When it comes to street photography, having the right lens for your mirrorless camera is crucial. It can make the difference between capturing a mundane shot and capturing a moment that tells a compelling story. As a street photographer myself, I’ve tested a wide range of lenses and have found a few that really excel in this genre.
One lens that I highly recommend is the prime lens. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, which means they don’t zoom. While this might seem limiting, prime lenses offer several advantages for street photography. First, they are typically smaller and lighter than zoom lenses, making them more discreet and easier to carry around. Second, they often have wider maximum apertures, which allow you to shoot in low light conditions and create a shallow depth of field that can help isolate your subject from the background.
Another lens that I find indispensable for street photography is the 35mm lens. This focal length is often referred to as the “classic” street photography lens because it closely approximates the field of view that the human eye sees. With a 35mm lens, you can easily capture the scene in front of you without distorting the perspective or compressing the subject. This makes it ideal for capturing candid moments and environmental portraits.
Lastly, if you want to get even closer to the action, consider using a wide-angle lens for your mirrorless camera. Wide-angle lenses, such as a 24mm or 28mm, allow you to capture more of the scene in your frame, making them perfect for capturing the bustling energy of city streets. This type of lens can also create a sense of depth and perspective that adds visual interest to your photos.
In conclusion, the best lens for your mirrorless camera for street photography depends on your personal shooting style and preferences. However, prime lenses, especially a 35mm lens, and wide-angle lenses are great options to consider. Experimenting with different lenses can help you find the perfect one that allows you to capture the essence of street life and create visually compelling images.
7 Best Lens for Mirrorless Camera for Street Photography
As a street photographer, choosing the right lens for your mirrorless camera is crucial. Having the right lens can make all the difference in capturing the essence of a scene in urban environments. In this article, I will discuss seven of the best lenses for mirrorless cameras that are perfect for street photography.
1. Prime Lens 35mm f/1.4
The 35mm prime lens with a wide aperture of f/1.4 is an excellent choice for street photography. With its versatile focal length, you can capture a wide field of view while still having the ability to isolate your subject with a shallow depth of field. It allows for low-light shooting without compromising image quality and produces stunningly sharp images.
2. Pancake Lens 20mm f/2.8
If you prefer a compact and lightweight lens for street photography, the pancake lens with a focal length of 20mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8 is a great option. It is small enough to fit in your pocket, making it ideal for capturing candid moments on the streets. Despite its small size, it delivers sharp images and renders beautiful colors.
3. Zoom Lens 24-70mm f/2.8
A zoom lens like the 24-70mm with a constant aperture of f/2.8 offers versatility in street photography. It allows you to quickly switch between different focal lengths, giving you the flexibility to capture a variety of shots. This lens is perfect for capturing both wide-angle scenes and close-up details, making it a great all-around lens for street photography.
4. Telephoto Lens 85mm f/1.8
While not commonly used for street photography, a telephoto lens like the 85mm with a wide aperture of f/1.8 can be a powerful tool in certain situations. It allows you to capture unique perspectives from a distance, ideal for candid shots or capturing the emotions of people without invading their personal space. The shallow depth of field also helps in isolating your subject from busy urban backgrounds.
5. Wide Angle Lens 14mm f/2.8
A wide angle lens like the 14mm with a fast aperture of f/2.8 is perfect for capturing the energy and the grandeur of the city. It allows you to include more of the surroundings in your frame, giving a sense of place to your photos. This lens is great for capturing dramatic architectural shots or capturing the hustle and bustle of busy streets.
6. Macro Lens 60mm f/2.8
If you enjoy capturing the small details in the urban environment, a macro lens like the 60mm with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 is a must-have. It allows you to get up close and personal with subjects like flowers, graffiti, or textures, revealing intricate details that are often overlooked. This lens is perfect for adding a unique perspective to your street photography.
7. Fish-eye Lens 8mm f/3.5
For those looking to add some creativity to their street photography, a fish-eye lens like the 8mm with a maximum aperture of f/3.5 can create unique and distorted images. It provides an ultra-wide perspective, bending and stretching the image, which can lead to interesting compositions. This lens is perfect for capturing the energy and dynamism of busy streets and crowded urban scenes.
Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR: The Perfect Lens for Street Photography
When it comes to street photography, having the right lens is crucial for capturing the essence of the urban environment. In my experience, the Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR is the perfect lens for this genre. Its compact size, fast aperture, and exceptional image quality make it a versatile and reliable companion on the streets.
The Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR offers a focal length equivalent to 35mm in full-frame terms, which is widely regarded as the ideal focal length for street photography. This focal length allows me to capture a natural perspective and include just enough of the surrounding scene to tell a compelling story. It strikes the perfect balance between being wide enough to capture the scene and narrow enough to preserve the intimacy of the subject.
One of the standout features of this lens is its fast f/2 aperture. This wide aperture not only allows for selective focus and beautiful bokeh but also enables me to shoot in low-light conditions without the need for a tripod. This is especially advantageous for street photography, where often the best moments happen in dimly lit alleys or under the glow of street lamps.
Furthermore, the Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR is weather-sealed, making it a reliable lens for shooting in various weather conditions. Its build quality is exceptional, and I have never encountered any issues with durability even after long hours of shooting in rainy or dusty environments. This peace of mind is essential for photographers who rely on their gear to withstand the rigors of street photography.
Overall, the Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR is a fantastic lens for street photography. Its compact size, fast aperture, and weather-sealed design make it an ideal choice for capturing the dynamic and unpredictable moments that make this genre so exciting. If you’re a street photographer looking to elevate your photography, I highly recommend considering this lens for your mirrorless camera.
Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS: A Prime Lens Perfect for Street Photography
When it comes to street photography, having the right lens is crucial for capturing those decisive moments in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. The Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS lens is a prime lens that I highly recommend for this genre of photography.
The 35mm focal length is considered to be the perfect choice for street photography due to its versatility and ability to capture scenes with a natural perspective. Whether it’s capturing a bustling city street or a quiet suburban neighborhood, the 35mm focal length allows you to easily frame your subjects without being too close or too far away.
The f/1.8 aperture of this lens is another standout feature that makes it a great option for street photography. With a wide maximum aperture, you can achieve a shallow depth of field and create beautiful, creamy bokeh, which can help isolate your subjects from distracting backgrounds. Additionally, the fast aperture allows for better low-light performance, making it easier to shoot in challenging lighting conditions often found on the streets.
The built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization is also a notable feature of this lens. It compensates for camera shake, allowing you to shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds without worrying about blurry images. This is extremely useful in street photography where you need to be quick and agile in capturing spontaneous moments.
In conclusion, the Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS lens is an excellent choice for street photographers. Its 35mm focal length, wide aperture, and built-in image stabilization make it a versatile and reliable tool for capturing the essence of the streets with outstanding image quality.
Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 17mm f/1.8 Lens: A Perfect Choice for Street Photography
When it comes to street photography, having the right lens can make all the difference in capturing the essence and atmosphere of the city. That’s why I highly recommend the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 17mm f/1.8 Lens for this genre of photography.
This lens offers a perfect focal length of 17mm, which is equivalent to 34mm in 35mm format, making it ideal for capturing everyday street scenes. Its wide angle of view allows you to include more of the surroundings in your frame, creating a sense of context and adding depth to your images.
The large maximum aperture of f/1.8 ensures that you can capture sharp and detailed images even in low-light situations. This is crucial for street photography, as you often encounter challenging lighting conditions on the streets. With this lens, you can confidently shoot in dimly lit alleyways or at dusk, without worrying about blur or noise.
One of the standout features of the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 17mm f/1.8 Lens is its compact and lightweight design. It’s one of the smallest lenses in its class, making it perfect for travel and discreet street photography. You can easily carry it around all day without feeling weighed down, allowing you to stay nimble and capture fleeting moments without drawing too much attention.
Additionally, the lens delivers impressive image quality with excellent sharpness, contrast, and color rendition. The autofocus is fast and accurate, ensuring you can quickly and confidently capture the decisive moment. The build quality is also top-notch, with a sturdy metal construction that feels durable and reliable.
In conclusion, if you’re a street photographer looking for a versatile and high-quality lens for your mirrorless camera, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 17mm f/1.8 Lens is definitely worth considering. Its wide angle, large aperture, compact size, and superb performance make it an excellent choice for capturing the vibrant energy of the streets.
Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II ASPH Lens: My Go-to Lens for Street Photography
When it comes to street photography, choosing the right lens is crucial. After trying out various options, I have found that the Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II ASPH lens is my go-to choice. Its compact size, fast aperture, and superb image quality make it an ideal companion for capturing the essence of urban life.
One of the standout features of this lens is its wide maximum aperture of f/1.7. This allows me to achieve a shallow depth of field, isolating my subjects from the busy background and creating a beautiful bokeh effect. Whether it’s an interesting character on the street or a captivating street scene, the wide aperture helps me to draw attention to what matters most in the frame.
The Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II ASPH lens is also incredibly compact and lightweight, making it perfect for street photography. I can easily carry it in my camera bag without adding unnecessary bulk or weight. This allows me to move around freely and discreetly, capturing candid moments without drawing too much attention.
Furthermore, the lens delivers excellent image quality. The 20mm focal length is equivalent to a traditional 40mm lens on a full-frame camera, which provides a versatile perspective for street photography. The images are sharp, with great contrast and vibrant colors. Even in challenging lighting conditions, the lens performs admirably, thanks to its optical design and low-light capabilities.
In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II ASPH lens excels in street photography due to its compact size, wide aperture, and exceptional image quality. It has become my go-to lens for capturing the dynamic and ever-changing urban environment. Whether I am capturing the hustle and bustle of city life or the quiet moments that go unnoticed, this lens allows me to tell compelling stories through my photographs.
Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens: A Versatile and Compact Option for Street Photography
As an avid street photographer, I understand the importance of having a lens that is both versatile and compact. The Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM lens fits these criteria perfectly, making it an excellent choice for capturing the essence of a bustling cityscape or the intimate moments of everyday life.
One of the standout features of this lens is its 22mm focal length, which provides a field of view that is similar to what the human eye sees. This makes it ideal for capturing scenes with a natural perspective, allowing me to immerse viewers in the scene as if they were there themselves.
Another aspect that sets this lens apart is its wide f/2 aperture. This allows for great low-light performance, allowing me to shoot in dimly lit environments without sacrificing image quality. Additionally, the shallow depth of field achieved with this aperture creates a beautiful background blur, adding a touch of artistry to my street photography.
The Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM lens is also incredibly compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around all day without causing fatigue. Its sleek design blends seamlessly with the compact nature of mirrorless cameras, making it a stylish choice for street photographers who prefer a less conspicuous approach.
In conclusion, the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM lens is a versatile and compact option that is perfect for street photography. Its 22mm focal length, wide aperture, and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for capturing the fast-paced and dynamic moments that define the essence of the streets.
Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens: My Go-to Lens for Street Photography
When it comes to street photography, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens has become my ultimate go-to lens. With its wide aperture and versatile focal length, this lens allows me to capture stunning images that truly embody the essence of the streets.
One of the standout features of the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens is its fast maximum aperture of f/1.4. This wide aperture not only lets in ample light, but also allows me to effectively isolate my subjects from the background, creating a pleasing background blur. It’s perfect for capturing candid moments on the streets, as it allows me to quickly focus on my subject and shoot in low-light situations without compromising image quality.
Another reason why I love the Sigma 30mm lens is its focal length. The 30mm focal length is equivalent to a 45mm lens on a full-frame camera, which is considered to be a standard focal length for street photography. This focal length offers a natural perspective that closely resembles how our eyes perceive the world, making it ideal for capturing authentic and intimate street scenes.
The Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens is also known for its exceptional image quality. The lens produces sharp and detailed images with great contrast, even when shooting wide open at f/1.4. The lens’s optical design minimizes distortion and aberrations, resulting in images that are true to life. Whether I’m capturing street portraits or candid moments, the Sigma 30mm lens consistently delivers stunning image quality.
In conclusion, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens is my top choice for street photography. Its wide aperture, versatile focal length, and superior image quality make it a must-have lens for capturing the essence of the streets. If you’re looking to elevate your street photography game, I highly recommend giving the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens a try.
Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Lens
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Lens is a versatile lens option for street photography with mirrorless cameras. It offers a standard focal length of 35mm, which is considered ideal for capturing a wide range of street scenes and subjects. The lens has a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, allowing for excellent low-light performance and the ability to create a shallow depth of field.
One of the standout features of this lens is its optical performance. The NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Lens uses an advanced optical design that includes ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and aspherical elements, which effectively reduce chromatic aberrations and distortions for enhanced image clarity and sharpness. The lens also features Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat and Super Integrated Coating to minimize flare and ghosting when shooting in challenging lighting conditions.
The NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Lens is designed specifically for Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless cameras, such as the Nikon Z6 and Z7. It takes advantage of the larger Z-mount’s short flange distance and wide diameter to deliver superior optical performance. The lens also features a customizable control ring that can be used to adjust various camera settings, providing a seamless shooting experience for street photographers.
When it comes to street photography, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Lens excels in capturing the essence of a scene or a moment. Its wide-angle perspective can help photographers frame their subjects in the context of their surroundings, while its fast aperture allows for creative depth of field effects. The lens also has a silent autofocus motor, which is useful for discreetly capturing candid moments without drawing attention to the photographer.
In conclusion, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Lens is an excellent option for street photographers using mirrorless cameras. Its 35mm focal length, fast aperture, and superior optics make it a versatile and high-performing lens choice. Whether you’re capturing the energy of a bustling city street or the quiet beauty of a secluded alley, this lens can help you create compelling and impactful street photographs.
Best lens for mirrorless camera for street photography
Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens, Compatible with EOS R System Mirrorless Cameras, Fixed Focal Length Lens, Compact & Lightweight, Perfect for Everyday Shooting
Features
| Part Number | 4515C002 |
| Model | 4515C002 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2020-12-03T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 50mm |
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Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle, for Full-Frame Cameras
$269.00
Features
| Part Number | 6128C002 |
| Model | 6128C002 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2023-07-06T00:00:01Z |
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Oakley Unisex Sunglasses Matte Navy Frame, Prizm Snow Sapphire Iridium Lenses, MM
Features
| Part Number | 392-915-597 |
| Model | OO7064-E1 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Color | Matte Navy |
| Size | Medium |
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Opteka 500mm/1000mm f/8 Manual Telephoto Lens compatible with Canon EF-Mount EOS 90D, 80D, 77D, 70D, 60D, 60Da, 1Ds, Mark III II 7D, 6D, 5D, 5DS, Rebel T8i, T7i, T7s, T7, T6s, T6i, T6, T5, SL3, SL2
Features
| Part Number | SUP5001000PREC |
| Model | SUP5001000PREC |
| Warranty | 5 year |
| Color | Black |
| Size | Canon EF |
| Price history for Opteka 500mm/1000mm f/8 Manual Telephoto Lens compatible with Canon EF-Mount EOS 90D, 80D, 77D, 70D, 60D, 60Da, 1Ds, Mark III II 7D, 6D, 5D, 5DS, Rebel T8i, T7i, T7s, T7, T6s, T6i, T6, T5, SL3, SL2 | |
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Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is Standard Zoom Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras (New, White Box)
40 used from $193.98
Features
| Part Number | 3558B002 |
| Model | 3558B002 |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
| Color | Black |
| Language | English |
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Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM Lens
Features
| Part Number | EF-S2428STM |
| Model | EF-S2428STM |
| Warranty | 1 year coverage for parts |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2014-11-24T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 24M |
| Language | English |
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Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras - Fixed
Features
| Part Number | 2519A012 |
| Model | 2519A012 |
| Warranty | 1 year coverage for parts |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Language | English |
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Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM Camera Lens
$149.00
73 used from $73.99
Features
| Part Number | 8114B002AA |
| Model | 8114B002AA |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2013-04-30T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 5.70in. x 4.00in. x 3.70in. |
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Features
| Part Number | CN-RF-50MM-42023 |
| Model | RF 50mm |
| Warranty | Seller Supplied |
SIRUI 24mm Anamorphic Lens F2.8 1.33X APS-C Camera Lens (MFT Mount)
$477.00
Features
| Part Number | 24mm |
| Model | 24mm |
| Warranty | 1 Year Warranty |
| Release Date | 2022-04-20T00:00:01Z |
| Size | MFT Mount |
| Language | English |
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Question and answers:
What is the best lens for mirrorless camera for street photography?
The best lens for mirrorless camera for street photography depends on your personal preferences and shooting style. However, some popular and highly recommended options include prime lenses with focal lengths between 35mm and 50mm, such as the Sony FE 35mm f/2.8, Fujifilm XF 35mm f/1.4, and Olympus M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8. These lenses are great for capturing street scenes, providing a natural field of view and excellent low-light performance.
Which focal length is ideal for street photography?
The ideal focal length for street photography is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, prime lenses with focal lengths between 35mm and 50mm are considered popular choices. These focal lengths provide a natural field of view, allowing you to capture the environment and subjects without distortion. Additionally, they are versatile enough to capture both wide-angle scenes and closer subjects, making them suitable for various street photography compositions.
Should I choose a prime lens or a zoom lens for street photography?
Both prime lenses and zoom lenses can be used for street photography, but prime lenses are often preferred for their compact size, wider maximum aperture, and overall image quality. Prime lenses with fixed focal lengths provide a wider maximum aperture, allowing for better low-light performance and shallow depth of field. Additionally, prime lenses are generally smaller and lighter, making them easier to carry around on the streets. Zoom lenses, on the other hand, offer more versatility and convenience in framing subjects at different distances without having to physically move closer or farther.
What features should I look for in a lens for street photography?
When choosing a lens for street photography, there are a few important features to consider. Firstly, a wide maximum aperture is beneficial for low-light situations and creating a shallow depth of field. Secondly, a compact and lightweight design is preferred for portability and ease of use on the streets. Additionally, a quick and accurate autofocus system is essential for spontaneous street photography moments. Finally, consider the focal length that suits your shooting style and the desired field of view, whether it’s a wide-angle lens for capturing street scenes or a medium telephoto lens for isolating subjects.
