Lens recommendations for Eos90d: Canon specs vs Sigma specs

[Twiddler]

Hi again 

I'll soon be getting a new lens to go with my eos90d- now a year old. I've already got two Prime lenses, a 24mm and 50mm and love the quality of the pictures. 

Initially I was going to just get a bigger zoom - EF  70-300mm f4.5.6 IS II USM 

Then someone suggested I look at the Sigma 210101 18-35mm f1.8 DC HSM

Here in the UK they are in the same price range around £650. 

So here's my question (s) As a newcomer I've learnt to read the canon lens numbers to a certain extent- BUT - I'm struggling to understand the Sigma spec. 

So - is this a straight forward compare and contrast- or - are these two lenses completely different. 

Photography is for my personal use - I want a better zoom for landscapes + at the moment I do quite a lot railway work, from close ups in a station to trains crossing viaducts etc. 

So Sigma or Canon - (or both) not an option this year!

Thanks 

Twiddler

[kvbarkley · Accepted solution]

So by considering the sigma you are giving up on the idea of "more 'length'"?

[kvbarkley]

Those are two very different lenses. Look at your images, do you more often wish that you could go wider? Or narrower (i.e., longer telephoto.)

I would suggest selling both primes and getting the kit lens EF-S 18-55* and the EF 70-300 II to give yourself more coverage across the range.

*If the budget works, the EF-S 18-135 is also a good pairing with the 90D.

[ebiggs1]

"I would suggest selling both primes and getting the kit lens EF-S 18-55" Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens.

It is the only lens I ever had or saw that would make me buy a camera just to be able to use it. I am good with selling your current primes because if you get the Siggy you'll never use them again.

"If the budget works, the EF-S 18-135 is also a good pairing with the 90D." I second this choice. However, if you are needing a longer tele you need to consider buying two lenses. Perhaps the ef 70-200mm f4L as it is an outstanding lens and is in line with the same IQ as the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens. It is generally best to keep all your gear essentially in or at the same level.

[Twiddler]

Thanks - I should have said I already have the EF 18 - 135 as it came with the camera. I find it a good lens - but at 135 it has its limitations. So my initial reason for upgrading was to get more 'length'  - the Sigma popped up - hence my post. But I just read a review of the Sigma, that praised it's quality, but was sceptical of the longevity and ability to maintain it in the long run. 

Thanks again

Really appreciate your expertise and advice.

Twiddler

[kvbarkley · Accepted solution]

So by considering the sigma you are giving up on the idea of "more 'length'"?

[Twiddler · Accepted solution]

That's what I needed clarified- the reviews for the Sigma - on Amazon- make it sound like it's good at a wide range of things. You've answered my question. Thanks Guys.