Just picked up an EOS R10 for my trip to Japan in November and I am dying to get a decent prime lens for street photography. I have about 300 bucks to spend, maybe a little more if it is worth it. I keep seeing people recommend the RF 16mm, but then others say it has bad corner distortion and is basically useless without software correction, which just sounds like a headache. Then there is the 50mm, but isnt that way too tight on a crop sensor for tight city alleys? Im honestly just super confused about what fits best without needing an adapter. Does anyone actually use the 16mm or should I look for something else...
Just catching up on this thread. Honestly, I bought the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM a while back and unfortunately had issues with the edge performance. It's just not as good as expected for fine detail, and the software correction is a bit annoying if you care about your raw files. For an R10 in Japan, you really want something versatile. Here is what I would do instead:
- Look into the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM. It is slightly over your budget, but you can find it used for around 350-400. The image stabilization is a life saver for night shots in Tokyo alleys.
- Check out the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary. It is arguably sharper than the native canon glass and that extra stop of light is worth the price.
Like someone mentioned, avoid the 16mm headache! For Japan alleys, grab the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM. It is sharp, has stabilization, and is a total beast for city shots!
Honestly, skip the 16mm if the distortion bothers you. Since you have an R10, the field of view is gonna be tight. I suggest looking at the Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM Pancake Lens. It is super portable for street stuff.
- It is sharp and compact
- No adapter needed
- Great focal length for APS-C street shots It fits your budget better than most and feels way more natural than the 50mm for alleyways.
