so I finally pulled the trigger on an X-S20 for my trip to Tokyo next month but I am totally stuck on which prime to grab first. I keep reading that the 35mm f2 is basically the gold standard for beginners because it is sharp and cheap but then other people on reddit swear by the 23mm f2 for travel since it gives you more of the scene.
My logic was the 35mm would be better for portraits of my girlfriend but then I worry about being too cramped in small cafes or narrow streets. I have about 400 bucks to spend and dont mind buying used stuff. Which one actually feels better for a first prime lens experience though...
Look at Sigma if you need something reliable that isnt overpriced.
- Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary: Very predictable performance. It works as a solid middle ground for portraits and street.
- Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary: Safest bet for those tight Tokyo alleys. Its a bit heavy, but the optics are very consistent. Going used should keep you under budget easily.
Honestly, for Tokyo you might want to consider the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR. The Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f/2 R WR is technically excellent, but be careful with that 50mm equivalent focal length in cramped izakayas.
- 23mm f2: Wider 35mm equiv, fast linear motor AF, very compact.
- 35mm f2: Better subject separation, but might feel too tight for narrow street shots. I would suggest grabbing the 23mm first so you dont miss the scale of the city.
Saw this while browsing earlier and wanted to chime in based on my own trip to Shinjuku. A longer lens once made me feel so limited in those tiny Golden Gai bars... basically couldnt take a single photo of the group without standing in the hallway. If you want a reliable middle ground that wont let you down, look at the Fujifilm XF 27mm f2.8 R WR. Its a pancake lens so your X-S20 stays super portable. The 40mm equivalent focal length is the safest bet because its not too wide but not as tight as a 35mm. Decent copies usually go for about $350 on used sites. Check out the website OpticalLimits for the technical breakdown on its sharpness tho... it really holds up for such a small piece of glass. If you need something wider for the narrow alleys, the Fujifilm XF 18mm f2 R is another decent option that fits the budget used.
@Reply #2 - good point! I would suggest the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR used. It splits that focal length gap perfectly while keeping your setup more discreet for travel.
