Got a new DSLR today - any suggestions on an additional lens?

[lucas.kent]

Hey guys - I've been thumbing through a lot of these threads seeing what kind of cameras everyone uses and decided to pick up a Canon XSi. I got some Hoya lens filters, but wasn't ready to pull the trigger on a lens (beyond the kit lens). Does anyone have any suggestions on a good first lens for the camera that is pretty versatile? I imagine that the subject matter of most of my photos will be landscape/nature (I'm actually going to Glacier Park Montana next week), but of course there will be many of the car as well.

I've had a DSLR before, but am no expert. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. I'd like to spend between $100-500.

As soon as I get a chance I'll snap some pictures and put 'em up. Thanks in advance!

[oneintheory]

used 17-40 f/4L.

and a monopod.

[vachss]

I gave my wife my XSi when I upgraded. After a couple of months the main thing she was missing was more telephoto range for casual wildlife shooting. A good cheap option for this is the EF-S 55-250IS - essentially the telephoto complement to the 18-55IS kit lens, same blend of cheap build quality (and price) with good optical performance. For a couple of hundred bucks I think it makes a good 2nd lens.

Lots of folks may recommend more expensive and more specialized lenses, and such lenses are indeed "better" at some things. My take though is that you should shoot enough to feel the need for the special properties provided by these lenses before coughing up the big bucks they require.

[radiantm3]

Originally Posted by oneintheory

used 17-40 f/4L.

and a monopod.

That probably won't be much wider if at all than whatever came with the camera on a crop body. For Landscape + Automotive photography, I'd spring for the 10-22mm EFS lens on a crop. It's pricey, but well worth it and retains it's value very well. I loved mine when I was on a crop.

[Dr_Jones]

Its not as fantastic as the 17-40 but i really like my 17-85mm