upgrade lenses

[Kayaker72]

Hey Perk,

It seems to me that with the lenses you have, you could go a long ways to answering your own question. Do you like the flexibility of the 17-85? If so, the 15-85 is sharper and actually a bit faster up to 70 mm. Do you like f/2.8 on your 50 mm f/1.8? Shooting around the house? Can you limit your general purpose zoom to 17-55 mm? Well then the 17-55 f/2.8 or the tamron 17-50 f/2.8 (non-VC) may be the better lenses for you.

I have primarily used two lenses for 95% of what I shoot, the 15-85 and the 100-400. I own the 100 mm L macro, 50 f/1.8 and just bought (still evaluating) the EFS 10-22. But I really do most of my photography with the 15-85 and 100-400L. I do shoot outdoors a lot, but I am also the primary photographer for most of my family's functions. And in shooting people and indoors I can see wanting f/2.8 (and sometimes I do)....but I also really enjoy being able to go out to 85 mm and then back to 35 mm. So, I tend to use the 580 EXII flash for indoor shots and am very happy with the results. The 100-400L is primarily used for outdoors, wildlife and birds. I can see that being great in Florida. I recommend both lenses. Both have flaws (I am one of those hoping the rumors of an update to the 100-400L are true...but not holding my breath). But both are great lenses.

Looking at your proposed new kit, I am not sure I understand the 70-200 f/4. Great lens, one of the best, and constant f/4, which is great. But you have all but 15 mm of the focal length range covered with f/4.5 to f/5.6 with the 15-85 and the 100-400L. So a stop or less slower glass that is maybe not as sharp, but pretty darn good.

As a third lens, I, personally, would be more tempted to get something with a little more separation....that serves a different function. Such as the 100 mm L macro, or a fast prime of a focal length you'll use a lot. For example, a 35 mm L for indoor shots of your granddaughter.

Let us know how it works out for you....
Good luck,
Brant