Honestly, I’m gonna have to respectfully disagree with the focus on just being 'compact' with the 22mm. If you actually care about technical performance and that clinical sharpness, you're basically selling yourself short by not looking at the higher-end glass. I've spent way too much time pixel-peeping M50 files, and the difference in micro-contrast is huge when you move up from the pancake stuff. Here’s what I’d actually recommend for your $500 budget:
* Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM: It’s the sharpest lens in the entire EF-M lineup, period. The optical formula is way more complex than the 22mm or the Sigma 30mm, and it handles chromatic aberration like a champ.
* Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary: If you like a wider, more immersive street look, this is it. The corner-to-corner resolution even at f/1.4 is kinda insane for the price. The 22mm is great for a pocketable setup, but for serious street work where you might wanna crop in or shoot in low light, the 32mm is on another level tho.

The 32mm is definitely the way to go! I took mine on a trip to New Orleans last spring and honestly, it never left my camera... the way it handles those dim, moody jazz clubs is just fantastic! Just a small tip tho: keep an eye on your battery because the motor on that lens can be a bit thirsty compared to the simpler ones. Still, the image quality is so amazing, love it!

Same boat, watching this

Unfortunately, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 wasn't as good as expected on my M50. However, the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 is fantastic! I got mine used for around $150. Super sharp and compact.

Hey! Forget the hype. Technically, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 gives you a ~50mm equivalent field of view on the M50 – classic street stuff. More importantly, its wider aperture pulls in tons of light. I've run mine for 3 years; still happy with its reliability and low-light performance. No complaints!

Honestly, kit lens works great to start! Save your cash. I had issues with a fancy $400 Sigma prime - not as good as expected. Practice first, then upgrade later?

Hey! Street photography is awesome! Think about safety too – a small, inconspicuous lens is key. The Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM is super compact (less chance of attracting unwanted attention!). Plus, it's usually under $250, leaving budget for a good camera strap. Keeping your gear secure is vital! Have fun and stay safe!

Forget brand loyalty! Canon's EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM is great, but research Sigma's offerings for Sony E-mount. Adapters are cheap. Sony has tons of third-party support, driving innovation. This often leads to better price/performance ratio, even with the adapter cost. See what fits your style; street photography is about *your* vision. Check reviews!

Skip pricey glass! The Canon EF-M adapter + vintage 50mm f/1.8 lenses (under $100) are surprisingly sharp. Plenty of online tutorials for DIY cleaning and adjustment. Happy shooting!

Hey! Been rocking street photography with my M50 for years. Forget the hype. Canon's EF-M 22mm f/2 STM is AMAZING. Super compact, sharp, and you can find 'em used for around $150! Seriously, for everyday use, it's a fantastic value that'll last. I still love it!

Hey! For M50 street in Arizona heat? Forget telephoto! I'd suggest the Sigma 30mm f/1.4. It's versatile, sharp, and handles the intense sunlight *way* better than some kit lenses I've fried over the years. Plus, it's pretty compact for cruising in my '67 Mustang – space is always premium!