I know they are very different lenses, and I should probably have both with me, but of the two which would you guys choose?

I want the 70-200 for the candid shots, but its going to be a hassle to carry around when my main objective there is not taking photos.. i'm tempted with the 17-40 but im feeling it will be too wide for more artsy shots

50 1.8?? the lightest of all.. =p

im going to end up carrying everything I bet

Then stopped with my bag when they dont let me in somewhere..

help

Can still do candid shots with the 17-40L, though you'll be noticed :)

i personally think you should go as wide as possible. if it's 17...bring the 17-40 :)

can you tell we're all different photographers? =P

think about how heavy the 70-200 will get after a day of walking.
if you have the 50 f1.8 you could always through that in your bag for when it gets darker.

once im out of school with a real job and can afford it =)

I was thinking if i took the 17-40 the 50 would come too, or i guess it'd come regardless just because of its small size.

Nowwww... Battery Grip?

Its so badass, and for a legit point, i have the "side grip/strap", which can only be attatched with the BG.. and I love that for walk around photography, so i suppose I just answered my own question and will obviously bring the battery grip.

and lastly, has anyone had trouble bringing an SLR into the Orpheum Theatre? Of course I'll check with the theatre/site before I go, but thought you guys could be a quicker/less lazy resource =)

The 70-200/2.8 is not walkaround material. The 70-300 IS on the other hand...

I think you're asking if they will turn you away from the door and the answer is most likely no. This is NYC, there are tourists everywhere...such a policy would be very tourist-unfriendly.

Using it...not a chance. NYC law permits them take you outside and bludgeon you with the lens (hey, it's NYC!). Leave it in the bag.

My tokina 12-24 is my freind in NYC!