Lens Question

[cheltzey]

So this may be a dumb question to ask, but I'm looking into getting an SLR and I'm looking at lenses. It seems like on most sites they talk about a lens in a range, like 18-55 or 18-200. But everyone here talks about how they love their 50mm. Does it have a range but people just abbreviate it? Enlighten me!

[Julie Billingsley]

no, it doesn't have a range. It's a fixed "prime" lens. You zoom with your feet. LOL

[nikkiARNGwife]

It's fixed, but it's a great lens and pretty cheap compared to other lenses and since you're just starting with an SLR it would be a good one to start with. I usually use my 50 mm more than any other

[Sharon Kay]

Ok I need a recommendation on a lens. I have a Rebel XTi...still don't know a lot about it after almost a year...but that's my fault...it's all greek to me no matter what I read. lol

I have a Sigma 24-70mm 1:2.8 and it still won't capture ENOUGH light at the elementary/middle school gyms where my son plays basketball. I don't HAVE to have a zoom because I stand right at the end of the court under the basket. Can anyone suggest a lens (hopefully under $300!!) that would let in more light and help me capture those fast action shots?

I set it at manual...1600...and as fast as it will let me set it...and experiment with the white balance...but I still have a lot of grain and have to run it through Lightroom (which apparently I can't figure out well enough because pics are still grainy...although lighter). I don't want to use a flash because as long as I don't...the refs don't mind me standing at the line!

Hints...suggestions? Pretty please?!