Which Sony lens should I actually buy first for everyday photography because I am losing my mind trying to decide? I bought a used a6400 body last week and I need to get a lens before my trip to Japan next month, but every single forum thread contradicts the last one. My budget is capped at $600 and I just want something for daily life, family stuff, and street shots.
I did a bunch of research and everyone says to either get the Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 zoom or the Sony 35mm f1.8 prime. But I am so confused now. Some people say the Sigma zoom is the ultimate travel lens, but then others swear that a prime like the 35mm is way better for low light and forces you to learn composition. But since the a6400 is crop sensor, that 35mm is actually like 52mm, which feels like it might be too tight for cramped indoor spots or narrow Kyoto streets.
Im just getting super frustrated because I dont want to buy the wrong thing and regret it during my trip. Should I go with the flexibility of the zoom even if it struggles a bit at night, or the prime even if it feels restrictive?
Honestly, get the Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN Contemporary Sony E. I took it to Japan last year on my a6400 and the zoom was a lifesaver in tight Kyoto streets where you cant always back up. F2.8 is plenty fast enough for night shots if you bump your ISO a bit, and having that 18mm wide end is crucial for indoor spots. The 35mm prime is nice but it will feel way too tight as your only lens.
@Reply #1 - good point! But quick question first, are you okay buying used gear, or does it have to be brand new? I almost went broke buying new for my first big trip. If you want to save cash, make sure to:
- Buy used from MPB to stretch that budget
- Be careful going too tight; Kyoto streets are tiny
- Look at a cheap Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Sony E
Been thinking about this. Since you are going to Japan, you might want to consider the Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS but be careful because that 52mm equivalent focal length is going to feel really tight in narrow Tokyo alleys and restaurants. The big pro is the built-in optical stabilization, which the a6400 desperately needs since it has no in-body stabilization. If you want something wider for street shots, look at the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Sony E. It is incredibly sharp and amazing in low light. But warning: it is a pretty heavy lens for a compact travel setup, and it lacks stabilization, so you will need to keep your shutter speed up. For a safer middle ground, maybe check out the Sony E 20mm f/2.8. It is super tiny and cheap, though the low-light performance isnt as stellar.
