The Best Starter Kit for a DSLR Beginner

[the_dslr_gooner]

What would be the best:-

Zoom / Telephoto Lens

Macro Lens
Wide-Angle Lens
Prime Lens
Bag / Case

for a DSLR beginner?

I am posting this as I have just purchased a Canon EOS 400D and was wondering which lenses and accesories would be best?

Say 3rd Party Lenses suggested, with a few Canon Suggestions. As I wouldn't buy all at once of course!

[BBPhoto]

That's a little but too general of a question to give a fair answer to. What is your budget and what are your particular interests?

[the_dslr_gooner]

I would defintely need a macro lens and zoom/telephoto lens.

My budget is probablly $400 per lens.

I would like a bag for my camera and lenses but I would also like to use it for college/uni.

Does such a thing exist?

[BBPhoto]

Given that information you would probably be best served by 3rd party lenses. An excellent alternative to the kit lens is the Sigma 17-70. It's sharp, lightweight, has a nice focal range and best of all, it's well within your budget. For the macro lens, the Sigma 105mm is also a very nice choice. I would recommend the Canon 100 f/2.8 macro over the Sigma but if you intend on doing serious macro work, you'll eventually have to include a flash unit in your budget so you'll benefit from the Sigma's lower price.

Regarding the bag, just about every maker has at least one model in their lineup that includes storage for camera gear and a laptop. It's possible that some models may suit your needs depending on how much stuff you have overall. The best way to tackle that is by stopping by a store and looking them over yourself. Generally speaking, I like Lowepro, Tamrac and Kata. Good luck.

[aparmley]

What would be the best:-

Zoom / Telephoto Lens - Canon 70-300 IS USM

Macro Lens - Canon 60mm EF-S or Canon 100 F2.8 USM
Wide-Angle Lens - Sigma 10-20 HSM
Prime Lens - Canon 35 F/2.0 or Sigma 30 f/1.4 or Canon 50 1.4
Bag / Case - Anything that fits your gear.

for a DSLR beginner?

I am posting this as I have just purchased a Canon EOS 400D and was wondering which lenses and accesories would be best?

Say 3rd Party Lenses suggested, with a few Canon Suggestions. As I wouldn't buy all at once of course!

My suggestions are in red.

I use to own canon gear.

[BBPhoto]

Definitely agree with the 70-300IS. It's a super lens.