Finally pulled the trigger on an L-mount body and Im absolutely pumped to get out on the streets of Chicago next month. Seriously cant wait to capture some gritty urban shots. Now I need the right glass. I keep going back and forth between the Leica Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH and the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN. I know the Leica glass is supposed to be magical and that red dot tax is real but is it really worth the extra cash compared to the Sigma?
My budget is around 1800 bucks max so I could swing the used Leica if I find a good deal but the Sigma is so much smaller and I really want to keep my setup discreet for street stuff. Ive also considered the Lumix 35mm f/1.8 since it matches my body perfectly but part of me just really wants that Leica look if you know what I mean. Is the image quality difference actually noticeable when you are just walking around shooting candid stuff or am I just overthinking it? Really wanna make a decision before my trip in three weeks. Which one would you guys grab if you were strictly shooting street?
Chicago is gonna be amazing! You are gonna love the vibe there for street shots. Honestly tho, for street photography, I would play it safe and go with the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary. It is way smaller and lighter. Huge plus when you are walking for miles. Carrying a massive lens like the Leica Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH can really draw the wrong kind of attention in a big city. You gotta keep your gear safe and stay discreet. The Sigma is super reliable and the autofocus is snappy for those quick candid moments. I love the tactile aperture ring on it too. It feels fantastic! Since you are on a budget, you could even pick up the Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 as a solid backup and still have money left over for some deep dish pizza. Stick with the smaller setup for the streets... it is just way more practical and way less stressful!
