Which prime lens should I actually get for the Canon R5? Honestly im so fed up with my current zoom lens, it just keeps missing focus when I try to shoot my dog running around the park and im about ready to throw it out the window. I really need something sharper that can keep up with the autofocus, preferably around the 35mm or 50mm range. Im based in Chicago and hoping to pick something up by next week for a trip. My budget is around 1000 bucks, maybe a little more if its really worth it. Im just so tired of blurry shots ruining my sessions, what works for you guys?
> I really need something sharper that can keep up with the autofocus, preferably around the 35mm or 50mm range. Honestly, if you want fast focus for a running dog, get the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM. It's super cheap and surprisingly snappy. If you have extra cash, the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM is a solid upgrade with better build. Both should nail those shots way better than a kit zoom.
Like someone mentioned, the nifty fifty is solid, but are you shooting wide open? I find the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro IS STM works well for tracking.
Honestly, if you are chasing a dog around, the focus speed is everything. Over the years, I have learned that the R5 is a beast, but it needs a lens that can actually keep up with its AF motors. Stop worrying about the cheap plastic mount stuff and just grab the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM. I know, its pricey, but if you look for a used copy, it fits closer to that budget and it is basically a different world compared to those entry-level primes. It locks onto fast movement instantly.
- The L-series glass is weather-sealed which is huge for Chicago winters or park dust
- The aperture ring gives you way more control when light gets weird in the afternoon
- The speed of the USM motor is practically telepathic for tracking I spent years frustrated with my zoom missing focus on my lab, thinking it was my technique. Once I switched to a dedicated prime with a high-end motor, my keeper rate went up like crazy. You dont need to throw your gear out the window, you just need glass that matches the camera sensor. If you really cant swing the 50mm L, definitely try to rent one before your trip. Trust me, once you see that sharpness, you wont want to shoot with anything else.
