Originally posted by SSGGeezer
Now what if I acquire a DA 40 2.8 Ltd also? Replace the DA 50 if that makes the cut? The 40 does have a different feel to the images than the 20-40 at the long end. Tell me what you think so someone can win a K-1!
The 40 is tiny but the DA 50mm f1.8 is neither large nor heavy, and it is f1.8 vs f2.8. The DA 50mm f1.8 vs the FA77 f1.8 is a more compelling question. The DA 50 is slightly smaller than the FA77, weighs less and is wider but every bit as fast, and is a less costly loss if something goes wrong, but the FA77 images do have a special exquisiteness. The FA43 f1.9 could be a good choice, but it costs more and you'd have to get used enough to it to use it without thinking much in a social situation in a short period of time, which might or might not work out.
Would the 15mm be for landscape or group pictures? It might not be the right tool for the latter. The more stuff you carry, - even if it's small and light - the more stuff you have to keep track of and the more stuff you risk misplacing or having stolen or damaged.
If you are doing landscape and critters at the lake than yes to the 15 and even the 55-300 plm if you really will have time and reasonable expectation of good light. Maybe ask your cousin what manner of critters you are actually likely to see at that time of year to gauge whether the plm will be worth it.