Which prime lens should I buy first for my Sony Alpha?

Question

Im honestly so over looking at reviews online because everyone says something different and my brain is melting. I just got a used A7C for my trip to Tokyo next month but I am basically broke now so my budget is strictly under 500 bucks. I have narrowed it down to the Sony 35mm f1.8 and the 55mm Zeiss but I am also looking at the Samyang 35mm f1.4 since its cheaper. The Samyang is huge though and I dont want to carry a brick around all day while I am walking. But then the 55mm might be too tight for street stuff? I am torn between the 35mm for versatility or the 55mm for that Zeiss look but idk if its worth the extra cash. Which one should I actually pull the trigger on?

KennethFieme · Accepted Answer

Honestly, I have been in your shoes so many times where I overthink the gear and end up with a sore shoulder. Hiking through Shinjuku with a massive setup is something I did once and hated it by noon. Over the years, I have tried many primes for travel and I always come back to the same realization: weight is everything when you are hitting 20k steps a day. Here is what I have learned about staying on budget:Check used markets like MPB or local shops, I grabbed my Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 for way under retail that way.Dont sweat the Zeiss look too much, modern Sony glass is plenty sharp.A 35mm is way more useful than 55mm when you are crammed into a tiny ramen shop or a narrow alley. Trying the Sony Sonnar T* FE 55mm f/1.8 ZA for a while was okay, but the lack of close focus really annoyed me for food shots... it just wouldnt focus on the plate. The 35mm is just more versatile tbh. Definitely skip that Samyang brick if you are walking all day, your neck will thank you.

JoesphWes · Answer

I actually think you might regret the 55mm for Tokyo since those streets get narrow fast. Instead of your shortlist, check out the Sony FE 40mm f/2.5 G. Its tiny, fits the A7C profile perfectly, and the image quality is stellar. You can definitely find one under 500 used. Its a way more balanced walk-around lens than that bulky Samyang basically. 40mm is the perfect middle ground.

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Which prime lens should I buy first for my Sony Alpha?