Lens Recommendations

[txdano]

I just switched to a Rebel Xti with the Ikelite housing and DS-125 strobe from a Canon point and shoot. I have been very happy with the Canon 100mm macro lens, and now am looking for a second lens for semi-wide angle shots. Looking for something is that is more general purpose; don’t need to shoot shipwrecks but just larger fish subjects. I have a 24-105 mm IS L lens that I use topside, but have not found an Ikelite port to fit it.

My constraints are that I really don’t want to get something so wide that I need a second strobe, and I would like non-EFS. I have learned a great deal from these forums, and would be interested in hearing your recommendations.

Thanks

 

[Warren_L]

The DS-125 has a pretty decent angle of coverage (90 degrees or 100 degrees if you use the diffuser). I would suggest if Canon has a moderate wide zoom in the 17mm or 18mm range on the wide end, that would be a good way to go. 18-55mm perhaps?

 

[MarkH]

Since I'm cheap, I'm using the Zenitar 16mm fisheye. On the 1.6 cropped sensor, it gives you about 95 degrees coverage or the full-frame equivalent of a 20mm or so. It only costs around $120 new and has decent quality. I saw one test where it's sharper than the Nikon fisheye at small aperatures. It comes with an EOS mount, but has manual focus and manual aperature adjustment only.

 

[sharkbaitDAN]

I use the 17-40L on an XT with an Ikelite housing. Its good for things in the 10 inch to 10 foot range, and can get ok pictures of bigger things like wrecks, especially in clear shallow water. Since its an L, no worries on picture quality, and the min. focus distance is close enough to get pictures of smaller things if you see something cool.

 

[alcina]

I like the 17-70 Sigma macro. Believe it is an EFS lens, but for the money, quality and versatility with my current system there's no way I would be without it.

 

[txdano]

Thanks for the info everyone. SharkbaitDan, I had been seriously considering the 17-40L , do you know offhand if it is the 5503.51 port they specify that you are using?
Alcina, I found several good reviews on the Sigma and it is half the price of course. Very nice pics in your gallery BTW.

Do either of you find you prefer to use a diopter with your lens?

 

[sharkbaitDAN]

i am using that port, and it is a very tight fit for the lens with no room for any filters or diopters on the end. I made the mistake once of forgetting to take my haze filter off and couldn't figure out why i couldn't seal the port.

 

[txdano]

Yeah, it is that way with my 100mm macro lens, actually touches the front of the flat port. I was asking because I have seen docs showing both the 5503.50 and 5503.51 as appropriate for the 17-40mm, and wanted to verify what someone was using successfully.

 

[Diver Dennis]

i am using that port, and it is a very tight fit for the lens with no room for any filters or diopters on the end. I made the mistake once of forgetting to take my haze filter off and couldn't figure out why i couldn't seal the port.

he he he... I've done that to.

I just got a 60mm to compare against my 100mm but have yet to dive with it.