I just got this Panasonic S5II camera because my brother said it was the best for my trip to Japan next month but honestly it came with this huge zoom lens and its way too heavy for me to carry all day... sorry if this is a super dumb question but I keep hearing people talk about prime lenses making photos look more professional with that blurry background stuff but I have no clue which one to get for like just everyday walking around shots. My budget is around $600 max and I just want one lens that stays on the camera the whole time so I dont have to carry a bag. Is there a specific number I should look for that works for everything? I am so lost honestly...
Honestly those kit zooms are total bricks and I totally get why you want to ditch it. Over the years I have tried a ton of setups for travel and you definitely want a 35mm lens. Its basically the goldilocks number... wide enough for those cool narrow streets in Kyoto but tight enough for portraits with that blurry background. In my experience, the Panasonic LUMIX S 35mm F1.8 is exactly what you need. It fits your $600 budget and weighs almost nothing.
- It is light enough to carry all day without a bag
- The f1.8 aperture gives you that pro look you are after
- It focuses super fast on the S5II Another solid choice is the Sigma 35mm f2 DG DN Contemporary if you like a more metal feel. Seriously, just get a 35mm and dont look back. Youll love Japan.
Regarding what #2 said about major lens issues, be careful. I would suggest:
- Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 for safe, versatile street shots.
- Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 for better budget portraits.
Unfortunately my last third party lens had major focus issues. What are you mostly shooting tho? Honestly just get any Panasonic prime... dont risk it on a big trip like Japan.
