My Gear
Camera
Whilst writing this, four months ago, I transitioned from the Canon EOS 750D to the Canon EOS RP, marking my first foray into full-frame photography. The difference has been remarkable. I selected the RP primarily for its affordability, with a new model priced around £1000, making it one of Canon's more budget-friendly full-frame options. However, I managed to acquire a "like new" body-only unit at a significantly reduced cost by part-exchanging my previous camera and EF-S lenses through a reputable online photography retailer.
The past four months with the RP have been an incredible experience. It weighs 70 grams lighter than my previous entry-level Canon, the RP boasts 4,760 additional focus points, a full-frame sensor, and advanced features like eye tracking for portraits. These enhancements have significantly advanced my photography, allowing me to surpass the limitations of my old camera.
While the RP may not rival Canon's latest models, such as the R5 and R6, it has met all my needs thus far and promises to be a reliable companion for many years to come.
Lenses
I have 4 lenses I carry with me, these are;
- Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS
- Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS I
- Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM
- Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM
To use my existing lenses with the Canon EOS RP, I have an EF to RF mount adapter.
For landscape shots, my 16-35 is the best choice for me . When I was researching on the best wide angle, the 16-35 f4 was a clear winner. It's far superior overall than the first 2.8 mk1 variant, so much sharper in the corners than the 2.8 mk2 and much cheaper than the 2.8 mk3, that is admittedly sharper, but heavier and more large, too. Furthermore, the 2.8 variants do not have IS (Image Stabiliser) which does help in those low shutter hand held situations. I may be limited in the Astro field of photography, but I rarely shoot the stars.
My 24-105L lens is attached to my camera 90% of the time, except when I am photographing wildlife. Remarkably this lens, which was released in 2003 when I was just three years old, and continues to deliver outstanding results. While the RF version of this lens may be lighter and marginally sharper, the price difference is not justifiable, particularly for those who already own the EF version prior to transitioning to an RF system.
When needing a closer shot of a subject, the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary is the perfect choice for this. It offers an impressive focal length range, allowing myself to capture distant subjects with sharp detail. Its lightweight design makes it easier to carry, while the built-in Optical Stabilization ensures sharp images even when shooting handheld. With high-quality optics, fast autofocus, and durability for challenging conditions, this lens delivers exceptional performance in a compact package, making it an excellent choice when I need powerful reach without the bulk.
Finally, my 50mm prime lens, although my least used of the three due to my photographic preferences. It's still an exceptional piece of equipment. Despite its infrequent use, it far surpasses expectations given its price. It produces incredibly sharp portraits and excels in street photography due to its lightweight and discreet size when paired with my RP.
Accessories
You can't have a camera without accessories, how would you store, protect, carry and enhance your photography?
I use the Manfrotto Advanced Befree Backpack III, a bag that I have recently just picked up to fit all my gear in comfortably. This bag has excellent build quality, feels tough and durable. It comfortably fits my big 150-600mm lens, my 2 other lenses and camera body This innovative layout addresses a common shortcoming in most photo bags: the lack of storage space for personal items such as a jumper, additional tech gadgets, or a water bottle when the side pockets are already occupied. On the other side of my bag, I secure my Neewer Portable Desktop Mini Tripod with a K&F Concept ball head attached.
Like many photographers, I have been drawn to Peak Design's renowned offerings. I currently own three of their products, with the first being the Capture Clip. Initially, the idea of attaching an expensive camera to a backpack strap might seem precarious, however, once you experience its functionality, exceptional build quality, and robustness, you'll quickly convert. The Capture Clip provides a far more comfortable alternative to a generic neck strap, which can strain neck muscles over the course of a full day. It allows you to carry your camera with comfort, ease, and security.
Additionally, I use two straps from Peak Design: the Cuff and the Slide. The Cuff complements my Capture Clip perfectly, offering both freedom and security when the camera is in hand, away from its position on my bag strap. The Slide is ideal for times when I prefer to leave my backpack at home or in the hotel room, as I don't always need all my gear. This strap also ensures a comfy carry when using the Sigma 150-600mm for a fully days shoot. This setup proved invaluable during a trip to Rhodes, Greece, where temperatures reached 40 degrees Celsius. Carrying a backpack in such heat is far from pleasant, so this alternative was truly paid for itself.