Im finally upgrading to the R5 for my wedding photography business and Im honestly paralyzed by the lens choice. Budget is around 2k max for this piece, and I need something versatile for full-day shoots in low-light venues. Ive been eyeing the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 because obviously its the gold standard, but the price is killing me. Then there is the RF 24-105mm f/4 which saves me cash for other gear, but am I gonna regret losing that extra stop of light? I do a ton of indoor receptions where the lighting is just trash. Is the 24-70 really worth the extra grand or should I just grab the 24-105 and a prime lens...
Congrats on the R5 upgrade! Honestly, if you are doing weddings full-time, dont compromise on that main zoom. I used to think the f/4 was fine, but once you hit those dimly lit reception halls, you will be kicking yourself. The Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is basically a workhorse that never quits, and that extra stop of light is a literal lifesaver when the DJ starts playing and the lights go down. Here is how I see it:
- The Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is worth every penny for weddings. It is sharp, fast, and the bokeh is way creamier than the f/4 glass. You wont need to bump your ISO as high, which keeps your files clean.
- The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is a nice lens for travel, but for professional work, f/4 feels slow during those dark indoor dances. You end up having to switch to primes constantly anyway. If the price is still scaring you, just grab the 24-70 and maybe look for a used copy or wait for a sale. You can add a cheap prime later if you really need it, but you cant replace the flexibility of that f/2.8 zoom. I have been shooting with mine for a while now and honestly, I have no complaints. It just works well, every single time. Save your sanity and get the fast glass, you wont regret it.
Just saw this thread. Honestly, I used to be obsessed with the native glass until I started looking at the sensor performance on the R5. You might want to consider the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art if you need to save some cash. Be careful though, you would need the mount adapter.
- The native Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is great but pricey.
- Maybe snag a used copy if you can find one. I really regret spending so much early on.
Had a moment to think about your situation. Are you currently running dual bodies at weddings or just the one R5? If you only have one camera, definitely go for the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM. You really need that extra stop for dark receptions. Pro tip: pick up a cheap Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM for those super dark moments. It is tiny and saved my life tons of times.
