hi all, i'm torn between the 400D + 17-85 IS USM promo lens or 400D + 18-55 kit lens.
i like to snap portraits, flowers, kids and landscapes. Backpacking quite a bit too, therefore can't afford to carry an extra len.
is the 17-85 IS USM as good as 50mm/1.8 for portraits?
any latest price for the 400D + 17-85 IS USM and location?
pls advise. tks.

This post has been edited by syd04: Aug 9 2007, 09:06 PM

when i was buying my 400D kit last month, the 17-85 IS USM package was rm39xx... not sure the current price tho...

nway, i had d same dilemma back then... but my goal was to benefit s much s possible during the promotion, so i chose the 18-55 kit package wif helluva accessories... owh, n 85mm juz not tele enuff for me... u myt find it differently tho... if u hate to carry excessive burden, then i dun see y not getting the IS USM lens..

syd04: nope, 50mm f1.8 is definitely better for portrait with the bokeh it can creates but the 17-85 IS is a good lens compared to kitlens

I'll recommend u to get the 17-85 IS package instead if compared to kitlens

I recommend you start with 18-55mm and 50mm F1.8 lens first.

PS : 17-85mm IS not cheap though

I guess if you are looking for a versatile lense especially when travelling, save as much money first (so get the kit lens) and then later get an additional 18-200mm lens.