The Lenses that I Use

There has been a lot of questions and discussion here lately about lenses, and which ones are the best. A few have correctly phrased the issue: "For the types of photos in (Member's Name) Gallery, which is the best lens choice?" This is what I use. I don't expect anyone to really jump at any of these choices on my recommendation. However, perhaps we can see what the rest of you out there are using.

20mm f/1.8 (Sigma)
I've had this now for a couple years after previously not using a wide angle very much. This has rapidly become perhaps my #2 favorite lens. Indispensable to catch Ren-Fairies, or in a crowd. Sometimes useful for architecture.

35-70mm f/3.5-4.5 (Canon)
'prolly a good candidate for an upgrade; my first lens for the Canon EOS. Actually gets used quite a lot, but I think the optics are somewhat  weak. In this range, a bit more speed would be nice. Still, fine for what it gets used for.

180mm f/5.6 macro (Sigma) My #1 favorite lens. Gets used a lot on Butties and plants, and for general purpose stuff. Very sharp. 180mm is closely matched to the way I seem to see things. Macro is only 1:; a true 1:1 would be nice. Faster would be nice. However, this is small, light weight, and pleasant to use.


70-200mm f/2.8 L IS (Canon) This lens is a real "babe magnet." Surprising how many times I get stopped on the street and chatted-up by some really cute Ladies. [I bought this lens on Donald's recommendation.] As a photo-tool, it has exceptional sharpness. Fast, both in capturing light and in focusing. The zoom range is useful, though I always tend a bit more to the long end. Some more reach would be nice. Being heavy and LARGE, needs a really Manly-Man to tote around.


600mm f/8 mirror (Sigma)
Purchased at the same time as the 70-200mm, because I really needed something longer for wildlife. Works great in certain situations. Lightweight and easy to tote. Very sharp (when I can actually get it in focus). The f/8 makes a very dim viewfinder; accurate focus, following anything that moves, I find nearly impossible. Still, in the right circumstances, when you can plan and pre-focus the shot, this lens works very well.