24 TS-E II or 135L

[myocyte]

I know this is a crazy question about 2 lenses that have very little in common. I'm looking to make my next lens purchase, and I'm deciding between both of these lenses. I eventually plan on owning both but can't figure out what to purchase first. I have a trip to Italy coming up in a month where I'll be in Cinque Terre and Tuscany for a large portion of it, but I also have an active 1 y.o baby that I love to take pictures of. I have used the 24 TS-E II and was a huge fan, but I am worried it's a high price to pay for such a specialized lens. And then I'm worried that the 135L is too much like the 85L or the 70-200 f/2.8L II (granted the 70-200 is much more conspicuous and a huge burden to carry). In general, I shoot a little bit of everything from landscapes to candids to street to my family. For those of you who own both or have tried both, what are your thoughts?

 

[drjlo]

In general, I shoot a little bit of everything from landscapes to candids to street to my family. For those of you who own both or have tried both, what are your thoughts?

Well, I have both 24 TS-E II and 135L, and I don't think either is all that well-suited for what you shoot. 24 TS-E II is obviously a great lens, but it's only f/3.5 and lacks AF limiting use in candid shooting especially indoors. 135L is too long, best used for tight portrait standing far off.

I think a good 35mm (on full frame) such as 35L or the Sigma 35 f/1.4 would suit most of your needs quite a bit better.

 

[ksagomonyants]

Which camera do you have? I own 135 f2 and as mentioned above, it's great for tight portraits on full-frame cameras. I don't have 24 TSE but it's a very specialized lens best for landscapes and it lacks autofocus. For your purposes I'd stick with 50mm lens such as 50 f1.2 or 1.4. Both are great lenses but f1.2 is a tricky to use wide open. I really like Zeiss 50 f2 lens, but it also lacks autofocus. If it's not a big deal for you, it's a remarkable lens for portraits and landscapes!

If you have a crop camera, then I'd probably stick with 35mm f2 or 24-70ii. Good luck with your choice!

 

[charlesa]

I own both, and love both, depends what you want, a landscape/architecture lens or a sharp prime useful for portraits?

 

[RGF]

If you have the 85 and 70-200 consider something wider and more versatile. Perhaps either the 24-105 or 24-70
If you need to ULtra wide I find the 14 a great addition to my bag

 

[Loswr]

Looking at your gear list, I'd go with the TS-E 24L II since it adds capabilities that you can't get anywhere near achieving with your current kit. The 135L is great for tight portraits, but the 70-200 II comes close as a portrait lens.

 

[alexturton]

thanks everyone for the messages.

I've sent an email to the shop. I'll definitely return if for another copy. I want it for use @ 1.4 and if the AF is not perfect out the box. I'm not interested. (particularly for £1200!)