So I just bought a used Sony camera (I think it's an a7 something?) for my trip to Japan next week but I realized it doesn't even have a lens on it lol. I feel so stupid and the guy at the store was talking about 24-70 and 35mm and I literally have no idea what any of that means. I just want one thing I can leave on the camera all day to take photos of buildings and maybe some food.
My flight is in four days and I have about 700 or 800 bucks left for this. Is there just like one "best" lens that does everything? I dont want to be swapping things out while I'm walking around because I'll definitely drop something. Please help me I'm panicking a little bit...
Dont panic, you still have time to grab something. If you want one lens that stays on the camera forever, Ive been really happy with the Sony FE 24-105mm f4 G OSS. To explain those numbers simply, the 24mm part is wide enough to fit those massive Tokyo buildings into the frame, and the 105mm means you can zoom in a lot for street details. It has a constant f4 aperture, which basically means the brightness stays consistent while you zoom. Its been my go-to for years because it just works for everything. If that feels too bulky for you, look at the Sigma 28-70mm f2.8 DG DN Contemporary. Its much lighter and fits your 800 budget easily. It doesnt zoom as far as the Sony, but it is better in low light for dinner photos. Either one will work perfectly so you wont have to swap things out in the middle of a busy street.
> I just want one thing I can leave on the camera all day to take photos of buildings and maybe some food. I'm extremely satisfied with the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2. It is a methodical choice for those wanting a balance of aperture and range within your budget. Quick tip: use the wide 28mm setting for buildings and the 75mm zoom for food shots... works well and Ive had no complaints.
