> Is the Sony 16-35mm f/4 PZ a good balance of size, versatility, and image quality? Honestly, I think that 16-35 PZ is killer for video because of the internal zoom, but for an all-around lens on the a7C II, you're gonna feel limited by that 35mm long end. Its just not tight enough for most street stuff or portraits in my experience. Over the years, I've realized that versatility usually beats out specialized features for hybrid shooters. If you want something that basically never has to leave your camera, look at the Sony FE 20-70mm f/4 G. Having that 20mm wide end is plenty for landscapes and vlogging, but reaching out to 70mm makes it way more useful for daily life. It is super sharp and the size is a perfect match for the compact body. If you really need a faster aperture without spending a fortune, check out the Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8 Di III VXD. Its significantly cheaper than Sony glass and having f/2.8 is huge for low light. Its tiny and light, tho you do give up some range. I usually tell people to prioritize the focal range first unless you're shooting in dark alleys all night...

1. Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II

• Versatility: This lens covers a wide range of focal lengths from 24mm to 70mm, making it suitable for landscapes, portraits, and street photography.
• Optical Performance: It offers outstanding corner-to-corner sharpness and a fast f/2.8 aperture, which is great for low-light conditions and achieving beautiful bokeh.
• Weight: At only 690g, it is considered the world's lightest full-frame f/2.8 constant aperture standard zoom lens, making it a perfect match for the compact a7C II.

2. Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2

• Budget-Friendly: This lens provides about 85% of the quality of premium lenses like the Sony G Master but at a significantly lower price point.
• Performance: It features fast autofocus and good optical quality, making it a solid choice for general photography and video work.
• Compact Design: While it has a slightly narrower focal range than the Sony 24-70mm, it remains lightweight and portable, ideal for travel.

3. Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 G PZ

• Wide-Angle Capability: This lens is excellent for landscapes and architecture, providing a wider perspective that is often necessary for these types of photography.
• Compact Size: It maintains the portability of the a7C II while offering versatility for both photo and video shooting.
• Image Quality: It balances size and performance well, making it a good option for hybrid shooters who need a reliable wide-angle lens.

4. Sigma 16-28mm f/2.8 DG DN

• Affordable Alternative: This lens is a great budget option for those looking for a wide-angle lens without breaking the bank.
• Lightweight and Compact: It is designed for travel, making it easy to carry while still delivering excellent image quality.
• Versatile for Travel: While it doesn't zoom as far as the Sony 16-35mm, its compactness and performance make it a worthy contender for landscape and architecture photography.

Ok so, honestly, I’ve been thinking about this too because everything for full-frame gear is just so pricey. Since you’re looking for that balance, I’d really suggest looking at what Sigma is doing lately. You basically can’t go wrong with their smaller lenses for the Sony system. I’m still a bit of a beginner, but I’ve noticed that their stuff is usually way more affordable than the name-brand ones, and they’re really light which is basically the whole point of having the a7C II, right? I’m always super cautious about spending a lot on gear I might not use perfectly, so maybe just stick to a third-party zoom for now. It feels a lot safer for the wallet, you know? And honestly, for video and street stuff, I don't think you really need the most expensive glass out there to get great shots. Plus, if you buy used, you can save even more while you're still figuring out what focal length you like best!