I just sold my 24-105 F4L and i'm either upgrading to the 24-70 2.8L or the 35 1.4L but I can't decide. It will be my main lens for everyday usage varying from automotive to weddings to portraits until I have enough for another lens. my budget is around $1200 and I'll probably buy it used, I also shoot with a 7D so it has the 1.6 magnifier. Thanks!

 

This should be a no-brainer for any photographer.

If you're going to have one lens, get one that can cover many needs. This would be a zoom, not a prime.

If you're doing portraits, a 35mm and a no-no for your only lens.

 

Save the $1,200 and use it towards renting the lenses you need when you need it from Borrowlenses.com. You shouldn't be going to a wedding carrying just ONE body and ONE lens.

 

I'd say put $800 towards creativelive.com and $400 towards borrow lenses. Both companies are such great resources!

Just last night I was shooting a dance consume the was full of sequins and got WAY too much reflection. I immediately went "Angle of reflection! Thanks Zack Arias and Creative Live!" Rotated the dancer a little bit and all was well!

 

After some thought, I'll spend $1,200 on 20/2.8, 50/1.4, and a 85/1.8.

 

Mmmmmm, 85/1.4

 

Just get the 24-70 and call it a night.
It's just heavy with no IS and mad vignetting wide open on the 24mm side(in FF cameras) of things but a nice overall lens.
It's an overall lens "walkabout" lens.

Gives you enough time to save up for a 50mm 135L (CHEAP SEX) and maybe a 24L (all depends)

 

I'd put in a vote for the 24-70L. It can do portraits, automotive, low light, weddings and anything else you throw at it.