Im getting super stressed because I have a wedding shoot coming up in like three weeks and my current gear just isnt cutting it for the R5. Ive been scouring forums and reviews for days now. Everyone keeps pointing to the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L but man that price tag is brutal. I also looked at the 24-105mm f/4 since its way cheaper and lighter but Im worried about that f/4 aperture when it gets dark at the reception. I need one lens that does it all because I really dont want to be swapping glass while the bride is walking down the aisle, I just know Ill drop something expensive.
My logic was that the extra reach on the 24-105 would be a lifesaver, but then I read a thread where someone said the 24-70 is basically non-negotiable for low light stuff. Im in a total loop here. Do I bite the bullet and go broke for the 2.8, or save the cash and hope the R5s high ISO performance makes up for the f/4? Im based in Seattle and the lighting here is always garbage so that definitely plays a part too. What are you guys actually using on your R5s for a do-it-all situation?
Honestly, if you are doing weddings in Seattle, you really need that 2.8. I know the price tag is painful, but you are shooting with a 45MP sensor and that Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is going to give you the sharpness you need to justify those files. The f/4 glass just wont cut it once the reception lights go down. I used the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM for a while and while the reach is nice, the noise at high ISO when you are forced to crank it up at f/4 is a nightmare to clean up in post. Stick with the 2.8. It works well with the R5 autofocus system and the constant aperture keeps your exposure consistent when the lighting situation is changing fast.
Look, I have shot my fair share of rainy Seattle weddings and totally get the stress. Honestly, if you are worried about the dark reception, an f/4 is just gonna make your life miserable when you have to push that ISO to the moon. If you really cant stomach the price of the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM, look at these options instead:
- Rent the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM for the weekend. Seriously, just rent it. Its way cheaper than buying and you get the glass you need for the paid gig.
- Grab a used Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art with an adapter if you really need to save cash, tho native glass is better for tracking.
- Add a Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM to your bag. It is dirt cheap, tiny, and saves your hide when the lights drop.
I gotta be honest, everyone is obsessed with that 2.8 zoom, but you could actually grab a Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM and keep it in your bag for those dark reception moments. It is way cheaper than the pro zooms. Honestly, using a fast prime for the dance floor while sticking with a cheaper zoom for the ceremony is a total lifesaver for your wallet. Dont stress the f/4 too much.
