Hi Matt,


I have both lenses that you're looking at (24-105 and 70-200 f/4 IS) and as everyone has said, both are just great lenses. However, I got the 24-105 first because of Bryan's recommendation of a great walk around lens. When I have to travel light, I always take the 24-105 because of it's versatility. Sure I miss some shots that I could have had with the 70-200, but that's when you have to get creative For portraits and family gatherings, the 24-105 on a crop might be a tad too long on the short end i.e. getting group photos in a tight area is challenging, but then getting the candid shot from across the room is a lot easier.


I just posted a pic of the Sydney opera house that I took with the 24-105 under the "Assignment: Leading Lines" discussion. I have to say that, although I had my 70-200 with me on that trip, the 24-105 shot the majority of the "memories" like city scapes, portrait, food etc. The only time I used the 70-200 was when I had to shoot wildlife.


Hope this helps.