Im getting super hyped because Im finally picking up a Lumix S5II next week for my trip to Chicago! I really want to get into street photography while Im wandering around the loop and some of the neighborhoods, but the lens selection is killing me. My budget is tight after dropping all that cash on the body, probably looking to stay under 600 bucks if possible. I keep reading that the Sigma 45mm f2.8 is the holy grail for size, but then a bunch of people on Reddit are saying its too slow to focus or that the bokeh is kinda weird? I also saw the Panasonic 50mm f1.8 is super cheap and sharp, but I worry it might feel a bit boring or clinical compared to the Sigma stuff. Is there anything else I should be looking at that wont break the bank? I just need something small enough that I dont look like a total tourist with a massive rig, but good enough to actually capture the vibe of the city. What are you guys actually using for street stuff on L-mount that doesnt cost a fortune?
Been thinking about your search since earlier. If you find the standard 50mm a bit sterile, you might actually like the Sigma 45mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary more than people say. I used to worry about the autofocus speed myself, but for street work, you're usually zone focusing anyway, and the build quality is honestly better than the plastic-feeling Panasonic glass. It really balances the weight of the S5II well. Another angle if you want something wider is the Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary. It sits right at the edge of your budget if you look for a used copy, which I highly recommend doing. It feels like a premium piece of kit, and that focal length is a bit more versatile for tight city alleys than a 50mm. Just check the usual sites for a deal.
> I really want to get into street photography while Im wandering around the loop Building on the earlier suggestion, you really cant go wrong with the Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary if you can stretch your budget slightly used. It is honestly the sweet spot for street stuff. The 35mm focal length feels way more natural for urban environments than 50mm, letting you get a bit more context in the shot without having to step back into traffic. Since you are worried about looking like a tourist, the build quality on this series is top-tier without being massive. It feels solid in the hand, which helps with stability. Honestly, dont sweat the clinical vs character debate too much. Just get out there, keep the rig light, and focus on your framing. You'll be happy with the results.
Congrats on the new S5II, that camera is a beast but please be careful with your budget. Chicago can be a bit tricky for gear, so you want something discreet that wont attract too much attention while youre walking around. I personally stick with the Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 for my street work. I know people call it clinical, but honestly, having that extra stop of light compared to the Sigma is a lifesaver when the sun starts going down in the city. Reliability is key when you only get one shot at a moment.
- It is weather-sealed so you dont have to worry as much about light rain or grit in the city.
- The weight is super balanced on the S5II body, so your wrist wont get tired after a long day of shooting.
- It balances perfectly if you want to throw it in a small camera bag instead of a big backpack. Be careful with the Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary if you really care about autofocus speed, as it can struggle a bit in dim, contrasty urban lighting. Just make sure you get a decent lens hood if you go with the Panasonic, because street lights can cause some weird flare if youre not watching your angles. Just keep your gear close to your body and dont leave your bag unattended while you are framing your shots. It is better to have a sharp, reliable lens that keeps your kit light and safe than to chase some bokeh aesthetic that might miss the focus anyway.
