Zoom + Macro = Compromise?

[Kdot]

I currently use the kit lens for the lower zoom range, and although I've taken some (for me) decent shots with the lens, I'd like something a bit faster (for indoor portraits, and the likes), so have been looking at some f2.8 zoom lenses, as replacements e.g. Tamron 17-50mm.

I'd also like to get into macro and/or close-up photography, as an aside, and was considering keeping the kit lens, and supplementing that with an EF-S 60mm macro lens.

Sadly, I cannot afford both, which would be an ideal combination from a functional point of view. However, as I am not big into lens swapping, I was just wondering whether there was something out there that would have the zoom, speed and IQ of the Tamron, but with some level of macro capability?

I know the Sigma 18-50mm has the macro suffix, but it is universally knocked back when compared to the Tamron. Is that the compromise I have to choose between, i.e. IQ or macro, as I've been trying to make that decision for weeks, without ever reaching any conclusion :thumbsdown: Help!

 

[birdy961]

Hmm, difficult one indeed

Personally I would decide which is more important to you, a better replacement for the kit lens or a Macro lens so you can "get into it".

How important is starting to get into Macro to you?

I decided to replace the kit lens first and then save a bit and get a dedicated Macro.

Not really sure if this helps or not, sorry :shrug:

 

[vmlopes]

Have used the Canon 17-85 IS, with good success and has been a regular walk around lens.

Victor

 

[33L]

the sigma 17-70mm which i have doersnt have a fixed aperture. it is quite sharp and is a macro lens and can focus down to 20cm if my memory serves me well. Macro wise it is only a ratio of 1:2.9 or something like that so basically its half size.
the lens can be had brand new near £200.

I use it to great affect as a walk about and macro lens for flowers.
i will post some samples tomrrow if you wish of both macro and landscape work.

 

[Kdot]

Thanks for the suggestions - the ranges of both would be ideal for me, they're great walkaround lenses, for sure. But is either going to cut it, for internal, low light (portarit) shots, when realistically the aperture is going to be of similar size to the kit lens (IS accepted on the 17-85, but that has no macro capability).

If I was just looking at the portarit and macro side, then the efs60mm would seem to suit - I don't mind zooming with my feet. But, that would mean maintaining the kit lens for the foreseeable future.

I did come to the conclusion that I wanted too much for too little money, but then I'm not sure there is a single solution at any price at the moment! :bonk:

I don't like compromising...:bang: