So I just got this Canon EOS R6 because everyone said it was the best for photos but honestly I have no idea what I am doing yet. I am going to Italy in three weeks and I really want to take some good pictures of the old buildings and maybe some food shots too but the lens that came with it looks kinda small and I dont know if its good enough. I keep seeing all these numbers like 24-105 or 50mm and f/4 and it just makes my head spin to be honest. I really just want one lens that can stay on the camera the whole time because I am terrified of getting dust inside the sensor thing if I switch them out while walking around Rome.
I am confused about a few things:
- how many lenses I actually need for a trip
- what the f numbers mean for vacation photos
- if I can get something good for under 1000 dollars
I dont want to be carrying a giant brick around all day while I am sightseeing. My budget is probably around 800 or 1000 dollars max since the camera was already so expensive. Sorry if this is a really basic thing to ask but I am just super overwhelmed by all the options and dont want to buy the wrong thing before my trip. What would you guys recommend for someone who just wants things to be simple?
You should be careful with the aperture, which is that f-number you mentioned. It tells you how much light the lens lets in. For dark cathedrals, I would suggest looking for a used Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM. The constant f/4 is vital for low light. Just keep in mind its heavier. Make sure to check the Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM if you need extra zoom range tho.
Honestly, I went through this exact same panic before my first big trip to Europe. The kit lens that came in my box, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM, was actually pretty disappointing. It felt kinda flimsy and the photos I took inside those dim cathedrals were just not as good as I expected because the f-stop numbers are too high when you zoom in. To keep things simple for your Rome trip, here is what I learned the hard way:
- You definitely only need one lens. Changing them in a crowded plaza is a nightmare and you will get dust on that sensor.
- Those f-numbers are basically your light-gatherers. A lower constant number like f/4 means your food shots and indoor building pics wont look like grainy messes.
- For under 1000 bucks, you should really look at the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM. It is technically more expensive new, but you can find it for around 900 used or refurbished. Cheap zooms gave me nothing but issues with darkness during evening walks, so this L-series lens is the only one that stays on my camera now. It is a bit of a chunk, but unfortunately, thats the price you pay for decent quality. Just get a good neck strap and you'll be set...
