08/05/2026 5:30 am
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Okay so I'm heading to NYC in like two weeks for this huge trip and I'm freaking out a bit because I still havent picked a lens for my A7III. I've basically narrowed it down to Sigma because I love their glass but I'm stuck between the 35mm f2 Contemporary and the 35mm f1.4 Art. My logic was that the Art lens is obviously better for low light and that bokeh is just gorgeous but then I started thinking about walking around Manhattan for 10 hours a day and now I'm worried it's gonna be way too heavy for my neck. The f2 is so much smaller and cheaper too which leaves more money for pizza lol. But then I see people saying the 24mm f2 is better for tight streets... so now I'm just spiraling. I have about 700 bucks saved up and I really want something that can handle evening shots without too much noise but also wont make me want to leave the camera in the hotel room because of the weight. Is the f1.4 really that much better for street stuff or am I just overthinking the specs? I need to buy it by Friday so it gets here in time for the flight and I'm just staring at my cart like...
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11
08/05/2026 6:15 am
To add to the point above: I disagree that the optical gap is a dealbreaker for street shots. The Sigma 35mm f2 DG DN Contemporary is the more practical choice for a budget-conscious traveler. Spending your full 700 dollars on a lens like the Sigma 35mm f1.4 DG DN Art is overkill. Keep that extra cash for your NYC expenses. Those f2 primes are plenty sharp and way easier on the neck.
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08/05/2026 5:30 am
I have used the Sigma 35mm f2 DG DN Contemporary for a year and am very satisfied with the results. For 10-hour days in Manhattan, the weight savings are substantial compared to the Art series. It handles low light effectively on the A7III sensor. It is a professional, well-built lens that fits your budget perfectly and wont cause any fatigue during your trip.
1
08/05/2026 5:45 am
Regarding what #1 said about the 35mm f2... I unfortunately had issues with the optical performance on those smaller units. Its not as good as expected under technical scrutiny. I agree that weight is the primary variable for 10-hour days. Methodically, you should just get any prime from the Sigma line. Go with that brand, you cant go wrong, but prioritize portability over specific apertures tho.
