide of an angle, but the f/2.8 capability will make it better in low light and what a bargain price! I'd be tempted to get this, and then learn to shoot panorama photos.

MattC · 05-13-2015, 01:50 PM

Not a very long time ago, I finally discovered how to take good landscape or panoramic pictures.
Get a good solid (need not be heavy but should not shake easily) tripod.
Get and learn to use photo stitching software.
Use the timer to release the "shutter".
Take your time.

Set up where you want and take the one end picture.
Remember what is at the edge the way you want to move.
Move so it is at the other edge and shoot the next frame.

This can be very simple and successful with just a little patience.

Matt

flaggship1 · 05-13-2015, 02:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MattC

Not a very long time ago, I finally discovered how to take good landscape or panoramic pictures.
Get a good solid (need not be heavy but should not shake easily) tripod.
Get and learn to use photo stitching software.
Use the timer to release the "shutter".
Take your time.

Set up where you want and take the one end picture.
Remember what is at the edge the way you want to move.
Move so it is at the other edge and shoot the next frame.

This can be very simple and successful with just a little patience.

Matt

Seems appropriate here - picture or it didn't happen!

sknight · 05-13-2015, 05:08 PM

Depending on whom you talk to, the secret is in the glass. You've got a fine camera body, but consider spending a little on the lens.

I've got a 24-105L, it's f4, is really sharp and is a great all around carry lens. It's adequately wide, nice flat images, and is reasonably priced at about $1,000. I know it's a lot, but well worth it. You'll be able to sell the kit lens, use the 24-105 as the everyday mule, so you won't be spending the money on something just for landscapes.

The 50 is fine, but you're fixed on the zoom level. That's fine, and will make you think, but if you have the shot in the one spot, then you're kind of stuck.

The 10-18 is getting into the ultra wide category, which can be good, but will have some distortion that could hurt your image. Just FYI.

I do like the mention of a panoramic image, google Scott Kelby Panoramic and that should bring up some great info, he uses Photoshop, which works really well, but there's plenty of easy programs that will do the same thing.