Honestly so fed up with lugging around three different lenses for my R5 Mark II just to get decent event coverage. Im constantly swapping glass in the middle of shoots and missing shots because of it, it is just killing me. Ive got like 2k left in my budget and I really need one piece of glass that can actually handle wide shots and some reach without being a total brick. I was looking at the 24-105 f/2.8 but that thing is massive and expensive, maybe the 24-70? My logic was that a zoom would fix my frustration but now Im just stuck analysis-paralysising over weight versus aperture. Does anyone actually use a single lens for everything these days?
Building on the earlier suggestion, i had issues with that heavy glass too. Honestly, i tried the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM and it just felt too bulky for hand-holding all day, plus i almost dropped my rig twice. Not as good as i expected for the price.
- Try finding a used Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM to save cash
- Dont ignore third party options like the Sigma equivalent for the mount Photography is getting real expensive, unfortunately.
Honestly, I feel that pain. Been there too many times, literally missed the first dance at a wedding last summer because I was fumbling for a different lens while the lighting was perfect and the moment was fleeting. It really haunts me. I would suggest being careful with that 24-105 f/2.8 mentioned. I tried renting it for a long weekend and my wrist was absolutely dead by Sunday night. It is just way too bulky if you need to maneuver quickly through a crowd. You really have two solid paths here:
- Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM
- This is the workhorse for a reason. You get that f/2.8 which is a total lifesaver in dim reception halls. It is still heavy, but the stabilization is solid. Just make sure you have a decent strap because it adds up after 6 hours.
- Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
- Much friendlier to your back. You definitely lose a stop of light, which feels kinda brutal when things get dark, but the extra reach at 105mm is super handy when you cant physically get closer. If you shoot mostly outdoor events, this might be the smarter move for your longevity. If it was my money, id go for the 24-70. That extra light is just too good to pass up when you are shooting on the high-res sensor of the R5 Mark II. Just be ready to hit the gym.
Coming back to this, I honestly gave up on the heavy f/2.8 glass. I was lugging around those huge lenses and my back just couldnt take it anymore. Unfortunately, the lighter stuff sacrifices some light, but grabbing the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM was a total game changer. It is way easier to handle all day and fits right into your budget. Wish I had just swapped to that sooner tbh.