Topic: Canon Lense Questions: Canon EF 135mm Softfocus and Tokina 80-200mm f2.8

[hogan20a]

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

[MattD]

The SF has settings for just that. I haven't come across anyone who's completely enamored with the effect, but it could be that most people don't know how to use it properly. I'd fall into that category, so I'd avoid it. I've never used either of the lenses you mentioned moving to. However, with your budget, I have two recommendations that would both likely serve you better: the Canon 135/2 and 85/1.8. You would know best for the venues you shoot in which focal length would be more useful.

[bagtagsell]

Fast glass = 
I have never used the drebel, but I hear there is some noise issues.  So fast glass is so crucial.  L glass is the way to go, but there are some non "l" options.

Tamron 28-75 2.8 xr di zoom.  Is great.  make sure to get a good copy.

[ditto]

Check around for a used 135L.  Fast glass and one of the best from Canon.  Sharp wide open where you'll most like shoot.  Noise can be an issue with the dreb.  Try neat image or noise ninja and be conservative when reducing noise.  I'd prefer a slightly noisy pic instead of one over done with NR software.  Another thing--consider a used 20D or a XT amd dump the dreb.  These two do great at higher ISO and the 20D can go to 3200 and the pics still look good. 

There is a guy on FM.com who shoots alot of concerts in lowlight.  He uses a 20D and XT.  He has mentioned shooting at 3200, 6400 and 9600 ISO   Pushing ISO produces more noise but helps increase shutter speed.

[bagtagsell]

135 l is one of my favorite lenses.   it is so sweet.  I had an 85 l for a while, uber cool, it lives up to every rumor, but couldn't afford to keep it.  The non-l 85 is a great lens.

[hogan20a]

Is the non-L version of the 135 not that good?

[jpschust]

Is the non-L version of the 135 not that good?

it's good, but the quality varies from copy to copy- ive seen some with really bad CA to them plus some wierd backfocus issues from time to time.

[hogan20a]

Is there a way to tell a 'good copy' from a bad one, or do you basically just find out when you start shooting.

Adam

[MikeW]

I love my 80-210mm f/4. It surprisingly sharp, with some good bokeh, and I paid $80 inc. shipping for mine on ebay.  It's currently my fav lens, and it was the cheapest.

[hogan20a]

Mike

Who makes that lense you are talking about?