What is the best all-around lens for a Canon EOS R5?

Question

What's the best all-around lens for the R5 that actually performs?

Honestly I'm so fed up with my 24-105 f/4, it just doesnt cut it for the dimly lit weddings I shoot here in Seattle and im ready to sell it. I need one sharp lens that stays on my camera 90% of the time... budget is $2200 max.

DJCon · Accepted Answer

Quick reply while im waiting for some files to export... totally agree that the f/4 zoom is a nightmare for those moody Seattle venues. I actually tried to save some cash by using the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM with an adapter on my R5 but unfortunately it was not as good as expected. I had issues with the weight and how bulky it felt for long days. The autofocus occasionally hunted in the dark too. It just wasnt the smooth experience I wanted for the price, tbh. If you want to stay under $2200, look at the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM. Its usually right around your budget limit if you catch a sale or go refurbished. That extra stop makes a massive difference, plus the IS on the RF version is way better than the old EF glass. Its a total workhorse even if the price tag stings.

Charlestiste · Answer

Honestly, if youre shooting weddings in Seattle, that f/4 is basically a death sentence in those dark venues lol. I totally get the frustration!! You need that extra stop of light plus the image stabilization to really make the R5 sing. Since your budget is $2200, you are 100% looking for the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM. It is an absolute beast and basically stays on my body 24/7. The sharpness is honestly incredible, way better than the 24-105. It handles the 45-megapixel sensor like a champ and the colors are just... wow. That constant f/2.8 aperture is a total lifesaver when the sun goes down or the reception lighting is just garbage. Plus, the Nano USM motors are freaking fast for tracking focus on a dancing couple! If you want to go even crazier and can find a used deal or stretch the budget a bit, the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is the holy grail, but its heavy as a brick and usually runs closer to $3k. Stick with the 24-70 f/2.8 tho. It is the gold standard for a reason! Another sleeper option if you dont mind going slightly older is picking up the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM with the adapter, but honestly, the native RF version is worth every penny for the stabilization alone. You are gonna love the difference it makes in your low light shots!!

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What is the best all-around lens for a Canon EOS R5?