Just been given a job to shoot 6-8 stage shows over the next 6 months so i feel a nice f1.4 or decent f1.8 lens is in order. I currently have a 50f1.8 and i feel that it should be a crime to use this when money is involved, it simply can't keep up. My budget is about $1100US and im happy to buy used with warrenty.

Im currently considering 35 f1.4L but im not sure. I currently use a 40D but in about 3 months ill be moving to a 1.3 Crop 1DmkIIn.

Any ideas would be great.

Depends how close you will be able to get.

The classic 'theatrical' lens (on full frame anyway) is the 135 F2, but if you are able to get closer and shoot the previews then yes a 35 1.4 might be good.

Also consider the 85 1.8 and 100 f2 which are both very good value.

David

How far away will you be from the action?

You'd probably be better off with a 135/2L as far as I can see...

I will be shooting the dress rehersals so will have alot of freedom. A 100 f2 would be a nice addition too though for times i cant get as close as id like to. Just checked internet banking and my budget is a little higher but not much, up to $1200 so about $900 after i get a 100 f2.

What would 28 f1.8, 50 f1.4 and 85 f1.8 be like as a set for stage shooting? got my 70-200 f2.8IS L and 300 f2.8IS L for shooting from further back.

I recently posted a few pictures of my daughter while she is on a small stage. I was very close to the stage and used mostly my 70-200 f2.8L IS. I just bought a 135L in case I have to take some non-flash shots for the next show in two weeks. I have the 50 f1.4 and love it. I recommend that as well as the 24L or 35L. This will give you the almost full gamut of 24/35-300 with almost L quality throughout. It seems that the 16-35L is out of your price range, although you might go with one non-L for the first few months and get the 16-35L later on. There are as many opinions as viewers. Happy spending and good shooting!

I have used the 85 f/1.8 and it works pretty well, but I was shooting from the front row. I think a 135L would be terrific. If you need to get several people in the frame the shorter focal lengths could be useful, but I would expect that 85 to 135 will suit most of your needs quite well.

I will often be standing right at the stage edge for 90% of the shots.

The shutter of the 1D is usually TOO LOUD for theather work with an audiance.
I have been using the 5D and 135L with the 35L and 85L waiting in the wings.
The 85-1.8 on the 40D and the 35L for wide shots should fill the bill.

NSWESP wrote:
What would 28 f1.8, 50 f1.4 and 85 f1.8 be like as a set for stage shooting? got my 70-200 f2.8IS L and 300 f2.8IS L for shooting from further back.

Those three lenses are my "prime trifecta" that I carry with me to all gigs in case the light is too low for my 2.8 zooms... But if the stage is lit well enough, a fast zoom would be preferred as it allows you to grab different framings from the same spot, without having to move around a lot. If you don't yet own the 17-55IS, then you're really missing out on the best lens ever made for a crop camera.

Chris M
www.imagineimagery.com

Just having a think i can get:
Option 1:
35L
Option 2:
50L
Option 3:
28 f1.8
50 f1.4
85 f1.8
Option 4:
135L
50 f1.4 or 85 f1.8

Will be using them on a 40D.

We use a Canon 5D with a Canon 50mm 1.2. We sit in the front row and this set-up works fine.

Ty

www.tyholland.com