What are the best portrait lens options for the Lumix S5II right now if I want that creamy background separation without spending a fortune? Ive been shooting portraits for years on M43 gear but just made the jump to full frame and honestly the depth of field difference is still kind of throwing me off. I usually shoot natural light outdoor portraits in the city here in Seattle and the weather is so gray most of the time that I really need a lens with decent micro-contrast to make things pop.
My budget is around 800 to 1200 bucks max since I just dropped a ton on the body. I keep looking at the Sigma 85mm f1.4 DG DN Art because everyone raves about the sharpness but man it looks a bit bulky for long walks downtown. Is it really worth the weight? I also looked at the Lumix 85mm f1.8 because of how compact it is but im worried it might be a bit too clinical or sterile compared to the older glass I used to use. I need something by next month for a few scheduled senior portrait sessions so I gotta pull the trigger on something soon.
Im also curious if anyone has tried adapting legacy glass or if that is just gonna be a headache with the autofocus performance? I dont want to miss shots because the eye AF cant keep up with a moving subject and the S5II is so good at that I feel like im wasting it if I go manual. Just looking for something reliable that wont give me major back problems after three hours of shooting, maybe something in the 50mm to 85mm range? If I go with the Sigma is the extra weight totally worth the extra stop of light or should I just stick with the native f1.8 primes and save some cash for a new tripod...
Honestly, skip the heavy Sigma for city walking. I used to carry it everywhere and my back paid the price. I switched to the Panasonic Lumix S 85mm f/1.8 and it is honestly so much better for long shoots. It is sharp but doesnt feel clinical to me, plus the weight savings are huge.
- The AF on the Lumix prime is lightning fast
- Save that extra cash for a Manfrotto BeFree Advanced Aluminum Travel Tripod instead.
To add to the point above: have you considered how much you value that extra half-stop of light over the weight savings? In my experience, if you're chasing that specific pop in flat Seattle light, the Sigma 65mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary is a hidden gem. It fits your budget perfectly and the build is incredible. Are you leaning more toward tight headshots or environmental portraits? That might change which focal length suits your style better.
> Is it really worth the weight? Man, you honestly reminded me of my buddy who tried hauling his massive prime collection through downtown during a surprise monsoon last year. He looked like a pack mule on the verge of tears. He actually tripped over a curb, dropped his bag into a puddle, and we spent the next hour frantically drying gear with paper napkins in a nearby cafe. What a disaster that turned into...
