3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX

[Pseudophotographer]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

 

[Off The Mark]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

Canon EF 16-35 f/4 L IS

Canon EF-S 10-18 IS STM

Panasonic 24-105 f/4

The main reasons for these lenses are for the lens-based image stabilization (IS, as canon calls it). This greatly reduced corner "wobble" when shooting video at ultrawide angles.

I don't know of any native ultrawide L-Mount lenses that have stabilization in the lens itself.

Also, since 4K 60p is cropped, you again need something very wide, and again, no native lenses with lens-based stabilization works.

The 24-105 f/4 is a good all-around lens (as long as yoiu don't get element separation, I guess).

If you had been more specific, I might have picked different lenses, just so you know.

 

[bing041]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

Canon EF 16-35 f/4 L IS

Canon EF-S 10-18 IS STM

Panasonic 24-105 f/4

The main reasons for these lenses are for the lens-based image stabilization (IS, as canon calls it). This greatly reduced corner "wobble" when shooting video at ultrawide angles.

I don't know of any native ultrawide L-Mount lenses that have stabilization in the lens itself.

Also, since 4K 60p is cropped, you again need something very wide, and again, no native lenses with lens-based stabilization works.

The 24-105 f/4 is a good all-around lens (as long as yoiu don't get element separation, I guess).

If you had been more specific, I might have picked different lenses, just so you know.

Has the latest firmware update to the S5 ii (embodied also in the S9) eliminated the wide-angle wobble using IBIS?

Here is what Panasonic says about the additions from the newest firmware:

• "Enhancement of Image Stabilizer performance.
  •A perspective distortion correction has been added to correct distortion that tends to occur during video recording when using a wide-angle lens."

If it does, the now one can use native lenses, which are smaller without an adapter or IS.

 

[Lettermanian]

I'm quite happy with the 70-300mm and the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 on my S5. Both lenses cover the vast majority of my photographic needs for landscapes and nature, and occasional astro. I don't need high-performance Af but haven't encountered any major AF issues with either lens. Both have good close-focus and sharpness for my needs. I also have the 20-60, which is also a very good lens, but just doesn't get used as much. I'd be happier with a second smaller, lighter body, so when there are more used S9's on the market, I may look at getting one of those.

 

[Rafael Rivera]

I’m very happy with three Sigma lenses: the 24-70 f/2.8 zoom and the 35 and 85 f/1.4 primes. I use my G9II for telephoto/wildlife/sports and macro, but the S5II gets the nod for travel and family photos. Best memories are with the latter,as one can imagine!

 

[Pseudophotographer]

For me, the 20-60mm gives me the solution for almost everything, its focal range is very versatile, it weighs little and is waterproof.

I switch to 50mm when I need more brightness or want to take portraits. I don't need more focal length and it's also waterproof.

I bought the 24mm but I returned it because I don't really need it. and finally

the only thing that catches my attention is the Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 Dg Dn II, although I think it will mean a lot to me

 

[menneisyys2]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

S 28-200. Absolutely excellent and versatile all-in-one, obviously except for really shallow DoF portraits and ultrawide. I use it 99% of the time.

20-60 when I need to shoot ultrawide.

50/1.8 for portrait / very low light.

 

[mcantsin]

Sigma 28-70mm/2.8 as the all-purpose, allround lens, perfectly balances with the camera.

Sigma 35mm/2.0 or Panasonic 35mm/1.8 as an all-purpose reportage photography/videography prime (and for low light).

A third lens isn't even necessary, respectively depends on a photographer's special needs (such as a 85mm for portraits).

 

[Phaser]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

1. Lumix S 28-200mm f/4-7.1 MACRO O.I.S.

For general purpose everyday shooting. I like the versatility of superzoom lenses so obviously this is my first choice.

2. Sigma 16-28mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens

For my ultrawide needs. Bright aperture and light. Panasonic doesn't make a F2.8 Ultrawide zoom yet, so this would have to do.

3. Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG DN Art Lens

For low light shooting.

 

[Off The Mark]

Has the latest firmware update to the S5 ii (embodied also in the S9) eliminated the wide-angle wobble using IBIS?

Here is what Panasonic says about the additions from the newest firmware:

• "Enhancement of Image Stabilizer performance.
  •A perspective distortion correction has been added to correct distortion that tends to occur during video recording when using a wide-angle lens."

If it does, the now one can use native lenses, which are smaller without an adapter or IS.

If I understand correctly, you lose enough of the image that you are no longer shooting ultra wide. There is a pretty big difference between shooting 16mm and shooting 19mm or more.

 

[SuperUnknowable]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

Canon EF 16-35 f/4 L IS

Canon EF-S 10-18 IS STM

Panasonic 24-105 f/4

The main reasons for these lenses are for the lens-based image stabilization (IS, as canon calls it). This greatly reduced corner "wobble" when shooting video at ultrawide angles.

I don't know of any native ultrawide L-Mount lenses that have stabilization in the lens itself.

Also, since 4K 60p is cropped, you again need something very wide, and again, no native lenses with lens-based stabilization works.

The 24-105 f/4 is a good all-around lens (as long as yoiu don't get element separation, I guess).

If you had been more specific, I might have picked different lenses, just so you know.

 

[QM]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

Canon EF 16-35 f/4 L IS

Canon EF-S 10-18 IS STM

Panasonic 24-105 f/4

The main reasons for these lenses are for the lens-based image stabilization (IS, as canon calls it). This greatly reduced corner "wobble" when shooting video at ultrawide angles.

I don't know of any native ultrawide L-Mount lenses that have stabilization in the lens itself.

Also, since 4K 60p is cropped, you again need something very wide, and again, no native lenses with lens-based stabilization works.

The 24-105 f/4 is a good all-around lens (as long as yoiu don't get element separation, I guess).

If you had been more specific, I might have picked different lenses, just so you know.

..

What is the element separation issue on the 24-105? Something it’s known for I’m assuming. Is it something you’ll know you have an issue with when you first get it or is this something that happens over time?

It's an issue that happened to a couple of lenses of the first batches. But not only to the 25-105, also to the 50/1.4. but that's also nothing brand special. It also appears with lenses from other brands.

I keep seeing references to the panny lenses not being the greatest quality. Issues with the 50 1.4 etc…

Probably thats about that issue.

Most don’t seem exceptional in imaging either. Shame because I love the size and usually the focal lengths and overall design choices. More control functions on them would be nice.

I think most Panasonic lenses have indeed exceptional image quality for there specific price regions. The 50/1.4, 50/1.8 or 85/1.8 have excellent image quality. Better than most compatitors for similar pricing.

As for the internal questions of the thread. I think the 20-60 is the only lens I would recommend to everyone, entering the L-Mount, and I would call essential for the S5II or S5IIX. It's cheap, especially as a kit, it has descent image quality and a unique but useful focal range. Everything other lens comes down to individual needs.

 

[attomole]

Currently, 16-28 2.8 sigma and 35mm f2 from the same (really nice to use apart from the magnetic lens cap) for telle the 100-400 4.5 - 6.3 Sigma as well, the only one I am considering passing on as it doesn't get enough use for the investment.

I expected to like the 20-60 and the 50mm 1.8 from Panasonic it came with, but I prefer the 35mm FOV and 20mm isn't wide enough for me now having used the wide setting on my phone, also anything 30-100 mm range that doesn't do defocused backgrounds whilst OK, leaves you wanting another fast lens. It also has noticeable CA.

I dont do much movie making so its not a factor in my decisions.

 

[vincentocat]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

35mm APO SL F2

50mm S Pro F1.4

24-70mm S Pro F2.8

They are the reason why I use L mount.

 

[Pseudophotographer]

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

35mm APO SL F2

50mm S Pro F1.4

24-70mm S Pro F2.8

They are the reason why I use L mount.

What do you think about he new Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 Dg Dn II?

It is cheaper and lighter than the Panasonic.

Could It be a better option?

 

[bing041]

Has the latest firmware update to the S5 ii (embodied also in the S9) eliminated the wide-angle wobble using IBIS?

Here is what Panasonic says about the additions from the newest firmware:

• "Enhancement of Image Stabilizer performance.
  •A perspective distortion correction has been added to correct distortion that tends to occur during video recording when using a wide-angle lens."

If it does, the now one can use native lenses, which are smaller without an adapter or IS.

If I understand correctly, you lose enough of the image that you are no longer shooting ultra wide. There is a pretty big difference between shooting 16mm and shooting 19mm or more.

I agree every mm counts for ultra wide angle. That's why I selected the Lumix 14-28 lens.

 

[Off The Mark]

tl;dr version:

The S5 II is an excellent camera.

The lens bundle deals (available from time to time) make it a phenomenal value.

Now the long version:

What do you think are the 3 essential lenses for your Panasonic Lumix S5II or S5IIX and which sooner or later will you end up buying?

and.... why?

Canon EF 16-35 f/4 L IS

Canon EF-S 10-18 IS STM

Panasonic 24-105 f/4

The main reasons for these lenses are for the lens-based image stabilization (IS, as canon calls it). This greatly reduced corner "wobble" when shooting video at ultrawide angles.

I don't know of any native ultrawide L-Mount lenses that have stabilization in the lens itself.

Also, since 4K 60p is cropped, you again need something very wide, and again, no native lenses with lens-based stabilization works.

The 24-105 f/4 is a good all-around lens (as long as yoiu don't get element separation, I guess).

If you had been more specific, I might have picked different lenses, just so you know.

Hi, why both Canon’s? They cover the same range on FF?

I am glad you asked.

The reason for the (full frame) 16-35 AND the aps-c 10-18 is because when shooting video in 4K resolution at 60fps, the S-series of cameras crops in to aps-c image area of sensor.

So the 16-35mm lens gets used when shooting video at 30fps (or 24 or 25fps), while the 10-18 gets used when shooting at 60fps in 4K resolution.

I always wondered how a a non-first party lenses IS would work when not being used natively. I guess it’s not an issue.

For those two Canon lenses (the 16-35 and the 10-18), the image stabilization works brilliantly. I don't own any ultra-wide Panasonic lenses, but from what I have seen shot on, say, the Panasonic 20-60, the combination of lens stabilization (in the Canon lenses) and the body stabilization (reduced to two axis when using a lens with lens stabilization) is SIGNIFICANTLY better (at least in terms of video, and more specifically, when walking / moving while shooting video).

If you mainly shoot stills, it is probably less beneficial.

Or if you shoot video and you just want to emulate a tripod, it is probably less beneficial, too.

Or if you don't shoot ultrawide video, it is also again less beneficial.

Does it focus well adapted?

Well, I only own the first-generation of S-series cameras (an S1 and an S5 MK 1), so, NOTHING focuses well on them.

However, when adapting Canon EF lenses with the MC-21, the autofocus becomes both worse AND better than with Panasonic lenses.

It becomes worse in that on (first-gen) bodies, there is no AF-C available. Only AF-S and MF are available.

It becomes better in that using them seems to reduce or even eliminate the tendency for Panasonic's DFD autofocus to completely MISS the subject and focus perfectly on some random trees and bushes in the background. I have so many event shots (parties, graduations, weddings) with the Panasonic 24-105 where this has happened.

NOTE: This applies to cameras using Panasonic's legacy autofocus system, not the new PDAF system found in the S5 II / S5 IIX (nor the GH7 nor G9 II in the m43 range of cameras).

What is the element separation issue on the 24-105? Something it’s known for I’m assuming. Is it something you’ll know you have an issue with when you first get it or is this something that happens over time?

There are a few threads on this forum about lens element separation on the 24-105 f/4 and the frustrations people have had getting Panasonic to fix the issue. I suggest you search for them.

I keep seeing references to the panny lenses not being the greatest quality. Issues with the 50 1.4 etc…

I only have the 24-105 f/4, and mine has been pretty good (except for the above focus issues, but that has more to do with Panasonic's legacy autofocus system.

Most don’t seem exceptional in imaging either. Shame because I love the size and usually the focal lengths and overall design choices. More control functions on them would be nice.

Well... it depends. Some people LOVE their sigma lenses for sharpness and contrast. But if you are using your camera for shooting video (something Panasonic WANTS you to do), then things like the consistent size, filter size, and center of gravity are all really beneficial.

MY PERSONAL RANT: Extreme sharpness and extreme shallow depth of field are COMPLETELY overrated. If people notice those things in a photo (or video) it probably means your composition, lighting, and content suck.

Hard to pass up on current prices though, so bang for the buck is high.

Truly, the bundle deals that Panasonic offers on the S5 II and S5 IIX are hard to beat.

I love how Panasonic continually adds with firmware, has nice menus, and a lot of features. The Leica aspect of L mount isn’t that much of a boon for Panasonic as most won’t be buying those lenses, and Sigma isn’t competing in cameras, at all, and I say that as someone with a DP2M and would love to see the FF Foveon happen, which it seems it will, but they said it’s years away.

So, for many, L mount is really just Panasonic with Sigma and Samsung lens availability.

I do hope it continues to progress, I really like what Panasonic and Sigma do as companies.

sorry I’m a little off-topic, I’m just looking at buying in with and S5II with the current EDU deals.

I think the points you make in the above statements are all true.

I don't know about the EDU deals (although I should look in to them as my son is entering film school).

But Panasonic regularly offers lens bundle deals with their S5 II bodies. Generally, you get the 20-60 for an additional US $300, or if you want both the 20-60 AND the 50mm f/1.8, it is only $350 more than the cost of the body (so you are paying $300 for the 20-60 and $50 more for the 50mm f/1.8)

Hope this helps. Apologies in advance if it doesn't.

 

[Off The Mark]

Has the latest firmware update to the S5 ii (embodied also in the S9) eliminated the wide-angle wobble using IBIS?

Here is what Panasonic says about the additions from the newest firmware:

• "Enhancement of Image Stabilizer performance.
  •A perspective distortion correction has been added to correct distortion that tends to occur during video recording when using a wide-angle lens."

If it does, the now one can use native lenses, which are smaller without an adapter or IS.

If I understand correctly, you lose enough of the image that you are no longer shooting ultra wide. There is a pretty big difference between shooting 16mm and shooting 19mm or more.

I agree every mm counts for ultra wide angle. That's why I selected the Lumix 14-28 lens.

The Panasonic 14-28 would certainly be a MUCH better option for the majority of Panasonic / L Mount shooters than trying to adapt the Canon 16-35 f/4 (although the Canon lens IS a Darn Good Lens).

Unfortunately, the 14-28 wasn't available when I purchased the canon lenses (like, four years ago or so, I recon).

It MIGHT replace my Canon 16-35 eventually. Just I would love to see how well it works in the types of situations I am more likely to use it.

 

[bing041]

Unfortunately, the 14-28 wasn't available when I purchased the canon lenses (like, four years ago or so, I recon).

It MIGHT replace my Canon 16-35 eventually. Just I would love to see how well it works in the types of situations I am more likely to use it.

What are those situations? I can maybe test out the performance of the 14-28 (on the S9). There are now many stabilization options, including regular IBIS, IBIS boost, and electronic regular and electronic HIGH.

 

[Off The Mark]

Unfortunately, the 14-28 wasn't available when I purchased the canon lenses (like, four years ago or so, I recon).

It MIGHT replace my Canon 16-35 eventually. Just I would love to see how well it works in the types of situations I am more likely to use it.

What are those situations? I can maybe test out the performance of the 14-28 (on the S9). There are now many stabilization options, including regular IBIS, IBIS boost, and electronic regular and electronic HIGH.

Thanks for your offer.

I am still doing (primarily) real estate video, and I shoot on a gimbal almost exclusively (except for the drone parts, obviously). Here is a recent sample video of what I do:



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