When I purchased my CANON EOS 60D I bought a CANON 50mm f1.8 lens to go with it. The performance from that lens is just amazing but what’s even more amazing is the price which is in the $100 range. The lens has suited my needs perfectly until recently. Since the first of the year my website work has included subjects that require a shorter focal length for wide angle shots. As an example I was taking pictures of some fishing rods and I had to move the tripod into the bathroom to get enough distance to get the rod completely in the lens. So after a bit of research I decided to try another inexpensive Canon lens. This time it’s the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Autofocus Zoom Lens Mfr# 2042B002. While not quite as inexpensive as the 50mm f1.8 the 18-55 can be had anywhere from $125 for the imported white box version to $199 for the full retail version. This lens is so popular that it’s almost always out of stock. I was fortunate enough to locate the imported white box lens for $125. Not sure if the import white box affords me any type of warranty but I figure for $125 it’s worth the risk.
I have had the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Autofocus Lens for about two months now and I must report this lens exceeded my expectations. It’s every bit as sharp as the 50mm 1.8 it focuses pretty quick and perfectly accurate. Sure the lens build quality doesn’t have the precision feel of a Canon Professional Lens but who cares at this price.
This lens is a great alternative to the 50mm f1.8 if you need more versatility at the expense of a slightly longer and heavier lens. However at f3.6 it’s low light capabilities aren’t quite on par with the 50mm at f1.8.
What’s this lens good for?
- General Photography
- Landscapes
- Walking around
- Portraits
- Parties
- Product photos
- Night time shots with a Tripod
What it is not great for is low light, night time hand held photography without flash or a tripod.
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