It's a zoom lens. 24mm at the widest, 85 at the tallest.
When you look at lenses, you need to know the length of the lens (24-85), and the aperature. I think this one's f3.5 that's the widest the aperature in the lens will open up.
so it's a 24-85mm f3.5 If you do some research on them,
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/control ... o_itemInfo
you find out it's a 67mm filter, and the minimum focus distance is 1.75' or 21 inches. However knowing that is measured at the widest view (24mm) you can se it's not such a good macro lens. if you zoom in, you'll need more distance.
Now, as you get into biger aperature lenses "faster*" lenses, that's where the money comes in. All those cameras at the end zone of a football game are really fast lenses (f1.8, f2.0) They also cost around $2k each. For the pro photographers, its a work tool. For me it's a dream to have one.(* 'faster' because it lets you shoot with faster shutter speed and still expose correctly.)
The (almost) short answer:
It's a good lens, however, IF you've already got the eos system, check around for used lenses. They'll be cheaper. YOu may get two or three lenses for the same amount of money. also, It's about the same lens you get with most camera 'Kits'. My elanIIE came with a 28-80. If you're really looking for a wide angle. Buy just a wide ange. They're under $100 used (most are also good macro lenses.) Same with the extra 5mm zoom. You can get a 75-300 f4 for under $200. If you're looking for ONE lens to do both, it will be okay.
B
