I'd definitely recommend theEF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS. If you are using an external Speedlite flash indoors, you might also consider theEF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS- it's a slower lens (thus the need for flash indoors), but has a wider zoom range and IQ that is similar to the 17-55mm. However, the wider aperture of the 17-55mm would be an advantage for 'portrait-like still photos' due to the enhanced out-of-focus blur.


TheEF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USMis an excellent lens, but for group shots, 24mm will likely not be wide enough on a crop body like the 30D.