So I finally bit the bullet and bought a Sony a7 IV after saving up for like two years, but now Im totally lost looking at lenses. The guy at the camera shop kept pushing the G-Master line, saying they are the best, but man those prices are just wild. Im mostly just gonna be taking photos of my dog in the backyard and maybe some casual travel shots when I visit my sister in Chicago next month.
I really dont have an unlimited budget here, maybe around 1500 bucks if I stretch it, but looking at these lenses I feel like Im just paying for a label or something. Are they actually worth the crazy markup for someone like me who just barely knows how to use the auto mode half the time? I keep seeing the 24-70mm and the 85mm mentioned everywhere but both are just so expensive. Is there one that is actually considered the best value, or should I just stick to the cheaper stuff until I get better? I just dont want to waste my money on something I cant even use properly yet...
Congrats on the a7 IV, thats a solid camera. Honestly, if you are just starting out and mostly shooting your dog or travel stuff, sinking 1500 bucks into glass right now might be overkill. G-Masters are amazing for pros, but they are heavy and super expensive. For what you are doing, check out the Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 Prime Lens. It is way cheaper and produces incredible portraits of pets. Another solid choice if you want more flexibility is the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Zoom Lens. It's not a G-Master, but it's sharp, much lighter, and honestly way better value for your needs. Mastering the basics with a cheaper lens is totally the right move before you go dropping serious cash on the high-end stuff.
> I feel like Im just paying for a label or something. Sadly, you are mostly paying for the logo. Save your cash and grab a Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 instead.
To add to the point above: I totally get the hesitation. I bought a Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 when I first got my setup, and honestly, it saved me so much stress compared to jumping straight into the G-Master line. It is way more affordable but still delivers those creamy backgrounds that make photos look professional without the heavy glass.
- If you really want that G-Master crispness for cheap, check the used market for a Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM Version I. You can find them sometimes for under 1200 if you look hard enough.
- Stick to primes for now. They force you to learn composition and keep your kit light for those trips to Chicago.
- Dont feel pressured by that shop guy. You can always upgrade later once youve mastered the settings.