So where I work, there is an employee that takes all of the photos for the office. Right now he has the Canon t1i with the kit 18-55 lens to shoot all of the “official” photos. Of course the biggest issue they have is in low light situations, and while the kit lens does well in some situations, in others it can struggle. So they have requested and been approved for $1000 to spend on additional equipment. The person who uses the camera is not super comfortable using any mode but auto, although I’ve been working with him on using aperture priority and he is getting better.
So what would you suggest for upgrades? Please remember, the $1000 limit is a hard budget, and we have to purchase through normal channels, amazon, b&h, no ebay option, craigslist or refurb is an option.
They will use the camera indoors, and outdoors about 50/50 and some of the indoor venues will require tight shots as the rooms are often very small, and sometimes indoors a flash won’t be able to be used. Also, at times outdoors, it will be necessary to shoot from a distance. I do think they need the external flash for sure, but any input is great. Plus they will also commonly do portraits both indoors and outside. So a fairly versatile lens combo is necessary. It also won't be possible to sell any equipment that they currently have, the kit lens or the canon t1i body.
I’ve put a list below of the lenses and flash which seem to make the most sense, but I'm not sure in what combination. So what would be the most versatile package for under $1000 in your opinion? (I wouldn’t mind having a little left over for a tripod and basic case, and all the prices below are from B&H, which is where we will likely order from) For example, my first thought is the 430ex flash, a 50mm f1.4 and the 55-250, but I'd appreciate any other input. Thanks.
Canon 430ex II flash $254
Canon 50mm f1.8 $109
Canon 40mm f2.8 $179
Canon 55-250mm IS $233
Canon 50mm f1.4 $339
Canon 85mm f1.8 $359
Canon 28mm f1.8 $449
Canon EF-S 15-85 f3.5-5.6 IS USM $649
Canon 100mm f2.8 USM Macro $499
Sigma 17-50 f2.8 $594
Canon 70-200 f4 $649