Im picking up a Lumix S5II next month for a trip to Japan and honestly the sheer amount of L-mount glass is stressing me out. I read a ton of praise for the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 because its versatile and sharp but then I see people complaining about the weight for all-day street photography. Then there is the Lumix 20-60mm kit lens which is super light but Im worried I will miss that extra light in the evenings. My budget is around 1200 bucks. Should I just commit to the Sigma brick or is there a better middle ground for walking around Tokyo all day?
Had a moment to think about your dilemma. I took the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art to Kyoto a while back and yeah, it was a workout. My neck was killing me by sunset. Honestly, if you want something lighter but still fast, look at these options instead:
- Panasonic Lumix S 24-105mm f/4 Macro O.I.S. for the extra reach
- Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary to save your shoulders while keeping that bright aperture Really changed how I shot my trip.
Regarding what #2 said about the weight, I think folks are way too obsessed with the heavy zooms. Honestly, for Japan, you should prioritize keeping your kit light so you dont burn out. I would suggest looking at prime lenses instead of that massive Sigma brick. Save your money for the actual trip.
- Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary
- Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 These are way cheaper, sharper, and youll actually enjoy walking around with them.
> I see people complaining about the weight for all-day street photography. Honestly, are you more focused on landscapes or street stuff? Do you prefer zoom convenience or low-light bokeh?