What is the best lens to buy for the Canon R5 II if I just want one that works for everything? I am so confused by all the options and I honestly dont know where to start. My husband surprised me with this camera for our big Italy trip next month but I realized I need a lens to actually take pictures lol. I mostly want to take photos of my kids and some of the old buildings we see but I dont want to be swapping glass back and forth while we walk around. Is there like a do-it-all lens? My budget is maybe $1000 to $1300 if that helps. Sorry if this is a really dumb question I'm just a total beginner...
Been thinking about your question and honestly, if you want one lens to do literally everything in Italy, you have two main paths. The R5 II is such a beast of a camera, so you need glass that can keep up with the speed!
- Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM: This is the ultimate do-it-all choice! You can zoom in super far to catch your kids being cute and then zoom out for those huge cathedrals. It is so convenient because you never have to take it off. Plus, its well under your $1300 budget!
- Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM: This one is incredibly light and tiny. If youre worried about carrying a heavy camera all day, this is fantastic, but it doesnt zoom nearly as far as the other one. I would totally go with the 24-240mm! Its just so easy to use for beginners and the range is amazing for travel!
Stumbled on this today and honestly, you might want to consider a high-quality prime instead of a heavy zoom. Italy has a lot of stairs and those narrow streets get dark fast.
- I would suggest the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM because it handles low-light churches way better than a cheap zoom.
- Make sure to be careful with the fixed focal length; you will be 'zooming' with your feet.
- Be careful with your budget... you will have plenty left over for gelato and a better neck strap. It is small enough that you wont stand out as much while walking around.
I would suggest the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM for reliability. Be careful with prices tho, so make sure to find a deal to stay under your budget.
Oh my gosh, what an amazing gift! You are going to have the best time in Italy, seriously. The R5 II is a total powerhouse, so we definitely want to make sure you get a lens that is reliable enough to keep up with it. Before we all bombard you with too many options, I just have a couple quick questions to help narrow it down:
- Are you okay carrying a heavier, sturdier lens all day, or do you need something super lightweight so your neck doesnt ache by lunchtime?
- Do you plan on taking lots of photos inside dark churches and at dinner, or will you mostly be shooting outdoors during the day? That will help us figure out exactly what kind of build and aperture you need!
