New body or new lens?

[JustADay]

Hi guys,

I've been using my current DSLR and lens for the last 3 and a half years now- a Sony A290 body with Sony 18-250mm lens. Although I'm generally very pleased with the results I'm starting to consider an upgrade. Unfortunately, I can't really justify both a new body and a decent lens at the moment so I need to work out what is likely to give me the best improvement in image quality.

Whilst the 18-250mm's range obviously has some impact on the image quality I do like the convenience it offers. Generally I've not seen too many quality issues around the centre of the image, although there can be a small amount of degradation around the edges. Although I don't really have a frame of reference with other lenses the reviews of the SAL18250 are generally very good.

Currently I would estimate that 80% of my photos are in the 18-55mm range. I do also have a 135mm F2.8 prime lens for telephoto shots, although because of the fixed focal length I don't tend to use it very much.

My current thinking is to either get a decent quality wide-normal zoom lens, or a newer Sony body to continue to use the 18-250mm lens. Just wondered what any else might recommend? Maximum budget is 300, ideally less. Cheers

[Simpo Two]

If the problem is poor image quality at the edges then you need a better lens - you're paying the price for the high zoom ratio. Given your main usage then yes, get a high quality zoom in the 18-55 area. Generally the more you pay the better it will be.

[George7]

I've had my Sony 16-105mm for many years now, it's a great all purpose lens and I've not been disappointed with the quality at all. I'm not sure how much they cost now. I know the RRP was 500, but I picked mine up for 250 from the Talk Photography classifieds. There used to be quite a few about, as it was the kit lens for the A700, but I'm not so sure now.

[JustADay]

Thanks for the replies. Just to clarify what I mean when I say there is slight distortion around the edge of the images, this 1:1 crop is from the centre of an image:



This one is from the bottom corner:



As you can see although there is some distortion in the very corner, it isn't horrendous, and is only really right in the corner.

I'm wondering whether I would see an improvement in overall quality by replacing a (now) 4 year old body, or whether the lens would still be the limiting factor? As suggested I like the look of the Sony 16-105, and the Tamron 17-50 appeals too, but I don't want to spend the money on one these to find that the body is still holding me back? I guess the answer is to buy both but unfortunately I can't really justify that at the moment!

[Simpo Two]

JustADay said:

I'm wondering whether I would see an improvement in overall quality by replacing a (now) 4 year old body, or whether the lens would still be the limiting factor? As suggested I like the look of the Sony 16-105, and the Tamron 17-50 appeals too, but I don't want to spend the money on one these to find that the body is still holding me back? I guess the answer is to buy both but unfortunately I can't really justify that at the moment!

The body only records what the lens throws at it. Indeed the 'better' the body the more the shortcomings of the lens can show up. Face it, you want a new camera body because they are shiny, and are hoping the lens issue can be blamed on the old body to justify the expenditure

[Zad]

TL;DR: The lens makes the distortion not the camera. Generally speaking, the wider the zoom range, the lower the lens' performance. Convenience or cracking photo quality? you decide.

[Golaboots]

I'd be inclined to spend on something you don't already have.
I.e.a high quality fast prime or an ultra wide lens etc.

There's probably some bargain Minolta lenses about.

A new body gives better iso performance more than anything else.

[JustADay]

Simpo Two said:

The body only records what the lens throws at it. Indeed the 'better' the body the more the shortcomings of the lens can show up. Face it, you want a new camera body because they are shiny, and are hoping the lens issue can be blamed on the old body to justify the expenditure

I think you're right, I fancy a new body more than actually needing one.

I'm now considering either the Tamron 17-50 F2.8, or the Sigma 17-70 F2.8-4. The reviews for both seem to be very good, although I'm probably edging towards the Tamron due to the cheaper price, constant aperture, and (as stupid as it sounds) the zoom ring turning the 'wrong' way on the Sigma. Hopefully I can upgrade the body later in the year then.

Thanks for all your suggestions!

Edited by JustADay on Tuesday 27th May 21:54