Just booked a trip to Tokyo for next month and I am beyond stoked! I finally upgraded to an L-mount body but my current zoom is way too bulky for walking around Harajuku all day. I have been researching the Sigma 45mm f2.8 and the Panasonic 20-60mm. People online keep raving about the Sigma's build, but then I read a few threads saying the focus can be a bit sluggish for street stuff? I have a budget of around 500 bucks and really just want something small enough to fit in a jacket pocket so I dont look like a total tourist. Has anyone actually used these for quick street shots?
Regarding what #1 said about Tokyo being incredible, honestly, the city is a dream for street stuff. But honestly, if you really want that pocketability, I dont think the Sigma is the only answer. You might want to look at the Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f1.8 instead. It is sharp, fast, and weather-sealed, which matters a lot if you hit any rain there. Here is why it might be better than the 45mm:
- It hits that classic 35mm street focal length perfectly
- AF performance is noticeably snappier on L-mount bodies
- The balance is spot on for smaller camera bodies Dont get me wrong, the 45mm is built like a tank, but the focus motor is kinda legacy tech compared to the newer prime lineup. If you can find a clean used copy of the 35mm, it usually sits right around your 500 dollar budget. Super versatile lens for travel.
Tokyo is incredible, you are gonna have a blast. I took my setup there last year and learned pretty quick that lugging around a huge rig is just asking for a sore back and unwanted attention. If you want something that actually fits in a jacket pocket, that Sigma 45mm f2.8 DG DN Contemporary is probably the closest you will get to a true pancake feel. The build quality is honestly top tier, feels like a tank compared to plastic lenses. I used it for a few days of wandering around Shinjuku and the focus is fine for steady shots, but yeah, I did notice it hunt a little bit when I was trying to snap fast-moving crowds. It is not exactly lightning quick, but for street photography where you are pre-focusing or just walking slow, it gets the job done without being too intrusive. Now, the Panasonic Lumix S 20-60mm f3.5-5.6 is a different beast entirely. It is much more versatile for those tight Tokyo alleyways since you get the wide angle, but it is definitely not jacket-pocket sized. You would need a decent shoulder bag for sure. If you really want that pocketability, the Sigma is the way to go. Just keep your shutter speed up and be ready for that slight lag in tricky light. Safe travels.
If you want tiny and cheap, try the Sigma 65mm f2 DG DN Contemporary. It feels great, super sharp, and saves you cash for more sushi in Tokyo. Check out phoblographer for reviews.
Huh interesting. I had no idea. The more you know I guess 🤷