And in the long run. Nikon glass is generally more expensive than Canon's across the board.
True. Which sucks because it didn't always used to be this way. Reason being, (well one reason) is that Nikon manufactures their own glass, while Canon does not for the most part. This has hit them especially hard given the current economic situation across the globe. So you either cut back or increase prices. Seems that they're focusing a lot of their attention on R&D with new bodies, and less lenses, unfortunately.
However, the lenses which do exist are nothing short of spectacular. Which brings us to CR's question:
What kind of glass do you guys use for just general photography? Just wondering because I mainly use a 50mm and was wondering if I should go for a 24mm or 28mm.
General photography can mean different things to different people. If you mean street photography, then we have to move to the next question which is : DX or FX sensors ? I sometimes wish I had gone the FX route but I also like the crop factor for portraits which DX affords.
I started with an 35 1.8 but quickly found that it was too long for my tastes. I now have a Sigma 28mm f1.8 which is just an gem. Something rare for Sigma. Not only is the 28 a better focal length for me (which is obviously closer to 35mm on FX) but this lens also has a very good minimum focusing distance.
I also have the Nikkor 50mm f1.8 and this was my first lens. Used it a lot, and is great for head shots and some street stuff, but not as good as the 28 in that respect. Pretty nice bokeh too. And how could I resist ? It was only $100 ! Probably the best bargain ever. It's sharp as a tack stopped down at around f2.2 Not too shabby wide open, either. Unless yer a pixel peeper from DPreview !
But now, I also own the Nikkor 70-300 VRII which you might not consider to be a true walk around lens, but it certainly can be if you like shooting candids or are a photo journalist. This lens is absolutely amazing and definitely not a bank buster. Just wish it were a tad faster at the long end.
Lastly, I own one more Sigma *yeah yeah.. but hey, I'm not rich !* which is definitely the gap filler and a very good walk around lens if the light is ample. It's a 17-70 HSM macro. It is great with various types of shooting scenarios, but its weak spot is AF accuracy in darker situations. Kind of hit and miss there. I'll eventually sell it (I hope) and perhaps go for something more in the wider dept like a 12-24. While the Nik would be great there, the Tokina is just as sharp wide open and compares very well.
So as you can see, I've pretty much got it covered from 17mm to 300mm. I also own the ThinkTank Speed Belt system, which enables me to carry every lens if I wish, and not feel very bogged down by them. Love that belt. Problem is, I bought the entire modular pack and now have about 4 pouches sitting around doing nothing. I only really needed the speed changer and maybe one more pouch just in case. Might sell those too.
Again, it really depends on what you're shooting. I actually use my 28mm the most, followed by the 70-300. I might try utilizing the 17-70 more at some point. But 28 is a great length for me. When I get my photos together, I'll post a link to some. Have about 6k to sort out and a fresh install of Lightroom. I really need to get my portfolio together though..
Doug
