I am currently using a Cannon Digita Rebel (not the new XT) and do a lot of band photography, which means a lot of low light and no flash. I have a Tamron 28-300 f3.5-6.3, which I like for outdoor and nicely lit situations, and sometimes I can get a good shot during a show, but not usually. I mostly use a Canon 50mm f1.8 during shows, but sometimes its hard to get a lot of good shots b/c I cannot get up front all the time, so I'd like some sort of zoom with a constant f-stop and saw the Tokina. So has anyone used this lense or other Tokina lenses? I like the 80-200mm and I think f2.8 will be good enough for most shots during a show.
I also saw the Canon 135mm f2.8 Softfocus, which might be good too. But what does the 'softfocus' part of it mean. It seems to be the only Canon lense I see with that added at the end.
Other suggestions would be welcomed too, really not looking to spend anything more than $800, which I know is limiting me. Would consider under a $1000 if it was a REALLY good lense.
Thanks,
Adam