I finally pulled the trigger on a Canon EOS R5, and I’m absolutely loving the image quality! However, I’m struggling to find that perfect "one-and-done" lens for day trips and street photography. Since the 45MP sensor is so demanding, I want something sharp enough to do it justice without carrying a massive gear bag. I’ve been looking at the RF 24-105mm f/4L for its versatility, but I’m also tempted by the compact size of the RF 35mm f/1.8 for a lighter setup. Does anyone have a favorite versatile lens that balances weight and performance for all-day use? What’s your go-to lens when you only want to carry one option?
> I’m struggling to find that perfect "one-and-done" lens for day trips and street photography. late to the party but basically, 45MP is highkey unforgiving... high pixel density means lens softness is magnified like crazy. Honestly, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is the gold standard because L-series glass has the resolving power those pixels need. Primes like the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM are nice for weight, but you'll realy miss the flexibility. I would suggest sticking with L-series glass to do the Canon EOS R5 justice. peace!
For your situation, finding that 'sweet spot' for a 45MP beast like the R5 is tricky cuz that sensor basically exposes every tiny flaw in ur glass. Honestly, when you look at the market right now, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is the most logical choice for a one-and-done setup. Technically, its Nano USM is insanely fast for street stuff, and the L-series coatings handle flare way better than the consumer-grade primes. But... and this is a big but... zooms are always gonna have some trade-offs in corner sharpness compared to high-end primes. If ur looking at the market alternatives, the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is technically superior in low light and has better MTF scores across the frame, but its *actually* quite a bit heavier and more expensive. For all-day use, ur arms will definitely feel that difference lol. On the other hand, the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM is super lightweight and fun, but technically it doesnt have the weather sealing or the 'bite' that L-series glass provides on high-res sensors. You might notice some chromatic aberration or fringing wide open. I guess it depends on your priority... If you want peak technical performance without the massive weight of the f/2.8 zooms, the f/4L is the winner. It hits that 45MP resolution ceiling better than most people realize. Plus, the internal stabilization works with the R5's IBIS to give you like 8 stops of shake correction which is lowkey a lifesaver for street shooting at night. Anyway, just my two cents based on the technical specs and real-world handling. gl!
For your situation, Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is the safest:
- Fixed f/4 is more reliable.
unfortunately, non-L glass has issues with dust ingress... i think weather sealing is essential. gl!
Curious about one thing: whats ur budget? Unfortunately, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM had SO much chromatic aberration... 1. Under $500?
2. Open to used EF glass?
yo, congrats on the R5!! honestly i feel u, that 45mp sensor is literally a beast but it'll show every tiny flaw in your glass if you arent careful... i've spent years testing different setups and that high-res sensor reallyyy changes how you think about optics. heres what i recommend based on my experience: 1. Go with the pro-level zoom from the brand. basically anything with that red ring is designed to resolve enough detail for a sensor this big. in my experience, the versatile mid-range one is the way to go because it balances the focal length range perfectly for day trips. the edge-to-edge sharpness is actually insane and it handles the data throughput much better than older adapted glass.
2. Try the compact prime series if weight is the main issue. i've tried many setups and the small, fast primes from this brand are lowkey perfect for street stuff. they might look tiny but the resolving power is definately there to handle the high megapixel count without being a brick in your bag. plus the internal coatings are great for flare control.
3. Look for glass with the native mount. the communication speed is way faster which helps the autofocus keep up with the R5's tracking system. plus the digital corrections you get in-camera are a total lifesaver for street shooting tho. basically you want something that can keep up with the sensor's MTF requirements. i'd stick with the pro glass for zooms or the native compacts for primes. anyway, hope that helps you narrow it down!! good luck with the new rig peace
ngl, I've been through a few lenses with my R5 over the years and it's been a bit of a letdown seeing how some of the standard glass performs. That 45MP sensor is a double-edged sword... it's amazing, but unfortunately it makes decent lenses look pretty mediocre. If you want my two cents after years of shooting:
Did this last week, worked perfectly