I'm freaking out a bit because I have a wedding shoot in Seattle next month and need a portrait lens for my S5II. I looked at the Lumix 85mm f1.8, but some say the Sigma 85mm f1.4 Art is way better for bokeh even if it's heavy.
- budget: under $1100
- use: all-day event
- need: weather sealing
Which one should I grab?
Just saw this. In my experience, shooting an all-day wedding with a massive lens is a recipe for a sore back and missed shots by the reception. I've tried many setups over the years, and for a Seattle gig where you're battling moisture and fatigue, I'd go with the native Lumix option for the peace of mind.
- Portability: The Panasonic Lumix S 85mm f/1.8 L-Mount is tiny compared to the Art series. You wont get tired halfway through the ceremony.
- Weather Sealing: Panasonic seals their S-series primes specifically for their own bodies. I trust that combo more in a drizzle.
- Focus Speed: It is dead silent and snaps onto eyes instantly with the S5II tracking.
- Protection: Spend the leftover cash on a B+W 67mm Master 010 UV Filter to keep the rain off your front element. Going for the f/1.8 is the safer, more reliable play for a professional event.
Oh man, you are gonna have a blast with the S5II in Seattle! I have shot plenty of rainy events and honestly, you gotta go with the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art L-Mount. The bokeh is just incredible and it makes every portrait look like a high-end magazine spread. It is a bit of a brick compared to the Lumix version, but the weather sealing is super solid for that PNW mist and the image quality is just amazing. A couple quick tips for the big day:
- Grab a Peak Design Slide Camera Strap to help handle the weight of that Sigma lens during an all-day shoot.
- Keep a few extra microfiber cloths in your pocket because the Seattle rain always finds a way onto the front glass no matter what. You're totally gonna crush this wedding! Love that setup so much.
