Still in search of a lens to replace the kit lens on my T1i (cropped sensor). I'm considering getting an ultra-wide zoom, possibly this one:

EOS (SLR) Camera Systems - Ultra-Wide Zoom - EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM - Canon USA Consumer Products

and then also picking up a longer prime lens, like an 85mm. The kit lens will suffice for a walk-about lens on vacations and what not, and for more artistic shots, I feel like the ultra-wide would be great. Any thoughts? I want to be able to shoot indoors and outdoors, but won't really going for portraits or anything. For candid shots, I think I'd use a telephoto, since I'm unlikely to walk up and ask for permission.

 

I wouldn't recommend that combo as your only two lenses. Maybe the Canon 10-22 and then a Sigma 24-70 or something, but I wouldn't jump straight from an ultrawide to an 85mm. Just my $0.02.

 

I would get the Tokina 11-16mm F/2.8 for your UWA. I loved that lens.

Tokina - 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X 116 Pro DX Autofocus - ATX116PRODXC

They seem to almost always be out of stock, but you should be able to find a good used one.

 

True, but I'd have the 18-55 kit lens, which is actually not horrible for walk-around photography. Good point though, I wouldn't only want an 85 and an ultra-wide.

 

I looked at that, as well as the Tokina 12-24, but several reviews seemed to prefer the canon 10-22.

 

I would certainly choose the Canon 10-22mm over the Tokina.

The problem with Tokina is that they're a hit or miss type of brand. You'll either get a great example of their product, or a very, very poor example. I tested several of their 11-16mm lenses last week, and all but one of them had issues with softness.

-Tyler

 

Thanks for the input guys, just picked up a Canon 10-22 from a local guy today for $600. Basically brand new - stoked!

 

The 10-22mm is a solid lens. I use it quite a bit for just about everything. (Minus portraits and things due to distortion)

You'd be amazed at how much you can fit in your photos with that lens. My 10-22mm has more than paid itself off over time with real estate / commercial work I've done. Very solid investment as there really is a significant difference on the cropped sensors from 10-22mm vs 24-70mm.

Here are some example photos I've taken with my 10-22mm:







Looking forward to seeing some of your photos with the lens!

 

Great photos Chris! Looking forward to taking some of my own.

 

I actually just got the Tokina 12-24 over the Canon.

Reason #1, I feel the 10-22's distortion at 10mm is really strange and uneven.
Reason #2, I paid 300$ for the Tokina, the Canon is 900$.

Haven't shot with it yet, but my camera should be back from repair next week, can't wait to play with it!

I would've gotten the 11-16 (for the f2.8), but it would be totally impractical as a walkaround lens. Going up to 24mm should make it alright, I hope. I also carry a nifty fifty 1.8.