I need to know what is actually the best all-around lens for Sony mirrorless because my current setup is driving me insane. I've been shooting on a Sony A7III for about four years now so I'm not a newbie but I'm getting so tired of swapping between my 35mm and 85mm primes during weddings. It's making me miss shots and I'm losing my mind.
I need one lens that handles wide shots and portraits without looking soft. I have about $1500 to spend before a big gig in Seattle next month. I looked at the 24-70 GM but it's so heavy and the Mark I has issues. Is the Sigma Art worth the weight or should I just go with the Tamron G2?
Re: "Honestly, if you want to save some cash..."
- I get why people like the Tamron, but I have to respectfully disagree for wedding work. After shooting Sony for years, I've found that 28mm on the wide end is just too tight for getting those big room shots or crowded dance floors. You're gonna find yourself wanting that 24mm constantly. Been thinking about your dilemma and if you're used to the rendering of your 35 and 85 primes, a higher-end zoom is necessary. Here are a couple quick tips based on what I've seen in the field:
- Look at the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Art. It's the brand new version and they cut a ton of weight off it compared to the first one. It sits right at your $1200 price point, leaving you extra for some high-speed cards or a nice strap for that Seattle gig.
- The build quality is a massive step up from the G2. It has that rugged feel you need when you're bumping into people at a reception.
- Optical performance is basically indistinguishable from the GM II unless you're pixel peeping at 400%. The autofocus on that Sigma is plenty fast for the Sony A7III and doesn't hunt like some older third-party glass. Honestly, dont risk the GM I either... those old motors and dust issues are a nightmare you dont want mid-gig. The Sigma just feels like a pro tool in a way the lighter lenses dont, plus the weather sealing is better for that Seattle rain you're about to deal with... stay dry out there.
Honestly, if you want to save some cash for that Seattle trip, the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is the way to go. Its light, way cheaper than the Sony glass, and plenty sharp for weddings. I have been using it on my A7III for a bit now and the autofocus is snappy enough for fast moments. If you really need that 24mm wide end tho, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art is the middle ground, but it adds a lot of weight to your setup.
- Tamron G2: Best value, very light, uses standard 67mm filters.
- Sigma Art: Professional build, wider 24mm start, but heavy. I would skip the first gen Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM. The Tamron G2 is basically a better lens for way less money, leaving you with extra cash for batteries or travel.
Regarding what #2 said about "Re: "Honestly, if you want to save some..." - unfortunately, I found those zooms had terrible focus breathing.
- Do you need internal zoom?
- Is weather sealing vital?
