Honestly so fed up with my current setup right now. I spent half the weekend shooting in downtown Chicago trying to get these wide architectural shots for a client project due next Friday and my adapted EF glass just keeps missing focus or giving me this weird softness in the corners that I cant fix in post no matter what I do. Im using an R6 and I thought the adapter would be fine but its just not cutting it anymore and the weight is starting to really bug me during long days walking around the city. I dont have a huge budget honestly maybe like 1200 bucks max if I can find something used or on sale because I already blew most of my cash on the body and lights.
Im looking for something that actually plays nice with the R-mount system and doesnt feel like its going to fall apart after a month of heavy use. I do a mix of real estate stuff and just general street photography so I need something that wont distort everything into a fishbowl mess. Ive been looking at the RF 16mm prime but it seems kinda cheap feeling and I keep hearing mixed things about the barrel distortion correction. Is there anything else that wont make me want to throw my camera into the river when I get home and check the files on my monitor? Im just tired of fighting my gear instead of actually taking photos. What are you guys using on your R bodies that actually stays sharp and doesnt cost as much as a used car? Seriously at my wits end here...
I totally get the frustration with heavy glass. Honestly, for the R6, I have been super happy with the Canon RF 16mm F2.8 STM prime. It is small, light, and honestly a bargain for the price.
- Super lightweight for all-day walks
- Really sharp center image
- Fits easily in your budget If you check for used copies, you might even save enough to grab another accessory. It works well and I have no complaints.
Honestly, if you are doing professional real estate work, you should really look at the Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L IS USM if you can find one used. It is a fantastic lens! The sharpness is just next level compared to those old adapted lenses. It handles distortion way better than the cheaper primes. I know you said 1200 bucks, so keep an eye on the used market. You might get lucky! Another solid option that is super sharp and tough for architecture is the Laowa 12mm F2.8 Zero-D paired with the EF-EOS R adapter, but if you want native, the Canon RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM is a total hidden gem. It is super light for walking all day!
Late to the party, but have you considered the Canon RF 15-30mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM? It's way sharper than the 16mm prime. What focal lengths do you actually use most?
