Canon EOS 60D for dummies (I'm the dummy)

sentry1

sentry1

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Jul 7, 2012
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#1
I'm looking into getting a Canon EOS 60D, I found a good deal on a new body only kit, but I need to pick out a lens or two. So what sort of lens should I pick up to do close up work? By close up work, I mean pictures from 8 inches to 5 feet.

I don't want to get any super fancy lenses for now, just something low end while I learn the system. I'm told image stabilized and auto focus are good features to get in a lens.
 
#2
You would prolly fair well with a Canon 60mm or 100mm Macro if you are planning on doing some macro shooting, have heard of folks using the macro lenses for portrait photography maybe some general picture taking too..? Idk cause I don't own a macro lens..
Or maybe even a 17-50 2.8 for fast AF and IS. This would be a pretty good general purpose lens and the 2.8 aperture will help out in low light. Prolly won't be able to get to 8" with it but you should be able to crop in on the image enough without loosing image quality with the 60D...

What are planning on shooting?
 
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#3
Go for a Macro lens for close up work. Or something in the 10-20mm range. Check out the B and H website. There is a ton of information and merchandise at that place. Probably one of the premier sellers of optics of all types. By the way, don't scrimp on lenses. As you grow in experience, you're going to want the features and quality of a good lens. Like anything else buy once, cry once.

Lenses | B&H Photo Video


 
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#4
Well, like every other modern rifleman, I take lots of pictures of my gear, and I do some amateur photography at swingers parties and orgies too.

Really though, it's just a new hobby to keep me occupied, so I haven't settled on anything particular. The camera isn't even in my hands yet, but I got tired of the crap quality of photos coming out of my phone.

I came across this lens at B&H, and it seems like a good starting point. $200 to get up and running, and I can move up to a better quality lens once I figure out WTF I'm doing. I don't want to shell out big right away, I'm worried I'll end up with something that isn't quite right.

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Autofocus Lens 2042B002 B&H
 
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#6
sentry1 said:
I came across this lens at B&H, and it seems like a good starting point. $200 to get up and running, and I can move up to a better quality lens once I figure out WTF I'm doing. I don't want to shell out big right away, I'm worried I'll end up with something that isn't quite right.

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Autofocus Lens 2042B002 B&H
Click to expand...

I have that lens and have no complaints. Found a bundle deal at best buy with a efs 55-250mm included.
Good enough for me..
 
#8
Yea, the 18-55 is not the best you can get but it'll suffice for you til you figure out what you're looking for.
Better choice would be like sugarbug said and get the 50 1.8....and is $100 cheaper plus about 2 stops better on your aperture. I got one and it is a great cheap lil lens...actually forgot about it.
 
#10
For the things you mentioned, you don't need a Macro lens. A 18-55 type zoom will work fine.

You will want to get a tripod though. Your images will be much sharper, and when you want everything sharp (front to back), your images won't be blurry.
 
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#11
I talked to B&H for a bit, what I got from the conversation is the 18-55 is a jack-of-all-trades, master of none. It'll do macro and static shots just fine, given good lighting.

He said the 50 f/1.8 gives much crisper pictures, but won't do up close stuff very well. I'm leaning toward the 18-55 at the moment, to have a range of applications to play with while I learn the skill.

I have a SLIK tripod that I got from PRS, so I'll just order another adapter plate and use that with the camera.

Next thought: What do you guys think of those $20 rubber skins that go on the camera? I always put a rubber case on my phone, and it's kept me on one phone for 3 years, through the occasional smack, bump, and drop.
 
#12
Not sure about any camera condom but I'm glad you got expert advice over at B&H. Its a great store and if you were ever in NY you should pay the store a visit. It's a model of efficiency and amazing how they operate.

Good luck and let us know how it turns out.
 
#14
#15
Me personally for what you're talking about shooting, I recommend a Sony RX-100 instead (or RX-100R model if you want the hot shoe for more flash options). I've been using one for the last year and it has quickly become my favorite camera, especially for on the road. They take great macro shots, performs very well in lower light with the 1.8 Zeiss lens and larger sensor, and has a bundle of features to use if you really want to get creative. It's VERY fast as well. I'll see if I can throw up a few pics I took with it over the last year.

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 In-Depth Review: Digital Photography Review
 
#16
sentry1 said:
I'm looking into getting a Canon EOS 60D, I found a good deal on a new body only kit, but I need to pick out a lens or two. So what sort of lens should I pick up to do close up work? By close up work, I mean pictures from 8 inches to 5 feet.

I don't want to get any super fancy lenses for now, just something low end while I learn the system. I'm told image stabilized and auto focus are good features to get in a lens.
Click to expand...

I love my Tamron 17-50 f2.8. For the money, it's a great piece of glass and doesn't weigh a ton.
 
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