Best Lens For Travel Photography (2024)

[@mitchellkphotos]

Of course "best" anything is very subjective and bound to make some people disagree. What do you think is the best lens for travel photography? What do you think about my reasons for choosing the lens I chose?

[@cameraprepper7938]

I will not use a zoom Lens, I will use a wide-angle prime Lens and a short tele prime Lens, fx a Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm 2.0 Aspherical and a Voigtländer Macro APO-Lanthar 65mm 2.0 or Leica Macro-Elmarit R 60mm 2.8.

[@winheiMR]

@@cameraprepper7938 Wer genug Geld hat leistet sich eben mehr, ob nun die Fotos besser werden?

[@cameraprepper7938]

@@winheiMR I will rather NOT do photography with crappy Cameras and Lenses or I will use a secondhand very good Camera and prime Lens ! For me a Camera are a tool and a tool has to very good.

[@michalkubecek]

Your summary of the reasons is pretty clear and hard to argue with. Only for the "candid" part, my experience is that quite often, it may actually work in the opposite way: some people are more likely to tolerate someone with a "pro looking" setup taking their images than "just another annoying tourist". And if you wait long enough, they will stop thinking about you and start behaving naturally again. But perhaps it's just that given my size, there is little hope of being stealth with whatever camera. :-)

[@tonykeltsflorida]

I have Canon EOS-M and M6 mark II cameras for travel. I picked up a Tamron 24-70 f/2.8 EF mount for $500. It is heavy but since I have both Viltrox adapter and speedbooster, I can go to 17mm f/2 or 70 mm f/2.8. I am also taking a tiny 35mm f/1.4 manual focus TTArtisan lens. I can fit them is my rugged camera box for travel.

[@bunmeng007]

I used to travel with 35mm prime (i watched too many documentaty photographer channels). But turns out i’m more happy with a small zoom lens + a small prime for low light situation. It’s faster to shoot with a zoom so i can spend more time enjoying the trip with friends and family.

[@alvinbartolome1239]

Nothing is greater than having both. This true specially if you are travelling with friends/families who aren't keen in waiting for you to obtain your masterpiece. :)

[@bunmeng007]

@@alvinbartolome1239 hahah exactly. I think u also had similar experience. A prime really takes a lot of time to compose - my friends and family won't wait that long 🤣 yes, both prime and zoom is a killer combo

[@DeepikaAditya]

i did the same mistake trying to be a “pro” with 35 prime until my wife got fed up of my time wasting while she wanted to enjoy the trip with me. I did the rest of the trip with a selfie stick and mobile and we enjoyed a lot. Now I have 24 105 f4

[@bunmeng007]

@@DeepikaAditya woww. Same experience. One prime isn't practical for travel. Now I use 16-80 on a crop camera (so 24-120 in ff like yours)

[@matansta]

I too am using the Sony system. My solution for the weight + size issue was to get the new Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 lens. Very good quality, lighter, smaller (and cheaper) than the Sony 24-70. As I see it, the only compromise was loosing important 4 mm at the wide end of the range. David

[@Bullybeef972]

That's why I use the Tamron 28-75mm f2.8 G2. Best of both worlds...lightweight, candid, flexible, affordable and takes awesome photos. Thanks for the video :)

[@clarson2916]

I’m a retired professional commercial photographer. I had at my disposal the 16-35 f2.8, the 24-70 f2.8, the 24-105 f4, the 70-200 f2.8, and an assistant to carry the extra equipment. As got closer to retirement I started shooing more and more with the 35mm f1.8 and the 85mm f1.8 prime lenses. As a professional, when you absolutely must get the shot, in any kind of an uncontrolled situation, you’ll probably be best served by one of the zoom lenses, and the one I had on the camera most often was the 24-105. But, the joy of shooting with just those 2 prime lenses was part of the reason I didn’t retire earlier. In retirement I’m shooting almost exclusively with the 35mm & the 85mm for my personal enjoyment. A little caveat… in retirement, when photography is not the point of my day, I’m shooting with my iPhone 14 Pro Max. Actually an amazing camera.

[@Mikluxa.Maklai]

Really like this comment. Definitely in case u deeply understand what do u want to shot and how to get best result u may sacrifice flexibility. May be in 30+ years I also will put my 24-105 and 24-70 on a shelf and start to enjoy only with primes ) may be ))

[@johndonaldson5126]

With the latest sensors and lenses an APS-C camera is a great choice for travel. The key here is if you're going to focus on photography then bring your Full Frame and large lenses. But if you're with the spouse and kids you don't need the professional equipment. For me I'll leave the FF camera at home and go with the Sony a6700 with the Sigma 18-50 f/2.8 lens. It's a good all around combination, small and light. That lens produces surprisingly sharp images

[@costa4555]

my best travel choice is the 24mm f1.4. The use of the super35 mode allows to get around 35mm when needed

[@davidgraham9577]

For me photography is just a hobby, so I'm not trying to make a living. However, I can relate to this discussion. I like taking street, travel and landscape. I have a fuji X100T with 23mm f/2 fixed lens, equiv to 35mm in full frame. I also have Nikon APS-C with zoom lens. 95% of rhe time I choose the Fuji with 35 equiv. It is light, compact and inconspicuous with great results.

[@derTeelp]

Just came back from a two week photography job in Northafrica (mostly travel & street photography). Took the Fuji XT4 (APSC sensor/1,5x crop). Used the 16-55mm f2.8 about 75% of the time, the 16mm f1.4 and 33 f1.4 around 20%, and the 50-140mm f2.8 only 5% of the time. During the day the 16-55 is amazing, when the sun sets I use my primes. Works great for me :)

[@zacharypump5910]

the best travel lens is obviously an 8mm-500mm f/22 zoom lens. Can be wide enough to get near 360degrees of landscape and zoom enough for a bird in a distant tree, and f22 makes sure the whole thing can stay small and light and not draw too much attention in street / event situations. Just make sure you have a really good sensor to deal with that f22 light handheld... and the bokeh is gorgeous, but microscopic. Only time I feel that set-up is limiting is when taking candid shots of distant nebulas... For that I hook my camera body up to a local observatory telescope.

[@mitchellkphotos]

Riiiiight....🤪

[@TITAOSTEIN]

I’m using the new OM-1 since February 2022 and it is AMAZING for travel photography (and also for almost everything). Although I also use FF and APSC equipment, the M43 continues to be my favorite option (For Wildlife, birds and Macro the best option in my opinion). The Leica 10-25mm f1.7 is simply Wonderful (but as big and heavy as the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 ii) and I use it mostly for Video. The Olympus Duo 12-40mm and 40-150mm f2.8 is amazing for Travel photography, covering almost everything, also in moderate Lowlight (remembering that the new OM-1 has a better Low Light performance than the other M43 Cameras). But when I’m not working in Low light, the Olympus 8-25mm f4 or the Olympus 12-100mm f4 (depending on the subject) are BRILLIANT!! Like you I love the little Leica 15mm f1.7, but recently I’m in love with the Olympus 17mm f1.2 (the Nokton 10.5mm and 17mm f0.95 are also INCREDIBLE)! I love your videos! Your pictures are gorgeous!!

[@MeAMuse]

It always depends where you are going and what you are shooting. The reality is that regardless of what you choose there are going to be shots you can't get. You go for a 24-70mm you are going to wish you had wider or longer. If you carry the holy trinity.... you are going to wish you had less gear, and you are going to miss shots because you have the wrong lens on. You take a superzoom, and you are going to miss image quality, low light performance and the shallow DOF you can get. You go for a prime... well you are a limiting your flexibility. The good news is that creativity is inspired by the limitations we impose upon ourselves. If you only have a 35mm... you start seeing in the 35mm focal length and if you need wider you might get creative and take a bunch of shots and stitch them together. Choose your gear based on where you are going and what you intent to shoot (if you are going to Yellowstone... you probably shouldn't choose a 16-35mm as your one lens). The important thing is that whatever you choose.... you embrace it, work within those constraints and don't focus on what you are missing. Some vacations I have just gone with a 24-240mm. I have 20x30" prints on my wall from taken at the long (least sharp) part of that 24-240.... and you know what.... people always comment on it because it is a great photo! Also knowing your gear helps... that same lens... I have some good low light shots because I stabilize myself and shoot a bunch of photos with a longer shutter speed (one in the middle somewhere is usually workable), I also know that if I am wanting a sharper image with it I should not zoom it past 135mm.

[@bitpuff]

Single lens only: Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 OIS "kit" lens - fantastic image quality and fast for a small, light-weight, and discrete lens. Pair that with a small Fujifilm body and you're off to the races. Alternatively, a low-cost, two small camera+lens set ups: 1) Sigma 56 mm f/1.4 DC DN with Fujifilm X-S10 (has IBIS) - very fast and very light weight set up for the long end and 2) Canon EOS RP with 35mm f/1.8 IS MACRO - very fast, light-weight and versatile full frame set up for wide end and macro.

[@1337ghomri]

I brought a A7III with only a Samyang 35mm f/2.8 (which is one of the smallest lens for Sony) to Bologna in Italy. I was pretty impressed by the shots in the end. It was really versatile and pretty casual to walk around with. I did sometimes miss being able to go wider to take pictures of buildings outside and inside. But not missed zoom that much. Really happy about the result. A small 35mm is veristile, light weight, casual and easy to carry around where ever you go.

[@specialized41]

The best 24-70mm F/2.8, you have a little of everything. I personally use Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8, Sigma 35mm f/1.4 for travel. I have Tamron 17-28mm (Rare use) and Sigma 85mm f/1.4 (exclusively for Portrait). Planning buy Sony 20mm G for astro-night photography. I use A7III.

[@miguellibarnes3413]

You helped me make up my mind that the 35mm is the better lens for me because I want the smallest, simplest setup for travel photos/videos with the new Sony A7C II. Thank you!

[@michelesholar1756]

It is a hard choice to make. I find it quite difficult at times. So for me, i go with a simple kit lens as it's called a 18-55mm for my nikon d5600. It meets my needs as what i want to use if I'm not planning a specific shoot. As with all lenses they have pros and cons. Choice what best fits your own needs and go out and enjoy capturing life's moments.

[@heystefl]

The context in choosing a lens is so important. I'm glad you emphasized that. As a documentary filmmaker, the projects I work on are usually more cooperative than candid so the 24-70mm 2.8 is a great balance between mobility and beauty.

[@churchill378]

For me it’s the the Sony 24-105 for travel . Might be an f4 but has lens stabilisation and that extra reach makes it an incredible lens for travel. Plus for background separation at 105 it looks better than at 70 on the 2.8 imo.

[@mitchellkphotos]

Yeh, I do like it, but I don't want to go to 105 to get that separation.

[@Βόρειο_Σέλας]

I am not professional but what is the best lens in reality is a very subjective question/answer. Everyone has different reasons for their pick. Personally I like to travel light as I am tired of carrying a heavy camera bag with the 2.8 zooms. Now I just use my 50/1.8, 35/2 and 20/2.8 and over the years I found that a lot of my shots were around the 50 mark so, the 50 is on the camera 95% of my shots. Cheers

[@JohnDoe-yd7zm]

Having done a lot of traveling, I recommend just one camera one lens. Did 16 months with just a 28mm equivalent, your eyes will adjust to the FL. I'd choose a good pancake, anywhere from 28 to 40mm.

[@ChristianThueringer]

35+85 combo is my go to setup.

[@bryanbacos]

you shooting weddings when you travel?

[@hansernst5998]

Me too 😊

[@AnthonyP1234]

I have a Sony APSC camera, and for my travels in Asia I paired it with a 17-70 F2.8. The full fame equivalent is 24-105, except as it is APSC, the size and weight of the camera and lens is much smaller than full frame and more discreet. It fits into a medium sling bag, as well as my wallet etc, so not a problem to take out in any scenario as I would always have a sling bag anyway. Versatile enough across different zoom ranges, all whilst being fixed at 2.8. Definitely the most versatile lens for me for travelling light.

[@tonybaker55]

Just returned from a trip around Europe and I took ages to decide what lens or lenses to take (I probably have too many!). At first I thought take the 24-105 f/4, but it is heavy for walking around all day with. Then I was going to take a 17-35 f/2.8-4 and a 35-105 f/3.5-4.5, but then I decided, I might need a wider apperture than those could provide, so opted in the end to take three primes, 35mm f/2, 50mm f/1.4 and 100mm f/2.8 Macro. I did take a few shots with the 50 and 100, but the vasy majority were using the 35mm (about 95%). The only comment I got from my brother-in-law, was "why didn't you bring a zoom lens?"

[@swissheartydogs]

Travel is the best lens for photography. i mean travel as a mindset, no need to go that far. Just take your camera and a specific lens that day. your photography improves when you are inspired by a lens, a light, a sky, a landscape, a seascape, a street, a culture, people, etc. Underwater photographers have to chose one lens before diving: So inspiring..

[@mitchellkphotos]

That's true about underwater photogs, but still... which one to choose? 😂 I like what you say, though I tried to be as practical here as possible.

[@Polum2]

From a long time APSC user (not sure if I'm allowed to join in with all you FF's). My "Go To" lens is the Canon 15-85mm IS USM, it so versatile in the zoom range, going wider than the 18mm of many lenses, but it is tack sharp across the frame! Plus, and its's a big plus the colour rendition with this lens is un-equaled in my experience with just about all Canons APSC lenses. Trust me I travel a lot too! So, if folk are looking for a great APSC travel lens the 15-85mm is the best you can get! I also carry the 24mm STM Pancake lens, much like you use the 35mm on a FF camera.

[@gwaithwyr]

I had a 15-85. Foolishly, I sold it. Maybe I shall get another.

[@evawettergren7492]

I have the sony a7c and use the 35mm f1.8 and have it paired with the Sigma 90mm f2.8. Both lenses are small and light and (as a bonus) share the same 55mm filters. I prioritise the small and lightweight parts over big and flexible when traveling. If I have to go with just one though... hmmm... I have to go with the Sigma 90mm. I am too shy to get close to people.

[@paullanoue5228]

If I’m going to cities I normally bring a 24-105 mm F4 for daytime. Indoors or at night I use a 35mm 1.8. The lenses are small and light, but are flexible enough for most any situation.

[@RandumbTech]

Always best to bring a decent zoom and fast prime on any vacation. Personally, I chose the Sony 24-105/f4 and 35GM/f1.4. The zoom is awesome for video and the prime is perfect for candid shots and low light conditions. If I want to go really light, I'll just grab my Fuji X100V and GoPro - that'll get the job done surprisingly well.

[@crosenvold1]

For me my 6 year old Olympus PenF with a Lumix/Leica 15mm F:1,8 is my favorite travel companion. However, because it weights next to nothing, I also have the tiny Olympus 45mm F:1,8 in my pocket. Not that I am changeing back and forwards all the time, but I get some extra tele-capabilities if needed, and I stay small and inconspicuous.

[@dccanfield]

Being fortunate to have six lenses (from macros to telephoto), I find my most used in travel photography are my 24-70/2.8 and an old 28-300/3.5-5.8. I have become accustomed to the versatility of zoom lenses. For wildlife I prefer my 180-400 with built-in 1.4 T to the 600. The 28-300 has an amazing range and is lighter and less conspicuous than the 24-70. Also, shooting from across the street is less noticeable than from a few feet away with the 35mm. Plus, with the newer cameras, the improvement in noise reduction at higher ISOs somewhat overcomes the smaller aperture.

[@jonoy4375]

A7c is good for travel. If one prime, then Batis 40 is good. If two primes, then 24 f2.8 G + Zeiss 55, or 35 & 85 combo

[@b.mansouri]

I took a 35mm f1.8 and a 24-70 f2.8 for my recent travel to Italy and used mostly the 35mm lens. Some days i needed a wider lens but the drawbacks of the zoom lens (weight, bulky and attract more attention) outweigh the pros of it. When I am looking at the pictures now I thought I took some of those pictures with the zoom lens where in fact after checking the exit I realized they were with the 35mm. I think taking the two lenses was the right decision.

[@tankmother]

Very underrated lens for street and candid shots is samyang 35/2.8, fantastic little lens (weights just 80g). Now, I am also using Sony 28-60 kit for that matter (supe compact, but high distortion @28mm). I used to use big lenses like 24-105, 24-70, 70-200 (heavy, bulky and attract a lot of attention, but still absolute tools for commercial work). I can say that with modern cameras, weight, size and focus speed matters much more that crazy f stops.

[@pinikpikantv3555]

7R3- 24 GM A6100- 90 2.8 35 Zeiss & 55 1.8 I swap with each other. 24 GM turns into a 36 1.4 18 MP on crop mode on R3 or 24 MP on the A6100. 24 GM- astro /wide angle 35 zeiss 2.8- street/ stealth lens 55 1.8- portraits/ mid telephoto 90 2.8-macro/portraits All these lens are specialized. I use 16-50 kitlens PZ on video for its OSS. Maybe a more versatile wider stabilized lens soon and a more versatile birding zoom lens

[@piotrtrocki3842]

If this video is for amateurs, then all in one zooms are the best choice, 28-300, 28-200, 18-300, 18-400 ext. Those give flexibility in all situations and are not expensive. I used to travel with film camera in 80's and 90's with 28-200 Tamron on Nikon camera and small tripod to use longer focal lengths. Once you became professional you are more picky and you make your own perfect choices.

[@PhotoTrekr]

I had the 24-70mm GM. But, I got tired of the weight, so I sold it and bought the 24-105mm G lens. I think most people would be well served by the 24-105mm as a general purpose travel lens. I also sold my 70-200mm GM for the same reason and replaced it with the 70-200mm G lens. But, eventually I sold the 24-105 and 70-200 G and bought all GM primes from 14mm to 135mm which I love using when I'm home. The 35mm GM and 135mm GM are my favorites. But, for me, a bag full of primes is just impractical for travel. So, I ordered the new 24-70mm GM II and 70-200mm GM II which will be my main travel lenses.

[@Donbros]

Wow XD you really like to buy and sell stuff. Imo zoom is something you can always have. You will always will find place for it. Thus its always pretty expensive

[@Thunderbird1337]

Used a Sony 16-55 f2.8 on APS-C for a couple of years (because of its compactness), now I switched to full-frame and I just absolutely love the 50mm f1.8 for traveling. I realized that I don't really need wide angle very often and that I can do almost everything with 50mm. And f1.8 on full-frame just looks so much better than f2.8 on APS-C, that's really worth for me being limited to a prime lens (or two - mostly I take the 18mm Samyang with me, too).

[@maxanderssonphotography]

My travel combo: 24mm f1.4 GM + 55mm f1.8 Zeiss

[@hugoparente1908]

Yes, each of us must try to make the right decision. I had the 24-105 F4, which was a great zoom, but for travel, I picked the Tamron 28-200 2.8-5.6, along with the 35 1.4 GM and the Tamron 17-28 2.8. If i'm not capturing great moments, it's probably because I'm too preoccupied with breakfast, and not focus.

[@mitchellkphotos]

Interesting combination of lenses. Thanks for watching.

[@johnbancken2011]

As a Fuji user I bring all my lenses when I travel. Best shots in landscape I use the Fuji 55-200 or 12 mm Samyang. For people I use the standard 18-55 or for al bit more depth of field the 35 mm F2.0.

[@mitchellkphotos]

I've been interested in the fixed l35mm equivalent Fuji, but it's out of stock in most places.

[@johnbancken2011]

@@mitchellkphotos I don't know that lens, or is it the Sigma. I do use the 18-135 Fuji. It is an allrounder but at f3.5 -5.6 you must not wish too much at 18 mm, but at 100-135 you will have depth of field. Mostly enough when you make a portrait.

[@johnbancken2011]

@@mitchellkphotos by the way, I never spend that much money. I buy all my gear second hand.

[@Narsuitus]

Here is what I choose for one-lens/one-body photography: 35mm f/1.4 my personal favorite prime for full-frame cameras 28-70mm f/2.8 my personal favorite zoom for full-frame cameras 23mm f/2 my personal favorite prime for APS-C cameras 23mm f/1.4 my personal second favorite prime for APS-C cameras 16-55mm f/2.8 my personal favorite zoom for APS-C cameras 20mm f/1.7 my personal favorite prime for micro 4/3 cameras 28-140mm f/1.8 to f/2.8 equivalent fixed zoom lens on compact digital cameras

[@GatorheadLuis]

For me if I was traveling again full time I would take with me a 24-105mm lens on a full frame mirrorless body and a fixed lens camera with either 28mm/35mm focal length... I used a Canon EOSr with 24-105mm and a Leica Q traveling for 8 months and I was able to photograph 90% of everything that came my way (the exception being ultra-wide landscapes/tight city scapes where a 16-35mm came in handy).

[@TheTigers00001]

Olympus 12-100mm F4 IS mated with an EM1 mk 3 is my go to combo for travelling. Unbelievable quality, a 24-200mm range in the 35mm vernacular, fantastic image stabilization when paired with the body. Fits in a small bag with a couple of batteries. I carry an iPad as my computer and view the images on that after a days shooting.

[@thomasanderson5929]

Bingo. I've got the same setup. Got a 25mm f/1.7 when low light is an issue. But also a 9mm f/1.7 pairs nicely as well for Ultra Wide Angle. Those two f/1.7 primes basically weigh 250g and take up almost no space at all. That's what 'travel' lens means; small, light, versatile.

[@JayantW55]

I carry 24-70 in camera bag. But use it only as needed. Most of the time I use 50mm f1.8 and 24mm f1.4. Both very lightweight.

[@specialized41]

For me: Sigma 24-70mm dgdn, and for streets: Sigma 35mm dgdn, if I need extreme Wide: Tamron 17-28mm. Cheaper than GM lenses with a very good photo quality.

[@horstlabarca2559]

I have always my Panasonic G 81 with the kit lens 12 to 60 f 2,8 to 5.6 with me and the Panasonic 25 mm f 1.8 . I m really happy😊

[@Festvangelist]

I am not a professional but I have been shooting and or processing for over 50 years. For travel…I use my Fuji XF 16-80, 24-120 - 35 equivalent. Maximum flexibility. Try using the 35mm in the mountains. I love my 23f2 lens (35mm ) too but for Travel I do not like changing lenses in the field. The issue of size was a flawed point because weight and size are significantly lighter and smaller on crop sensor cameras something a non professional may value. Yes the zoom is still bigger in scale but I have experience with Nikon, Canon and Fuji set ups with zooms and I prefer the smaller footprint…much easier to enjoy travel.

[@johnashcroft-jones6091]

Sigma 18-50 f2.8 on a6*** series. Biggest bang for buck. Light and small.

[@nolannatashaTV]

I’ve been using the tamron 28-200 and so far I’m really loving it. It’s not perfect but the flexibility is great without being an enormous lens

[@iShootWild]

I have this lens too and love it. Recently, I added Samyang 45mm f1.8 and I travel locally with this combo. If air travel and there is a weight limit, I carry Sony APSC + Sigma 16mm + Sony 50mm.

[@TheKentaurion]

As a travelcamera the Sony RX100 series is very good. It fits in your pocket. Then as something extra a bigger camera when you are out just for taking landscapes or architecture. My travel set is Sony IV with 24-70 f1.8-2.8 and a Sony a6500 with 18-135 (eqv. 28-200 mm). All bodies and lenses are stabilized, so I can take really long exposures. With the latter combo a 1/5 sec is not a problem. I also use the in body clearzoom to double the focal lenght when needed with no quality loss. In video you can even get away with the quadruple digital zoom if neccecery. RX100 is about 300 g and the aps-c combo is 790 g. Not bad.

[@markkrell7845]

Travel photography to me is street/ candid 60% + landscrape/cityscrape 40%. The faster recognize subject & better tracking the combo is what I need. I will choose Sony my next camera. Previously I did have Fujfilm X system 2 bodies/ 7 lens. All are sold this because I learn FF is better color depth & much more reliable AF. (X-H2s house a very high read out speed stacked sensor but still does not help much its AF)

[@scb2scb2]

If money is not a issue, and personally feel its always possible to add a small prime i would say : replace the 24-70GM with the 24-70GM2 and also take a 35GM1.4 with the size and weight savings of the new 2470GM2 :)

[@sammyh9542]

With today's cameras ability to shoot at high iso, and the ability to clean the images in post, just take a 24-105 f4 and enjoy. I personally use 35 and 85 f1.8..... Both Light compact and don't mind switching lenses on the go.

[@danielcalvocamacho4538]

I think I would go for three lenses: 20 mm, 50 mm and 100 - 400 mm. The 20 mm for landscapes and astro; 50 mm for street, portrait photography; and 100 - 400 landscape and wildlife.

[@PhotoTrekr]

For the past few years I started shooting primes again. And I had planned on taking my 135mm GM, 35mm GM, and 14mm GM on an upcoming trip. Then the new 24-70 GM II and 70-200mm GM II were released. Now I plan to take the zooms including the 16-35mm GM on my trip. I love the primes, but it's hard to beat the zooms for their versatility.

[@wl5609]

I agree! I really want that new 24-70 f2.8 GM 2 as well for my A74...

[@johnashcroft-jones6091]

The Sigma 18-50 f2.8 is my go to lens for my APSC a6000 and a7r, with the Sony FE 85 f1.8 for both bodies. IF there is pixel loss when mixing formats I suck it up, The worst case is a final file of 15MP which is normally enough. Both are brilliant budget giveaways and are both sharp and fast.

[@jasonbourne8181]

Use the Olympus 12-40 F2.8 or 12-100 F4 for travel!

[@travelwithvist]

My choice is the sony 24mm F1.4 Gm and 50mm F1.4Gm 😊,​ light and can get most of the ranges with the super35 mode on my a7iv

[@danielbogos263]

For travel photography by far the most usefull is 24-105 f4. Especially if it involves a lot of nature. So many times you see scenes than you don't have time to switch lens so 24-105 pretty much covers all the range you need. You most likely will not miss anything. However if you travel most of the time in cities and populated places...yes 35 is the best choice, maybe stick an 85 as well. Its all about environment and obviously what range you like photographing. You mighy like tighter shots even when you go in nature.

[@mickkev]

My choice is Tamron 28-200 f/2.8-5.6. This lens gives me a lot of flexibility to shoot landscape, portrait, or wildlife.

[@robertgouldphotography]

Hi I enjoyed your video. I spent 2 weeks in France (Normandy, Paris and Loire Valley). In my opinion 16-35 is by far the best single lens for Sony. I got absolutely stunning pics of just about everything from people in Paris and Mont St Michel. I did not even bring my 24-70. 16-35 is also less bulky and lighter than 24-70.

[@proksalevente]

I've swapped my 24mm and 85mm lenses for a 24-70 sigma on Sony E. It's heavier and bulkier but I find that I don't miss out on shots. My main gripe is, that f2.8 seems to get me more noise than I'd like in cloudy and/or dark situations, which is more common in the winter. Over the summer, it's just the size and weight, which is a tad heavy but I'm comfortable carrying this thing around for a hike for example, so it's fine. You can also make up for the candidness with standing twice as far away and shooting at 70mm. I'm planning on picking up a 35mm prime later down the road though, for some low light shooting scenarios, as it's really my all time favorite focal length, it gets the most use on the zoom too. But I just love the versatility too much, to sell this lens, I'll have to keep it forever.

[@msbrownbeast]

I'm a Canon user. I would use the 24-105 and carry around an EF 40mm F2.8 pancake lens as a spare. It's so small that it's hardly noticeable inside the camera bag, has good optics, and way cheaper than the 35mm F1.8 Sony.

[@MasoMathiou]

My favorite lens as a canon user (APS-C) is the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 It's such an awesome lense! The only thing it lacks is stabilization.

[@zenscape]

I had watched your previous video on best travel lens a few years ago and this is another excellent video. Totally agree with your conclusion. I am now in Bangkok for a 3-week vacation and brought along three lenses - RF 24-70 f2.8, RF 70-200 f2.8 and RF 35 f1.8. I found myself using RF 35 1.8 all the time. Like you said, the lightweight 35 prime is enjoyable to use and it makes me want to bring it along anywhere I go and shoot more. Thanks for the great video!

[@shieldaigbencher]

I used to almost exclusively use Nikon 35mm f2. More recently my rf24-105 f4 L lives on my camera backed up with 100-500 L.

[@DDHDTV]

I think I'll try a few set ups in the future. 28-70 Sigma 2.8 + Samyang 24 1.8 . Rather light Setup. 35 F1.8 + 70-180 F2.8 35 1.8 + 85 1.8 maybe

[@pollutingpenguin2146]

I love my Sony 24-104 and 24GM for my travels! 24-105 for daytime and 24 for night shoots!

[@StefanBeyer]

After spending way to much money on trying different setups, I have settle on the following compromise: 1. 24-104 f/4 (on a Sony a7iii body) 2. Voigtlander Nokton 35mm f/1.5 M-Mount lens (on Sony adapter). This is manual focus but very small and great for walking around a city at night or indoors. 3. A Ricoh GRiiix APSC compact. 40mm equivalent, fits into a jeans pocket and is very discrete. This comes out for candid shots or carrying the bigger camera is not practical (like exploring an area on a bicycle or running). This camera is generally on me anyway. Bit of an ergonomic compromise but allows for full manual control.

[@mitchellkphotos]

Nice solutions. :)

[@belaacs5238]

I don't care about what lenses people are using, I only care about images and yours always stand out from the crowd. My favourite travel photographer is Steve McCurry and you Mitchell.

[@mitchellkphotos]

That's very nice of you to say. Thank you very much. :)

[@robertyanal3818]

Sony A7C. Brought 3 lenses for a tour of Utah National Parks. Sony 28-60 mm 4.0 - 5.6, 20 mm 1.8, 28 mm 2.0. 20 mm 75%, 28-60 20%, 20 5%. Weight is a huge factor for me.

[@judem429]

I agree! This is where I've come to. I travel to remote areas and my Sony a1 with a big lens --- No! I use the 20 a lot as I'm often in dark interiors and up close to things. 55 and 85 are in my bag. You've made me think about adding the 35. A zoom under f4 needs a fork lift. And I do love having a blurry background.

[@n0w3lly90]

I have done perfectly well using, exclusively one fixed aperture, fixed focal length lens: a 35mm f/2. When I travel I don't want lots of weight, and I don't care about gear. I focus solely on getting a photograph. Yes, I am limited for getting shots from a distance, but then I think the photographer can work around that by getting themselves in the right place, and plan ahead. With street or documentary I don't want to freak people out, so I use a stealthy full frame compact with full manual override on everything.

[@philipsutton2316]

Yes I have ruminated and been back and forth on this question for decades. It nearly drove me bonkers at times. Having bought and sold many systems and burned through thousands of dollars, I've reached a pretty good compromise (as we know, all camera systems are still some kind of compromise). Firstly - no zooms for me. The benefits of smaller primes, with a fast aperture, just can't be beaten. I now carry two small bodies - each with a fast prime attached, and this covers all my needs, for street/portrait and events. My Fuji APSC, has the marvellous 16mm 1.4 for all my wide stuff (24mm equivalent). My FF Nikon mirrorless, has the Z50mm 1.8 attached. The great thing with the FF Nikon is that if I need to get a bit closer, I just click the 'DX' button and I've suddenly got the equivalent of a 75mm lens. It's actually like having 3 lenses on board. The way I carry these makes them very light and I can walk all day. I usually only have one out at a time, so I am still seen with just a small camera and standard lens, so nobody gets alarmed. Best of both worlds. I wish I'd discovered this years ago. Finally - just to quieten those who bang on endlessly about the FF vs Crop Sensor debate - I actually prefer the images from the Fuji X-T3, over those from my Nikon Z6ii. Yes, I run a full-frame camera, but the images from my crop-sensor Fuji stand up remarkably well.

[@mitchellkphotos]

Definitely like this idea. :) And yeh, as I said in a past video - most of the time no one will tell the difference between Full frame APSC or whatever other cameras we use.

[@RM-hy4so]

Try the 24-70 GM II, substantially smaller than your original GM and incredibly sharp and superb color fidelity.

[@pauloegydio]

I'm just a hobbyist who likes to make good photos to keep the memórias of my trips. I have an old nikon D5600 and use a tamron 16-300 f3.5 - 6.3. It's definitely not the best equipment but they haven't let me down. I've always been able to capture what I wanted. So, I'd choose versatility. Great video. Cheers!

[@mitchellkphotos]

Well, there's also a saying - the best lens is the one that you have. So if you have that... :)

[@petripuurunen]

Sony has excellent primelenses (for creating 2-lens combo for light setup/travelkit). I usually travel with 16-35/2.8, 35/1.4 and 24-105/4. I would really like to see 24-105/2.8 from Sony. But, for the original question: If you need to pick just one lens, it would be 35mm. Started from Sony-Zeiss 35/2.8, switched to Sony 35/1.8 and ended up to 35/1.4.

[@edwyrdkarn963]

Hello from minnesota. I have a "Yours, mine and ours" family, 13 kids all told. I am 62 and my yougest is 15. As you can see we never have money, we work hard and play hard and are happy. My main camera is a Olympus pen E-Pl1 with the digital 14-42mm 1.35-5.6 and a 17mm 1.28, all Olympus glass. With the 17mm lens, the camera really does fit in a pocket. I use the Olympus the most, lightweight and small, mostly street, scenery and portraits. I own two more cameras, all 2nd hand. A Canon T3 with a EF-S 18-55mm 3.5-5.6, a Canon nifty 50 and a 35mm pancake lens (Again all canon glass),I use it for landscapes and micro work, with macro tubes. Plus a Pentax MX-1(which even 2nd hand cost me more then all the rest!). However, because of my age and eyes, I am really frustrated with focussing, so some times, most time my pics are out of focuss, dont know what is going on, now after all this, here is a question. would getting the Olympus eletronic view finder help me to focuss? I wont quit, just frastrated. Sorry for the long story and short question, I reall enjoy your photos and teaching style, thank you for your time and work, have a great day, Edwyrd.

[@mitchellkphotos]

Hey Edwyrd, thanks for your comment. About your question, there are actually probaly tens of videos on getting sharp photos on KZbin. It's not necessarily anything to do with the lens. I suggest you search for that.

[@echoauxgen]

I have used telephotos from the T2i kit lenses in 2010 to going Sony in 2014/15 when the first available was the 24-240mm, 16-35 and hidden gem the APS-C 10-18mm (16-35mm) but in full frame 12-18mm the first non fisheye 12mm for a full frame. I used these on the A7s (no IBIS) but with the A7Rii and A7iii were even better. The one thing a new user never gets is f/# does not matter with the low noise of Sony sensors, Auto ISO even in Manual and focus size points. Bokeh/blur/separation is all about focus even at 240mm go small and get it even in daylight with great clear balls and smooth separation with a clear subject. As far as night shots at the f/3.5 @ 24mm or even f/6.3 @ 240 or the press of a button for APS-C for 36-360 on the A7iii you get ISO invariance noise is equal from ISO 600 to 12800 so even limits set auto ISO range noise no problem and you get daylight like images on a NEW moon vs a full moon and the behind lights if small focus you get those desired balls and separation with a in focus subject. I am a hobbyist and can capture whatever I desire and for a bum around teardrop for anytime anywhere and have most all telephoto and primes Sony offers I carry the 24-240 and the 10-18. The 24-240 I have used for flying birds at 360 in APS-C night cityscapes at 24mm even Milky Ways in the dark in the Pennsylvania dark hills get both a bright sky and a daylight foreground with dairy cows (black/white) in a field with outstanding color. And for that pano view 3 x 2 image of day fall color or night MW with colorful fall over a valley the E 10-18 in full frame @ 12mm even at f/4. You have to read the several books on your Sony camera written by knowledgeable tech photographers that show all that is in your hands so you can get any shot you desire. It is not the lens or the many lenses in your bag but the camera and the final most important is the many softwares that are out not just PS/Lr. You have so much noise in a lot of images like you never finish in post or do not use NR (you paid for). I have been carrying a camera since the film days when walking cities needing also sticks in my bag and like walking in far off places even a day in a European city with hills things get heavy. Hint wear a heavy duty binocular harness with quick release red things the camera will be at the ready and the flex straps make you the tripod, ever go spelunking where sticks are not allowed or flash either a true test of camera skill.

[@Qusyairikazokustudio]

My travel lens 35mm + 85mm. When comes to confined street or indoors.. 35mm, city walk 85mm. 35mm 2.8 Sonnar, good choice coz it tiny n light.

[@GatesMueller-b2n]

I shoot mostly with Fujifilm so my setup is slightly smaller but I find myself keeping a prime lens on them the majority of the time. Smaller size and wider aperture are both big factors, but the creative limitations are something I also find enjoyable. There are certainly shots that I miss, or don’t even attempt because I know my focal range is not well suited for that composition. Carrying around a camera at all times has been the biggest factor in the improvement of my photography over the past couple of years and 90% of the time my photos have been taken with prime lenses.

[@harmenvanwelbergen4224]

I use a 50 mm 1.8 lens on my Nikon d850 most of the time when am traveling. Great all round prime lens

[@3159curious]

For my travel lens I take the Tamron 35-150 F2-2.8 + for my wider shots, I use Iphone 15 pro max.

[@claraschumacher2032]

I think it also depends a lot on the trip landscapes and cityscapes vs street and people. I find myself sometimes struggling with composition for land and cityscapes with prime lenses only. So now I am back to a zoom lens 20-70f4 for Sony ;)

[@bdsattern]

Great insight and perspective. The 24-70 GM stays on my camera most of the time, it’s just so versatile and I don’t find the weight cumbersome at all. BUT I wouldn’t hesitate to toss the 35mm in my travel bag too - it’s so small that both lenses are still a pretty practical lens combo.

[@martin9410]

Great video. I travel light with Sony 35mm f/1.4 gm, Sigma 65mm f2, and sometimes, the Sigma 90mm f/2.8. Get great resolution on my Sony a7riii. I do have a 24mm when needed.

[@ARTIST-AT-LARGE]

I do a lot of travel editorial photography and my current set up is a Canon 6D with an EF 24-105 f4 lens. I don’t like to switch lenses, but I am considering getting a 50mm prime/fixed lens for everyday and people photography.

[@RiccardoGabarriniKazeatari]

I thought I needed the a7iii with the 24-105 f4, but then I tried the a7C with the 28-60... My back thanked me, and there were maybe 2 times I wished for wider or longer, 2 times in one month. Looking back at the photos, they were wide enough, and cropping solved the other problem. For low light situations... I have the 35 1.8. Tamron seems to be working at a 24-50 f2, now that would be awesome

[@ALWH1314]

I used to have only one A7R3 and one 24-105 f4 lens so I travel with it and happy with the flexibility, the semi macro and stabilization. As I cumulating over 20 lenses, the choices became difficult, always ended bringing lenses that I didn’t use. My last trip to Australia with one backpack forced me to bring only one camera with fixed 28mm lens and an Insta360 RS One for video. Wasn’t sure how that will work, but even though I missed many opportunities I wish I had a long zoom but the result was fantastic, I went back to using my feet to zoom, pay more attention to composition instead of picking lens. I truly love my Leica Q2 now.

[@rezamahtabi482]

Thanks for video. once I took 24-120 f4 but regret that decision as it was kind of heavy and big combination with nikon d800e, next time I took Z6II with 24-70 f4 and result was not bad and package was light but still not very comfortable. now Im looking for a 28mm f2.8 to make it as light as possible or get a Q2 Leica which is almost perfect camera for travel. Basically it depends on your travel conditions and when I go on a domestic trip by car its easy to make a heavy pack but for abroad travel lightest is the best, just my experience and humble opinion.

[@julesgardet659]

Sigma 30, 1.4 is perfect for the personal way I see the world. Zooms are extremely practical but it is difficult no to be all over the place since you have the ability to do it. Primes make me think intentionally, inspire me to go after more specific subjects. Primes definitely makes me love photography even more.

[@rickymcc9072]

The 35mm is fantastic, so too the Zeiss 55mm f1.8 (albeit close focusing is limited). 85 f1.8 an unsung great value small tele. I have all these and many others. BUT beyond lens choice is your personal attitude and attempts to actively engage with potential subjects in a warm and friendly fashion. Many don't (understandably) like tourists sticking a lens in their face (for some it's intimidating and rude) but they will reciprocate warmly to you as a friend. It took me 3 years of 'cowering across the street' shooting with a tele before I realised that 'behaviour begets behaviour'. Talk to your subject(s) engage, relate, then ask or gesture and you will likely start reaping significantly better people pics. I found the more I practiced the better I got. Sure I get turned down sometimes but less often nowadays than many would imagine. Apart from better pics it's more fun too!

[@knng3918]

my rig is the fuji xpro + 18-135mm lens, I found this combo as a perfect travel companion for street photography, basically I have 27-200mm FF equivalent, and with the xpro hybrid viewfinder, it does let me see outside of my picture frame so I can work on timings for the lighting on the street. just sharing ;)

[@mitchellkphotos]

I'm getting a lot of ideas from the setups here. Not for my main lens, but for certain situations - for sure!

[@knng3918]

@@mitchellkphotos glad you look into this, my main gear is definitely Sony because its AF is capable for my commercial works like wedding and wild life photography, but the range finder set up of the xpro got me completely when I'm traveling with family and do street photography. In fact, I found that your photos were very amazing back in the time when you were shooting M43, and you were right, heavy FF stuffs can wear you down and limit your photography, I still really love your shots with M43 systems. even though their image quality is not on par with FF, but you can go further, shoot longer and more with it. hey nothing is perfect right? ;)

[@g10col92]

Well as an amateur photographer the idea of a trip using only one camera and one lens sounds like a dream. Unfortunately I don't have half of your talent or creativity but I am trying to learn. After much deliberation and research I have bought an Olympus EM5 mark iii. With regards to the lens most of my travel images are holiday shots so I don't generally have many opportunities or time to try again. Certainly don't get to live in foreign places so give my limitations I'm going to get the 12-100mm f4. The image quality is good enough for what I will be doing with the images. The compact size is ideal for travel and I know its f4 but the image stabilisation is amazing giving low iso handheld shots in low light. I have tried primes but honestly family holiday time pressure and alway finding I had the wrong lens on and need to change lens is a real buzz kill.

[@emix1010]

As I’m still using a Canon APS-C camera, I added the EOS RP and an EF adapter to use my wider lenses (mostly) to their full extent on a full-frame camera. I got the RP body w/o lens - the option was the 24-105mm f/4 at the time, and it’s the first RF lens I finally decided to buy. Just before the recent price hike. I’ve taken it regularly just walking about, or the small EF 24mm f/2 on the adapter. The 35mm f/2 IS is much heavier, I don’t take it as often. The 24-105 is almost tiny, it’s wide-ranging, well stabilized. I’m still under its spell. 😊 And come to think of it, I have gone out quite a few times with an old FD 35mm f/2 on an adapter (Simmod), a light and compact setup. I agree a good compact 35mm lens is an excellent option, but they tend to be big, or noisy like the new RF one. Thanks for your thoughts, that question is always relevant.

[@benblitzkrieg]

I just brought my XC15-45mm on my travel and call it a day. It does not have the shallowest depth of field but it is extremely versatile for storytelling and documenting my family. I am more likely to bring my camera often with this setup compared to when I was using the massive XF16-55. Might just add a 33mmF1.4 for that occasional specialty shot though.

[@thepirateshoots]

Jep. Same here with 16-50 fuji + 23/1.4 Viltrox.

[@Donbros]

About lught lenses and casually shotting that is true. Because I literally have my most favorite lens 16-35 gm for what I do but I also just ordered 20mm g because I also want to have something more casual and discreet when I am not making big documentary, film or youtube video. For example, filming a simple walk in the park

[@rolanddamann3521]

You brought it to the point. Now It’s become more easy for me to coose. To be candid, I use my Sony RX1 Mark2 with a 35 fixed lens. For all other purpose, I go for the 24/70 GMaster.

[@yaronharel8463]

The solution is to carry 2 bodies with double strap. I own 2 R5 but for travel I prefer the 2 XT3 which have an excellent small lenses. And the image quality isn't far from R5. So I use the 16 1.4, 23 1.4, 35 1.4...they are light, sharp and have excellent dof capability.

[@mitchellkphotos]

Very practical. BUT - Definitely NOT discrete, you'll be approached entirely differently and, depending on what you shoot - HEAVY!

[@JaapKroon]

For my professional daily work I use Sony and for my professional travel work I use the Fujifilm x100f and XT20 with the 18mm f2.