Ive been shooting with the Lumix S5II for about six months now and honestly the autofocus finally being reliable has been a total game changer for me. I usually stick to my 24-70mm f/2.8 for events but I feel like I'm not getting that really buttery, dreamy separation for the portrait sessions I have booked for next month. I keep going back and forth between the Lumix S 85mm f/1.8 and the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art.
I really like the compact size and price point of the native Lumix glass because I do a lot of walking around outside in downtown Chicago and don't want to carry a brick, but then I see the bokeh on the Sigma and it just looks so much smoother. Is the extra weight and cost of the Sigma actually worth it for professional work, or am I just overthinking the specs? I have a budget of around 1k but could push it if the difference is massive. Has anyone used both on the S5II and noticed a huge difference in how the colors render or how quickly the AF locks onto eyes in backlit situations?
Honestly, if you want that buttery look but hate the idea of lugging a giant brick through downtown, have you checked out the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art? Wait, I know people mentioned the 85s already, but have you considered the Panasonic Lumix S PRO 50mm f/1.4 instead? It sounds counterintuitive, but the rendering on that lens is absolutely magical. It gives you that creamy separation that feels way more high-end than a standard 85mm f/1.8. I shoot with the Panasonic Lumix S5II too and the weight balance with that prime is just chef's kiss. If you really want the extra bokeh for professional client work, the Sigma is definitely worth the hype, but maybe rent it for a weekend first? Don't stress the specs too much, the S5II nails eye AF regardless!
> I keep going back and forth between the Lumix S 85mm f/1.8 and the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art. Over the years, Ive shot tons of portraits. Tbh, grab the Panasonic Lumix S 85mm f/1.8. It is crazy sharp and light enough to carry all day. Unless you are obsessed with extreme bokeh, that lens is plenty professional. The Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art is gorgeous, but honestly, you wont miss that extra bulk.
Just saw this thread and gotta say, stick with the native glass. If you keep it light, you'll actually shoot more. Honestly, for professional portrait work, the AF hit rate on native lenses during those backlit sessions is just more consistent than adapted or third-party glass. The extra stop of light is nice, but if you're lugging around heavy gear, you might just get tired and start missing shots anyway.
