I recently picked up the Sony a7C II specifically because I wanted a smaller, more portable full-frame setup for everyday street photography. I love the sensor and the autofocus, but my current 24-70mm GM II feels way too front-heavy and conspicuous for candid shots. I'm looking for that 'perfect' compact prime that balances size with image quality without making the camera look like a giant rig.
I’ve been eyeing the Sony 40mm f/2.5 G because the size looks incredible, but I’m also curious if the Zeiss 35mm f/2.8 still holds up in 2024 or if I should look at something like the Samyang/Rokinon tiny series for a more budget-friendly option. I primarily shoot in daylight but occasionally stay out for some neon-lit night shots, so while f/2.5 or f/2.8 is fine, I’m wondering if I’ll regret not having an f/1.8 lens. My main goal is to be able to fit the camera into a small sling bag and not draw too much attention while walking through crowded markets.
For those of you using the a7C II for street work, which compact lens has stayed on your camera the most, and does it handle the 33MP sensor well?
For your situation, I'd say the safety and reliability of your gear should be top of mind when you're navigating crowded markets! You definitely want a setup that's discreet so you don't become a target for unwanted attention.
I've tested quite a few options on the 33MP sensor, and honestly, the Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G is the winner for me. Technically, it's built like a tank with weather sealing, which is a huge safety plus if you get caught in the rain!
Here's how I see the tradeoff:
* Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G: Amazing sharpness and build quality. The dedicated aperture ring is fantastic for quick adjustments!
* Sony FE 35mm f/1.8: Better for those neon night shots you mentioned, though it's slightly larger. Still very portable!
* Samyang AF 24mm f/1.8 FE: A great budget wide option, but feels a bit more plasticky.
Personally, I'd go with the 40mm G. It's so tiny it almost turns the a7C II into a point-and-shoot, keeping you way more low-profile while still delivering pro-level files. Hope this helps!
Hey! I totally get the struggle of trying to keep the Sony a7C II compact... that Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is an absolute beast, but it definitely kills the stealthy vibe of the C-series.
In my experience, street photography is all about balance. If you go too cheap, you might lose that sharpness the 33MP sensor deserves. Over the years, I've tried many setups, and I'd really suggest looking at the Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G. It's built like a tank but weighs almost nothing. Honestly, f/2.5 is plenty for neon signs at night since the a7C II handles high ISO so well.
One quick tip: stick with the G-series primes for the aperture ring; it makes adjusting on the fly way safer and faster. I'd be cautious with the older Zeiss 35mm... it's a classic, but the autofocus can feel a bit sluggish compared to the newer tech. Hope this helps!
Just sharing my experience: I went through this last year when I realized my heavy glass was staying home more than I was. I actually picked up the Samyang AF 35mm f/1.8 FE for around $350, and honestly, it's been a game-changer for my Sony a7C II. While the 40mm G is pretty, the Samyang's f/1.8 aperture really saved me during those blue hour street walks. It's surprisingly sharp on the 33MP sensor and fits perfectly in my smallest sling bag!
Just sharing my experience: I went through this exact same internal debate last year when I switched to the a7C series. I started with the Sony FE 35mm f/2.8 ZA Zeiss Sonnar T*, and while it's incredibly tiny, I actually found it struggled a bit with the higher resolution sensor of the Sony a7C II when I wanted to crop in. It’s a classic, but maybe starting to show its age technically.
I ended up grabbing the Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G and honestly, it’s rarely left my camera since. The build quality is night and day compared to the budget options like the Samyang AF 35mm f/2.8 FE. Technically, the 40mm G has a dedicated aperture ring which is a lifesaver for street work. As for the f/1.8 vs f/2.5 thing? I thought I’d miss the extra stop, but the modern ISO performance on that 33MP sensor is so good that I barely notice it, even in neon-lit alleys. Just a quick tip: if you go with the G series primes, the autofocus is noticeably snappier for those split-second candid shots! Hope this helps with your decision.
Gonna try this over the weekend. Will report back if it works!
This is exactly what I needed to hear. Youre a lifesaver honestly.
I saw this topic and had to jump in because I went through a long phase of trial and error with my own setup. You really have to be careful with the balance on the a7C II... if the lens is too light, the body feels weird, but if it is too front-heavy, your wrist will kill you by noon. I found that out the hard way after a week in Tokyo with a rig that just didnt sit right. I would suggest looking into some of the Sigma I-Series glass before you pull the trigger on the Sony G primes. They have a more mechanical, DIY feel that I personally prefer for street work.
- Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary - it handles the 33MP sensor beautifully, tho you should be aware it is slightly heavier due to the all-metal build.
- Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary - this one is tiny and has a very distinct, almost vintage look to the bokeh that works well for street scenes. Just make sure to keep an eye on the autofocus performance in dim lighting. I tried some cheaper third-party options first thinking I was being clever, but honestly, the hit rate was pretty bad once the sun went down. Be careful with those super budget tiny primes too... some of them tend to get really soft at the edges on these newer high-res sensors.
