New Camera or New Glass?

[ehammock]

Hi,

I have recently come in to a bit of money and have about £1000 for camera equipment. I currently have a 5D mk1 coupled with a 24-70mm f2.8 L Canon lens, I also have access to my father's 100-400mm f5.6-f6.3 L Canon. This is a cracking everyday set up, which I am improving with. I've had it for about 6 years. My question is this (and I will also post this on the DSLR part of the forum): Do I upgrade to a 5D Mk2, or purchase a good wide angle lens, or a 50mm f1.4 prime with a selection of other lenses. You get the idea, 1k is a lot of money to me, and I honestly don't know which way to go. Fill the camera bag, or renew the camera?

Thanks,

Edward.

[markgozz]

Edward if you do go for the 5d mk2 I think you will have to add to your funds a bit because at £1,500 it's well over your budget , have you taken this into consideration ?

Mark

[chris-p]

As Mark mentioned - you'll struggle to find a 5DII for £1,000. The rumour mill suggests a 5DIII coming fairly soon so the MkII might come down a but in price. I wouldn't hold your breath though.

It's almost always worth investing more in lenses than in camera bodies. The 5DMkII is a significant upgrade from the 5D (often not the case - camera upgrades are commonly more incremental). It really depends on the lens.

Canon's wideangle L series lens (the 16-35mm f/2.8 L) is about £1,100 which is £400 - £500 less than a 5DII body.

[AndrewKulin]

I'll add that you have a couple of good lenses already and, a camera that is 6 years old, and something to think about is the remaining useful life of the camera going forward. I mean in terms of possible electronic or mechanical failure of the camera itself, not image quality and things like that. What happens if you spend this money on a new lens and the camera then dies in 2 months time?

[cosmicma]

with a 1000 quid cash and the part ex /sale of the 5d mk1 he should be able to cover the cost of the MK2
5d mk 1's still seem to demand an asking price of 600 / 700 quid depending on usage / condition etc..
it's probably what i would do if i was in the same position