topic R50 V lens recommendations for bikes/cars, vacations, portraits, wildlife in Gear Guide

R50 V lens recommendations for bikes/cars, vacations, portraits, wildlife

urushi — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 12:34:02 GMT

I just picked up a used R50 V body for a decent price and now I’m looking for a lens. I’m hoping to stay under $300. This is my first real camera, and I plan on using it for videos of bikes/cars, vacations, group portraits, and some wildlife. I know that’s a pretty broad range, but starting out I’d like something that can “do it all” reasonably well. The kit RF-S 14-30mm looks interesting, but I’m worried I’ll want a little more reach. What would you recommend for a good first lens?

Re: R50 V lens recommendations

kvbarkley — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 12:30:45 GMT

Probably adds a lot to the cost, but a PZ lens would be nice on a V model.

Re: R50 V lens recommendations for bikes/cars, vacations, portraits, wildlife

shadowsports — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 15:09:10 GMT

Greetings,

Your budget will be a limiting factor. I owned the R50v and 14-30PZ for over a year. The combo is great and fun, but the reach and aperture are limiting, especially in low light. Honestly you'll use the PZ less than you think you would.

Some great lenses for this camera are the Sigma 18-50 f2.8, the Sigma 16-300 and the Canon RF-S 18-150 All are above your stated budget. The Sigma lenses are licensed by Canon for Sigma. While the 18-50 doesn't have much reach, it's a constant f2.8 aperture. It offers good low light performance and nice bokeh.

To stay within your budget, you probably have to buy used. Check out Canon Refurbished, MPB, KEH and the used departments at B&H and Adorama. Buy from a Canon authorized dealer. This gives you a warranty and right to return. Avoid marketplace sellers, eBay, Facebook, etc.