Im struggling to pick a main lens for my S5II and its driving me crazy. I really want that one-and-done setup for my upcoming trip to Japan in November. I read a ton of people swearing by the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II but then I see others complaining about the weight for long days of street shooting. Its just a lot of cash to drop if it ends up feeling too heavy around my neck all day.
Here is what I need:
- Budget: around 1200 bucks max, maybe a bit more if its super versatile.
- Use case: Mostly landscape and street photography while traveling.
- Preference: Needs to be weather sealed because I heard it can be rainy in Tokyo that time of year.
Is it actually worth lugging that Sigma around, or should I just look at the Lumix 20-60mm kit lens and save my money for a prime? Everyone says the 20-60 is surprisingly sharp but I keep worrying I'll miss the aperture when the sun goes down. Has anyone used the Lumix 24-105mm? I keep going back and forth between reach and low light performance and I just cant decide what matters more. Does anyone have a better suggestion for L-mount that sits in the middle?
> I keep going back and forth between reach and low light performance and I just cant decide Honestly, forget the heavy zooms. In my experience, the Panasonic Lumix S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 is a secret weapon for travel. It is incredibly light and that 20mm wide end is killer for tight Japanese streets. Save your cash and grab a Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary for those low light evenings. You wont regret it.
Regarding what #1 said about the 20-60mm, I agree, but honestly, consider the Panasonic Lumix S 24-105mm f/4 Macro O.I.S. for the stabilization. It handles Japan's rainy weather like a champ.
Building on the earlier suggestion, I'm honestly in the same boat. Trying the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary might be your best bet if you want lighter weight without losing light.
