What Is A Walk Around Lens?
Aug 5, 2021 18:48:33 #
Bbarn
Loc: Ohio
My walk-around lens is the only lens I have with me when I walk somewhere and anticipate taking pictures. Which specific lens that is varies somewhat.
If the walk might be far or strenuous, I'll take something with minimal bulk. If I know the focal length I'll want I'll choose the smallest/lightest that will suffice. If unsure of the focal length I want, I'll take a light/small zoom that seems appropriate.
If the trek is short I'll take what I think I'll want, but more often than not I am unsure and will take a super zoom.
Lately I've done most of my "walking around" with a small/light (and slow) 24-105 on a FF that focuses fairly close (~.4x). It seems OK most of the time, but I'm still learning what I prefer. Occasionally I'll wish for more speed, and a bit more often I'll wish I had more range on the long end.
If "walking around" indoors, I may take something wider than a 24-xxx zoom.
I think a "walk-around" lens depends on a photographers situation and subject preferences. As a result, there is really no such thing as a specific walk-around lens.
If the walk might be far or strenuous, I'll take something with minimal bulk. If I know the focal length I'll want I'll choose the smallest/lightest that will suffice. If unsure of the focal length I want, I'll take a light/small zoom that seems appropriate.
If the trek is short I'll take what I think I'll want, but more often than not I am unsure and will take a super zoom.
Lately I've done most of my "walking around" with a small/light (and slow) 24-105 on a FF that focuses fairly close (~.4x). It seems OK most of the time, but I'm still learning what I prefer. Occasionally I'll wish for more speed, and a bit more often I'll wish I had more range on the long end.
If "walking around" indoors, I may take something wider than a 24-xxx zoom.
I think a "walk-around" lens depends on a photographers situation and subject preferences. As a result, there is really no such thing as a specific walk-around lens.
Aug 6, 2021 05:33:00 #
What ever lens - I would not wish to compromise on IQ - so that means max zoom range = 5x, and most likely 3/4x.
Aug 6, 2021 14:04:56 #
You guys are like a bunch of women... You create a dissertation when the answer to a "all around lens" could be answered in one sentence. e.g. Whatever you desire to use as your all around lens!
Aug 6, 2021 14:11:34 #
ski wrote:
You guys are like a bunch of women... You create a dissertation when the answer to a "all around lens" could be answered in one sentence. e.g. Whatever you desire to use as your all around lens!
All around is different from walk around by at least one person definition in this thread. He said his walk around lens is a 600mm f/4. Well a 600mm f/4 is no way an all around lens. But one sure can walk around with it.
Aug 6, 2021 14:55:08 #
Munchen8
Loc: GJ Colorado
I've never heard of a "Walk around lens" but I would consider it whatever you feel comfortable with considering what you may need for most of your photos. Will it be general portrait and scenery, maybe a city tour that will last hours, or photos of birds and other subjects farther away where you will want a heavier long telephoto lens. What I do recommend if you are using a heavier camera, especially with heavier lenses, is purchase a binocular harness, which may require split rings to attach to the smaller camera body neck strap slots.The harness takes the stress off your neck. It makes long days at airshows, walking around Barcelona, Spain, hikes and other activities much more enjoyable. I have actually left my regular camera straps attached for just carrying or using my camera for side of the road stops for photos when I travel. I use binocular harnesses on both my Canon and mirror-less Panasonic SLRs.
Aug 6, 2021 19:10:35 #
Aug 6, 2021 19:24:41 #
As I've Posted above, I have a 35mm (on a Canon 5Dc). It's on 90% of the time. When off, it's replaced by a 70-300. Two lens, 100% of my photography. Harry YMMV
Aug 6, 2021 22:28:26 #
Mac wrote:
I have always thought of a walk around lens as a compact, light weight, general purpose lens to carry on strolls and take on picnics, etc. Something like 24-85mm or 28-105mm.
Lately I’ve seen recommendations like 18-400mm or 28-300mm which strikes me as overkill for a walk. They seem to me more like one size fits all lenses.
Is there a consensus on what makes a good walk around lens?
Lately I’ve seen recommendations like 18-400mm or 28-300mm which strikes me as overkill for a walk. They seem to me more like one size fits all lenses.
Is there a consensus on what makes a good walk around lens?
I have 5 lenses but not one of them is walking around . . .
Aug 7, 2021 00:18:55 #
Munchen8
Loc: GJ Colorado
All depends on what I expect to photograph the most, scenery, architecture, wildlife, flowers, air shows...
Aug 7, 2021 04:08:21 #
ski wrote:
You guys are like a bunch of women... You create a dissertation when the answer to a "all around lens" could be answered in one sentence. e.g. Whatever you desire to use as your all around lens!
There is nothing wrong with a lively discussion on our likes, dislikes and suggestions.
More to the point, we do not need sexist comment.
Aug 7, 2021 09:16:17 #
Mac wrote:
I have always thought of a walk around lens as a compact, light weight, general purpose lens to carry on strolls and take on picnics, etc. Something like 24-85mm or 28-105mm.
Lately I’ve seen recommendations like 18-400mm or 28-300mm which strikes me as overkill for a walk. They seem to me more like one size fits all lenses.
Is there a consensus on what makes a good walk around lens?
Lately I’ve seen recommendations like 18-400mm or 28-300mm which strikes me as overkill for a walk. They seem to me more like one size fits all lenses.
Is there a consensus on what makes a good walk around lens?
Your favorite lens - period!
Aug 7, 2021 13:35:29 #
When I think of a walk around lens, what comes to mind is a lens that is not cumbersome, fairly lightweight and today is a small zoom that is from a somewhat wide angle to a small zoom , say 24 to 80 max. I use these for street photography or just general hiking. Ever try walking around with a 2000mm mirror lens? I want a lens that does not get in my way when hiking a narrow trail, and I don't want a lens big enough to attract attention when doing street photography. and finally I don't want to carry a backpack full of lenses.
Aug 7, 2021 13:48:50 #
It's whatever lens that allows you to accomplish your goals. For many years mine wa a 50mm f 1.4. It's whatever satisfies you. Have fun with whatever lens you choose.
Al
Al
Aug 7, 2021 15:19:40 #
ski wrote:
You guys are like a bunch of women... You create a dissertation when the answer to a "all around lens" could be answered in one sentence. e.g. Whatever you desire to use as your all around lens!
Yes!
Aug 7, 2021 16:59:39 #
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