I've been shooting on my A7RIII for about five years now so I know my way around a sensor but I've finally decided to ditch my zoom habit for a high-end prime. I'm heading to Tokyo next month for a street photography binge and I really want that one 'holy grail' lens that stays on the body the whole time.
My logic was to go with the 35mm f1.4 GM since its wide enough for alleys but then I saw some shots from the 50mm f1.2 and the bokeh is just insane. I've got a budget of about $1600 saved up and I'm stuck between being practical or going for the pure vibe. What's the one prime you guys actually swear by for Sony?
I'd be careful spending that whole $1600 on Sony glass. You might want to consider the Sigma 35mm f1.4 DG DN Art instead. It is basically half the price and the image quality is stellar. I took one to Shinjuku last year and saved enough cash to stay in a much nicer hotel. Just make sure you're ready for the extra weight.
Ive been using the Sony GM line for years and honestly, the reliability is what keeps me satisfied. For a trip like Tokyo, you really gotta think about the weight on your neck after ten miles of walking. I have stayed very happy with the Sony FE 35mm f1.4 GM because it just works every single time, no complaints about the AF speed or the build quality.
- 35mm GM: Perfectly balanced on an A7RIII, weather sealing is top-tier, and it fits your budget comfortably.
- Sony FE 50mm f1.2 GM: The bokeh is a dream but its a heavy lens and honestly usually stretches past your $1600 budget unless you buy used. I personally stick to the 35mm GM for my travel stuff. Its been through some rough weather and never let me down. That 35mm focal length is much safer for those narrow Shinjuku alleys anyway...
Late to the party but I've done the Tokyo trek and your back will definitely feel it by day three. If you want my honest take on the practical side:
- Stick with Sony glass for the native autofocus, it's just snappy and works every time.
- You really can't go wrong with any of the G Master primes, they're built like tanks but they're expensive.
- Maybe look at the f1.8 range instead? They're way cheaper and half the weight for street work. Honestly, Tokyo is more about the experience than the bokeh anyway. Spending your whole budget on one piece of glass is a choice, but having an extra grand for food and shopping is its own kind of vibe. Just grab any high-end prime from the main brand and you'll have a blast without breaking the bank.
Good to know!
