ChipD wrote:.

If I purchase the 400d body only and purchase the 17-85 IS lens andthen the 70-300 IS lens, wouldn't that work well?.

Sounds like a good combination to me..

I'm trying tofigure out why I'd want the 70-200IS which seems to be so much moreexpensive..

There are two 70-200 mm IS lenses, an f/2.8 and an f/4, both have excellent optics..

I do a lot of macros of bugs on trees, so I need the telephoto toreach them, at least that's what I've been doing with the Nikon..

Most lens specs will tell you the maximum magnification of the lens. For example, a lens with a stated magnification of 1x (or 1:1) will fill the senosor at the minimum focusing distance. (The 400D has a 22.2 x 14.8 mm sensor)..

The 17-85 has a maximum magnification of 0.20x, the 70-300 mm has a maximum magnification of 0.26x. How big are the bugs?.

Brian A..

You may be disappointed with the macro capabilities of the long lens. DSLRs are not the same as consumer cameras, and if you really want pictures of bugs, you will need a true macro lens for the job..

You have entered a whole new world with a DSLR. Many of the "rules" will change. You should do some reading about macro photography before you buy a lens for that purpose..

Nothing is enough for the man to whom nothing is enough...

Just typical insects that crawl on leaves such as aphids or worms. I had purchased the +1,+2+3 lenses for my Nikon if I needed it..

I do realize that I'll probably need a macro lens down the road.Thanks.Chip Doolittle..

You should be able to get the 400d and the 17-85 IS as part of a kit. That's what I did and I am very happy with the combination...

Yeah, I realize it's a brave new world!!! And I do know that I'll be purchasing a macro lens down the road. The next question would be which on, a 50, 60 or 100. More stuff to learn..

Chip Doolittle..

I don't think the kit lens is the same. In fact I think you could purchase the kit lens for a little over a $100, but the IS lens is around $500.00 +-.Chip Doolittle..

Canon came out with some updated "kits" a month or so ago. I've seen the 30d one with the 17-85IS but not sure if the 400d has that combination available but it would be a good idea to check the camera store. The packages usually give you a bit of a break when you get both together but not always. B&H is showing a 350D package with that combination..

Http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...ct/415470-REG/Canon__EOS_Digital_Rebel_XT.html.

Doug.

Http://douginoviedo.smugmug.com/..

Not a true macro but I've used it for some close focusing shots and for the price it works pretty good and it will give you something to practise with until you can get one of the higher quality lens. The 17-85 will be a good choice for a walk around lens that will let you get a lot out of the camera and experiment with some different FL's and see what you like, IMHO..

Taken with a 50mm MKII.

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Doug.

Http://douginoviedo.smugmug.com/..

Wow, you did that with a 50? There's hope!!Thanks.Chip Doolittle..