There used to be a significant separation between prime and zoom lenses in several ways, and as such, it was easy to know which was appropriate for different situations. However, more modern zoom lenses have blurred the line, and they can arguably match prime lenses in some situations. One such lens is the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM. Is it all good, or are there drawbacks to having such a lens? The excellent video discusses the issue.
Coming to you from Katelyn James, this insightful video discusses the pros and cons of using the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM lens in place of several primes. I have had this lens for about two years now, and I can attest to just what a remarkable piece of equipment it is, so much so that I no longer own any prime lenses between 14mm and 85mm. That being said, James makes some very good points. Even though the 28-70mm f/2 L can effectively replace many primes to the point that the images are indistinguishable to clients and even many colleagues, that does not mean they are equivalent in terms of the experience of the creative process. Being aware of these differences and some of the pitfalls can help ensure that no matter the tool, you are still getting the best possible images. Check out the video above for the full rundown from James.
Of course, a single zoom can replace primes. I've been doing it for years.
The big feature where most zooms fall short is in minimum focus distance and the resultant maximum magnification ratio. A lot of my work is done at or near MFD, and I am always wishing that they could focus closer. Using extension tubes kinda sucks because by time I put the tube on the moment is gone. And then I lose the ability to focus far out until I take the tube off.
Zoom lens manufacturers are getting a little better at MFD and magnification, as evidenced by the Sigma 60-600mm, the Canon 100-400mm EF v2, and the new Sony 70-200mm f4 "macro". Sony calls it a macro even though it isn't really capable of macro, but its 1:0.5 magnification ratio is much better than most zooms.
For me, zooms won't be able to replace many primes until they start making them with MUCH better close-up capabilities. It would be great not to have to carry two macro prime lenses around with me everywhere I go, in addition to the zooms. But with the pathetic magnification ratios of most zooms, it is still an undesirable necessity.
I use my RF24-70 f2.8L on my Canon R5 almost 100% of the time. I like this lens over the 28-70 as it is a little wider and the difference between f2 and f2.8 is not a problem for me as I generally try to shoot at f8 for better DOF. My only prime is the RF85mm f1.2L which is typically only used for portraits and in hindsight I should have saved the $3K for the lens and bought a different toy. I find that between my 24-70 and my RF15-35 f2.8L, I can handle virtually all of my requirements. As someone who started back in the day when you carried three bodies around your neck as zooms were unheard of. Being able to eliminate switching lenses and getting impressive results from my Canon zooms is a definite plus.