Im finally upgrading to the R6 Mark II and Im looking for a solid prime lens to get started. Honestly, I mostly shoot street photography and some portraits of my dog, so I dont need anything insane but I want something that looks sharper than my old kit lens. I was looking at the RF 50mm f/1.8 because its cheap, but then I read a thread on a different site saying the auto focus can be a bit noisy and slow compared to the L-series stuff. I also checked out the RF 35mm f/1.8 macro, which looks cool, but some people say the corners are super soft wide open? Im kinda stuck.
My budget is around 500 to 600 bucks tops since I just dropped a ton on the body. I really want to nail this before a trip to Chicago next month because I want to travel light. Is the 35mm worth the extra cash over the nifty fifty, or am I just overthinking the corner sharpness thing? Im just worried I pick the wrong one and end up frustrated while walking around the city. What would you guys pick if you were in my shoes?
Honestly, grab the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM. In my experience, the 50mm is fine but 35mm is way better for city stuff. I never really noticed the corner softness unless I was pixel peeping at a brick wall. The stabilization is a lifesaver for Chicago nights too. Dont overthink it, just pick it up and go have fun with your dog.
> Saw this earlier but only just now getting to it. Honestly, I had issues with the autofocus motor on my setup when I first switched over, which was super annoying during a trip. Totally get that frustration. I remember when I first jumped to mirrorless, the AF noise on the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM drove me crazy during quiet street shoots. It's affordable, sure, but the motor feels a bit dated compared to what the R6 II can actually do. Honestly, I'd skip the nifty fifty. If you really want that crisp look without breaking the bank, try renting the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM for your trip. It feels way more versatile for city walking and dog portraits than a 50mm. Plus, if you find a used Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Canon EF-Mount and a cheap adapter, you might get better glass for the price, though it adds some bulk. Don't sweat the corner sharpness too much, just get out there and shoot!
Saw this earlier but only just now getting to it. Honestly, I had issues with the autofocus motor on my setup when I first switched over, which was super annoying during a trip. It wasn't as quiet as I expected, unfortunately. Before you decide, do you shoot mostly in low light or broad daylight? That's really gonna change which focal length makes sense for your walking around.
