travel vs standard zoom
p.2 #1travel vs standard zoom
The Sigma 20-200mm sounds like a perfect do it all zoom lens when in good lighting. I keep getting tempted to pick it up. For example, it sounds like a perfect lens to take when I go fishing, since light isn't an issue and changing lenses can be challenging. The 20-200mm range would also cover most of my non wildlife photography needs.
But for times when you know the light is going to fall, part of me feels like it's going to end up becoming another lens in my bag instead of making my bag lighter. After spending a day in NYC recently, I am wondering if my best move might just be a second body. Swapping cameras should be quicker and easier than swapping lenses, the weight would be about the same as adding an extra lens, and having a backup camera with you is never a bad thing.
But for times when you know the light is going to fall, part of me feels like it's going to end up becoming another lens in my bag instead of making my bag lighter. After spending a day in NYC recently, I am wondering if my best move might just be a second body. Swapping cameras should be quicker and easier than swapping lenses, the weight would be about the same as adding an extra lens, and having a backup camera with you is never a bad thing.
Apr 17, 2026 at 12:13 PM
p.2 #2travel vs standard zoom
It's easy to creep up that load ladder, but if in the need/want a second lens, or a second body point, swapping cameras can be faster than swapping lenses. Maybe not for everyone or all the time. But works for me at least some of the time.
Apr 17, 2026 at 05:27 PM
p.2 #3travel vs standard zoom
I sometimes go out with 3 lenses using 2 bodies. Voigtlander 15/4.5, Sony 24-50/2.8G and Tamron 50-300/4.5-6.3 which gives me a fairly versatile kit though if travelling I would add either my 65/2 or Sony 85/1.8 to the bag. Al that said the only camera I carry with me everywhere is the Leica Q3M
Apr 18, 2026 at 01:54 AM
|
p.2 #4travel vs standard zoom
For travel the Tammy 28-200 ƒ2.8-5.6 is in my bag. Its IQ is very good. While there's usually another lens along for the ride I find that this lens stays on the camera for most of the time.
Apr 18, 2026 at 05:32 AM
p.2 #5travel vs standard zoom
There is truth to this. Like you are pointing out, most people will view it on a cell phone... But if we are doing thia for IQ for our own selves, I imagine it will be viewed through prints and large monitors on non compressed file hosting sites.
And my personal favorite travel combo is the 12-24 with 50-150.
Craig Gillette wrote:
No answer, maybe can direct some questions that may help. (Incidentally, there could be suggestions of lazy or FOMO because some people just don't like that other people have different solutions.)
I've found the idea of a prime or two doesn't work for me. Three or more lenses (primes or zooms) may cover my desired range but suggests swapping is going to happen. Weight and bulk (and cost) considerations can over-ride perfect iq (for me). My generic "travel" range is 16mm to 200mm and driving trips are different than international air travel. Lots of walking differs from lots of...Show more →
And my personal favorite travel combo is the 12-24 with 50-150.
Craig Gillette wrote:
No answer, maybe can direct some questions that may help. (Incidentally, there could be suggestions of lazy or FOMO because some people just don't like that other people have different solutions.)
I've found the idea of a prime or two doesn't work for me. Three or more lenses (primes or zooms) may cover my desired range but suggests swapping is going to happen. Weight and bulk (and cost) considerations can over-ride perfect iq (for me). My generic "travel" range is 16mm to 200mm and driving trips are different than international air travel. Lots of walking differs from lots of...Show more →
Apr 19, 2026 at 12:47 AM
p.2 #6travel vs standard zoom
ratherfish wrote:
What's the best camera/lens? The one you have with you.
This line was coined by Chase Jarvis. He was promoting his book and the idea that the iPhone was a fully capable camera, and that was more than a decade ago. If you had fully bought into that pitch, you probably wouldn’t be shooting anything but your phone today. For this group, the best camera is definitely the one you’re planning to buy next.
What's the best camera/lens? The one you have with you.
This line was coined by Chase Jarvis. He was promoting his book and the idea that the iPhone was a fully capable camera, and that was more than a decade ago. If you had fully bought into that pitch, you probably wouldn’t be shooting anything but your phone today. For this group, the best camera is definitely the one you’re planning to buy next.
Apr 19, 2026 at 06:03 AM