Digital Photography Discovery

Got Lens!

I am excited because I am waiting for my new glass. For years I've used the Cannon Rebel XT with the standard 18-55mm kit lens. On occasion, I would attach my old FD lens to the camera, but was never satisfied with the quality of the images. With the old 35 mm Cannon lens, even though they are good lens, can only use manual focus and light metering. In the digital world, that leaves me at a disadvantage.

It took four months to decide on some new glass. Options I desired were image-stabilization technology without an outrageous price tag. Right away I started looking at my options, Cannon and after market brands. The Canon L lenses were immediately excluded because I didn’t need high end lens with my entry level camera. I started looking at the Canon EF series. Next, I thought about what type of photos I would use these lenses for? I take a wide variety of photos, from landscapes, outside parties, close ups to wildlife photography. I also do not like carrying around a large selection of lens, I like to travel light! I wanted one lens that would allow me a wide range of shooting opportunities. So the 18 – 200mm lens looked to be a perfect match. After research, the Canon EF series didn’t carry the 18-200mm, although they do have the 28-300mm. On the Internet there are some good reviews of the 28-300mm lens but the price was very hefty, $2000. Taking price into consideration, my search narrowed down to the Sigma 18-200mm lens which are competitive with the Cannon lens but significantly cheaper at $550. Taking this research one step further, I started looking at the Ritz Camera Quantaray brand, which to my understanding is identical to the Sigma brand. The Quantaray brand carries the lens that met all the features I needed; comparative quality, prize, IS and a good focal range 18-200mm - Quantaray 18-200mm OS lenses.

Finally, I had to decide where to purchase the lenses. I looked at my local Ritz Camera store and B&H Photo. I then discovered that Ritz Camera is part of the AAFES Army and Air Force Exchange Service “Exchange Mall.” Being retired Navy; I always find the AAFES online store offers better prices. The lenses at the Exchange Mall were 10% less than the Ritz Camera sale price, plus I didn’t have to pay for shipping. So, in the end I saved $100 – not bad. Now I can’t wait until they arrive.