> Torn between the Lumix 50mm f1.8 and the Sigma 35mm f2. Honestly, for Tokyo? Go with the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary. I've shot there many times and 50mm feels way too tight in those narrow Shinjuku alleys. The build quality on that Sigma is miles ahead of the plastic Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 too. It fits the S5 perfectly and stays out of the way. Definitely worth the extra cash imo.

I've spent years analyzing MTF charts and lens data for L-mount. Quick question tho, are you planning on shooting mostly handheld video or just stills while you're in Tokyo? The autofocus transition speed varies significantly so dont forget to check that.

• Tip: Set your S5 to shutter priority at 1/500s to freeze motion.
• Look at the Sigma 45mm f2.8 DG DN Contemporary L-Mount. Its rendering is way more organic than the clinical 50mm.

Ugh, I feel your pain so much. Finding that perfect travel prime is basically impossible and I hate how much time I waste agonizing over aperture blades and weight specs instead of actually taking photos! Tokyo is brutal with those lighting changes too, it drives me insane trying to nail focus when the sun drops behind those towers. If you really want something sharp and punchy that blows the budget-friendly options out of the water, check out the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG DN Art. It is a bit chunkier but the optical performance is just insanity. Honestly, if you can swing the cost, the extra glass makes a huge difference in low light. Or, if you want something ultra-compact that won't weigh your neck down, the Panasonic Lumix S 24mm f/1.8 is actually fantastic for grabbing that wider scene without distortion. Good luck with the packing, I am so jealous you are going!

> Tokyo next Thursday Are you shooting neon night scenes or mostly daylight? Be careful with weight. I'd suggest Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 Lens because it's lighter for long walks and actually stays under your budget limit.

Like someone mentioned, street photography in Tokyo can be super tight, so you really need to think about your focal length preference first. Are you more of a wide angle person or do you prefer getting a bit closer to your subjects? Personally, I think the 35mm range is way more versatile for city travel but that is just me. I have not personally tested the Sigma 35mm, but I have heard the build quality is pretty solid for the price. If you want something super tiny, have you looked into any of the manual focus pancakes? IIRC there are some options out there that make the S5 feel like a point and shoot, which is great for not drawing attention to yourself while walking around. It really comes down to how much you value AF speed versus the physical size of the lens. Just curious, are you planning to do mostly candid shots or are you looking to capture more environmental portraits?