Ive been shooting with my Lumix S5 for about two years now and honestly, I love the sensor output, but I am getting really tired of swapping primes every time I go out for a hike or a quick trip into the city. I am fairly used to the L-mount ecosystem by now but I feel like my lens kit is just holding me back when I want to travel light.
Basically I need one reliable zoom lens that can do a bit of everything without needing a second mortgage. Im trying to stick to around 1000 bucks if possible, maybe a bit more if I can find a deal on the used market.
Here is what I am looking for:
- Decent weather sealing since I live in Seattle and it rains like constantly
- Something with at least a 24-70mm or 24-105mm range
- Decent autofocus performance for video since I am doing more b-roll lately
I have been eyeing that Sigma 24-70mm DG DN II but Im worried about the weight for long days. Is there anything else I should be considering that wont kill my back or my bank account? Anyone have real world experience with the Lumix 24-105mm f4? Is the variable aperture or lack of sharpness compared to the Sigma worth the trade off for the extra reach...
Honestly, grab the Panasonic Lumix S 24-105mm f/4 MACRO O.I.S.. The extra reach is a lifesaver for hiking and the stabilization works well with the S5. No complaints here.
Quick thought before I head out. If you are really worried about the weight of the Sigma, look at the Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary. Its way lighter than the 24-70 version and honestly, I barely notice it on my S5 during all-day shoots. You lose the 24mm wide end, but the portability is just insane for the price.
- It handles Seattle weather surprisingly well for a budget lens
- Autofocus is snappy enough for b-roll
- Much cheaper than the heavy pro glass Just be careful with the build, its definitely plasticky compared to the bigger lenses. I usually keep a cheap filter on mine just in case. If you need that extra reach, just crop in post, it saves your back and your wallet.
Man I wish I found this thread sooner. Would have saved me so much hassle.
> I feel like my lens kit is just holding me back when I want to travel light. Building on the earlier suggestion, I totally feel your pain. I spent forever swapping primes on my S5 until I just got tired of it. Honestly, you should check out the Panasonic Lumix S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6. It is super light, handles that Seattle rain fine, and that extra bit of wide angle is a total game changer for city shots.
