Recos for Portraits: R6 Mk II 24-105 f4-71 or R8 24-105 f4L?

[ekko]

I am torn between these two. I have a Canon 7D with 17-55mm f2.8 currently. It's getting slow. I am going to upgrade but am stuck at which to go for.

R6 Mark II with RF24-105mm f4-71 IS STM or R8 with RF24-105mm f4L IS.

I am a hobbyist who takes portraits of my kids and other family. I use natural lighting and am out doors when I take my portraits. The kids do play soccer (outdoor), so I want to get some decent shots of that as well. I personally use the wheel and joystick a lot on my 7D and feel I will miss it on the R8. I love the R8 aside from the lack of physical controls and the IBIS (though I've read that's not quite as important as I personally might think it is). I don't mind carrying extra batteries (R8), not a big deal.

Which would be the better investment?

I plan on adding glass, but getting a new body is a harder sell. After I can save up enough money I would like to get the 70-200mm f4 for soccer. I'm open to other options for this choice, but first priority is portraits, second is sports. And if I get the R6 Mk II, the 85mm f2 and/or 35mm f1.8 (I love a nice blurred background).

Thank you for your help and suggestions.

[deebatman316]

Please start a new forum so we can better assist you.

[chrishoesel]

I would always err on the side of the better glass over the body, although the points made about form factor and battery longevity are also valid.  The R8 is no slouch and produces amazing images.  If saving a little longer to get an R6 MII + 24-105 f/4 is not possible, then I would get the R8 + 24-105 f/4 + a few extra batteries.  Then, as you see fit, sell the R8 and get the R6 MII or other body later.

I used the RP and the 24-105 STM lens for a while, and that lens is perfectly adequate also, leveraging the cleaner higher ISOs of the R6 MII so ultimately it's your choice.  I do think you may find yourself hoping you got the better lens in the end.

[LeeP]

I've literally never needed a back-up battery for my R8.

Going mirrorless is a good idea.

Buy what you can afford in terms of bodies and lenses rather than overspending "for the good stuff".

I prefer zooms to primes. I have primes and I don't get enough image payoff to put up with their lacks over versatility. I have a wonderful EF 85mm, but it never gets used.

[ekko]

Update for those who care: 

I went with the R8 and 24-105mm F4L. Absolutely would recommend. I have extra batteries but I've only run into one time that I've needed one and that was simply because I didn't charge my battery before I headed out again. 

If you are on the fence like I was, go with the better glass. Like a lot of people have said.