Help me choose a lense to bring - first timer

[westside8]

First time ever to WDW for me and I'm wondering if I can get some input on what lense to bring. I have access (either mine or a friend's) so I can take take any of them, just don't want to bring more than 1.

1. 18-200mm f/3.5-4.5IS
2. 70-200mm f/2.8 IS
3. 24-70mm f/2.8
4. 24-105mm f/4 IS

I will be bringing down my 40D as well to use. I am leaning towards either the #1 or #4 as it provides a good range and isn't too big. I am able to shoot wide for landscape/scenery shots and I can zoom in during parades if necessary to get more of a close-up shot.

Also what does everyone do with their cameras and their backpacks when they go on rides? I plan on carrying a regular backpack just to carry a jacket, water, etc.

 

[photo_chick]

I'd go with the 24-105 myself, but we all have different preferences.

I keep my camera on me with a Lenscoat Bodybag on it. One of us carries a hip pack that holds water, ponchos, my 50mm f/1.8, a plastic bag to put it all in if it rains, and sometimes I stuff another lens in there along with other extras. It all goes on the rides with us.

 

[rmattman]

I prefer the 18-200mm so that you have a little additional reach to grab a more distant shot. Unfortunately, neither the 24-105 or the 18-200 will allow you to take low light shots on the rides. If I did not need the additional focal length for longer shots, I would take the 24-70mm f2.8 to improve indoor low light ride photos. Have a good trip.

 

[westside8]

I prefer the 18-200mm so that you have a little additional reach to grab a more distant shot. Unfortunately, neither the 24-105 or the 18-200 will allow you to take low light shots on the rides. If I did not need the additional focal length for longer shots, I would take the 24-70mm f2.8 to improve indoor low light ride photos. Have a good trip.

I am not really concerned with pictures of the rides, for me the main focus of pictures will be fireworks/parades, as well as the walk-around shots of thep ark itself.

 

[wbeem]

I usually walk around with my 24-70. For fireworks, you'll want something wide and a tripod for stability. It's quality glass and I like the bokeh on it compared to your other choices if you want to isolate something.

If you want parades, that 18-200 is going to give you the most flexibility. You can open wide for the entire float or zoom in for a tight shot on a character or some detail. The 24-70 is a decent range once they get close, but I'd still like a longer lens in a few cases.

The 18-200 will cover the subjects you said. Unless there's something else where you want the extra f-stops or bokeh of the 24-70, I'd probably choose the 18-200.

 

[krb2g]

I'd probably go with the 18-200 for the widest range of focal lengths. I carry my camera and lenses in a Lowepro slingshot bag. It comes on all the rides with me. If it doesn't fit in the designated gear storage area, it rides on the floor with my foot through the strap.