Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens Review

[Kyleward27]

Good review. I would like to point out though that this lens has a lot of chromatic aberration... More than I

[neuroanatomist]

More than I've seen on other lenses. I feel like it wasn't stressed enough and should be noted. I got this lens as my kit lens for my 7D, and I know that I will probably replace this lens with an L lens as soon as I can afford it.

You might also have a look at the EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS lens. It has substantially less CA and barrel distortion than the 15-85mm lens, as well as a constant, fast aperture. Optically, it's equivalent to an L-series lens, although it falls a little short of that on build. IMO, the main candidates for a good quality general purpose zoom for a 1.6x body are the 17-55mm f/2.8 IS, 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS, 24-70mm f/2.8L, and 24-105mm f/4L IS. The EF-S lenses offer a wide angle FOV on a crop body, whereas the L lenses start at 38mm FF-equivalent, which isn't wide angle. The L-series lenses are weather-sealed, which combined with a sealed body like the 7D means the can be used in the rain. The 24-70mm lacks IS, and I do find that to be helpful even at the relatively shorter focal lengths. If you get the 24-70mm or 24-105mm, you'll likely need something wider than 24mm (and that's the worst part of the 15-85mm's range). Budget permitting, the EF-S 10-22mm is also a very nice lens and paired with a 24-x L zoom makes a nice combination.


Just my 2¢. Personally, I started with a 17-55mm and added a 24-105mm for shooting in inclement weather with my 7D (but still used the 17-55mm a lot more). Now that I have a 5DII as well, I use the 24-105mm much of the time on the FF body.


--John

[Kyleward27]

I am eventually going to get to a 5d mk II as well, and I figure I might as well start buying the glass for it, when just have the 7d. I am only 18, and although I

[Kayaker72]

Kyle,


I am not sure of your budget, but have you considered the 50 mm f/2.5 macro? It goes for less than $300. It isn