Im so tired of carrying around my massive bag of glass. Ever since I picked up the R5 I feel like Im constantly swapping lenses and missing shots because I was busy fumbling with caps. I do a mix of street photography and family stuff in my backyard in Seattle, so I really need something that can handle rain and low light.
I have about 2500 bucks saved up for this and I really want to pull the trigger before a trip I have coming up in three weeks. Im currently torn between the RF 24-70mm f/2.8L and the RF 24-105mm f/4L. Obviously the 2.8 is faster which is great for the gloomy weather here, but that extra reach on the 105 sounds really nice for not having to zoom with my feet all the time. Is the extra weight and cost of the 24-70 actually worth it over the 24-105 when Im just shooting candid stuff? Im losing my mind reading reviews that all say the same thing, so has anyone actually used both extensively?
Honestly, skip the expensive stuff for now. I have used both over the years, and in my experience, the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is just way too heavy for casual family shooting. You will regret lugging that around all day. The f/2.8 is nice for the Seattle rain, but the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is a much more practical daily driver. It is sharp enough, weather-sealed well, and that extra reach saves you constantly switching. Plus, you will save over a grand. Put that extra cash into a solid weather-resistant strap or a decent bag instead of overspending on glass you dont really need for candid backyard shots. Keep it simple and just go with the 24-105.
Tbh I totally agree with the previous folks about the weight. If you're doing street stuff, lugging that big Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM around gets old fast. I went through the same dilemma and ended up grabbing a Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM for the reach, but eventually sold it because the f/4 just didnt cut it for evening candids. If you really want that perfect middle ground, maybe look at the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM if you can find one used, though it is heavy too. Otherwise, stick with the 24-70 for the light intake alone. In Seattle gloom, that stop of light is life. Honestly, just pack light and skip the bag. Your back will thank you later.
^ This. Also, be careful about discounting the aperture. Living in Seattle, you really need that extra stop of light. I have used both, and frankly, the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is the superior workhorse.
- The constant f/2.8 aperture handles gloomy weather much better than the f/4.
- You might consider the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM if you want the best possible low-light performance. Just make sure you dont mind the bulk.
