So I just got this Canon EOS R5 because my uncle told me it was the best one but honestly I feel like I'm in way over my head. I opened the box and realized it didn't even come with a lens which I guess is normal for these fancy ones? I have no idea where to start and looking at the canon website just makes my head spin with all the numbers like f2.8 and 24-70 and RF vs EF and its all just gibberish to me right now.
I'm going to Japan in three weeks and I really just want one single lens that can do everything because I dont want to be carrying a huge bag of gear or switching things out while I'm trying to see the sights. I mainly just want to take pictures of:
- my kids playing
- some of the cool temples and buildings
- maybe some street food
My budget is probably around $1200 since I spent so much on the camera body itself but I could maybe go a bit higher if it really makes a difference to the quality. Is there like a do it all lens that wont make the camera feel super heavy or bulky? I saw something about a 24-105 but then there are two versions and one is way cheaper and I dont know why. Sorry if this is a really dumb question I just want to make sure I don't buy the wrong thing before my trip...
I had the same confusion when I started but I am very happy with my setup now. You definitely want the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM for your trip. This lens has been great for similar vacations and it works well as a single-lens solution. Here is why the more expensive one is the safer bet:
- Constant f/4 aperture. The lens stays just as bright even when you zoom in on your kids.
- L-series build. These are professional grade and have better weather sealing for peace of mind.
- Better glass. It matches the resolution of your R5 so photos look crisp. The cheaper version lets in way less light when you zoom which is frustrating. Since you spent a lot on the body, getting the professional glass is a reliable choice... it is a solid do-it-all option.
Jumping in here because the R5 is an absolute beast! You definitely need glass that can keep up with that 45-megapixel sensor and the insane autofocus. Since you saw those two 24-105s, here is the tech breakdown:
- Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM: The professional choice. That constant f/4 means your exposure wont jump around while you zoom. It's weather-sealed too which is amazing for Japan rain!
- Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM: The budget version. Much lighter, but it lets in significantly less light as you zoom. It might cause blurry shots of the kids indoors since the aperture closes up.
- Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM: Insane 10x zoom range for street food and distant temples. Basically the ultimate travel tool if you only want one lens. Go to the The-Digital-Picture website and use their comparison tool to see the lens flare and sharpness data side-by-side. It's a fantastic resource for stuff like this. You're gonna love the R5!
Re: "> one is way cheaper and I dont..." - unfortunately the cheap one is just not as good as expected. I tried to save money with that Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM and it was a mistake. The low light performance was pretty bad for indoor temples and evening food shots... honestly felt like I was wasting the potential of the camera. If you want one lens for Japan, here is the reality:
- The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM is the only one I trust. It is built like a tank and wont let you down when it starts raining.
- Avoid the variable aperture lenses if you can. Its annoying when your exposure shifts just because you zoomed in a little bit. I know it is slightly over your $1200 budget but putting a cheap lens on an R5 is like putting budget tires on a sportscar. It just doesnt work right. Go for the professional glass or you will definitely regret it once you see the photos on a big screen later. Maybe check for a refurbished one to save some cash.
> one is way cheaper and I dont know why. The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM is a decent option then. Its lighter for Japan and saves you tons of cash.
