60D owners...help, i need reassurance before i pull the trigger

[kriptikracing]

I'm suspicious the original poster has abandoned this thread as we all here have wandered off on various tangents. But if they haven't I'd be curious to find out what their final purchase was.

I'm the OP. yeah this thread has gone a little off but I still appreciated the opinions. In my research, I've found the one thing everyone is consistent with is...lenses. With me wanting to buy a camera now and at my price range, I felt the 60D gave me the best option for a decent body and great lenses. So, I'm going with the 60D, 15-85mm, and 50mm f1.8 just to start off. I was hoping to get the non-L 100mm macro too but I took a step back so I don't forget that im getting this camera mostly to capture my son growing up. Down the road I'll buy one along with a bigger zoom lens. However, I haven't purchased yet because canon is currently doing their annual inventory check. That's why on the canon website you don't see a link for the refurbished bodies. When I called to do the canon loyalty program, that's what the sales guy told me. Blah, I hate this feeling that I'm ready to buy but now I have to wait until possibly Monday. Oh well...It gives me more time to confuse myself by researching which lens to get.

 

[DianeK]

I'm suspicious the original poster has abandoned this thread as we all here have wandered off on various tangents. But if they haven't I'd be curious to find out what their final purchase was.

I'm the OP. yeah this thread has gone a little off but I still appreciated the opinions. In my research, I've found the one thing everyone is consistent with is...lenses. With me wanting to buy a camera now and at my price range, I felt the 60D gave me the best option for a decent body and great lenses. So, I'm going with the 60D, 15-85mm, and 50mm f1.8 just to start off. I was hoping to get the non-L 100mm macro too but I took a step back so I don't forget that im getting this camera mostly to capture my son growing up. Down the road I'll buy one along with a bigger zoom lens. However, I haven't purchased yet because canon is currently doing their annual inventory check. That's why on the canon website you don't see a link for the refurbished bodies. When I called to do the canon loyalty program, that's what the sales guy told me. Blah, I hate this feeling that I'm ready to buy but now I have to wait until possibly Monday. Oh well...It gives me more time to confuse myself by researching which lens to get.

Thanks for updating us. So just to confuse you even more: I have the 15-85 and I love it as my general walk about lens if I'm not out to shoot birds or wildlife. BUT, I find it is pretty much useless for indoor shooting without flash and am now looking at getting a used 17-55 to get that focal length range for indoors. Are you thinking the 50 1.8 is going to be your indoor lens? On a crop body, 50mm is sometimes too tight for group shots. And a 50 1.8 is one of those lenses that will really reveal if AFMA is needed. Just saying...
Diane

 

[Dylan777]

I'm suspicious the original poster has abandoned this thread as we all here have wandered off on various tangents. But if they haven't I'd be curious to find out what their final purchase was.

I'm the OP. yeah this thread has gone a little off but I still appreciated the opinions. In my research, I've found the one thing everyone is consistent with is...lenses. With me wanting to buy a camera now and at my price range, I felt the 60D gave me the best option for a decent body and great lenses. So, I'm going with the 60D, 15-85mm, and 50mm f1.8 just to start off. I was hoping to get the non-L 100mm macro too but I took a step back so I don't forget that im getting this camera mostly to capture my son growing up. Down the road I'll buy one along with a bigger zoom lens. However, I haven't purchased yet because canon is currently doing their annual inventory check. That's why on the canon website you don't see a link for the refurbished bodies. When I called to do the canon loyalty program, that's what the sales guy told me. Blah, I hate this feeling that I'm ready to buy but now I have to wait until possibly Monday. Oh well...It gives me more time to confuse myself by researching which lens to get.

Don't do it , 15-85mm will be very noisy for indoor shooting, unless, you plan to mount exnternal flash.

 

[Marsu42]

I have the 15-85 and I love it as my general walk about lens if I'm not out to shoot birds or wildlife. BUT, I find it is pretty much useless for indoor shooting without flash and am now looking at getting a used 17-55 to get that focal length range for indoors.

While f2.8 has some advantages for pro-level af systems on the 1dx/5d3, it certainly isn't shoot-in-the dark quality, especially on current crop sensors - or you'll get in ridiculously high iso regions in no time. You'll be better off with a Sigma or Canon f1.4 (on 60d, if you get one that doesn't need afma) that has some reach with the 1.6x crop, too.

 

[DianeK]

I have the 15-85 and I love it as my general walk about lens if I'm not out to shoot birds or wildlife. BUT, I find it is pretty much useless for indoor shooting without flash and am now looking at getting a used 17-55 to get that focal length range for indoors.

While f2.8 has some advantages for pro-level af systems on the 1dx/5d3, it certainly isn't shoot-in-the dark quality, especially on current crop sensors - or you'll get in ridiculously high iso regions in no time. You'll be better off with a Sigma or Canon f1.4 (on 60d, if you get one that doesn't need afma) that has some reach with the 1.6x crop, too.

Well the problem is I also want IS for indoor stills and video (I just don't have a steady hand) and I will be the first to admit that I am very lazy when it comes to trotting out the tripod. And my family just seem to act unnatural as soon as they see the camera sitting there on a tripod.

 

[Marsu42]

Well the problem is I also want IS for indoor stills and video (I just don't have a steady hand) and I will be the first to admit that I am very lazy when it comes to trotting out the tripod.

Be sure to try out if IS really is a substitute for a tripod or other stabilization gear when you buy a lens. While IS is nice for non-motion still scenes or handy for steady composure of shots, video can still suffer with IS because the lens is only stabilized in a certain amount of shake radius, but once you move it there are still tiny jerks. You can see this effect on lens reviews videos like Tamron 24-70 Vibration Control - video test

 

[DianeK]

Thank you for that link. For me, I saw enough of a difference in that review to confirm for me that for casual family videos I want a lens with IS or VC. I was considering the Tamron but have been reading quite a few complaints about the quality of its bokeh. I was also waiting for the new 24 2.8 with IS but it seems to have CA issues. Alas, no lens is "the one".

 

[aznable]

we call a joke because we were very disappointed when it come out, really a step back from 50D

buying 2day it's really foolish for someone that is staring with photography, infact
all advantage except ergonomics over the rebel line are gone, and at the same price you can buy a nikon D7000 (slightly more expensive) or a pentax K5 (less expensive)

LOL...you gotta be kidding right? pentax??? What are you going to do with lenses??? Let me guess, Tamron and Sigma ;D ;D ;D

and pentax for sure...tokina lenses pratically...so?

 

[kriptikracing]

Apparently even lenses are subjective. Earlier in the thread people said the 15-85 is great...now others are saying don't do it. Interesting!

 

[Marsu42]

Apparently even lenses are subjective. Earlier in the thread people said the 15-85 is great...now others are saying don't do it. Interesting!

Lenses are subjective, because all lenses and camera bodies are compromises, the top ones compromise weight, size and price. This is why asking what's "best" or "great" is not a good idea, only what's suitable for what purpose.

The efs15-85 is a very good standard zoom for aps-c (like 24-105 for full frame) because it isn't as expensive as the 17-55 and has longer zoom range. It isn't suitable for low light non-still shooting, because it goes from f3.5 to f4 and smaller nearly instantly and the current 18mp aps-c sensor lacks in low light capability. If you want shoot-in-the-dark moving objects for an aps-c, get a f1.4 lens.

 

[kriptikracing]

Lenses are subjective, because all lenses and camera bodies are compromises, the top ones compromise weight, size and price. This is why asking what's "best" or "great" is not a good idea, only what's suitable for what purpose.

The efs15-85 is a very good standard zoom for aps-c (like 24-105 for full frame) because it isn't as expensive as the 17-55 and has longer zoom range. It isn't suitable for low light non-still shooting, because it goes from f3.5 to f4 and smaller nearly instantly and the current 18mp aps-c sensor lacks in low light capability. If you want shoot-in-the-dark moving objects for an aps-c, get a f1.4 lens.

What is considered low light? Also, what do u mean by shoot in the dark? Sorry just need a reference point so I can determine myself if the 15-85 is ok for me.

Bottom line, I'm getting the 60D through the loyalty program. I have $1500 to spend and the body alone is $640. If u were me where 75% of your pictures will be your child, what would you buy with the rest of the money?

 

[elflord]

What is considered low light?

Any condition that is likely to push the camera/lens combo to its limits.

Most indoor daylight conditions would be considered "low light" even night time with "normal" electric lights can be somewhat low.

Also, what do u mean by shoot in the dark? Sorry just need a reference point so I can determine myself if the 15-85 is ok for me.

If you are shooting indoors with the 15-85mm, you will want a flash. I wouldn't recommend this lens for photographing your growing son -- it's just not the best fit for this. Having a fixed f/2.8 aperture is more useful (higher shutter speeds indoors, more background blur)

Bottom line, I'm getting the 60D through the loyalty program. I have $1500 to spend and the body alone is $640. If u were me where 75% of your pictures will be your child, what would you buy with the rest of the money?

A flash and fast lenses. I bought my first SLR under similar circumstances to you (it was a Rebel XS for $400) and then got the Canon 50mm f/1.4, a flash and the 15-85mm. I ended up selling the 15-85mm, but the 50mm f/1.4 became my favorite lens.

Given what you wrote above, I'd recommend something like the Tamron non-VC (get this used), the 50mm f/1.4, and a decent flash (e.g. 430EX). That would get you close to 1500.

 

[Dylan777]

Lenses are subjective, because all lenses and camera bodies are compromises, the top ones compromise weight, size and price. This is why asking what's "best" or "great" is not a good idea, only what's suitable for what purpose.

The efs15-85 is a very good standard zoom for aps-c (like 24-105 for full frame) because it isn't as expensive as the 17-55 and has longer zoom range. It isn't suitable for low light non-still shooting, because it goes from f3.5 to f4 and smaller nearly instantly and the current 18mp aps-c sensor lacks in low light capability. If you want shoot-in-the-dark moving objects for an aps-c, get a f1.4 lens.

What is considered low light? Also, what do u mean by shoot in the dark? Sorry just need a reference point so I can determine myself if the 15-85 is ok for me.

Bottom line, I'm getting the 60D through the loyalty program. I have $1500 to spend and the body alone is $640. If u were me where 75% of your pictures will be your child, what would you buy with the rest of the money?

The pix below shows the baby is sleeping in the afternoon with window blind closed. Yes...there is still decent light around. Can you see the noise?

Keep in mind: this is 60D shot with 28mm prime at f1.8 - 1/50sec. Baby is sleeping = zero moment.

If money is an issue - Go with 60D + 28mm f1.8 prime and/or 50mm 1.8 prime

And if you still going for 15-85.....I suggest you buy ext flash and bounce it off from ceiling.

 

[Dylan777]

we call a joke because we were very disappointed when it come out, really a step back from 50D

buying 2day it's really foolish for someone that is staring with photography, infact
all advantage except ergonomics over the rebel line are gone, and at the same price you can buy a nikon D7000 (slightly more expensive) or a pentax K5 (less expensive)

LOL...you gotta be kidding right? pentax??? What are you going to do with lenses??? Let me guess, Tamron and Sigma ;D ;D ;D

and pentax for sure...tokina lenses pratically...so?

All junks

 

[aznable]

All junks

lol… oh gosh, and someone said i am a canon troll
i hope you are kidding

@kriptikracing

get an all-around zoom to start; better to get a fast one like a 17-5x f/2.8 stabilized

 

[Dylan777]

All junks

lol… oh gosh, and someone said i am a canon troll
i hope you are kidding

@kriptikracing

get an all-around zoom to start; better to get a fast one like a 17-5x f/2.8 stabilized

+1....see my 1st post:

-------------------------------------------------------------------
I have 60D about a year ago. I do miss the swivel screen for video shooting. I have two kids, 3.5yrs and 1.5yrs. Been there done that

DO NOT buy kit lens and use it 60D. With newborn - you will be shooting alot indoor first couple years - this is where you need fast lens, f2.8 or bigger. With 60D, try to keep your ISO below 800, otherwise your pics will look very noisy.

With the budget of $1500, try one of these lenses:
1. 28mm f1.8
2. 50 f1.4 or f1.8 (might not be wide enough for indoor)
3. 17-55 f2.8 IS (little pricy, but this is the BEST lens for crop sensor)

Here are some pix I took last year with 60D + 28mm and 50mm prime. JPEG without PP. straight from camera.
http://s1195.photobucket.com/albums/aa384/fifo_warehouse/60D%20Pix/?albumview=slideshow

 

[DianeK]

Used Canon 17-55's go for around $850-900. that could fit in the budget.
Diane

 

[aznable]

@kriptikracing

get an all-around zoom to start; better to get a fast one like a 17-5x f/2.8 stabilized

+1....but budget is an issue here
[/quote]

i would buy a sigma 17-50 os because i like the brand (and also a risky life in AF), but he can get also a used 17-55 canon if he is patient.

maybe for him is better 17-85 is that's very cheap (i know 15-85 is a better lens but the price is quite high ) and a fast prime for indoor shooting, thern he could resell them a buy somthign that will feed better his style of sthooting.

lenses are not like a smartphone or other consumer electronic products that loose their value in very short time

 

[EchoLocation]

Lenses are subjective, because all lenses and camera bodies are compromises, the top ones compromise weight, size and price. This is why asking what's "best" or "great" is not a good idea, only what's suitable for what purpose.

The efs15-85 is a very good standard zoom for aps-c (like 24-105 for full frame) because it isn't as expensive as the 17-55 and has longer zoom range. It isn't suitable for low light non-still shooting, because it goes from f3.5 to f4 and smaller nearly instantly and the current 18mp aps-c sensor lacks in low light capability. If you want shoot-in-the-dark moving objects for an aps-c, get a f1.4 lens.

What is considered low light? Also, what do u mean by shoot in the dark? Sorry just need a reference point so I can determine myself if the 15-85 is ok for me.

Bottom line, I'm getting the 60D through the loyalty program. I have $1500 to spend and the body alone is $640. If u were me where 75% of your pictures will be your child, what would you buy with the rest of the money?

while i personally think the 60D is a little long in the tooth, if you're buying it from the CLP then it isn't too bad of an idea. I might choose the 7D instead but that one is even older and definitely wayyy more complicated. Personally, I might just buy the 550D(T2i,) which is basically very similar to the 60D, just a little more rebelly feeling and without the top LCD. I'm not sure the price difference at the moment. Both cameras use the same sensor, have the safe AF basically and similar features(swivel screen seems the biggest difference to me.)
My cousin has a 60D and 15-85 and he is pretty happy. I have a 5D Classic and a 24-105(which, with the 50mm 1.8, and a used body, could be had for just around 1600 or 1700 dollars) and I think that this is a much more pro setup which kills the 60D in terms of photos of people. If you just want to take pictures of family that are better than a Point and Shoot then i'd go T2i and the kit lens(which was my first DSLR setup)..... Then I might wait and decide which direction you want to go in a year or two when most of the new lineup will be out and Photokina will be over(new 7D, 70D, low price FF, mirrorless.)
Personally, I don't think the 15-85 is that much better than the kit lens(although it is better,) I also don't think the 60D is that much better than the 550D. So personally I would go full frame, or rebel.
One thing I know(from experience,) is that it is very difficult to understand and know what you want/need/will use until after you spend a year or so using these cameras and lenses. I made some mistakes setting up my kit because I just wasn't aware of all the endless possibilities and repurcussions.