So I finally bit the bullet and picked up an S5II last week after years of using an old cropped sensor DSLR. Im super stoked to get into the L-mount system but man, choosing one lens to leave on the camera is stressing me out. I have a big trip to Japan coming up in November and I really only want to bring one lens if I can help it because my back already hurts thinking about carrying a huge bag. I spent hours on YouTube and most people point towards the Lumix 24-105mm f/4 because of the extra reach and the dual IS, but then I see others swearing by the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 Art for that better bokeh and low light performance. I found a used Sigma for like 900 bucks which fits my budget way better than a brand new Lumix, but then I heard some stuff about the Sigma being a bit of a dust magnet? Or maybe that was just the older version? Honestly I just want something that wont feel like a brick around my neck after walking 10 miles. Is the extra 35mm on the long end of the Panasonic really that much of a game changer for travel or should I stick with the faster aperture for temple interiors and stuff like that... what are you guys actually using as your daily driver?
Congrats on the S5II, you are gonna love it. Honestly, for a trip like Japan, I've been super happy with the Panasonic Lumix S 24-105mm f/4 Macro O.I.S. as my daily driver. It is just more practical than the Sigma for travel stuff. Here is why I prefer it:
- That extra reach to 105mm is a total game changer for picking out details on buildings or signs.
- The Dual IS works incredibly well. It lets me shoot handheld in dim temples even at f/4 without much noise.
- Its noticeably lighter than the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art. Your back will definitely thank you after walking through Tokyo all day. The Sigma is a beast for bokeh, but for an all-arounder, the Panasonic is just way more versatile. The dust thing on the Sigma was mostly the older version anyway, so dont stress that too much if you go that route. If you need any more tips on the S5II let me know, can definitely chat more about it! Enjoy your trip!
To add to the point above: if weight is your main concern, Ive been very satisfied with the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary. Its much lighter than the Art version while keeping the f/2.8 for dark temples.
- Significant weight savings for travel
- Constant f/2.8 for interior shots
- Solid build quality You lose some reach, but Ive found it very reliable... no dust issues yet. It just works well.
