I need a lens like yesterday because my family is heading to Italy next week and I only have my old kit lens and a prime. I was looking at the Tamron 28-75mm G2 since everyone says it is the gold standard for budget zooms but then I saw people raving about the Sony 24-105mm f4 for the extra reach. My logic was that f2.8 is better for low light at dinner but that 24mm wide end is so much better for architecture so Im stuck. My budget is strictly under 1k so I cant just buy both. Is the f4 too slow for indoor shots or am I overthinking the aperture? Need to decide by tonight so I can get it shipped...
I grabbed the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 for Sony E for my vacation last year and was super satisfied. It works well for those low-light dinner shots where an f4 might struggle.
- Just step back a bit if 28mm feels narrow
- Bump your ISO for night shots Honestly, no complaints here. It is definitely the best bang for your buck.
To add to the point above: Ive tried many and the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art beats the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS.
- 24mm: better for architecture
- f2.8: better for dinner Try finding it used under 1k!
@Reply #1 - good point! I actually had a moment to think about this more and you should definitely consider the Sigma 28-70mm f2.8 DG DN Contemporary for Sony E as a fantastic budget-friendly alternative. It is amazing for travel because it is so lightweight!
- Aperture: The f2.8 is essential. You really dont want to be stuck with f4 when youre inside a dim cathedral or a restaurant. It makes a huge difference in image quality.
- Physical Specs: It is one of the smallest zooms available, which is fantastic for those 20,000 step days walking around Rome.
- Cost: It sits comfortably under your 1k budget, leaving you plenty of extra cash for wine and pasta. The 24mm on the Sony is nice for wide shots, but f4 is honestly just too slow for low light without a tripod. Stick with the faster glass and youll be much happier with your dinner photos!
just saw this thread and i am in the literal exact same situation... it is so stressful. i have been dealing with this for almost two months now trying to prep for my own trip and i still havent found a clear winner. in my experience, picking that one do-it-all lens is the hardest part because you just want something reliable that wont fail you in a dark church or a tight street. i have spent countless hours looking at my old photos trying to see if i use the wide end or the fast aperture more, but i still end up totally paralyzed by the choice. it is honestly exhausting how there isnt just one perfect answer under a thousand bucks. TL;DR: i have the same problem and i am still completely stuck between the two options.
Lol I was literally about to post the same thing. Glad someone else brought it up.
