What RF lenses should I buy? - Wildlife, landscape photography recommendations

[kalien]

Next month I will finally buy myself a camera because now with work I can actually afford it. Was thinking about getting the R8 because I heard it's very good for the price and perfect for an entry level photographer. Until now I've only used my phone and I like taking photos of landscapes and nature in general. Would also like to get into a bit of wildlife but I'm aware quite some zoom power is required. Any thoughts on what I should get?

[rs-eos]

The genres you wish to work in typically require lenses at opposite extremes (wide angle for landscapes and telephoto or supertelephoto for wildlife).  However, that's not a set rule and really depends upon what your vision in and what your subjects are.

You can certainly capture landscapes with telephoto lenses and if your widlife subjects are close enough (and it's safe to do so), you could capture them with wide angle.

What is your overall budget?  And of the two genres, will you be wanting to shoot both right away? Or would you start out initially in say landscapes and pursue wildlife later?

You can visit Canon's Mirrorless Lenses page and apply filters in the "Best For" category to narrow down some common RF lenses.

[Tronhard]

Hi Kalie and welcome to the forum:

Ricky has got onto this with his usual promptness and great sense.
Given you state that this is a new endeavour for you, that price is an issue, and that you're inclined towards the R8 - which I think, as a full-frame camera, is a good choice considering your dual indicated interests.  I also note that you have specified RF lenses, and I would suggest if you go that way that you consider the following lenses.  I have shot with them myself, but for simplicity's sake enclose links to in-depth reviews that chime with my own experience:

1. For general purpose and landscape: the RF 24-105 STM lens - this is the non-L (pro-grade) lens.  Given that landscape photography in particular tends tends towards using smaller apertures, so that should work well.|
Gordon Liang of CameraLabs tests both versions of the 24-105 and the rather awesome, but more expensive, 24-240. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nnxwzRYVPY&pp=ygUJcmYgMjQtMTA1 

2. For more in the wildlife direction, you can try the excellent RF 100-400 lens, which is budget-friendly but gives great results. 
Justin Abbott Definitive Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZJT9fJReyI&t=893s 
Duade Paton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVdQT0m3lok&pp=ygUKcmYgMTAwLTQwMA%3D%3D 

If you could afford one lens only right now, then you might consider the RF 24-240, which I have, and is a great unit as a starter to get you going in both genres - and even if you get a lens with a longer focal length later, the 24-240 is still going to be a brilliant general-purpose and scenic lens. The excellent sensor on the R8 will tolerate some cropping to tighten the results, depending on what you are producing.
The following images are ones I have taken with the range of lenses on my R5, R6 and R6MkII full-frame camera, the latter having the same sensor as the R8.
Canon EOS R5 • Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM @70mm • 1/125 • f/6.3 • ISO 1000  Canon EOS R5 • Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM @183mm • 1/160 • f/8 • ISO 3200 Canon EOS R6, RF 24-240@24mm, R6, RF 24-240@118mm, f/6.3, 1/125sec, ISO-250
 R6, Rf 24-105STM@ 24mm, f/6.3, 1/80sec, ISO-250  R6, RF24-105L@24mm, f/6.3, 1/60sec, ISO-500 R5, RF 24-240@240mm, f/7.1, 1/640sec, ISO-200  EOS R6, 24-240mm@222mm, f/10, 1/640sec, ISO-100R5, RF24-240@157mm, f/9, 1/800sec, ISO-200  Canon EOS R6, RF 24-240 240mm, f/8, 1/100sec, ISO-200Canon EOS R6, RF 24-240 240mm, f/8, 1/30sec, ISO-200
From a general advice point of view, I would suggest reviewing the enclosed primer on things to consider when buying camera equipment and hope the questions they pose will also help to focus your consideration.   I especially note the importance of being aware of what you will produce!
Considerations for Buying Camera Gear 

Getting into photography can be daunting as one needs to learn a lot more about the technology and principles of exposure and composition, but a dedicated camera will give you much more control and, as that improves, your images will surpass those of cell phones.
Some Ideas for study:
If you check with your local library on-line catalogue, look for an item called LinkedIn Learning (AKA Lynda.com). If it is available, you have free access to a massive range of excellent tutorials on the photography: from the very basics to advanced techniques.  These are presented by skilled, professional tutors and are in bite-sized chapters.  You gain access for free via your library number and password/pin.
A general introduction from National Geographic photographer Chris Bray, from the very basics:
Learn Photography [Full Course] by Australian Geographic Photographer Chris Bray (youtube.com)

[ebiggs1]

Again not interested in all the fluff but his sums it up nicely.

"The genres you wish to work in typically require lenses at opposite extremes (wide angle for landscapes and telephoto or supertelephoto for wildlife).  However, that's not a set rule and really depends upon what your vision in and what your subjects are."

The beauty of a DSLR or Mirrorless or any interchangeable lens camera is the fact you can select the proper lens for the job. However, there is no one lens that can do that. Canon for years included the 17-55mm zoom in it Rebel kits. It is a perfect GP lens. If I were you that is where I would start. Choose a zoom lens with nearly that FL and budget and you will be well on your way to an extremely rewarding hobby.