New lens for my 20D

[2_Rastas]

Hey folks, I have a 20D so that means that any lens I buy from Canon I will have to multiply the size by 1.6 right?
I have the Canon 85mm prime lens but that works out to 136mm. I would like something closer to 35mm. The closest I have found is the Canon 50mm but that would be more like 85mm on my camera.
Any suggestions?

[Bob Atkins]

I'd look at the Canon EF 24/2.8  if you want a prime. It's the equivalent of a 38mm lens on a full frame camera. It's the lens I use myself on a 40D when I want a "wide-normal" lens.

Obviously you can use a setting around 22mm on any zoom that covers that range such as the EF-S 18-55 the EF-S 17-85 IS, the EF 17-40/4L or (the best of all) the EF-S 17-55/2.8L

This article explains the whole "crop sensor/lens multiplier" issue - http://www.bobatkins.com/photography/tutorials/crop_sensor_cameras_and_lenses.html

[2_Rastas]

I guess I was hoping to get a faster aperture than a f2.8. I guess such a lens doesn't exist?

Would I be better off with the Canon 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5?
I know it's not as fast but what do you think?

O well.

[marcfs]

How are you planning to use the lens?  Indoors?  Landscapes?  People?

Your use will impact the reccomendation.

Marc

[Bob Atkins]

Oh yes, you can get a faster lens. That would be the Canon EF 24/1.4L if you have well over $1100 to spend on a lens.

There's also a decent Sigma 24/1.8 at a much lower price (under $400). It has full frame coverage and is "digitally optimized" whatever that's supposed to mean (probably better optimized anti-reflection coatings)

[2_Rastas]

Wow, that's one heck of a price difference!

[Bob Atkins]

Well, you get what you pay for. The Canon is a "L" series lens with a fast ring USM focusing system and it's 2/3 stop faster than the Sigma. "L" lenses have preium optics and professional grade construction.

The Sigma lens is good, but it's optically slower by 2/3 stop, has a slower. noisier focusing system and it's not quite as sturdily built, though it's no doubt sturdy enough for all normal use.