Hi Randy,


This is also my 1st post/reply on Brian's website. I've been reading the forums forthe pastcouple of years, but never felt I could contribute as a newbie myself. But here goes anyway.


I like Brandon's suggestion of the 15-85 coupled with the 70-200 f/4. The 18-200 has a very useful focal range, but I suspect you may want more out of your photos. And those lenses, from what I hear, can really deliver.


My main lens is the 17-55, but itoften seems a little short in situations. I sometimes contemplate switching to the 15-85, but I really love the larger f/2.8 aperture. It comes in handy in low-light situations.


I don't really have anything on the long end, other than my 85 f/1.8 (my favorite outdoor lens). Oh, and a Sigma 150 macro. The 70-200 f/4 L is has long been on my wishlist. But if you want to carry around something lighter and a little less conspicuous, how about the ef-s 55-250? I hear it has surprisingly good quality for a budget lens. Probably better than the 18-200 in the overlapping range.


If you cannot afford a 2 lens solution, I would still recommend the 15-85. You can always add lenses to your system when you really develop as a photographer and know what you want in your photos. Eventually you may want to buy the 18-200 again as a travel lens.[]


John