Help with choosing a new lens for my DSLR

[Tekk]

Hey everyone,

So I've decided that Im ready to try a new lens for my Canon Rebel DSLR and I need some suggestions/recommendations from experienced photogs

I've been using the standard 18-55mm lens for about 1.5 years now and have always longed for something with a little more range. Since Im on a slight budget I've somewhat thrown out the IS capability as it significantly increases the price of the same non-IS lens. USM AF is a must from what I have read so Im keeping that in my shopping considerations as well. And I dont really want to have to lug around 2 different lenses while Im out and about....this meaning that I'd like something that will still give me some wide coverage but will also give me better zoom (i.e. above 100mm at the top end).

So in any case, what do ya'll think is best?

[ScottW]

There are so many lenses out there and so many personal preferences. I prefer IS AF lenses with large apertures and non-zoom for the best photo quality possible and good DOF. I also stick with Canon or Nikon rather than off brands.

Have you considered these?
EOS (SLR) Camera Systems - Standard Zoom - Standard Zoom - EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS - Canon USA Consumer Products

EOS (SLR) Camera Systems - Standard Zoom - Standard Zoom Lens - EF 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6 USM - Canon USA Consumer Products

I've had good luck on ebay for lenses.

[bpaulette]

Agree with him on both points - if you really just want an all-purpose workhorse, an 18-200 is awesome (although the canon originals are a bit pricey for my budget).

I shoot on a EOS 40D and have had great results with a Sigma 18-200. Ebay is indeed an awesome place to look (recommend Cameta Camera if you like Ebay but don't like to buy used) or if you don't like eBay, Adorama has some of the best prices I've found

888101 Sigma 18mm - 200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS (Optical Stabilizer) Autofocus Aspherical Zoom Lens for Canon EOS Digital SLR Cameras
This one does have IS, quick focus, good performance all around.

But yeah... if you really want to dive into a whole new level of qualiy and beauty in your shots, drop the reliance on zoom, and start playing with prime lenses. No zooming in or out, but the dof is amazing, much faster, beautiful low-light shots, the bokeh will blow yer mind!

2515A003 Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Standard AutoFocus Lens - USA
that one is my all-time favorite, hardly ever take it off the camera.

just my humble $0.02