replace the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS with....????

[MichaelT1i]

OK, so I'm a relative newbie to the D-SLR scene, so bear with me.... I've been pouring over the forum and I think I've hit information overload, so I'm asking for help...

I recently purchased a Canon EOS Rebel T1i with the kit lens (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) and I'm pretty happy with the results so far. I've been reading that the kit lens is pretty good on this camera, but being the anal perfectionist that I am, I'm wondering if there is a reasonably priced (read $500-1,000) alternative to the kit lens that will give me a measurable increase in performance (i.e. increased sharpness). To give me a greater telephoto range I've already invested in Canon's 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM.

If I were looking to upgrade my EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS what should I consider?

With regards to what I will be shooting: I'm mostly interested in a high quality/high performance do it all type lens.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

[dwdong]

$500 - $1,000 is not nearly enough for an anal perfectionist...

If you are looking for a straight replacement for the 18 - 55, then the EFS 17 - 55 f/2.8 is the lens of choice for many.  But it is unclear if that will result in a tremendous increase in image sharpness if you are shooting in good light at mid apertures (such as f/8).  I would hesitate to make this purchase until it is clear that you need the f/2.8, BECAUSE...

there are so many other options to spend your money.  You can look to get a prime lens for low light.  The focal length will depend on what you need it for.  Go through your photos and see what focal lengths you utilize the most.  For example, on my 24 - 105, I am at the longer end much more and purchased an 85mm f/1.8 to complement it for low light shooting, portraits, and sports.  Or you might replace your 70-300 with the 70 - 200 f/4 IS, or...  (the list is not endless, but your money will run out before your options run out).

[bmpress]

Although I admire fine lenses I have convinced myself that with rare exception the most difficult part of photography is learning how to take beautiful pictures. And I can honestly say that it had very little to do with having the very best of cameras and lenses. Its all in the eye and the brain. Learn how to shoot creatively before you spend mega-bucks.

[Imagician]

I recently purchased a refurbished Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 from B&H for my 40D, and am very happy with it. it has become my basic walk-around lens. My other lenses are the EF 70-200 f/4L, EF 300 f/4L, EF 50 f/1.4, EF 85 f/1.8 and the EF 28-135 f/3.5-5.6.

[KeithB]

Wait for the reveiws to come in on the new 15-85 EF-S.  This might turn out to be a very sweet lens.

[Bob Atkins]

I would go with the EF-S 17-55/2.8L IS USM, though it is right on your upper price limit. It's sharp and it's fast. The new EF-S 15-85/3.5-5.6 IS USM looks intersting at $800, but it's pretty slow compared with the 17-55/2.8 and your 70-300 is actually faster and covers the 70-85mm range (and it's sharp).