Canon EF-S 17 - 55 / 2.8 IS USM advice please

[General Dogsbody]

My present collection of camera / lenses is as follows:

EOS 400D
EF 50mm 1.8 II
EF-S 17-85mm 4-5.6 IS USM
EF 70-200mm f 2.8L IS USM
I also have a 100mm macro

having read Bob's review I am considering buying the 17-55 to replace the 17-85 and 50mm.

The objective is to have an f 2.8 lens to provide better light collection and shorter DoF for my walkabout lens. The reviews of this lens are, of course, very good. Selling the 17-85 and 50mm will offset some of the cost.

However, I often to use the 17-85 at its longer end. If I make the change will I regret not having a lens to cover the space between 55mm and 70 mm? Or will the reported excellent resolution of the 17-55 mean I can crop and not worry?


I welcome your views

[bmpress]

Six months ago I went through the same aggravating decision, and now have the Canon 17-55 f2.8 and the 70-200. I sold my 17-85 and now find that I don't miss the hole from 55-70 because of the ability of my Canon 60d (with its 15 mpix sensor) to enlarge without noticeable quality degradation up to 11x14.

Meanwhile....I just love shooting wide open with the 17-55 f2.8. Fabulous lens!

Good luck to you.

[General Dogsbody]

Thank you Bob. The Powers That be have agreed to the new lens.

I have my eye on the 7D. My daughter's inheritance is likely to take another hit soon - however she  is likely to receive the 17-85 for Christmas, so I should get away with it ;-)

Again thank you.

[General Dogsbody]

The lens is now on it's way.....

[General Dogsbody]

.....has now arrived......

....mmmm....

[General Dogsbody]

With 3 stops of image stabilisation I can hand hold at 1/15 sec at 55mm. Now to get the subjects to sit still - pass the gaffer tape please!

Pin sharp indoors with light from the windows. Great control over depth of field - I am going to like this lens, as you said I would Bob

[General Dogsbody]

My first effort with this lens

http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2166212