Im getting so annoyed trying to pick a prime for my a6400. I keep seeing people swear by the Sigma 30mm f/1.4, but then someone else says its too tight for street stuff in cramped London alleys and I should go for the Sony 20mm instead. My budget is like 400 quid max and I need something by next month for a trip to Tokyo. Everyone online just keeps arguing about sharpness charts but I dont care about that, I just want something small enough that people dont look at me weird when I take a shot. Is the 30mm actually too narrow or am I overthinking this?
Honestly, the 30mm isnt as tight as people make it out to be. I use the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary on my setup and it feels super natural for street shots. That said, if you are genuinely worried about cramped Tokyo alleys, you might want something wider. Its easy to back yourself into a corner with 30mm, but you can always crop in later if the shot is wide enough. Here is what I would look at if I were you:
- Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary for that lovely low light performance and bokeh.
- Sony E 20mm f/2.8 Lens if you want to be totally invisible. Its a pancake lens so your a6400 basically fits in a jacket pocket. I really like the Sigma for the price, it feels solid and never lets me down. If you want to save some cash, definitely check out the used market. You can grab these way under your 400 quid limit if you look on sites like MPB. I bought my glass used and honestly you cant tell the difference. Dont stress about the charts and just grab something that makes you want to get out there and shoot. Tokyo is gonna be mental, just bring comfy shoes and keep your camera out.
Regarding what #1 said about the 30mm not being too tight, they are spot on, but if you are heading to Tokyo, you really want something wider for those narrow alleys. I love my Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary. It fits everything in the frame without lookin like a clumsy tourist. Just watch for used gear to keep it under 400 quid. You wont regret the extra width!
Ok adding this to my list of things to try. Thanks for the tip!