18/02/2026 2:07 am
Topic starter
Notifications
Clear all
Canon Forum
6
Posts
7
Users
0
Reactions
233
Views
0
I recently upgraded to the Canon R5, and while the 45MP sensor is incredible, I’m having a hard time deciding on a versatile 'daily driver' lens. I mostly shoot a mix of street photography and family events, so I’m looking for something that balances image quality with portability. I’ve been debating between the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 for that extra stop of light versus the RF 24-105mm f/4 for the extra reach during travel. I’m also curious if a light prime like the 35mm f/1.8 is enough for most situations or if it's too limiting. For those of you with an R5, what is your favorite 'do-it-all' lens for everyday use?
6 Answers
12
18/02/2026 2:20 am
For your situation, I’d be careful about the weight of the f/2.8 zoom... it’s a beast for casual street stuff. Honestly, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is way more practical for travel and significantly cheaper. Since you’re on an R5, you can easily crop the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM to 50mm and still have plenty of detail. I’d suggest the 24-105mm for versatility, then maybe grab a light prime later for low light. 👍
10
18/02/2026 2:08 am
In my experience, grab the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM. Its MTF curves are stellar and the f/2.8 aperture is basically ESSENTIAL for resolving that 45MP sensor during family events!!
5
23/03/2026 3:02 am
I really wanted to love the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM as a daily driver, but unfortunately, it just felt like a liability. Carrying that much heavy glass around on a strap all day puts a ton of stress on the mount, and I actually had some play develop in mine after a few months of street shooting. It was not as good as expected for a $2,300 lens. Since I do my own basic maintenance and care a lot about gear longevity, I moved back to a simpler, safer setup:
- Get the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM for about $499.
- Always use a protective filter like a Hoya 52mm HD3 UV Filter.
- Stick to a small, padded insert in a normal backpack to stay low profile. I once had a zoom barrel get slightly misaligned after a tiny bump at a family BBQ, and the repair was a total nightmare. Now I just stick to the 35mm prime mostly. It forces you to move your feet, which is better for street photography anyway, and there are way fewer moving parts to fail on you when youre out and about... just feels more solid and reliable.
3
18/02/2026 2:40 am
Soo I'd suggest the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM cuz the L-series weather sealing is such a lifesaver for street photography and family events. Honestly I'm still kinda new to this setup but I always prioritize gear safety and this lens feels like a tank, so you wont worry about rain or bumps... definitly worth it for the peace of mind!! do you think the f4 is enough light for you??
3
18/02/2026 2:50 am
In my experience, lugging a huge zoom is a nightmare! Honestly, the prime is AMAZING. Canon glass has better resale than Sigma, plus the MTF performance is insane. Go lightweight!!
2
18/02/2026 2:30 am
Saved for later, ty!
