Newbie question about telephoto lens for Canon EOS Rebel XS

[kayemgi]

I recently purchased a refurbed Canon Eos Rebel XS as a start to getting back into SLR photography -- I haven't used an SLR with an regularity or finesse since college (when they still took film!). I chose this model basically because I had a super tight budget and I had used it sporadically for work in the past.

I am thinking that a zoom lens would really be enjoyable for me, but I'm feeling a lot like a newbie here with the DSLR and with also never having used a telephoto before.

I'm looking at the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS II and the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III and I'm just not sure of a couple of things:

1. Will these even work with my sad little EOS Rebel XS? It's not even an option in the compatibility drop down menus on Amazon.

2. If they will, which would be better? I'm a newb and still getting to know my DSLR, but I enjoy taking zoomed-in shots. I think I would use a telephoto lens as much or more than I use the regular 18-55 lens.

Obviously, budget is coming into play again here. I can get refurbed versions of either of these for less than $200, which is the max I would be able to spend at this time. I'm slightly leaning towards the 75-300 because it looks like that has a better zoom, but again, newbie here. Thoughts and opinions from the experts would be most appreciated! TIA!

 

[bob100]

I recently purchased a refurbed Canon Eos Rebel XS as a start to getting back into SLR photography -- I haven't used an SLR with an regularity or finesse since college (when they still took film!). I chose this model basically because I had a super tight budget and I had used it sporadically for work in the past.

I am thinking that a zoom lens would really be enjoyable for me, but I'm feeling a lot like a newbie here with the DSLR and with also never having used a telephoto before.

I'm looking at the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS II and the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III and I'm just not sure of a couple of things:

1. Will these even work with my sad little EOS Rebel XS? It's not even an option in the compatibility drop down menus on Amazon.

2. If they will, which would be better? I'm a newb and still getting to know my DSLR, but I enjoy taking zoomed-in shots. I think I would use a telephoto lens as much or more than I use the regular 18-55 lens.

Obviously, budget is coming into play again here. I can get refurbed versions of either of these for less than $200, which is the max I would be able to spend at this time. I'm slightly leaning towards the 75-300 because it looks like that has a better zoom, but again, newbie here. Thoughts and opinions from the experts would be most appreciated! TIA!

get the 55-250IS -- it has better optics (sharper) and it has "IS" - image stabilization. The Adorama refurb is $179 (includes warranty and free shipping)

Or buy used on POTN, they often sell for around $100

the 55-250IS is a good lightweight sharp telephoto zoom,
an example

XSi (450D)
Canon 55-250IS

 

[ThurlFan]

Don't take this as gospel, but I am pretty sure they would work fine on the XS. I have the 55-250 that I use with my XSi and I am pleased with it for general use. I have taken lots of pictures of high school marching band under the lights, and lots of pics at Disney (Safari at AK, Castle stage shows at MK etc) and been quite happy with the results.

 

[kayemgi]

Thanks for the help! It's much appreciated.

 

[photo_chick]

I recently purchased a refurbed Canon Eos Rebel XS as a start to getting back into SLR photography -- I haven't used an SLR with an regularity or finesse since college (when they still took film!). I chose this model basically because I had a super tight budget and I had used it sporadically for work in the past.

I am thinking that a zoom lens would really be enjoyable for me, but I'm feeling a lot like a newbie here with the DSLR and with also never having used a telephoto before.

I'm looking at the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS II and the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III and I'm just not sure of a couple of things:

1. Will these even work with my sad little EOS Rebel XS? It's not even an option in the compatibility drop down menus on Amazon.

2. If they will, which would be better? I'm a newb and still getting to know my DSLR, but I enjoy taking zoomed-in shots. I think I would use a telephoto lens as much or more than I use the regular 18-55 lens.

Obviously, budget is coming into play again here. I can get refurbed versions of either of these for less than $200, which is the max I would be able to spend at this time. I'm slightly leaning towards the 75-300 because it looks like that has a better zoom, but again, newbie here. Thoughts and opinions from the experts would be most appreciated! TIA!

Any Canon lens labeled EF or EF-S will work on your Rebel XS.

Go with the 55-250, it's a solid lens. The 75-300 is the worst lens Canon currently has in production. Both versions (with USM and without) are awful.

 

[Frantasmic]

039 by msf61, on Flickr

It even does fairly decent in darker venues. I third the other esteemed posters in recommending the 55-250.

 

[kayemgi]

Seems unanimous. Thanks everyone!!

 

[mom2rtk]

Just don't ask which tripod to buy. You won't get consensus on that one!

 

[Frantasmic]

Only buy tripods with 3 legs. Any less and they just aren't worth it.

 

[mom2rtk]

Only buy tripods with 3 legs. Any less and they just aren't worth it.

Well, MAYBE you could get agreement on that point.

 

[superdisneydork]

The 75-300 is the worst lens Canon currently has in production. Both versions (with USM and without) are awful.

I wholeheartedly concur, it's absolutely awful, worst purchase I've ever made, I couldn't even unload it on eBay for half of what I paid (and it was on sale!). It's just terrible. Go with the 55-250IS.

Matt

 

[nvtsallo]

55-250 is for sure. You want is ( Image Stabilization) for a telephoto lens. The next option would be the ef 70-300 but even refurbed would over your budget.

 

[kayemgi]

I'm so glad I asked! Thanks again everyone! I can't wait to get my new toy.