I've been shooting with 5D bodies for ages so I know my way around a manual exposure but I finally caved and bought the R50 for a trip to Tokyo in three weeks. My logic was that I didnt want to lug a full-frame rig around Shinjuku all day long and the R50 is just so dang small but now Im realizing the ecosystem for these tiny apsc cameras is its own beast. Like the battery life on the LP-E17 is kind of a joke compared to my old bricks so I know I need spares but should I go with a power bank instead?
I was thinking about those small Peak Design straps but the camera is so light maybe it's a waste of money and a simple wrist strap would do? Also looking for a bag that actually fits the R50 with the 18-45mm and maybe the 50mm prime without looking like a huge camera bag because I'm trying to be low key. My budget for extras is about 300 bucks total. I already have the basic SD cards but what about filters or those weird thumb grips people keep talking about?
Does the R50 even need a cage if Im not doing video or is it just extra weight? Im mostly worried about keeping it compact but still functional enough that I wont miss my pro gear while Im wandering around. Any thoughts on what's actually worth the bag space...
> the R50 is just so dang small but now Im realizing the ecosystem for these tiny apsc cameras is its own beast. ^ This. Also, skip the expensive bag if money is tight. I spent weeks wandering around Osaka with my R50 tucked into a Tenba Tools Protective Wrap 12-inch inside a normal backpack. It worked perfectly and stayed super low-key. Since you are worried about the screen, Im really happy with the ULBTER R50 Tempered Glass Screen Protector. Dirt cheap and keeps it mint.
Honestly, making the jump from a 5D to an R50 is a huge shock to the system. Ive spent years lugging around heavy gear and while the R50 is light, its also kinda fragile feeling if you arent careful. In my experience, you shouldnt skimp on power. Those tiny batteries die so fast compared to the old bricks. I tried the cheap third-party batteries once and they swelled up, so I always tell people to stick with the Canon LP-E17 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack. Get two spares and you will be fine for a full day in Shinjuku. Power banks are okay, but swapping a battery is just faster and safer when youre on the move. For the bag, if you want low-key and safe, the Bellroy Venture Sling 6L is basically perfect. It doesnt scream steal my camera and fits the R50 with those lenses easily without being bulky. Since you are worried about weight, definitely skip the cage. Its just extra bulk you dont need for stills. I would grab a Peak Design Cuff Camera Wrist Strap though. I've tried many straps and this one is the most reliable for small bodies because it locks if you drop it. Instead of a thumb grip, maybe look at a cheap screen protector. Over the years Ive seen so many screens get scratched in bags. You can save your money on filters unless you really need an ND for the sun... just use the hood. Total should be well under your 300 dollar limit if you shop around for deals. Let me know if you need more tips on packing light for Tokyo!
Unfortunately, the R50 grip feels like a toy. Are you shooting night street scenes?