Im getting so frustrated trying to pick a prime for my S5II. Ive been doing street photography in London for a few months and the kit lens just isnt cutting it for sharpness when I crop in. I looked at the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG DN but some reviews say the autofocus can hunt a bit on the Lumix system, and then I saw the Panasonic 50mm f/1.8 is supposedly super sharp for the price but Im worried its maybe too clinical? I have about 700 quid to spend and need something reliable before a trip next month. Honestly just want something that looks crisp without breaking the bank or being a total tank to carry around. Which one are you guys actually using?
Honestly, if you want something sharp that wont weight you down, check out the Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary. It is super compact and the build quality feels amazing. The autofocus is snappy enough for street stuff and it has this unique, slightly soft rendering that looks way more organic than the clinical look you're worried about. Been using it for months and super happy with the results tbh.
Honestly, skip the Sigma if you are worried about AF hunting on the S5II. It is a fantastic piece of glass, but native L-mount stuff just performs better for tracking in busy street scenarios. I have been using the Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 for months now and it is plenty sharp. People call it clinical, but I see it as clean and reliable. You wont be disappointed with the resolution at f/1.8, and it weighs practically nothing. If you want something wider for London streets, look at these:
- Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8
- This is my go-to. It balances perfectly on the S5II body, the AF is snappy, and the sharpness is consistent across the frame. It fits well within your 700 quid budget too.
- Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary
- If you want something that feels more like a vintage prime but with modern optics, this is a gem. It is not as fast as the 1.8 lenses, but the rendering is gorgeous and it is tiny. Basically, dont overthink it. The f/1.8 series from Lumix is built for this camera and you get weather sealing that holds up when the London rain starts coming down. I am very satisfied with the 35mm for street work, it just works every time.
Honestly, grab the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary. It is way sharper than the kit lens, super small for street, and the build quality is just chef's kiss.
