Help with my deliberations please

JackintheGreen · #1 (**permalink**) 13-09-2009, 07:13 PM

I've been using a Canon S3IS super zoom camera for a few years and, with the addition of a supplementary lens, have got some reasonable macro results. Macro being my main interest, though I'm also interested in other wildlife photography.

This is my problem. I've been looking at buying a Canon EOS 500D and a 100mm macro lens, but I'm concerned that for this moderately large outlay, just under £1000, I may not get appreciably better results. I've looked at many images and I just can't convince myself. Perhaps I should keep my money and stick with my current equipment for a while or perhaps I should look at spending more than this to get a better camera, perhaps a next level Canon.

I'd be grateful for the views of some of the experienced photographers, who have maybe used similar equipment.

Thanks for your input.

Cheers,

Steve

Geoff F · #2 (**permalink**) 13-09-2009, 08:23 PM

Depends on where you want to be, photographically speaking, in a couple of years and what you will be photographing then.

Going down the EOS road isn't cheap because you will keep wanting extra lenses. But being able to add say one really good lens each year is the beauty of this road.

Have you also considered the 40D/50D as an alternative? Some people like a heavy chunky camera and find the smaller lighter models too fiddly while others find the 40D/50D heavy and difficult to hold. Personally I am strongly in the 40D camp.

You may actually get a very good deal on a 40D now that it is 'last year's model'.

With regard to a macro lens. 100mm is fine for flowers etc but you might find it a bit on the short side for insects. In which case the 150mm could suit you better; but more expense already! Also consider third party lenses like Sigma, etc. And do shop around for the best deal as there are considerably variations.

Not trying to rush you, but remember that VAT is going to increase soon.

JackintheGreen · #3 (**permalink**) 13-09-2009, 10:25 PM

Hi Geoff, thanks for the reply.

I have been considering the 40D or 50D, that's really what I meant by a next level Canon. I just wondered, would I get better results as a result of the better body, or would that give a more rugged camera due to the build quality with the real image quality coming from good lenses?

Thanks for the tip on the focal length of the macro lens, insects are my main passion but I would want to photograph other things as well. How would a 100mm lens with a converter serve?

I hadn't thought about a VAT increase. When is that due to come in? I can't say I pay much attention to those things normally.

Thanks again for your help.

Steve

Mike Jackson · #4 (**permalink**) 14-09-2009, 04:12 AM

I find the canon EF 100 f/2.8 IS USM Macro fine for insects. I've never needed the longer focal length. The only restriction I'm finding now is I'd like to get even closer so am looking at getting some extension tubes. The following were all taken with this lens and a 50D.