Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens

I was looking for a lens that could potentially hit 90% of my subject matter. I find my 17-55mm lens a bit wide for shots of family, and since I don't focus on landscape (and stitch if I want to go wide) the lack of a wide bottom end on a crop sensor camera was worth the addition of 50mm on the long end. On the other hand, carrying a 70-200 to be able to grap a few shots at 70mm or 100mm is a lot of extra kit when traveling light.

This lens is built solidly, and feels like the right weight on a 40D. Unlike models I've tried in stores the zoom ring was smooth. The closeup ability of this lens isn't macro, but close enough that I may consider leaving the macro lens at home unless I heading out for that purpose.

IS is a welcome feature, and one lacking on the 24-70mm alternative. For low light I tend to use bounced flash indoors, or need depth of field outdoors (read tripod or IS). Therefore the f/4 maximum aperture isn't a deal breaker for me. At 105mm the depth of field is similar to my 55mm at f/2.8. If I really want thin depth of field a fast prime is the way to go anyways on a crop sensor. This lens is a nice overlap with the 70-200 series of lenses. Enough overlap that you don't need to swap between them as much as with the 17-55mm.

Overall a nice lens on a crop sensor for my uses. Purchased with the understanding that things are headed full frame down the road...