What are the actual affordable lens options for the Panasonic S5II that dont cost an absolute fortune? Honestly im so fed up with the L-mount tax right now because everything I look at that has decent autofocus is like over a thousand bucks and I just cant swing that right now after dropping so much on the body itself. I switched over from Sony because I loved the colors on the S5II but man I didnt realize how much more expensive the glass was gonna be compared to E-mount. I have a wedding gig coming up in Chicago in less than three weeks and I desperately need something faster than the kit lens for the reception but I am stuck. I was looking at the Lumix 50mm 1.8 which seems okay but I really need a wider prime or maybe a zoom that wont break the bank. My budget is strictly under $500 for the next lens because I spent way too much on batteries and cards already. Is there anything from Sigma or maybe some hidden gems I’m missing? Every time I search it’s just the same expensive Pro series stuff and it’s honestly making me regret the switch a little bit even though I love the camera itself. Are there any third party options that actually work well with the phase detect autofocus or am I just stuck with the 20-60mm for now...
Man, I totally get the frustration with L-mount prices! But seriously, dont give up on the S5II yet because the autofocus is killer with the right glass. For a wedding reception in Chicago, you definitely need way more light than that kit lens provides. Here are my top picks for staying under that $500 mark:
- Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8: This is my absolute favorite budget lens! It is super snappy with the phase detect AF and 35mm is basically perfect for dance floor shots. I found mine for around $450 on sale and it is a total workhorse.
- Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary: You can snag these for like $300. It is tiny and looks fantastic, but f/2.8 is kinda pushing it for dark receptions compared to the 1.8 primes. Stick with the Lumix 1.8 series. They all have the same size which makes swapping them on a gimbal a breeze!