Honestly getting so frustrated with the setup I have right now. I picked up the R8 specifically because it’s supposed to be this small, light full-frame beast for travel but the 24-105mm kit lens is just... boring? It’s slow and it makes the whole thing feel way more bulky than it needs to be when I’m out trying to stay low key. My logic was that I could just zoom, but the f/4-7.1 is killing my shots as soon as the sun starts going down and the bokeh is just non-existent.
So I was thinking about the 35mm f1.8 because everyone raves about it but then I read it has that weird extending barrel and the autofocus is kinda loud? I really want something snappy for street stuff since I'm going to be in Tokyo in like three weeks and I need to figure this out fast. I looked at the 28mm pancake too but I'm worried it won't be sharp enough or the f/2.8 will be too slow for night street shots. My budget is capped at like 600 bucks because the trip itself is costing a fortune. I just want one solid prime that stays on the camera 90% of the time without making me look like a tourist. Is the 35mm actually worth the hype or is there something else I'm missing for the R series... I'm just tired of overthinking this.
Honestly, I totally get why that kit lens is driving you nuts. In my experience, those variable aperture zooms really kill the vibe of a camera as capable as the R8, especially when you're trying to be discreet. Over the years, I've tried many different setups for street work and for a trip like Tokyo, you definitely want something fast. If I were in your shoes, I'd still lean toward the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM. Yeah, the barrel moves and the motor isnt silent like an L-series lens, but the image quality is stellar for the price. That extra stop of light over a pancake makes a massive difference when youre shooting in Shinjuku alleys at 10 PM. I've used it extensively and the autofocus is snappy enough for most street scenarios even if it makes a little hum. The Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM is incredible for its size, basically turns the R8 into a pocketable setup. But in my experience, f/2.8 can feel limiting for night street photography unless you're okay with cranking the ISO way up. Since you mentioned the bokeh on the kit lens was a letdown, the 35mm f/1.8 is gonna give you way more of that subject separation you're after. Another sleeper pick is the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM because its dirt cheap and tiny, but 50mm can feel a bit tight for crowded city streets. Stick with the 35mm... it's the most versatile tool for the job.
To add to the point above: unfortunately the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM has disappointing motor lag.
- 35mm: loud STM
- Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM: slow f/2.8 Just go 35mm.
I agree with what the others said about the 35mm being a bit noisy. @Reply #4 - good point! Honestly the STM motors in these consumer primes are just never gonna be as silent as the USM stuff in the L glass. If you want snappy and silent you usually have to pay way more. Since you're on a budget and headed to Tokyo i'd be careful with the Canon RF 28mm f2.8 STM. I love the size but:
- f/2.8 is kinda slow for those dark Tokyo alleys
- you'll be pushing the ISO pretty hard on the R8
- the 35mm has IS which helps a ton for night shots I would suggest also looking at the Canon RF 50mm f1.8 STM. It is tiny and leaves you plenty of money for your trip. Compared to something like a used Sigma 35mm f1.4 DG HSM Art with an adapter, these Canon STM primes are way less bulky, even if the autofocus feels a bit more budget. The 35mm is probably the best middle ground even with the extending barrel... you wont notice the noise on a busy street anyway.
Building on the earlier suggestion, my lens once jammed in Shinjuku.
- Avoid used gear without testing first.
- Watch for flare under those bright neon signs.
Nice, didn't know that
