Just picked up an R8 for street photography and need something small. Im torn between the RF 50mm f/1.8 and the RF 16mm f/2.8. Budget is around 250 bucks max and I need something for a trip next month. Which one is gonna be sharper for everyday candid shots?
TL;DR: Go with the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM for street photography. Honestly, it is the much better lens for candid shots. I have used both on my R series bodies over the years and the 16mm is just way too wide for normal street stuff unless you are literally in someones face. It is fun, sure, but you get tons of distortion. The 50mm feels natural, like how the eye actually sees things. I remember walking around Tokyo last year with the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM and it was sharp enough to nail focus on moving people while keeping things super compact. Quick tip: dont be afraid to bump your shutter speed up on the R8 because that lens loves to hunt in low light. Just grab the 50mm, you wont regret it.
Regarding what #1 said about the 50mm, I agree, but be careful with the focus motor. It can be noisy. You might want to consider:
- Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM
- Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM That 28mm is actually tiny.
Had a moment to think about this. Are you planning to shoot mostly night shots or daylight? My setup for travel changed a lot after I realized wide angle distortion is annoying.
Yep been there done that. Can confirm everything said above is spot on.