Advice needed: Dust on a Lens

[neil_bolton]

Was just about to order the Mk1 Canon 50mm f1.8 prime lens from the shop in the other thread, when we were told that there was dust on lens.

The lady in the shop said this would be a problem.

Is this right?

[_dobbo_]

I'd have thought dust on the lens could be cleaned off. Dust in the lens - could be a problem but I doubt it.

If you're inclined to test such a thing, take an existing lens and put a big smudge on it with your thumb - now take a photo through that lens. Can you see the smudge? Of course this is no guarantee that whatever is wrong with the one you want to buy won't cause you problems.

Personally at the price you are looking at I think you'd be better off buying new, get the mark II instead with a warranty for the same price:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00005K47X/ref=asc_df_B...

[neil_bolton]

Fair enough, that's enough for me.

I don't think I'll notice the difference in quality over the Mk1, but I would if every shot had a speck of dust on it.