General purpose zoom for honeymoon

[FTb-n]

Curious thread.

Two decades ago, my wife and I honeymooned in Hawaii. I brought two AE-1 bodies, an FD 35-80 f3.5-5.6, and FD 80-210 f4, and an FD 50 f1.8. The 50 got little use, but we have poster-sized prints from the others hanging on our walls. Polarizer filters were used a lot and film speed was limited to ASA 200 and ASA 400. These lenses pre-dated IS, so I was often pushing the limits of hand-held shutter speeds.

I'm watching the comments of 24-105 f4 vs. 24-70 f2.8 with great interest. I have the 24-105 and enjoy the IS, especially when using polarizers and with landscapes where I may want a smaller aperture. With Lightroom lens correction, the distortion isn't an issue.

I'm intrigued by the 24-70 2.8 for the speed and IQ, but fear the lack of IS and the shorter reach -- and the price. (Hmm...sounds familiar. Before moving from crop to FF, I feared the loss of reach -- and the price.) There are times when I'd prefer a faster lens, but the 24-105 still impresses me.

So, if my wife and I return to Hawaii, I wouldn't hesitate to bring two 5D3's, the 24-105, the 70-200 f2.8 II, and the 40 2.8 pancake. The 70-200 may seem to be less necessary, but it's still my most used lens, especially when shooting candids and portraits -- which might get frequent use with my favorite subject on the beach

 

[Mr_Canuck]

Don't waste your money on a zoom!!!

You are obviously a prime shooter. Use your primes and be simple and happy.
You will be uninspired by a "general purpose" zoom, methinks.

Take two primes.

A wide and a moderate telephoto in a small bag and see your honeymoon through that framework. You'll get way better shots and have less crap to haul around.

24 or 35 plus 85 or 100 (depending on whether macro is important to you. I'm thinking 85 though for its portrait emphasis). Even better... play spin the bottle and pick the two lenses that come up out of these selections.

You WON'T MISS a single shot. What's to miss? You will take them at the focal length you have in your hand, and you'll GET the shot you take. A 35mm landscape is better than a 17mm landscape if its better conceived and enjoyed and taken. Or vice versa. Who cares.

#1 priority: wife. #2 priority: relaxing and enjoying wife and surroundings and food. #6 priority: getting some great shots that didn't get in the way of priorities #1 and #2.

 

[Dylan777]

I agree with a lot of the sentiment here. I can't bring myself to use crop after buying my 5d. So my 60d is just gathering dust. So I'm not convinced i like the idea of buying a gen zoom for that.

I don't like compact system cams so that doesn't sound like a good idea for me.

I think I agree with the comments re I'd be disappointed with an f4 lens.

Think that leaves me with canon 24 70ii or just go with a few primes and keep my rx100 handy to fill in the edges where neccesary. Light and simple sounds good

The truth is my photography is my hobby and I get a lot of relaxation from it. I can't sit and read on a beach like a normal person

Your 5DIII and the 24-70II are like bread and butter - they just go together... You can carry one lens and get a lot of great shots... That being said, I would drop that shorty-forty in my pocket - I love what it does on my 5DIII...

+1 with Old Shooter

 

[tron]

I agree with a lot of the sentiment here. I can't bring myself to use crop after buying my 5d. So my 60d is just gathering dust. So I'm not convinced i like the idea of buying a gen zoom for that.

I don't like compact system cams so that doesn't sound like a good idea for me.

I think I agree with the comments re I'd be disappointed with an f4 lens.

Think that leaves me with canon 24 70ii or just go with a few primes and keep my rx100 handy to fill in the edges where neccesary. Light and simple sounds good

The truth is my photography is my hobby and I get a lot of relaxation from it. I can't sit and read on a beach like a normal person

Your 5DIII and the 24-70II are like bread and butter - they just go together... You can carry one lens and get a lot of great shots... That being said, I would drop that shorty-forty in my pocket - I love what it does on my 5DIII...

+1 with Old Shooter

Well that's what I would expect from Dylan2470 (and not Dylan777? ;D ). Of course I agree. I would just suggest a pocket modification so as to be able to drop an 85mm 1.2L II in it ;D ;D ;D

 

[agierke]

This thread makes me smile.

First off... Congratulations! This is a very exiting time in your life. Enjoy every moment of it.

Let me echo others in saying don't make this about photography. I know it's tempting but you only get to honeymoon once and you and your wife should enjoy each other as much as possible!

I got married 2.5 years ago and I purposefully left my gear at home (much to my wife's relief and delight). Instead, I mixed it up and brought a Polaroid Land camera with a bunch of pack film. Due to the nature of the camera I only took pictures when the moment seemed appropriate to do so. My wife was so intrigued with the process she asked me to teach her how to use it and she had a blast picking moments to shoot as well. We ended up with a really cool set of unique polaroid prints that feel more special than anything I would have gotten if I had brought my regular gear.

I realize this might not be a realistic suggestion for you but I wanted to share the sentiment more than suggest specific lenses.

That being said if I had to pick something, I would stay true to your roots with primes but ONLY take the 35mm. It would allow you to get great shots but force you to pick your moments so that you won't be overly distracted by shooting. And if she doesn't already know...teach your wife to shoot so she can share in the moments when you are photographing!

Have a great time!!!

 

[dickgrafixstop]

Unless your fiance is a photo buff, or incredibly understanding, take something light, portable and un-obtrusive.
You're not going on a photo safari, you're starting a new life and she's the most important part of it. Cameras,
and particularly camera budgets. are going to slip way down your list of important "stuff" and you might start getting used to it from the start.

 

[JonAustin]

"The truth is my photography is my hobby and I get a lot of relaxation from it. I can't sit and read on a beach like a normal person "

I would vote for taking a single zoom, but I think you should take what you're most comfortable with. Your loving new bride will understand, so long as your focus on the photography doesn't supersede your focus on her! My wife loves the photographic memories I make of our trips, and willingly serves as my "gear wrangler."

 

[Hjalmarg1]

I agree with a lot of the sentiment here. I can't bring myself to use crop after buying my 5d. So my 60d is just gathering dust. So I'm not convinced i like the idea of buying a gen zoom for that.

I don't like compact system cams so that doesn't sound like a good idea for me.

I think I agree with the comments re I'd be disappointed with an f4 lens.

Think that leaves me with canon 24 70ii or just go with a few primes and keep my rx100 handy to fill in the edges where neccesary. Light and simple sounds good

The truth is my photography is my hobby and I get a lot of relaxation from it. I can't sit and read on a beach like a normal person

I'd suggest spending more time sharing time with your new wife and capturing moments to remember. The Canon 24-70mm f2.8L II is a killer in all terms (I tried not yet own it) and will give you top IQ. My second option would be the Tamron 24-70mm f2.8 VC, that is being rated better than the old Canon 24-70mm 2.8L (I own it).
Honeymoon is time to do many things but to focus on photography. Just record memories that will be once in a lifetime.
I am not a fan of books either, LoL. Congratulations and enjoy your honeymoon!

 

[TAW]

Congratulations on getting married!

I sold my Canon 24-105 about a month after I got my 24-70 2.8II. My photography is all for hobby but once I used the 24-70 2.8Ii, I lost all enjoyment shooting the 24-105.

Option 1: buy 24-70 2.8II

Option 2: take all your gear but only take one lens when you go out

Option 3: Tell Ask your wife Option 1 and Option 2 and let her decide.

For anyone that has been married for any length of time knows there is really only 1 right answer. If you don’t choose it, you will figure it out soon enough!

Seriously, I would take the gear you are used unless you had a burning desire to get the new lens – traveling with the stuff is not that bad. Only ever take out one lens a day / event. Let the camera / pictures be a nice addition not a takeaway. Have fun – remember this is more about your new wife having a good time then you! 
Bonus Option: protect your lenses with Victoria Secret lingerie – unwrap a new lens every day!

I wish you a long and happy future together.

Good luck and congratulations!

 

[RLPhoto]

If you must take a Big Cam, 5D3 + Rented 24-70II or Tammy 24-70 + 50mm Prime. Why commit to buying a zoom for just a two week honeymoon.

The logical choice, I'd take a g15/g1x and some filters. Done and less stuff. Plus see it as a challenge anyway.

 

[adhocphotographer]

I would take the 24-105 (sigma or canon... up to you). if can stretch to the 24-70 II... go for that... Either way, have fun and enjoy yourselves...

 

[alexturton]

Thanks for all the comments. Some really great advice here.

I think I'll go with just maybe 2 primes. Think it might end up being 24mm and 100l (because I love macro).

And pack my compact for days when life is more important than ultimate iq

 

[MintChocs]

The problem with a Dslr is that whenever you ask someone else to use it, you always end up with blurred out of focus shots, so when you look back at your photos it will be like your wife went on the honeymoon on her own!(as you end taking all the photos) Just take a good quality compact that can shoot RAW, there'll be plenty of other holidays for the whole camera kit but only one honeymoon.

 

[rs]

Thanks for all the comments. Some really great advice here.

I think I'll go with just maybe 2 primes. Think it might end up being 24mm and 100l (because I love macro).

And pack my compact for days when life is more important than ultimate iq

+1

If you were considering taking a zoom plus one other lens as some have recommended, why not just take two primes? It's what you're used to, doesn't require any additional expenditure, and you already have a great idea how to use them and what results you'd be able to get with them. Plus two primes are typically lighter than a zoom and a prime.

 

[tomscott]

Well I like the 24-105mm its not the sharpest but its such a great range and they are cheap. The 24-70 F4 has pretty much the same IQ and the macro is a gimic when your used to shooting with a 100mm L as the distances are too close to shoot anything alive... the sigma is massive and heavy in comparison and the 24-70 is the best you can buy but lacks range IS and is heavy.

I would take the 35mm as its nicer focal length than 24mm for general shooting and a zoom and possibly the 100mm…

Hard choice but taking 3 wouldn't be a back breaker and you could always choose what to take with you that day?

But I do agree why not just rent a lens… cheap then no worry about spending so much and regretting the decision.

 

[Northstar]

Thanks for all the comments. Some really great advice here.

I think I'll go with just maybe 2 primes. Think it might end up being 24mm and 100l (because I love macro).

And pack my compact for days when life is more important than ultimate iq

Yes, and also take plenty of vitamins. ;D

I'm also planning a trip and I am tired of lugging all the big gear (and worrying about it being stolen from the hotel room ) so I'm looking at something small and light with great IQ....the Fuji x100s.

So if you're itching to buy something new for the trip, the Fuji x100s would be my recommendation....and leave all the pro gear at home.

 

[hgraf]

The problem with a Dslr is that whenever you ask someone else to use it, you always end up with blurred out of focus shots, so when you look back at your photos it will be like your wife went on the honeymoon on her own!(as you end taking all the photos) Just take a good quality compact that can shoot RAW, there'll be plenty of other holidays for the whole camera kit but only one honeymoon.

Very true, but I prepare for those situations. It doesn't take me long to configure my DSLR to something like a point and shoot (smaller aperture, auto ISO, auto focus points, etc.).

For cameras that have it (Rebels do, don't know about higher steps), just turn the dial to the "green square" (or equiv for Nikon/Sony), that forces the camera into as close to P&S as you can get with no effect on your normal settings.

For my honeymoon, most of my shots were either my P&S or a waterproof P&S (a MUST if you're going anywhere wet, I got lots of good shots with my waterproof P&S that I never would have been able to get otherwise). I did have a Rebel with me and a slightly better then kit lens zoom that performed perfectly well. Carrying mostly a P&S let me capture all the moments I wanted, without letting the photography rule me during our trip.

I had a DSLR and did use it, but not that much, I focused on my new wife and enjoying myself.

Focus on what's important IMHO. This is a trip of a lifetime, make sure you enjoy it to it's fullest.

TTYL

 

[raptor3x]

I'm heading on my honeymoon in April to Mauritius for 2 weeks.

At home, I shoot 5d mk iii and generally with primes (24L, 35, 50L, 85L, 100L macro and soon to have 135L).

I'm thinking of not taking any of those and just buying a general purpose zoom so that:

a) Im carrying less stuff (so my new wife doesn't kill me for taking so much stuff), and
b) I can focus on enjoying my honeymoon and taking snaps rather than worrying about having the right lens on (so my new wife doesn't kill me for taking so much stuff).

I could just take the 24, 50 and 135 + an extension ring and that would cover most scenarios. However on a general walk about I'd still be carrying 3 lenses.

I'm sure this has been covered before (somewhere) but I think my options are:

The canon 24-70 ii feels too expensive to justify.
The canon 24-70 f4 doesn't feel exciting enough (70mm @ f4) to warrant £1000.
The canon 24-105 f4 could be a reliable choice but its dated and I worry about sharpness and sample variation.
I like the look / idea of the tamron, but the stories I hear about AF inconcistency (not MFA) worry me.

So I'm kind of leaning towards the sigma 24-105 f4. But I've owned the old sigma 24-70 f2.8 in the past and found the AF to be unreliable and the bokeh to be unattractive. But I could save a bit of cash and buy a used canon 24-105 f4.

But does anyone have any good opinion (or bad opinions) of the sigma 24-105? and/or any decent and definative review sites? and/or does anyone have an opinion on whether the canon 24-105 would be a better bet?

And/or any other suggestions that I haven't considered?

Your time is always appreciated.
Thanks all
Alex

The 24 1.4 and 35 1.4 will both be great for taking shots of indoor activities, ;D.

 

[Deva]

Rather than buy yourself a new lens, why not buy your wife a new camera, say a 6D, then she can help carry around your primes?

There's a lot to be said for developing a common passion...

 

[JonAustin]

The problem with a Dslr is that whenever you ask someone else to use it, you always end up with blurred out of focus shots, so when you look back at your photos it will be like your wife went on the honeymoon on her own!(as you end taking all the photos) Just take a good quality compact that can shoot RAW, there'll be plenty of other holidays for the whole camera kit but only one honeymoon.

The results I've received when asking others to photograph me/us are not blurry, out-of-focus shots. (I set the mode dial to Program AE, and confirm that the shooter knows how to half-depress the shutter button to achieve focus before releasing the shutter.) Rather, the problem is more often poorly composed shots (heads / feet cut off, trees or poles "growing" out of heads, zoomed too far in / (way) too far out, etc.)

That's why I always carry a compact CF tripod (my Oben CT-3410 weighs < 3 pounds, folds down to < 17 inches and supports nearly 17 pounds) and an intervalometer. It's actually quicker and easier to set up this rig and get the shot(s) I want, than to find a reliable-looking passer-by, introduce myself, ask him/her to take our photo, instruct him/her on how to use my camera, etc., etc., and then -- as often as not -- get disappointing results, anyway.

What does happen a lot when other vacationers / tourists are in the area watching me set up, is that they ask me to photograph them in the same setting, using their camera. (And then, usually, I have to ask them how to operate theirs!)

To the OP: when you return from Mauritius, share your dodo bird pics with us!