I have a ESO Rebel T3i camera I was wondering what is the best lens for zooming far.

[kim225]

What is the best lens for zooming far when trying to capture your child in a play or on stage performing?

[jrhoffman75]

The "best" lens would be a long, fast lens like the 70-200 f/2.8. But that's a $2000 lens. 

I would recommend the 55-250 STM zoom lens. You can get it for less than $150 as a refurb from the Canon eStore. 

[Waddizzle]

Be careful what you ask for. It sounds to me like you might need the two things that add up the most, a long focal length and a wide aperture, for low light shooting without a flash.

The "best" can be expensive.  How far away would you be?  Are you trying to capture a full body shot, I assume?  What sort of budget are you looking at?

[kvbarkley]

For Video or for stills?

I had pretty good luck with my 70-300, but it did not focus nery well and the IS was pretty noisy on the video. The stage was pretty well lit, too.

The 55-250 mentioned will work very well with video.

[kim225]

What about this one EF 70-200mm f/4L USM? I am loking to take graduations pictures and plays.

[kvbarkley]

Any 'L' lens is a good choice, though IS might be good for low light conditions.

[kim225]

This one EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM with the stabilizer are they good.

[Waddizzle]

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@kim225 wrote:

This one EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM with the stabilizer are they good.

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I would think that you would get MUCH better results from the 70-200mm f/4L, and cropping the photos in post.  While this lens may not have IS, it does have a wider aperture when zoomed. 

You're going to want fast shutter speeds, as fast as what is practical.  If you can attend a rehearsal, then I strongly suggest that you go and practice taking some shots.

[jrhoffman75]

What is your end use? Digital frame, Facebook or large prints.

[kim225]

Alot of digital use and facebook.