Just picked up an R5 for some street work around Chicago and Im struggling to settle on a lens. I read a lot of people swear by the RF 35mm f/1.8 because its small and cheap, but then other threads say the 50mm f/1.2 is the only way to get that dream look. Im worried the 50 is way too heavy for all-day shooting and the 35 might be too wide for my style. Budget is around 1500 bucks since I already spent a fortune on the body. Do you guys think the 35 is actually sharp enough for the R5 sensor or should I look at something else entirely?
@Reply #1 - good point! Honestly, if you want something sharper than the 35mm, the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM is an amazing, super sharp alternative for street portraits!
If you want that dream look without the weight, try the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM.
- Tiny footprint
- Tack sharp
- Insanely cheap It feels perfect on the R5 for long walks.
> I read a lot of people swear by the RF 35mm f/1.8 because its small and cheap, but then other threads say the 50mm f/1.2 is the only way to get that dream look. Honestly, save your neck and go with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM. It is sharp enough for that R5 sensor, light, and totally reliable! The 50mm f/1.2 is just way too bulky for all-day Chicago walks. You will love the portability!
> The 50mm f/1.2 is just way too bulky for all-day Chicago walks. Late to the party, but gotta agree there. I picked up that f/1.2 glass a while back and honestly, it was such a letdown for street stuff. The weight distribution on the R5 is just off with it. Unfortunately, the autofocus calibration on my copy was spotty at best and definitely not as good as expected given the price tag. Like someone mentioned, you really dont need that much glass to get a clean shot. If you want something that actually holds up to the R5 sensor, just stick to any prime from Sigma. Theyre built like tanks and I have never had issues with their recent optics. If Sigma isnt your jam, honestly just grab any decent prime from Tamron and save the headache. You really cant go wrong with either of those brands for reliability.
