So I just got the Canon R8 and it came with that kit lens but everyone says I need a prime lens for better blurry backgrounds and I have no clue what that actually means lol. Sorry if this is a super basic question but Im totally lost looking at all the numbers. My budget is like $400 tops because the camera was already way more than I expected to spend.
- want to take photos of my kids running around the yard
- maybe some stuff when we go to the beach this summer
- something small because I dont want to carry a huge heavy brick
Is there like one lens that does everything or do I have to buy a bunch of them? I see 35mm and 50mm and 85mm and it just makes my head spin...
Unfortunately your budget is a bit low for professional optics. I found the kit lens disappointing for tracking movement because the aperture is too slow. The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM is basically your only option despite some barrel distortion.
- f/1.8 max aperture
- 50mm focal length
- 0.25m min focus
- 43mm filter thread Its not as high quality as the L series but it fits.
Like someone mentioned, the 50mm is the cheap pick, but I actually disagree that it's the only way to go. In my experience, 50mm feels too narrow for chasing kids around. Over the years I've found these are better for an R8:
- Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM
- Super tiny and fits your budget.
- Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM
- Look for used deals. The stabilization is huge.
Just saw this and wanted to weigh in from a practical standpoint. If youre worried about the budget, you basically have two paths with that R8.
- Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM: Its the most affordable way to get that blurry background. Very tiny, but the lack of image stabilization means you have to be careful with your shutter speed so things dont get blurry from camera shake. 50mm can feel a bit zoomed in when youre indoors tho.
- Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM: This one often goes on sale for around $399 or you can find it refurbished. It is slightly larger but adds image stabilization, which makes it way more reliable for chasing kids or taking videos. The wider view is also better for the beach so you can get the scenery in. The 35mm is the better one and done lens if you can swing the price. Its just more versatile for everyday stuff... basically covers all your bases without needing a bag full of gear.
Stumbled upon this today and totally get the frustration. Tbh the head spinning part is a rite of passage for every new photographer... been doing this for a long time and I still remember how confusing focal lengths seemed at the start. Since youre looking for something reliable that wont be a brick in your hand, I want to make sure you get something that actually fits your life. Are you mostly taking these shots of the kids outdoors in the yard with plenty of room to move around, or is most of the action happening indoors? Also, do you find yourself wanting to stand back a bit to catch them playing, or are you usually right in the middle of the chaos with them? Knowing that makes a huge difference in which focal length is gonna be most dependable for you.
