Ive been shooting with my Lumix S5 for about two years now and honestly I love the color science but my kit lens is finally starting to feel limiting. Im heading to Japan in October for a street photography trip and need something sharper that handles low light better. Ive looked at the Sigma 35mm f1.4 DG DN but Im worried its a bit bulky for all-day walking around. Is there a better all-around prime lens for L-mount that balances weight and optics? My budget is around 800 bucks max, ideally less if I find a good deal used. What are you guys using for general travel these days?
Honestly, if you want something smaller than that Sigma, you should look at the Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8. It is way lighter for all-day street shooting and fits the S5 body perfectly. The optics are super sharp, especially for the price point.
- The f/1.8 aperture is plenty for low light in Tokyo.
- It balances way better on the S5 than those big f/1.4 glass bricks.
- You can easily find these used for way under 500 bucks, leaving you money for gear. If you really need the extra light, the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary is another solid choice. It feels premium, built like a tank, but still keeps things compact. Dont sweat the f/1.4 weight, you wont miss those few extra grams when you are walking miles every day.
Building on the earlier suggestion, I totally get why you are hesitating on that Sigma. It is an absolute tank. I used to haul that thing around for street work and my neck definitely felt it by sunset. If you want something that basically disappears on the S5, look into the Sigma 45mm f2.8 DG DN Contemporary. Honestly, the build quality is incredible and it feels so balanced on the smaller Lumix bodies. It is not as fast as the f1.4 versions, but for street stuff, that extra depth of field is actually super helpful so you dont miss focus. My shots with it have been consistently tack sharp. TL;DR: Grab the 45mm if you want a tiny, premium feeling lens that wont break your back. Just remember to bump your ISO a little when it gets dark; the S5 sensor handles the noise like a champ anyway.
Ugh, I feel your pain so much. Been stuck in the same exact boat for like six months now and still have zero clue what to grab for my own trips. It is frustrating.
