honestly I'm just so fed up with this kit lens that came with my a6400. the 16-50mm is just so soft and the motor is loud as hell when I'm trying to film stuff for my vlog and it's driving me crazy. I need an upgrade before my trip to Japan next month but I literally cannot afford those crazy expensive sony lenses right now.
here is what I'm looking for:
- budget is around $500 to $700 max
- good for travel and street photography
- sharp enough that I don't regret taking the photo lol
im looking at the tamron 17-70 or maybe something from sigma but I'm totally lost with all the different versions... what do you guys actually use for everyday stuff?
Re: "I picked up the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di..." - unfortunately its not as good as expected.
- Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN Contemporary lacks stabilization.
- Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS is reliable.
ngl if you do a lot of video, the Sony E PZ 18-105mm f/4 G OSS is a solid practical choice. the power zoom is silent and internal, so the lens doesnt physically extend when you zoom.
- constant f/4 is fine for street
- very quiet for vlogging
- easily found under $600 its larger than the kit lens for sure but the optics are way more consistent. worth a look before you head to japan.
I picked up the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD for a Japan trip and it works well for street stuff. I remember shooting in Shinjuku at night and the f/2.8 really saved me. Its way sharper than the 16-50mm. If you want something lighter, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary is a decent option that stays within that budget.
