Honestly I am so fed up with this kit lens that came with my RP. The images just look flat and boring and I have this graduation shoot coming up next Saturday for my sister and I'm panicking because I cant get that blurry background look everyone wants. My logic was that the camera would do most of the work but man the f/4-6.3 is just killing me in the low light we have here in Seattle.
I've been looking at the RF 50mm 1.8 since it's cheap but then I saw some reviews saying the 85mm is better for portraits but $600 is way out of my reach right now. I've only got about $350 max to spend on this and I need it like yesterday. So I was thinking maybe I should just get an adapter and use old EF lenses? But then the adapter is another $100 and it just feels like I'm throwing money away on old tech when I just bought a mirrorless camera.
Is there any hidden gem I'm missing that wont break the bank? I just need something sharp that wont make me look like an amateur when I show her these photos. Every time I think I've found a lens the price jumps up or its out of stock and I'm just about ready to give up on this thing...
- Grab the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM.
- Its way sharper than your kit lens.
- That f/1.8 aperture solves your Seattle lighting issues and gives you blurry backgrounds.
Lmk if you need help.
Quick reply while I have a sec... i've tried many different setups over the years and i usually play it safe with native glass because adapters can sometimes be a clunky mess when you're in a rush. Honestly Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM is your safest bet. Tbh it solves that Seattle light issue instantly and fits way under your budget. If you really want that professional background blur tho, hunting for a used Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM plus the Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R is the classic move.
- 50mm is great for groups and tight spaces
- 85mm gives better bokeh but you'll be standing way back In my experience, since the shoot is so soon, just grab the 50mm brand new. It's reliable and wont fail you. Dont risk messing with adapters right before your sisters big day... it's just not worth the stress.
Like someone mentioned, that 50mm is basically the gold standard for getting that look. Its way faster than that kit lens. I'm not 100% sure but I think the 85mm might be a bit too tight for graduation crowds.
- wider aperture helps the blur
- 50mm is super versatile
- used gear saves money IIRC some people use cheap off-brand adapters to save cash. Might be worth a look.
