I went with the WR 35/2 when I stopped limiting myself to manual lenses on Fuji, because I wanted something with that weather resist, but it does seem like there's something special about the old 35/1.4.
@@thebitterfig9903it special, but also loud, weak motor and the barrel focus is external. Crushed can hood makes it twice the length. Aperture ring becomes loose. I don’t miss it and even resold it for a lot more?!
@@kevrosas1 Some valid points that I could agree with on everything but the hood, since that tends to be the effect of any reasonable-length hood on a small lens. I'd love to see the same optic but with a revised housing and focus motors. It'll never be quite internal focus, but the lens could have more structure where the front of the housing extends past the lens and never moves. Personally, I've got zero interest in the 33/1.4, but a version of original Fujifilm lens with some of the non-optical qualities improved would be a pre-order from me.
Went to Fuji for the small primes, ended up with the bigger ones eventually. I hate the size of the new primes a bit, but their quality is outstanding, well corrected etc., so one cannot really complain. Cheers from Prague.
Agreed about size, I got the new 28mm and compared to the f2 version it's a monster, I have it on an xt5, can't imagine if I had it on an xpro or xe. But I gotta say Fuji system does have a high quality baseline that's affordable. An xt3 or an xe or xpro with one of the f2 primes is a crazy cheap but SUPER high quality pairing that can last a novice for years. I started on the xe2 with the 35 and 28mm f2 primes, a set I got for like 500$ usd in 2018, and that lasted me until this year. When I was finally ready to upgrade the experience of taking pictures was a lot better (and my lowlight stuff especially increased in quality), but the picture quality isn't like, crazy higher than what was possible on the f2s + xe2.
Actually I went from the fujicrons (16 / 23 / 35) to the older lenses (14 / 23 / 35 ). The price and weight of the newer gen makes it difficult for me to adopt them. The optical quality of the older lens is sufficient for me and I feel they still are a good middle ground. Love that Fuji has the three options though
Regarding the 16mm f/2.8, I have had this since it came out, and really like it. I also have had the 16mm f/1.4 lens for years since I have had a 24mm for all my film camera systems and consider it mandatory. The f/1.4 lens is great, justifying all the accolades that it gets, but it is large and heavy for a petite APS-C body. The f/2.8 solves that and is my 16mm of choice 80% of the time. One neat thing with the 16mm, if you shoot square images, the 16mm gives a field of view side-to-side of a 23mm (35mm equivalent). This allows you to tame the exaggeration when it doesn't work for the scene, plus it cuts off the extreme corners which are the weakest rendering. I use two lens kits on my Fujis based on my film camera experience. One kit replicating the field of view from my Leica M days is the 23mm (either f/1.4 or f/2) and 60mm f/2.4 macro. This gives me the classic 35mm/90mm equivalent set which can cover quite a lot.
The 18mm f2 is an incredible street lens. As others have said, it’s far better than people give it credit for. Personally for me, lens choice is dictated by body type. For the X-Pro1 I use, the smaller XF f2 primes or original 35mm f1.4 make more sense. I had the 23mm f1.4 and 56mm f1.2 and they were incredible, but felt unbalanced on my body.
Agree on the 18mm. First day I got it I was walking around NYC and scored a bunch of amazing low angle shots. As far as the 56mm, I use it on my Xpro3 every day since I got it. It's such a jaw dropping good lens!
Yes, Fuji definitely needs to refresh the 18 f2 just like they did with the 27 f2.8 when they released the xe4. Hopefully they do, it’s my favorite focal length too
I have an extremely similar, but just the opposite setup for my XT4. 16mm 1.4, and 35 2.0. Both weather sealed. Love the low-light capabilities of the 16, and the 35 is TINY. My entire setup fits easily in the Peter McKinnon sling for an awesome carry around kit.
i have an xt5 with 18 1.4 and 33 1.4. i have all of the fast fuji primes and some zooms including the 16-55. i can honestly say the 18/33 1.4 combo is what i have gravitated to as my 2 lens somewhat compact kit. i absolutely love the combo. the lenses are exceptionally fast and sharp and just produce amazing results. i have the 16 2.8 and it is superb, but the 18 1.4 is just better all around.
As an early-adopter of the Fuji X system, I have most of the faster versions of the primes. So the 1.2/1.4 versions. They might not be as small as the f2 primes, but are not so big either. These are insanely good lenses. The best ones in my lineup are the 16/1.4, a truly magnificent lens that goes in the bag as one of the first choices. I love the focal length too, even though it is a bit more challenging than an 18mm would be, I also think it is covering my wideangle desires better. My other absolute king is the 90/2 which is insanely good. It is fast focussing and using it wide open is never a problem. It is a bit long for your work, but if you want a bit longer lens, this is the one to get. I rediscovered my old 35/1.4 when I bought my 16/1.4 because they compliment eachother so well. It might not be the best lens on paper, it surely is giving special results. And it is compact too. The 16-35-90 conbination I have often with me. Another set I have used a lot is the 23/1.4 and 56/1.2 combination. Both great lenses too. In general Fujifilm, the primes are for me what makes the system more interesting than other systems. Combined with the Tx series of cameras with the manual dials, for me it remains the system for me.
The 33/1.4 is one of my favorite lenses. Definitely a bit bigger, but the image quality is well worth the extra size in my opinion. All three of the newer 1.4 primes are outstanding though.
This a a great combo for sure. If you are doing photos only and don’t need LM or weather sealing my fave combo is the 18mm f2 and 35mm 1.4, both are small and lightweight and have the same aesthetic with their square hoods.
The 16mm 2.8 is a very underrated lens for wide angle shooters. When I was shooting Fuji I loved it stopped down, as my copy at least, was razor sharp. I wish I had chance to use the 33 as it looks great. Nice video 👍
Excellent video, I loved the topic as I too am trying to decide what two prime Fuji lens to invest in. I have the kit 16-80mm zoom for travel initially but want to get a couple smaller prime lens to try using on shorter trips instead. I'm very drawn to the small size of the f2 lenses but the newer LM f1.4 lenses from Fuji are calling due to their sharpness. But size and cost is the draw back of them. Like you I'm thinking 18 f1.4 and 33 f1.4 long term but have picked up the 23 f2 to fill the gap between.
If you haven't shot the 18 f2, I would recommend you give it a shot. It get's a bad rap, and it has it's flaws both mechanically and optically, but the compactness of it really cannot be beat. Can't wait for Fuji to apply the WR treatment to this one.
I definitely agree, and to be honest, I actually really love the look out of the lens. I've had a lot of Fuji lenses, but it's quite literally my only fuji lens now.
My combo is going to be the 35 1.4 and the 18 1.4. The 18 will probably be my EDC general shooting lens that has WR. And the 35 1.4 always gives me a look I love. I got into the Fuji system just for the 35 1.4 honestly and film sims.
I know it would technically just be cropping... but by activating Fuji's sportsfinder mode (1.25x crop) via one click you could turn this 24mm equivalent into a 30mm. In fact that is what I am about to do. Getting this 16mm F2.8 lens rather than my otherwise preferred 18mm focal length. It's fast focusing, tiny and WR. I am hoping that the 30mm will do the trick. Also as a bonus...the somewhat soft corners on this lens would be cropped out in sportsfinder mode. Note: That mode only works when using mechanical shutter only. Anyways, thanks for sharing Goughie
Interesting idea! Personally I think I’d rather have the full read out and then crop later in post if I feel I want it, rather than lose that wider part of the image
I picked up the 18mm f/1.4 when it first came out because that had been a favorite for about 30 years and my rental of the 18mm f/2 didn't prove satisfactory. For me the 18mm f/1.4 is a keeper, albeit a bit large for my down-size ideal for my fuji kit. It didn't take long for the 18 to become my WA bookend. When the 33mm f/1.4 was released I knew it would recreate the two bookends that were the mainstay of the way I photograph. I was not wrong. The 33mm is my hands-down choice for my family and much of my event photography (it does couples so well) and at f/1.4 it's a great portrait lens. This is also my travel kit for much of my outings. I still like the 14mm f/2.8/18-55mm kit/23mm f/2 WR for a WR backup on 1-2week tours. Those outings always have companion obligations but for serious photo only trips, the 18/33 f/1.4 combo is truly exemplary.
The 33 1.4 is definitely a bit chunky on the X-Pro 3. I recently picked up the 35 f2 as a daily driver, and save the 1.4 for when I want to squeeze out a bit more image quality
With my two-lens setups, I can capture 70% of the images that I need to capture. My favorite two-lens setup for Fuji X-Pro digital mirrorless 23mm f/1.4 56mm f/1.2 My favorite two-lens setup for Nikon SLRs: 35mm f/1.4 85mm f/1.4 My favorite two-lens setup for Leica rangefinders: 35mm f/1.4 90mm f/2 My favorite two-lens setup for micro 4/3 mirrorless: 20mm f/1.7 45mm f/1.8
Call me crazy but I own a 35mm f/1.4 and I’m thinking of pairing it with the 23mm f/2. I don’t care what anyone says I see a big difference between these focal lengths and different use cases for each. And I prefer normal fields of view. I did try the 18mm f2 but it was just too soft for my standards. Nice feel to the images though. 16 is too wide for me - converging lines drive me bonkers.
I'm currently using new 23/1.4 as a one lens solution for everyday shooting, documenting my family life, weekend walks, travels etc. Then I also have 33/1.4 which I'm using exclusively for some serious portrait sessions. I'm very happy with this setup, as I do always felt that focal lengths wider than 35mm (@FF), are too much distorted as for my taste, and same goes for focal lengths shorter than 50mm (again, @FF)
yes using the 16mil. plus side is you have legroom for cropping images to 28mm. the other lens i take is the 50mm. its sharp as a razor. and if you need a little compression.
My go to are 23mm 1.4 LM and 56mm 1.2 (original) + Haida Filter ND/Polarizer for photography only. It's just versatile for indoor, family, landscape and portraits. It all fits in my sling to go hiking or for scenery without being too heavy. The focal length gap is very manageable with your feet and low light capabilities is more than enough for every moment. For niche lens, my ultra-wide and telephoto, I have the Viltrox 13mm 1.4 and XF 70-300mm f4-5.6, for an amateur like myself, this is already too much for what I need, and I'm shooting with XT30ii. I have the 18-55mm as a kit lens but barely use it...
I'm an f2/2.8 Fuji lens user. I prefer the compact size as an enthusiast/semi-pro. I'm sure the 1.4s are excellent too but wouldn't get much use for me.
You honestly can't go wrong with those. If you're happy with them, and aren't trying to do low light stuff of fast subjects, theres seriously no reason to "upgrade" to the fatter lens.
Excellent video as usual. I can only concur with a number of your respondents that the Fuji X range was (is?) made for small primes. I'm a stills & not a videographer, but still wanted a quieter/faster AF than that provided my X-Pro2 & XF18/F2R & XF35/F1.4R lenses. I tried the alternative 23mm & 35mm Fujicrons and they just didn't do it for me, although the 16mm F2.8 would have been perfect... if it had been 18mm! However whilst examining possible alternatives in my local photo store I tried and fell in love with the new XF23/F1.4R/WR. This massive (to me anyway), lens dwarfed the X-Pro2, but sat very comfortably on the X-H2, which was on offer for the same price as the new X-T5. (Why I chose the X-H2 instead, is another story). Anyway the deed was done, and although my old lenses performed much better with the X-H2 finances dictated their sale along with my faithful X-Pro2. So far, several 1000's of shots later the X-H2 / XF23/F1.4R/WR has proved an excellent single camera/lens combination. Is it bigger/heavier... Yes. Do I miss the wider 18mm field of view... Maybe. But is the photographic experience enhanced and more enjoyable... Certainly ❤! [PS. Just purchased on fleabay an old tired XF14/F2.8R - another overlooked classic? - So now back to a 2 lens combination!]
Those two lenses, 18MM f1.4 and 33MM f1.4, are my “go-to” for street photography on my XPRO-3 and they tend to find there way over to my XT-4 whenever I grab that instead. Worth the price. Go for it. 👍
How do the two 1.4's go with the OVF, John? I've just bought an X-pro2 and found the 23/1.4 R blocks a lot of the 23mm frame lines so I'm leaning towards the f/2 series.
I have the 35/f2 (pre 33 mm)& version II of the 23 1.4. WR LM. Rarely use them ,not sure why, but will give it a goi in Europe later in August.I have the the brick, 16-55 & even though I'm a senior , I'll do my best to carry it around. My 18-55 will accompany me on our vacation, my most used lens. Would love to sell the 35 ff2 & 23 1.4 get the 33mm. That way I can get down to a decent level of gear. Looks tons of pics in Prague pre Covid & enjoyed our time there !
Can't agree more, bro! I got 14mm f/2.8R and 35mm f/1.4. Pretty close to the two lens you mentioned and I mount them on X-T2(16) and X-T1(35). 3rd lens is a dirt cheap TTArtisans 25mm f/2. I never own zoom lens(AKA telescopics). Borrowed my friend's XF55-200 and he wanted me to keep it as he didn't use it much. I rejected in a friendly way as I didn't want to feel the way I had to take advantage of him.
I kind of like my two lens setup to be the fuji 16-80mm F4 with a vnd and the fuji 33mm f1.4. I do not shoot a lot of professional shots so it is good for me.
I'm using 18f2 and 33f1.4. Just hate the size of 33, so 18 stays on the camera 80% of time. Love the vintage feel of it. Wish fuji updated it with quiet motors, would go and buy it instantly
I am currently using a Voigtlander 40mm f1.4 and the Fujifilm 23mm f2.0. The Voigtlander is a great lens for street photography. It does take some time to move from 35mm to 40mm. I had an opportunity to purchase the lens last year. The color and handling are near perfect for me. The 23mm is my other go to lens. It provides me with more range, and depth for street photography.
I went with your recommendation and got into Fujifilm (downsizing from Canon full frame) with an X-T5 and 18/1.4 and 33/1.4 LM WR lenses in February. The lenses are not small but compared to my full frame gear they are tiny. I am also adding the 23/1.4 LM WR because in many situations, I only take one lens with me and the 23 is the perfect compromise between the two.
28mm & 50mm are all I've ever shot with. So when I got my X-Pro3 last month I picked up the 18/f2.0 and the 35/f2.0. These seemed to be the "proper" FFE lenses. Especially since the my film camera 50mm has a measured focal length of 52.5mm, and the 35mm Fuji lens is 53mm FFE. But then I happened across the 27mm f2.8 pancake (41mm FFE)...and oh wow what tiny lens and it's weather sealed. It only took a day of shooting to realize how great focal length 40mm (FFE) is! So maybe I can actually be a 1-lens-kind-of-shooter?
I have the X100VI and recently picked up the X-T50 with the 18 and 33 1.4. Absolutely blown away by the photos. Added the small rig L grip to the body for a much better balance.
@@steelshaper same as the 18mm and 33mm very good lens, can’t really find a fault with it! I think I’ll likely settle on 18mm and 33mm combo but more to do with focal length preference than the 23mm not being any good There will be a video coming in the next couple weeks!
Nice video. I could not agree with you more. I own both the 18 1.4 and the 33 1.4. Yes they are larger. But they are quiet and take such great quality photos that make you forget their size and weight. I also own the Viltrox 75 1.2. They are the only 3 lens that I own. I love them. No zooms for me.
Great video Goughie!!!! I´m going to Prague this week and don't know what to bring with me, the Fujinon 16 mm f2, the Viltrox 13mm f1.4, the Fujinon 35mm f2 or the Fujinon 90mm f2.I´m also considering bringing with me a manual lens, the Miinolta 50 mm f1.7... My camera is the Fujifim XT3. Which combo do you think works best in Prague? All the best !!
18 f2 + 35 f1.4. Don't care/don't trust on WR, autofocus on XT5 are simply great for stills on XT5. Ultimate light travel kit: 18 f2 + 27 f2.8. Love the autofocus noise!
I also like the 18/35 combo (with a 50f2 for emergencies). I recently bought the 16f2.8, but think I still prefer my 18f2. I'm not sure if I just got a good copy of the 18 but I have no complaints with it really - caveat, I only use the Fujis for stills. On the 35 front, I've tried the f1.4, the f2 and a 7Artisans 0.95. I love the rendering of the 1.4 but I've had a lot of focus hunting and misses, especially in poor light, so am intrigued by the 33. I'm sure the 18/33 f1.4 pair is the way to go and I'll probably try them but they are such big lumps compared to the alternatives.
16f2.8 & 23f2 are my favourites. I got the 16 for the same reason: Fujifilm not updating the 18f2 in over a decade. I actually brought my old 18f2 to Cambodia. First day in Ankor Wat and it didn't want to focus at all. It was about 3 months before I got AF function back. I decided to forget it and go for the 16. For a jpeg shooter it's excellent with in-camera corrections. I've still got the GRIII if I desperately want 28 though.
@@Goughie I have the original 35f1.4 that has stayed in its box for about 3 years now. I don't want it, but I also don't want to not have it if that resonates at all. 😂
I myself can't decide between 23mm1.4 and 56mm1.2 or 16mm1.4 and 35mm2. Sometimes there are situations, when room is too small, and I need 16mm for group photos, but also need to be discreet and use 56, so then the setup is 16mm and 56mm. I think I will never upgrade to new 1.4, as those are too bulky. My 16mm1.4 and 56mm1.2 are bulky, and I often leave them at home when traveling. But then again, often my environments are dark, that 2.0 lenses are a struggle. Same as other people have commented - waiting when 18mm2.0 will be refreshed. Then 18mm2.0 and 35mm2.0 would be great! But for now, sticking with what we have and experimenting with small manual lenses due to size and speed.
correction, the 16 2.8 does not have Linear Motors, its a stepping motor but very quick and you dont notice the speed difference, however you will see the very focus acquisition when in video mode.
Thanks very much for an interesting and very useful video. With some big international travel coming up, I've really been debating about whether to bring one, large zoom lens (the 16-80mm f4 that I already own) or perhaps two primes along with me. One question I have is why you picked the 16mm f2.8 rather than the 16mm f1.4? Was it purely a matter of size and weight? I have the 16mm f1.4 and it has been a workhorse for me. I am borrowing a 33mm f1.4 for a shorter trip, and all of the reviews make me feel that I am going to love it. I hadn't thought about the 18mm f1.4 since I already have the 16mm - and it looks like the 18mm is roughly the same size, weight, and cost. Finally - am I crazy to consider a single zoom lens and will I regret that decision? (NOTE: I have an X-T5 with the 40MP sensor, so I have plenty of "real estate" available for cropping, which is why the "two primes" idea is giving me pause.) Thanks for any suggestions from you or the community!
The 16mm f1.4 autofocus makes an audible noise! And I use a hotshoe mic! So you can hear the lens focusing! If I was only doing photography I’d have the 16mm f1.4 The 18mm f1.4 is an awesome lens that fixes the above issue so would be a contender for me, but it’s pretty expensive! Primes vs zoom, the never ending debate! It essentially comes down to preference I think, and how often you think you might find yourself changing lens. I typically use two primes, but a recent trip to Venice I was super glad I had just the 16-55mm
a long long time ago, I can still remember... I went to New York in March 2016 for a 3 day photo break. I only used the 18mm F/2.0 and the 35mm F/1.4 on an X-T10, the 18mm was used during the day, the 35mm on an evening (I also took the 60mm F/2.4, but that stayed in the hotel safe). I'm not really a city/street photographer and spend most of my time doing portraiture and other studio based work. Honestly now, I don't think I'd do a city break with 2 primes (although if I did would be an 18mm and 35mm, or similar lenses). I'd take the 35mm F/1.4 or the Sigma 56mm F/1.4 (don't own the fuji 56mm) so I had a nice low light/shallow DOF lens along with either the 10-24mm F/4 or 16-80mm F/4 for walking around. If it was a 1 prime lens setup I'd take the 35mm (or 33mm if i was buying now), would probably manage with a 23mm F1/4 or F/2 too
I use 33mm F1.4 and 16mm F2.8 (and also have 90mm F2 for special occasions). The 16mm will be replaced once we get a new small 18mm available. Nice video mate!
The 33 1.4 is an amazing lens. But i would only use it for professional work, like portraits for example. It's kinda big and expensive to be carrying it around. The 35 f.2 is a much better option for street and travel Photography. Since it's compact, light, cheaper, weather sealed and provides 85% of the quality of the 33mm
Nice video and I’ve always loved the idea of primes but at 69 the idea of zooming with my feet doesn’t appeal I’ve got one the 60mm macro for product stock stuff and the rest is done with 16-55 2.8 and the 50-140 2.8 but maybe I’ll give the others a try again nice work👍
I love the classic 16mm 1.4 on the fuji is one of those lenses that produced quality. Now that I shoot leica I definitely enjoy shooting 28/50/90 all together great video. The new 16mm is very small and compact.
xf33 1.4 & 23 1.4 are great lenses but just too bulky, just sold my 33 1.4 as it sat on the shelf due to it's size. Will stick with the 35 & 23 f2's, embrace the compactness of Fuji.
I agree 100% with your final conclusion of the new 18 & 33 as being great choices. Since I also shoot some indoor sports I’m also interested in the 90 f2 as well.
If you are lucky enough to have an x100v, get the WCL adapter which gives you that 18mm/28mm FF fov. Then I have my XT5 with the 33 1.4. That's a great kit as they both fit in my peak design sling and I don't have to change lenses. If I want 23mm/35 FF I just unscrew the WCL adapter from the x100, take a picture and screw it back on.
I am thinking of using my iPhone in ProRaw with the main lens for all the subjects for which I don’t need subject separation, and I will work on a workflow to massage the colours to match my preferred receipes on Fuji. And I will keep shooting on Fuji but either with the 70-300 or the 75 from Viltrox. If the iPhone route fails, I’ll get the Viltrox 27
Nice video. Everyone has their own two lens formula. I do a lot of urban photography and my two are the 18/1.4 and the 56/1.2. Weird, I know but mostly I only use the 18mm but every now and then I see something I want to be creative about and I use the 56mm for something more unique.
I bought the 16 2.8 on a impulse because it was cheap with a xh2s. its really fine for the price & size, but not always wide enough. I have a samyang 12mm T2 I love, 14mm is more interesting but the sigma1.8 is really big and heavy for travel. what this did get me to take more serisouly is the sigma 33 1.4 + OM 50 1.4 for long lens. I don't use lens correction, instead you should fine lenses that render the way you like.
I use a Samyang 12mm f2 and the kit lens XC 16-50 , for travel and everyday use, this 2 lens kit is very light weight, versatile enough with the zoom and great for architecture, landscape photography. I own a XF 18-135 and XF 10-24 but for travel , they are just too heavy and big , such a pity as they would be my pick if weight,size wasnt an issue....
I would take my 33mm f1.4 and 16mm f1.4. I would love to have a 14mm f1.4 instead of the 16 if Fuji ever updated their old 14mm lens as I love the 21mm ff equivalent, but they haven't. Also, I find 16mm is easier to avoid distortion if you have people in your frame near the edges.
The Viltrox 13 f/1.4 is excellent. For me it's not a great focal length, it distorts people on the edges too much for my band video work, and it's not wide *enough* to me for "wide angle architecture drama". So I'll probably sell mine. But I'm not that versatile or artistic. If what you want is a 14mm f/1.4, it's probably right up your alley. It's big, but not much bigger than the 16mm f/1.4.
I would pick my 23mm f/1.4 R and either the 35mm f/1.4 or 50mm f/2. As much as I like my Sigma 16mm, it is too large. Maybe the 18-55 and 35mm f/1.4 would be nice, too. One zoom to cover my most used focal ranges and the 35 for bad light, better portraits and more creative pictures. I love the 50mm f/2 and I recently bought it again after I swapped my copy for the Sigma 56mm. Also a nice lens, but I missed the Fuji so much.
I have the 16mm f1,4 for years and wouldn't change it for anything, especially not for the 18mm, course I've never been 28mm guy (in FF terms), course 16mm is smaller, sharp as hell, has a clutch system, and no distortion whatsoever...
I’ve thought for ages now that Fujifilm really need to update the 18mm f2 (optically and the body) to bring it up to modern standards - I actually had the lens for a few years on my XPRO1 and definitely enjoyed the results but it’s shortcomings are absolutely a turn off for anyone looking at the lens now (especially at its new price). If Fujifilm did update the 18mm f2 this year (🤞) it’s a lens I would absolutely buy!
My go to combo was the 16mm 1.4 / 33 1.4 as I shoot urban architecture so I prefer the width of the 16. But alas with the new X-T5 moved to the 18 1.4…also for an upcoming trip to the UK 🇬🇧 with a children’s choir - so agree that the 18 is more suited for portraits. So we got to the same place. Cheers,
Great video the 16 f2.8 is great lens haven't tried the 33 mm have the 35 f2 which is amazing also The 27mm f2.8 wr I feel is a great lens and doesn't get the credit in my opinion give you a natural view of what our eyes see
I switched from the X100V back to the X-Pro3 with the old 18/2.0 which is my preferred focal length. I paired my go-to lens with the XF 30 mm 2.8 Macro, which is also not too bulky, WR ultra fast AF and enables 1:1 images. A highly versatile lens enabling also digital scans from analog 35 mm Images/slides.
I’m currently using the Voigtlander 35mm, and Fuji 14mm. I like the size and feel of these two lenses, but there are times when I miss having autofocus and weather resistance. These two lenses, and the XC 50-230mm would probably be my travel kit. I hope Voigtlander makes an 18mm for the x-mount soon.
My personal favorite combo is fuji 23mm f2 and 50mm f2 (35mm & 76mm equivalent) for street photography. The 76mm focal length has a better reach when I can't get close enough to a specific person on the street. I choose the f2 lenses because of the snappy focus and compact & lightweight form factor. Your combo makes sense for travel and landscape though. It's not too different from mine.
I have the 16mm 2.8 and the 23mm 1.4 and I’m very happy with the combo. I‘m thinking of maybe picking up a 35mm in the future but it might be a cheap manual one (like the ttartisan 35mm 1.4) because it’s not a focal length I play on using often.
I had an incredible seven months off from work (redundancy) and have fallen in love with walking around London with my camera in daytime, with my 16-55mm. But once I'm back at work soon (in Westminster), I need something for the dark evenings. The 33mm f1.4 may be it :) As I ONLY expect to need it for dark evenings, I am sniffing around for alternatives from Viltrox etc though. I do have the 56mm f1.2 already ... but I understand that its apodisation filter means it handles low light like an f1.7.
Personally, if I was going for travel, I would go for the 23 mm F2 and then I would go with a 75 1.2. This gets me a bigger gap in between but you can use your feet and crop. And with the XT5 you can certainly crop in so much anyway, so I would be going with the 23 because die can crop into probably 40 mm anyway. And 75 just gives you reach to get some different shots. That's if I was only taking two lenses I would go to 23 and 75 for that reason.
Thanks for the video - appreciated your set up and overall review. I was happy to see the 16mm f2.8 as I JUST got one last week! I haven't pulled it off my camera since I got it. Interesting thoughts about the 33mm f1.4! I've never considered it (I have and love the Fujicrons) but I think I'll have to rent one and give it a go!
Nice review 👍🏻 I like watching and listening to videos about the cheaper lenses for Fujifilm. They may not be perfect but most I think at least have character. However, I have the 18mm f1.4 and it is indeed expensive but it's a lovely lens that I have a lot of fun with.
Coming from Canon and watching videos to see what lenses I would get, everyone saying the new line is too big, baffles me actually because I have the 33 1.4 and it is absolutely small. Especially after using the 50 and 85 from canons RF line. The 33 1.4 is fan-freaking-tastic.
It’s all a matter of perspective I guess! Coming from a larger camera they all feel tiny! From an current Fuji perspective the new line grew in size! But ultimately has bought the high performances a lot of people wanted!
16mm F2.8 and 35mm F2, both are tiny lenses and compatible with the 40mp sensor (list of 20 lenses), with plenty of latitude for cropping to fill the gap between 16mm and 35mm. 16mm with a bit of cropping gives an 18mm angle of view and still gives a 32mp image on an X-T5. So what's the problem in substituting an 18mm lens with a 16mm lens?
The two as a combo is really good. The reason why I never use smartphone cameras is the 24-26mm focal length which I absolutely can't stand. :D But I think the 24mm is perfect for this target group. That the 2x over fps rule is good but also no leg break if it times can not keep. sometimes you also have no mood to film with the camera and just takes the smartphone. :D Even great youtuber do that and no one complains. The shot at 8:55 is really nice. 👌
Yeah! I’m going to stop worrying about it when I’m out and about now! That’s also my favourite image from the trip! The lighting was so good whilst we were up there!
The original iPhone SE had a more moderate focal length of 29mm, similar to the 30mm of a typical disposable camera. I swear I got my best phone camera pics from that little thing.
For me it’s the 18mm f1.4 35mm f1.4 and 56mm f1.2 wr. With these 3 one can has just about every need covered. Love them all. So awesome.
18mm f2 and 35mm f1.4. I love their classic rendering. Autofocus has been more than good enough with the newer Fuji bodies.
For photography I’m sure they are fine! But you can hear them in video! Annoying hybrid requirements for me!
I went with the WR 35/2 when I stopped limiting myself to manual lenses on Fuji, because I wanted something with that weather resist, but it does seem like there's something special about the old 35/1.4.
@@thebitterfig9903it special, but also loud, weak motor and the barrel focus is external. Crushed can hood makes it twice the length. Aperture ring becomes loose. I don’t miss it and even resold it for a lot more?!
@@thebitterfig9903and not linear motor!
@@kevrosas1 Some valid points that I could agree with on everything but the hood, since that tends to be the effect of any reasonable-length hood on a small lens.
I'd love to see the same optic but with a revised housing and focus motors. It'll never be quite internal focus, but the lens could have more structure where the front of the housing extends past the lens and never moves.
Personally, I've got zero interest in the 33/1.4, but a version of original Fujifilm lens with some of the non-optical qualities improved would be a pre-order from me.
Went to Fuji for the small primes, ended up with the bigger ones eventually. I hate the size of the new primes a bit, but their quality is outstanding, well corrected etc., so one cannot really complain. Cheers from Prague.
Ahah! I know what you mean! The big primes are just so good! I do think the “fujicrons” are awesome though!
From Prague aye! I loved my visit!
Agreed about size, I got the new 28mm and compared to the f2 version it's a monster, I have it on an xt5, can't imagine if I had it on an xpro or xe.
But I gotta say Fuji system does have a high quality baseline that's affordable. An xt3 or an xe or xpro with one of the f2 primes is a crazy cheap but SUPER high quality pairing that can last a novice for years. I started on the xe2 with the 35 and 28mm f2 primes, a set I got for like 500$ usd in 2018, and that lasted me until this year. When I was finally ready to upgrade the experience of taking pictures was a lot better (and my lowlight stuff especially increased in quality), but the picture quality isn't like, crazy higher than what was possible on the f2s + xe2.
Actually I went from the fujicrons (16 / 23 / 35) to the older lenses (14 / 23 / 35 ). The price and weight of the newer gen makes it difficult for me to adopt them. The optical quality of the older lens is sufficient for me and I feel they still are a good middle ground. Love that Fuji has the three options though
Regarding the 16mm f/2.8, I have had this since it came out, and really like it. I also have had the 16mm f/1.4 lens for years since I have had a 24mm for all my film camera systems and consider it mandatory. The f/1.4 lens is great, justifying all the accolades that it gets, but it is large and heavy for a petite APS-C body. The f/2.8 solves that and is my 16mm of choice 80% of the time.
One neat thing with the 16mm, if you shoot square images, the 16mm gives a field of view side-to-side of a 23mm (35mm equivalent). This allows you to tame the exaggeration when it doesn't work for the scene, plus it cuts off the extreme corners which are the weakest rendering.
I use two lens kits on my Fujis based on my film camera experience. One kit replicating the field of view from my Leica M days is the 23mm (either f/1.4 or f/2) and 60mm f/2.4 macro. This gives me the classic 35mm/90mm equivalent set which can cover quite a lot.
The 18mm f2 is an incredible street lens. As others have said, it’s far better than people give it credit for. Personally for me, lens choice is dictated by body type. For the X-Pro1 I use, the smaller XF f2 primes or original 35mm f1.4 make more sense. I had the 23mm f1.4 and 56mm f1.2 and they were incredible, but felt unbalanced on my body.
Agree on the 18mm. First day I got it I was walking around NYC and scored a bunch of amazing low angle shots. As far as the 56mm, I use it on my Xpro3 every day since I got it. It's such a jaw dropping good lens!
Yes, Fuji definitely needs to refresh the 18 f2 just like they did with the 27 f2.8 when they released the xe4. Hopefully they do, it’s my favorite focal length too
I use the 14, 27 combo lately. Awesome light power
I have an extremely similar, but just the opposite setup for my XT4. 16mm 1.4, and 35 2.0. Both weather sealed. Love the low-light capabilities of the 16, and the 35 is TINY. My entire setup fits easily in the Peter McKinnon sling for an awesome carry around kit.
Same, those are the only primes I have.
Glad there are many options to choose!
I would go with the 35mm f1.4 and 18mm 1.4.
i have an xt5 with 18 1.4 and 33 1.4. i have all of the fast fuji primes and some zooms including the 16-55. i can honestly say the 18/33 1.4 combo is what i have gravitated to as my 2 lens somewhat compact kit. i absolutely love the combo. the lenses are exceptionally fast and sharp and just produce amazing results. i have the 16 2.8 and it is superb, but the 18 1.4 is just better all around.
As an early-adopter of the Fuji X system, I have most of the faster versions of the primes. So the 1.2/1.4 versions. They might not be as small as the f2 primes, but are not so big either. These are insanely good lenses. The best ones in my lineup are the 16/1.4, a truly magnificent lens that goes in the bag as one of the first choices. I love the focal length too, even though it is a bit more challenging than an 18mm would be, I also think it is covering my wideangle desires better.
My other absolute king is the 90/2 which is insanely good. It is fast focussing and using it wide open is never a problem. It is a bit long for your work, but if you want a bit longer lens, this is the one to get. I rediscovered my old 35/1.4 when I bought my 16/1.4 because they compliment eachother so well. It might not be the best lens on paper, it surely is giving special results. And it is compact too. The 16-35-90 conbination I have often with me.
Another set I have used a lot is the 23/1.4 and 56/1.2 combination. Both great lenses too. In general Fujifilm, the primes are for me what makes the system more interesting than other systems. Combined with the Tx series of cameras with the manual dials, for me it remains the system for me.
I have 18mm f1.4 and 33mm f1.4. I am shooting with 33mm 80% of the time. Love both of them ❤
The 33/1.4 is one of my favorite lenses. Definitely a bit bigger, but the image quality is well worth the extra size in my opinion. All three of the newer 1.4 primes are outstanding though.
Agree 100%.
I bought the 16 mm f/2.8 and have absolutely no regrets. I use it on my X-E4 all the time.
This a a great combo for sure. If you are doing photos only and don’t need LM or weather sealing my fave combo is the 18mm f2 and 35mm 1.4, both are small and lightweight and have the same aesthetic with their square hoods.
For sure! photo wise the older f1.4 lenses are such a safe bet too! great combo you have there!
Where did you get the square hoods?
@@sergiocarcamo4094 the 18 and 35mm come with squares by default.
I have that exact duo on my XT5 (18 1.4 and 33 1.4) magic in a two lens setup :D
The 16mm 2.8 is a very underrated lens for wide angle shooters. When I was shooting Fuji I loved it stopped down, as my copy at least, was razor sharp. I wish I had chance to use the 33 as it looks great. Nice video 👍
not sure if youve tried the 16 1.4 but that is a thing odf beauty...that is why i have trouble travelling light
Excellent video, I loved the topic as I too am trying to decide what two prime Fuji lens to invest in. I have the kit 16-80mm zoom for travel initially but want to get a couple smaller prime lens to try using on shorter trips instead. I'm very drawn to the small size of the f2 lenses but the newer LM f1.4 lenses from Fuji are calling due to their sharpness. But size and cost is the draw back of them. Like you I'm thinking 18 f1.4 and 33 f1.4 long term but have picked up the 23 f2 to fill the gap between.
If you haven't shot the 18 f2, I would recommend you give it a shot. It get's a bad rap, and it has it's flaws both mechanically and optically, but the compactness of it really cannot be beat. Can't wait for Fuji to apply the WR treatment to this one.
For photography it might be passable! But the lack of LM rules it out for video annoyingly! Fingers crossed they update it!
I definitely agree, and to be honest, I actually really love the look out of the lens. I've had a lot of Fuji lenses, but it's quite literally my only fuji lens now.
For most of my press work, I use X-H2s with 33 f/1.4 as well as my X-H2 with 18 F/1.4 or 50 f/1.0. Perfect combination.
Yet to try the 50 f1!
Just got an X-Pro3 and the 23mm F2. Planning on getting the 50 mm F2 to go along with it. So far I'm quite pleased with the 23mm.
I’ve still got the 23mm f2! It’s the only Fuji f2 I still have! I regret selling the others!
I think you’ll be happy and cover all your needs if you add an 18 f2!
I have the 18 f2, 23f2 and the 56 1.2
The original Fuji 23mm 1.4 and 35mm 1.4 are my absolute favorites. They have a special look and „3D pop“.
My combo is going to be the 35 1.4 and the 18 1.4. The 18 will probably be my EDC general shooting lens that has WR. And the 35 1.4 always gives me a look I love. I got into the Fuji system just for the 35 1.4 honestly and film sims.
I know it would technically just be cropping... but by activating Fuji's sportsfinder mode (1.25x crop) via one click you could turn this 24mm equivalent into a 30mm. In fact that is what I am about to do. Getting this 16mm F2.8 lens rather than my otherwise preferred 18mm focal length. It's fast focusing, tiny and WR. I am hoping that the 30mm will do the trick. Also as a bonus...the somewhat soft corners on this lens would be cropped out in sportsfinder mode. Note: That mode only works when using mechanical shutter only. Anyways, thanks for sharing Goughie
Interesting idea! Personally I think I’d rather have the full read out and then crop later in post if I feel I want it, rather than lose that wider part of the image
I picked up the 18mm f/1.4 when it first came out because that had been a favorite for about 30 years and my rental of the 18mm f/2 didn't prove satisfactory. For me the 18mm f/1.4 is a keeper, albeit a bit large for my down-size ideal for my fuji kit. It didn't take long for the 18 to become my WA bookend. When the 33mm f/1.4 was released I knew it would recreate the two bookends that were the mainstay of the way I photograph. I was not wrong. The 33mm is my hands-down choice for my family and much of my event photography (it does couples so well) and at f/1.4 it's a great portrait lens.
This is also my travel kit for much of my outings. I still like the 14mm f/2.8/18-55mm kit/23mm f/2 WR for a WR backup on 1-2week tours. Those outings always have companion obligations but for serious photo only trips, the 18/33 f/1.4 combo is truly exemplary.
The 33 1.4 is definitely a bit chunky on the X-Pro 3. I recently picked up the 35 f2 as a daily driver, and save the 1.4 for when I want to squeeze out a bit more image quality
With my two-lens setups, I can capture 70% of the images that I need to capture.
My favorite two-lens setup for Fuji X-Pro digital mirrorless
23mm f/1.4
56mm f/1.2
My favorite two-lens setup for Nikon SLRs:
35mm f/1.4
85mm f/1.4
My favorite two-lens setup for Leica rangefinders:
35mm f/1.4
90mm f/2
My favorite two-lens setup for micro 4/3 mirrorless:
20mm f/1.7
45mm f/1.8
Call me crazy but I own a 35mm f/1.4 and I’m thinking of pairing it with the 23mm f/2. I don’t care what anyone says I see a big difference between these focal lengths and different use cases for each. And I prefer normal fields of view. I did try the 18mm f2 but it was just too soft for my standards. Nice feel to the images though. 16 is too wide for me - converging lines drive me bonkers.
I’m not convinced many people will argue with you! There is a big difference between 23mm and 35mm!
I'm currently using new 23/1.4 as a one lens solution for everyday shooting, documenting my family life, weekend walks, travels etc. Then I also have 33/1.4 which I'm using exclusively for some serious portrait sessions. I'm very happy with this setup, as I do always felt that focal lengths wider than 35mm (@FF), are too much distorted as for my taste, and same goes for focal lengths shorter than 50mm (again, @FF)
I agree with this. I've recently bought the 23/1.4 WR and I find it amazing. If I could only have one prime, it would be the one.
yes using the 16mil. plus side is you have legroom for cropping images to 28mm. the other lens i take is the 50mm. its sharp as a razor. and if you need a little compression.
These are the two primes I own! After trying a dozen others since 2016. The only other prime I recommend is the 27mm.
My go to are 23mm 1.4 LM and 56mm 1.2 (original) + Haida Filter ND/Polarizer for photography only. It's just versatile for indoor, family, landscape and portraits. It all fits in my sling to go hiking or for scenery without being too heavy. The focal length gap is very manageable with your feet and low light capabilities is more than enough for every moment. For niche lens, my ultra-wide and telephoto, I have the Viltrox 13mm 1.4 and XF 70-300mm f4-5.6, for an amateur like myself, this is already too much for what I need, and I'm shooting with XT30ii. I have the 18-55mm as a kit lens but barely use it...
I'm an f2/2.8 Fuji lens user. I prefer the compact size as an enthusiast/semi-pro. I'm sure the 1.4s are excellent too but wouldn't get much use for me.
the fuji f2 primes are awesome!
You honestly can't go wrong with those. If you're happy with them, and aren't trying to do low light stuff of fast subjects, theres seriously no reason to "upgrade" to the fatter lens.
Excellent video as usual.
I can only concur with a number of your respondents that the Fuji X range was (is?) made for small primes.
I'm a stills & not a videographer, but still wanted a quieter/faster AF than that provided my X-Pro2 & XF18/F2R & XF35/F1.4R lenses. I tried the alternative 23mm & 35mm Fujicrons and they just didn't do it for me, although the 16mm F2.8 would have been perfect... if it had been 18mm!
However whilst examining possible alternatives in my local photo store I tried and fell in love with the new XF23/F1.4R/WR. This massive (to me anyway), lens dwarfed the X-Pro2, but sat very comfortably on the X-H2, which was on offer for the same price as the new X-T5. (Why I chose the X-H2 instead, is another story).
Anyway the deed was done, and although my old lenses performed much better with the X-H2 finances dictated their sale along with my faithful X-Pro2.
So far, several 1000's of shots later the X-H2 / XF23/F1.4R/WR has proved an excellent single camera/lens combination. Is it bigger/heavier... Yes. Do I miss the wider 18mm field of view... Maybe. But is the photographic experience enhanced and more enjoyable... Certainly ❤!
[PS. Just purchased on fleabay an old tired XF14/F2.8R - another overlooked classic? - So now back to a 2 lens combination!]
Those two lenses, 18MM f1.4 and 33MM f1.4, are my “go-to” for street photography on my XPRO-3 and they tend to find there way over to my XT-4 whenever I grab that instead. Worth the price. Go for it. 👍
How do the two 1.4's go with the OVF, John? I've just bought an X-pro2 and found the 23/1.4 R blocks a lot of the 23mm frame lines so I'm leaning towards the f/2 series.
My two primes are 23 mm and 50mm. Wanting to add a 70-300 this spring.
I have the 35/f2 (pre 33 mm)& version II of the 23 1.4. WR LM. Rarely use them ,not sure why, but will give it a goi in Europe later in August.I have the the brick, 16-55 & even though I'm a senior , I'll do my best to carry it around. My 18-55 will accompany me on our vacation, my most used lens. Would love to sell the 35 ff2 & 23 1.4 get the 33mm. That way I can get down to a decent level of gear. Looks tons of pics in Prague pre Covid & enjoyed our time there !
Can't agree more, bro! I got 14mm f/2.8R and 35mm f/1.4. Pretty close to the two lens you mentioned and I mount them on X-T2(16) and X-T1(35). 3rd lens is a dirt cheap TTArtisans 25mm f/2. I never own zoom lens(AKA telescopics). Borrowed my friend's XF55-200 and he wanted me to keep it as he didn't use it much. I rejected in a friendly way as I didn't want to feel the way I had to take advantage of him.
2 primes are a great way to shoot. For travel and events I like the wide and normal combo or wide and short telephoto combo.
I kind of like my two lens setup to be the fuji 16-80mm F4 with a vnd and the fuji 33mm f1.4. I do not shoot a lot of professional shots so it is good for me.
I'm using 18f2 and 33f1.4. Just hate the size of 33, so 18 stays on the camera 80% of time. Love the vintage feel of it. Wish fuji updated it with quiet motors, would go and buy it instantly
I am currently using a Voigtlander 40mm f1.4 and the Fujifilm 23mm f2.0. The Voigtlander is a great lens for street photography. It does take some time to move from 35mm to 40mm. I had an opportunity to purchase the lens last year. The color and handling are near perfect for me. The 23mm is my other go to lens. It provides me with more range, and depth for street photography.
I went with your recommendation and got into Fujifilm (downsizing from Canon full frame) with an X-T5 and 18/1.4 and 33/1.4 LM WR lenses in February. The lenses are not small but compared to my full frame gear they are tiny. I am also adding the 23/1.4 LM WR because in many situations, I only take one lens with me and the 23 is the perfect compromise between the two.
28mm & 50mm are all I've ever shot with. So when I got my X-Pro3 last month I picked up the 18/f2.0 and the 35/f2.0. These seemed to be the "proper" FFE lenses. Especially since the my film camera 50mm has a measured focal length of 52.5mm, and the 35mm Fuji lens is 53mm FFE. But then I happened across the 27mm f2.8 pancake (41mm FFE)...and oh wow what tiny lens and it's weather sealed. It only took a day of shooting to realize how great focal length 40mm (FFE) is! So maybe I can actually be a 1-lens-kind-of-shooter?
The 35mm f2 is a gem! I never really go on with the 27mm, I found it hard to adjust to 40mm!
I have a Fuji one camera one lens coming very soon!
I love the 27mm pancake on my X-Pro 3, perfect for my walk-about with family photos. Just got the 33 1.4 for my X-T5, and I absolutely love it!
great stuff as always. I would be really curious what your video setup is like, and the lenses you recommend!
If you have an specific questions feel free to reach out on Instagram! The talking head is 16-55mm f2.8, great lens but it is a little heavy!
I’m close.. 33 1.4 (stunning lens) and 14 2.8 .. and the 27 2.8 on a second body for small system grab & go.
I have the X100VI and recently picked up the X-T50 with the 18 and 33 1.4. Absolutely blown away by the photos. Added the small rig L grip to the body for a much better balance.
I think that the 23mm f1.4 wr and 56mm f1.2 wr is the combo for me.
Cooor! I can believe it! I’ve got the 23mm f1.4 coming next week for review! Can’t wait!
@@Goughie How are you finding the 23mm f1.4?
@@steelshaper same as the 18mm and 33mm very good lens, can’t really find a fault with it! I think I’ll likely settle on 18mm and 33mm combo but more to do with focal length preference than the 23mm not being any good
There will be a video coming in the next couple weeks!
@@Goughie That makes a lot of sense. The fov of the 23mm isn't that far from the 18 so it'd be a little redundant to have both!
I’ve hold on to those combo for 6 years, and just now decided to venture to 18 and 33 combo instead..
Nice video. I could not agree with you more. I own both the 18 1.4 and the 33 1.4. Yes they are larger. But they are quiet and take such great quality photos that make you forget their size and weight. I also own the Viltrox 75 1.2. They are the only 3 lens that I own. I love them. No zooms for me.
Great video Goughie!!!! I´m going to Prague this week and don't know what to bring with me, the Fujinon 16 mm f2, the Viltrox 13mm f1.4, the Fujinon 35mm f2 or the Fujinon 90mm f2.I´m also considering bringing with me a manual lens, the Miinolta 50 mm f1.7... My camera is the Fujifim XT3. Which combo do you think works best in Prague?
All the best !!
18 f2 + 35 f1.4. Don't care/don't trust on WR, autofocus on XT5 are simply great for stills on XT5. Ultimate light travel kit: 18 f2 + 27 f2.8. Love the autofocus noise!
I also like the 18/35 combo (with a 50f2 for emergencies).
I recently bought the 16f2.8, but think I still prefer my 18f2. I'm not sure if I just got a good copy of the 18 but I have no complaints with it really - caveat, I only use the Fujis for stills.
On the 35 front, I've tried the f1.4, the f2 and a 7Artisans 0.95. I love the rendering of the 1.4 but I've had a lot of focus hunting and misses, especially in poor light, so am intrigued by the 33.
I'm sure the 18/33 f1.4 pair is the way to go and I'll probably try them but they are such big lumps compared to the alternatives.
Really nice image at 5:56. Good composition and framing. The lens shows great micro contrast and color.
So happy to hear as I’ve just bought the 33!! Thanks for the video ❤
16f2.8 & 23f2 are my favourites. I got the 16 for the same reason: Fujifilm not updating the 18f2 in over a decade.
I actually brought my old 18f2 to Cambodia. First day in Ankor Wat and it didn't want to focus at all. It was about 3 months before I got AF function back.
I decided to forget it and go for the 16. For a jpeg shooter it's excellent with in-camera corrections.
I've still got the GRIII if I desperately want 28 though.
I still have my 23mm f2, I can’t seem to bring myself to sell it!
@@Goughie I have the original 35f1.4 that has stayed in its box for about 3 years now. I don't want it, but I also don't want to not have it if that resonates at all. 😂
I myself can't decide between 23mm1.4 and 56mm1.2 or 16mm1.4 and 35mm2. Sometimes there are situations, when room is too small, and I need 16mm for group photos, but also need to be discreet and use 56, so then the setup is 16mm and 56mm. I think I will never upgrade to new 1.4, as those are too bulky. My 16mm1.4 and 56mm1.2 are bulky, and I often leave them at home when traveling. But then again, often my environments are dark, that 2.0 lenses are a struggle.
Same as other people have commented - waiting when 18mm2.0 will be refreshed. Then 18mm2.0 and 35mm2.0 would be great!
But for now, sticking with what we have and experimenting with small manual lenses due to size and speed.
I've been using the Fujifilm 15-45mm zoom and Zeiss Touit 32mm f1.8 for my street /travel photography lens combo with my X-PRO1.
I have the 12mm, 23mm, 50mm. Happier than ever
I like the older 1.4’s on my X-T1, especially the 16 and 35. But my go-to combo remains 16 2.8 and 50 2.0.
correction, the 16 2.8 does not have Linear Motors, its a stepping motor but very quick and you dont notice the speed difference, however you will see the very focus acquisition when in video mode.
Thanks very much for an interesting and very useful video. With some big international travel coming up, I've really been debating about whether to bring one, large zoom lens (the 16-80mm f4 that I already own) or perhaps two primes along with me. One question I have is why you picked the 16mm f2.8 rather than the 16mm f1.4? Was it purely a matter of size and weight? I have the 16mm f1.4 and it has been a workhorse for me. I am borrowing a 33mm f1.4 for a shorter trip, and all of the reviews make me feel that I am going to love it. I hadn't thought about the 18mm f1.4 since I already have the 16mm - and it looks like the 18mm is roughly the same size, weight, and cost. Finally - am I crazy to consider a single zoom lens and will I regret that decision? (NOTE: I have an X-T5 with the 40MP sensor, so I have plenty of "real estate" available for cropping, which is why the "two primes" idea is giving me pause.) Thanks for any suggestions from you or the community!
The 16mm f1.4 autofocus makes an audible noise! And I use a hotshoe mic! So you can hear the lens focusing! If I was only doing photography I’d have the 16mm f1.4
The 18mm f1.4 is an awesome lens that fixes the above issue so would be a contender for me, but it’s pretty expensive!
Primes vs zoom, the never ending debate! It essentially comes down to preference I think, and how often you think you might find yourself changing lens. I typically use two primes, but a recent trip to Venice I was super glad I had just the 16-55mm
a long long time ago, I can still remember... I went to New York in March 2016 for a 3 day photo break. I only used the 18mm F/2.0 and the 35mm F/1.4 on an X-T10, the 18mm was used during the day, the 35mm on an evening (I also took the 60mm F/2.4, but that stayed in the hotel safe).
I'm not really a city/street photographer and spend most of my time doing portraiture and other studio based work.
Honestly now, I don't think I'd do a city break with 2 primes (although if I did would be an 18mm and 35mm, or similar lenses).
I'd take the 35mm F/1.4 or the Sigma 56mm F/1.4 (don't own the fuji 56mm) so I had a nice low light/shallow DOF lens along with either the 10-24mm F/4 or 16-80mm F/4 for walking around.
If it was a 1 prime lens setup I'd take the 35mm (or 33mm if i was buying now), would probably manage with a 23mm F1/4 or F/2 too
I use 33mm F1.4 and 16mm F2.8 (and also have 90mm F2 for special occasions). The 16mm will be replaced once we get a new small 18mm available. Nice video mate!
The 33 1.4 is an amazing lens. But i would only use it for professional work, like portraits for example. It's kinda big and expensive to be carrying it around. The 35 f.2 is a much better option for street and travel Photography. Since it's compact, light, cheaper, weather sealed and provides 85% of the quality of the 33mm
I do love the f2 Fujis! Just sold a couple of them!! For the money they are so hard to beat!
Nice video and I’ve always loved the idea of primes but at 69 the idea of zooming with my feet doesn’t appeal I’ve got one the 60mm macro for product stock stuff and the rest is done with 16-55 2.8 and the 50-140 2.8 but maybe I’ll give the others a try again nice work👍
I love the classic 16mm 1.4 on the fuji is one of those lenses that produced quality. Now that I shoot leica I definitely enjoy shooting 28/50/90 all together great video. The new 16mm is very small and compact.
xf33 1.4 & 23 1.4 are great lenses but just too bulky, just sold my 33 1.4 as it sat on the shelf due to it's size. Will stick with the 35 & 23 f2's, embrace the compactness of Fuji.
Still have my 23mm f2 for when I’m wanting to go smaller!!
I agree 100% with your final conclusion of the new 18 & 33 as being great choices. Since I also shoot some indoor sports I’m also interested in the 90 f2 as well.
I see a lot of love for the 90mm f2 on forums!
I use both the 18 1.4 and 33 1.4 and the 90 F2. The perfect Street photographers trio!
If you are lucky enough to have an x100v, get the WCL adapter which gives you that 18mm/28mm FF fov. Then I have my XT5 with the 33 1.4. That's a great kit as they both fit in my peak design sling and I don't have to change lenses. If I want 23mm/35 FF I just unscrew the WCL adapter from the x100, take a picture and screw it back on.
I have the X100V and the adapter! Great combo!
I am thinking of using my iPhone in ProRaw with the main lens for all the subjects for which I don’t need subject separation, and I will work on a workflow to massage the colours to match my preferred receipes on Fuji. And I will keep shooting on Fuji but either with the 70-300 or the 75 from Viltrox. If the iPhone route fails, I’ll get the Viltrox 27
Nice video. Everyone has their own two lens formula. I do a lot of urban photography and my two are the 18/1.4 and the 56/1.2. Weird, I know but mostly I only use the 18mm but every now and then I see something I want to be creative about and I use the 56mm for something more unique.
I bought the 16 2.8 on a impulse because it was cheap with a xh2s. its really fine for the price & size, but not always wide enough. I have a samyang 12mm T2 I love, 14mm is more interesting but the sigma1.8 is really big and heavy for travel. what this did get me to take more serisouly is the sigma 33 1.4 + OM 50 1.4 for long lens. I don't use lens correction, instead you should fine lenses that render the way you like.
I use a Samyang 12mm f2 and the kit lens XC 16-50 , for travel and everyday use, this 2 lens kit is very light weight, versatile enough with the zoom and great for architecture, landscape photography. I own a XF 18-135 and XF 10-24 but for travel , they are just too heavy and big , such a pity as they would be my pick if weight,size wasnt an issue....
I would take my 33mm f1.4 and 16mm f1.4. I would love to have a 14mm f1.4 instead of the 16 if Fuji ever updated their old 14mm lens as I love the 21mm ff equivalent, but they haven't. Also, I find 16mm is easier to avoid distortion if you have people in your frame near the edges.
The Viltrox 13 f/1.4 is excellent. For me it's not a great focal length, it distorts people on the edges too much for my band video work, and it's not wide *enough* to me for "wide angle architecture drama". So I'll probably sell mine. But I'm not that versatile or artistic. If what you want is a 14mm f/1.4, it's probably right up your alley. It's big, but not much bigger than the 16mm f/1.4.
I would pick my 23mm f/1.4 R and either the 35mm f/1.4 or 50mm f/2. As much as I like my Sigma 16mm, it is too large. Maybe the 18-55 and 35mm f/1.4 would be nice, too. One zoom to cover my most used focal ranges and the 35 for bad light, better portraits and more creative pictures. I love the 50mm f/2 and I recently bought it again after I swapped my copy for the Sigma 56mm. Also a nice lens, but I missed the Fuji so much.
I have the 16mm f1,4 for years and wouldn't change it for anything, especially not for the 18mm, course I've never been 28mm guy (in FF terms), course 16mm is smaller, sharp as hell, has a clutch system, and no distortion whatsoever...
I’ve thought for ages now that Fujifilm really need to update the 18mm f2 (optically and the body) to bring it up to modern standards - I actually had the lens for a few years on my XPRO1 and definitely enjoyed the results but it’s shortcomings are absolutely a turn off for anyone looking at the lens now (especially at its new price).
If Fujifilm did update the 18mm f2 this year (🤞) it’s a lens I would absolutely buy!
Im using the xf 16/2 + xc 30/2 + sigma 56 1.4. Sold my 16-55 2.8 for those 3. The zoom was just to heavy for my needs
My go to combo was the 16mm 1.4 / 33 1.4 as I shoot urban architecture so I prefer the width of the 16. But alas with the new X-T5 moved to the 18 1.4…also for an upcoming trip to the UK 🇬🇧 with a children’s choir - so agree that the 18 is more suited for portraits. So we got to the same place. Cheers,
Hope you enjoy the U.K.!
33mm f/1.4, 56mm f/1.2 mk2, 90mm f/2 3 to rule them all.
Great video the 16 f2.8 is great lens haven't tried the 33 mm have the 35 f2 which is amazing also The 27mm f2.8 wr I feel is a great lens and doesn't get the credit in my opinion give you a natural view of what our eyes see
In older days, 28 and 50 was a commonly used pair of primes by SLR and rangefinder users alike. 24 and 50 is a good modern pairing.
Wish I’d where my love of these focal lengths has come from! Using rangefinders over the last few years!
I switched from the X100V back to the X-Pro3 with the old 18/2.0 which is my preferred focal length. I paired my go-to lens with the XF 30 mm 2.8 Macro, which is also not too bulky, WR ultra fast AF and enables 1:1 images. A highly versatile lens enabling also digital scans from analog 35 mm Images/slides.
I’m currently using the Voigtlander 35mm, and Fuji 14mm. I like the size and feel of these two lenses, but there are times when I miss having autofocus and weather resistance. These two lenses, and the XC 50-230mm would probably be my travel kit. I hope Voigtlander makes an 18mm for the x-mount soon.
My personal favorite combo is fuji 23mm f2 and 50mm f2 (35mm & 76mm equivalent) for street photography. The 76mm focal length has a better reach when I can't get close enough to a specific person on the street. I choose the f2 lenses because of the snappy focus and compact & lightweight form factor. Your combo makes sense for travel and landscape though. It's not too different from mine.
The “fujicrons” are awesome! I recently sold them other than the 23mm f2, and I’m regretting tbh!
I have the 16mm 2.8 and the 23mm 1.4 and I’m very happy with the combo. I‘m thinking of maybe picking up a 35mm in the future but it might be a cheap manual one (like the ttartisan 35mm 1.4) because it’s not a focal length I play on using often.
I had an incredible seven months off from work (redundancy) and have fallen in love with walking around London with my camera in daytime, with my 16-55mm.
But once I'm back at work soon (in Westminster), I need something for the dark evenings. The 33mm f1.4 may be it :)
As I ONLY expect to need it for dark evenings, I am sniffing around for alternatives from Viltrox etc though.
I do have the 56mm f1.2 already ... but I understand that its apodisation filter means it handles low light like an f1.7.
Personally, if I was going for travel, I would go for the 23 mm F2 and then I would go with a 75 1.2. This gets me a bigger gap in between but you can use your feet and crop. And with the XT5 you can certainly crop in so much anyway, so I would be going with the 23 because die can crop into probably 40 mm anyway. And 75 just gives you reach to get some different shots. That's if I was only taking two lenses I would go to 23 and 75 for that reason.
Can appreciate that! I must say I do find 105mm full frame a little too long for most of what I do!
Wow, never heard of anyone using their feet to “crop?” How is that possible? 🤔😯🙄🤣
16mm 1.4 would be my choice. That lens has magic
If my requirement was just photography then that would definitely be one up for contention for me!
Thanks for the video - appreciated your set up and overall review. I was happy to see the 16mm f2.8 as I JUST got one last week! I haven't pulled it off my camera since I got it. Interesting thoughts about the 33mm f1.4! I've never considered it (I have and love the Fujicrons) but I think I'll have to rent one and give it a go!
Worth renting for sure! A lot of people rule it out because of the size! Depends what cameras you’re using it with I think!
The 33 is fantastic, but I still grab the 35mmf2 most of the time when I go out for street photography.
Nice review 👍🏻
I like watching and listening to videos about the cheaper lenses for Fujifilm.
They may not be perfect but most I think at least have character.
However, I have the 18mm f1.4 and it is indeed expensive but it's a lovely lens that I have a lot of fun with.
Coming from Canon and watching videos to see what lenses I would get, everyone saying the new line is too big, baffles me actually because I have the 33 1.4 and it is absolutely small. Especially after using the 50 and 85 from canons RF line. The 33 1.4 is fan-freaking-tastic.
It’s all a matter of perspective I guess! Coming from a larger camera they all feel tiny! From an current Fuji perspective the new line grew in size! But ultimately has bought the high performances a lot of people wanted!
16mm F2.8 and 35mm F2, both are tiny lenses and compatible with the 40mp sensor (list of 20 lenses), with plenty of latitude for cropping to fill the gap between 16mm and 35mm.
16mm with a bit of cropping gives an 18mm angle of view and still gives a 32mp image on an X-T5.
So what's the problem in substituting an 18mm lens with a 16mm lens?
Beautiful shots from Prague 👍🏻👍🏻
Tnx.
I always learn alot from your videos👋🏻
18/2 and 35/1.4 - best fuji lenses ever!
The two as a combo is really good. The reason why I never use smartphone cameras is the 24-26mm focal length which I absolutely can't stand. :D But I think the 24mm is perfect for this target group.
That the 2x over fps rule is good but also no leg break if it times can not keep. sometimes you also have no mood to film with the camera and just takes the smartphone. :D Even great youtuber do that and no one complains. The shot at 8:55 is really nice. 👌
Yeah! I’m going to stop worrying about it when I’m out and about now! That’s also my favourite image from the trip! The lighting was so good whilst we were up there!
The original iPhone SE had a more moderate focal length of 29mm, similar to the 30mm of a typical disposable camera. I swear I got my best phone camera pics from that little thing.
16mm f1.4, 33mm f1.4, XS20. Dream team for street and travel
Lovely combo!
trade up to the 18f1.4 my favorite lens now... superb.
Yes… unfortunately the 16/2.8 is quite underrated. But is a nice lens on the XPro3. BTW: I add the 50/2 in my to-go bag. ;-)