What is the absolute cheapest and easiest travel lens I can get for my Canon M50 before I leave for Italy in two weeks?
I literally just bought this camera used off Facebook marketplace last week and I have zero clue how to use it yet so sorry if this is a super basic question. The camera came with a kit lens that says 15-45mm on it but I read online that it is not very good for night photos and I really want to take pictures of our dinners and the streets at night. I am totally overwhelmed by all the numbers like f/2.0 and focal lengths and stuff and I have no idea where to start looking.
My budget is super tight because this trip is costing me a fortune. I can spend maybe 200 dollars max, maybe 250 if it makes a massive difference. I also need something that fits these things:
- Needs to be really small and light because I am only taking one backpack for the whole two weeks
- Easy to use for a complete beginner who usually just shoots on an iPhone
- Good for taking pictures of big buildings but also food at restaurants
My friend mentioned something about a 22mm pancake lens or a 32mm one but I don't know if those zoom or if they are even in my budget. I'm leaving so soon and I really want to get it ordered this week so I can practice a little bit before we fly out. What should I actually buy that won't break the bank and won't require me to take a photography class to understand...
Your friend is right, you definitely want the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM. It fits your budget easily and works great. Here is why it works for Italy:
- It is tiny and weighs almost nothing.
- The f/2 aperture is perfect for dark restaurants and night streets.
- The view is wide enough for buildings but still lets you shoot close-up food. It doesnt zoom, but you just step closer. Let me know if you need help finding a cheap one.
I bought the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM last year for a trip and was so happy with how reliable it is. Zero issues with autofocusing.
- Its tiny so you wont stand out as a target
- Very easy to shoot in auto mode
- Great image quality without needing to edit Definitely get this one, it just works.
^ This. Also, if you want to save some cash, look for a used Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM. You can easily find them online for under 150 bucks. I've had mine for years and it still works flawlessly. Just set your M50 to Av mode, roll the dial to f/2, and let the camera handle the rest. You'll get great low light photos without any hassle.
