What are the best L-mount prime lenses for street photography?

Question

So I just got this new camera a Panasonic S5II because the guy at the store said it was great for getting into serious photography but honestly looking at all the buttons is making my head spin a bit lol. I really want to try doing that street photography thing where you walk around and catch people just living their lives but I only have the lens that came in the box and it feels kind of big and bulky for carrying around all day. I was reading online that I need a prime lens for this? I think that means it doesnt zoom? Sorry if that is a super basic thing to ask I am still trying to figure out what all these numbers like 35mm or 50mm actually mean in real life when I am actually standing on a sidewalk.

I am planning a trip to Chicago in about three weeks and I really want to have a good lens for walking around the loop and taking pictures of the trains and the people on the street. I dont have a ton of money left after buying the camera itself so maybe something under 700 dollars would be ideal if that is even possible with these types of cameras. I saw some lenses from Sigma and Leica but the Leica ones are like thousands of dollars which is definitely out of my league right now and honestly I wouldnt even know how to use something that expensive properly.

What I am looking for is something small and light because I dont want to look like a tourist with a giant professional setup if you know what I mean. I want to be kind of low key so people dont notice me as much. Does the brand matter a lot? Like can I use a Sigma lens on my Panasonic camera without it breaking anything or losing features? I keep seeing L-mount mentioned but I am scared of buying the wrong thing and it not fitting.

something lightweight so my neck doesnt hurt

good for blurry backgrounds since I like that look

works well in lower light since I might be out in the evening

under 700ish dollars if possible

If you were starting from scratch and didnt know anything what would you pick for just walking the streets and taking candid shots...

HarborHeliotrope · Accepted Answer

The Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 S-S35 is the most logical choice for your S5II. Its lightweight, weather-sealed, and fits comfortably under your $700 budget. Alternatively, the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary L-Mount offers a compact metal build thats great for street photography. Both brands use the L-mount standard, so you wont lose any features. I suggest 35mm over 50mm for walking the Chicago Loop area.

Percival Stone · Answer

Just caught this thread today. Since youre heading to Chicago and want to stay low key, I have been very satisfied with the Sigma 45mm f2.8 DG DN Contemporary L-Mount. Its exceptionally light at about 215 grams so your neck wont hurt at all after a day in the Loop. The f2.8 aperture is fast enough for evening shots and the compact size is perfect for candid work. If you prioritize the blurry background look, you should look at the Panasonic Lumix S 85mm f1.8 S-S85. The technical performance on this lens is excellent for the price, usually under $600.

45mm is great for standard street views

85mm provides superior subject isolation for portraits

Both lenses are fully compatible with the S5II phase-detect AF system Check out the L-Mount Alliance website for the official compatibility list. Its a safe bet for your S5II and wont cause any technical issues.

ExtraordinaryXavier · Answer

@Reply #2 - good point! Quick suggestion...Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 is lightgreat for blurry backgroundsfits your budget Check DPReview for comparisons; L-mount brands work together perfectly.