Honestly im just so fed up with switching lenses every five minutes while im out hiking or just walking around the city. I bought the a7III thinking it would be a dream but the 28-70 kit lens is just... ugh. Its so soft and the aperture is basically useless as soon as the sun starts to go down. Im getting ready for a big road trip to Oregon in about two weeks and I really dont want to be fumbling with lens caps in the rain or carrying a giant backpack full of glass. I just want one goldilocks lens that can stay on the camera 90% of the time and actually give me sharp shots.
Here is what im looking for:
- Budget is around $1200 max, id prefer to spend less if possible though
- Must be good in lower light since it gets moody in the PNW
- Fast autofocus is a huge plus because my dog never sits still
- Needs to be wide enough for landscapes but have a bit of reach
I keep seeing the Tamron 28-75 G2 mentioned but then people say the Sigma 24-70 is better but its heavier? Im just so confused and annoyed at this point lol. Is there a holy grail lens for this camera that doesnt cost three grand or weigh five pounds...
> Is there a holy grail lens for this camera that doesnt cost three grand or weigh five pounds... I stumbled upon this discussion today and I felt I should share some technical warnings before you drop the cash. You might want to consider the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art for Sony E as it is technically superior for those wide Oregon landscapes, but be careful with the physical ergonomics. Its significantly heavier than your current kit or the Tamron. I would suggest weighing your camera with a large water bottle attached just to see if you are okay with that bulk on a long hike. Also, make sure to verify the serial number if you buy used. Early Sigma units had some issues with internal dust sealing. Tbh, if you really need the low light performance for the PNW woods, the f/2.8 is mandatory, but honestly, prepare for the weight trade-off. Stick to the Sigma for sharpness, just mind the weight.
Regarding what #2 said about "> Is there a holy grail lens for..." - honestly, I've been chasing that same ghost for years and it's exhausting. I tried the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS on a trip recently and it was a total letdown in the shadows. Unfortunately, that f/4 just doesnt cut it for the moody PNW vibe you're after. I had issues with the shutter speed being too slow and everything came out blurry. I also gave the Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD a shot, but the AF was not as good as expected for a moving dog. It's a great price, but kinda frustrating. Looking at the thread so far, it's basically a choice between the lightweight Tamron G2 or that heavy Sigma. Tbh, if you're fumbling in the rain, lighter is better. Just grab the G2 and use the extra cash for a weather cover.
In my experience, the Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 is your best bet. Its lightweight, handles low light like a pro, and will definitely keep up with your dog.
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