Curious any of you Fujifilm wedding photographers out there use this lens for weddings? Admittedly, I purchased this lens purely for travel and documenting my family. While my favorite wedding lens of all time was the 28mm 1.8G on Nikon, I’ve reserve the 16mm 1.4 and 23mm 1.4 for wedding days. I personally haven’t used f2 lenses for weddings on Fuji due to keeping the ISOs down. Now I'm thinking I should give this a go for wedding? Hmm ...
Do it. The 18 (28mm) is a classic documentary length. When you're wanting to get context and story telling and not blowing out the background, it's sooo so good.
stephen heraldo i used the 28mm heavily on Nikon. The 28mm 1.8 was my favorite lens on Nikon. I was asking more about Fuji shooters using it in weddings. I stay away from f2 and f2.8 since shooting Fuji in wedding days as I want to keep ISO’s low to counteract the inherent image quality difference of not being on Nikon full frame anymore
Yep I started to use it this year for weddings and now me and my wife (who shoots with me) fight over it. Obviously you can get this focal length on the kit zoom 18-55 (also underated by many). I also know Kevin Mullins (great interview on fujicast by the way :-) uses it a lot at weddings and rates it highly. Great video Reggie and some lovely example images. What you said at the end well Amen! so many pixel peepers out there let’s remember it light, composition and moment not a great lens that makes an image
I own almost all fixed Fuji Film lenses and this one is of my favorite. It's so small and versatile when traveling. Combine it with 35 1.4 and you have ultimate light travel kit.
My Tri-X at 800ASA was never sharp but hey ..... we had grain and texture not "bokeh" and anyway, the bigger the print the further away you stand, unless you're one of the sad types that leaves noseprints on the picture-glass.
Great video. Totally agree. It's such a versatile focal length, and I love how compact it is. (And I love that black and white family selfie. Such a happy mood.)
The fact is, sharpness in the center is more than enough for me. This lens has been my go-to when going out to dinner with my family as it's so small and discreet. It's also wide enough that it gets everyone across the dinner table, so it's a fantastic lens for that.
Abdon Phir'athon totally agree! Glad I’m not the only one who uses it as a go to for going out. I owned the 23mm f2 at one point but much prefer the 18mm
Great argument, looking into buying my third fuji lens sometime soon. Debating between this and the 27mm pancake lens to go with my X-T2. Also thanks for splicing in photos as you talk, it's incredible how many youtube channels fail to do this simple technique.
Dr3up you know why they fail to do it? Cause they probsbly don’t really take photos 😂. I’m a photographer first before youtube, so I lean into that. I had the 27 and didn’t like it because of the 2.8 (wanted better low light) and that it lacked the aperture ring (my workflow really relies on the aperture ring). What exactly are your goals/wants for this lens?
The most underated lens by Fuji, but you have shown that the most important is the photographer. Congratulations, very nice photos! Keep on good stuff!
Great review! I own the 16mm f2.8 and think about getting the 18mm f2 instead. I had it for a few weeks as a loner and hoped that the 16mm will give me the same feeling, but I feel that I can work better with the 18mm focal length. Thanks for your review!
I totally liked this video and ultimately agreed on every points. That's a very good analysis of the situation for that lens. In order to tackle it, you needed to go into the consumerism psychology and photography skills and identify responsibilities into this rabbit hole. I learned a lot about myself too. I shoot a lot with 28mm and never realised I was using the least forgiving lens which make totally sens. Also I respect a lot the risk you took to put out this option that goes against the stream.
I use the 23 f2 quite a bit, but often find myself wishing it was a bit wider, yet when I use the 16 f2.8 I find that to be far too wide. I wonder if this maybe would be a good balance. The whole autofocus speed and noise gives me pause though. I use a composition technique that’s kinda dependent on very fast AF, as I essentially refocus for every shot. I also don’t want my lenses to make too much noise. Anyhoo, seems like an interesting option. Thanks for the video! Wonderful photos in it too!
Damian Brown uses the 18mm f2 for pro jobs. He has posted several videos regarding this lens. Check out the associated comments as well: 18mm f2 review ruclips.net/video/aNPmt91744Q/видео.html 18mm f2, 35mm f1.4, 60mm f2.4 original trio ruclips.net/video/8DF5e1ICtHc/видео.html The 18mm f2 gets some love at 7:19 in this video about his event kit ruclips.net/video/R3eTHMY2DR0/видео.html
The 35f2 is my all around lens, I'm satisfied with the output, I used it on weddings, birthdays and personal shoots, owning one lens is a bit challenging but I always find a way to make it work. I feel dreadful for not shooting for 2weeks now. I got a message from the camera shop that my lens is unfixable 😭
I love your video. I replaced my X100F by a combo XE3 18mmF2 because I have a preference for the 28mm focal length. If people have problems with focus noise, they can just use the focusing area. I do the focus once at 4m at f5 and I'm quiet for the day and if I set it to f8 then I don't have to worry about anything anymore.
Great point great video. 6 months ago I purchased a used Xt1 because the style and reviews intrigued me. I had been using affordable, legacy lenses due to budget and enjoying total manua controll. This week I received a used xc 15-45 and I love it. Coming from an analog film background, I can so appreciate the potential of this awesome little "kit lens". Anyway I think you're absolutely correct about the 18mm and the first chance I get, I hope to get one.
I really like your reviews. They’re always on point and that’s really good. I like the way you talk and show pictures in the same time, it’s like a compelling story. Thank you for the info.
thanks so much for the great feedback. yes when reviewiing photo gear, i think it's super important to show photos, haha. any special requests for any future reviews?
excellent statement Reggie! (best camera is the one with you) - xf27 is also a fun prime and in my opinion totaly underrated - small, light and super sharp center-corner-to-corner@fully-open - will look at the xf18f2 for my backbacking trips! greets from Germany
About to buy a xt30 and was tossing up between a 23mm f2 and this - was leaning this way as I love street / landscape photography and felt the 23 might not be quite wide enough. Now I’m certain this is the one. Thanks for the great video.
Hi Reggie, this video made my finally pull the trigger and get this lens and I’m really enjoying the versatility and focus on composition/framing, even though the 28mm focal is considered to be bleh! I got lovely street pics in Seattle!
I use Fujifilm cameras exclusively for my wedding photography and I use the 18mm at every wedding. If you’re shooting in a documentary style it’s generally at a higher aperture to get more in focus on each frame so the f2 isn’t so much of an issue. It’s also a dirt cheap lens to pick up, especially second hand (maybe because of all the dislike of it online). I particularly like it for dance floor shots because it’s small and I don’t mind if it gets bashed by a drunk father of the bride!
I absolutely loved this video! Not just because I’ve been lusting over this lens for a while but also because I agree one hundred percent with what you talked about in regards to the focal length, the sharpness of the lens being good enough, the size and the concept of using what you have and making it work for you rather than hiding behind the “magic of the lens”. Great video. I had to make a choice recently as to wether I would get this lens or an x70 or an xf10. Long story short, without intending to I ended up with the xf10 and the x70 which I absolutely love. I wasn’t used to the focal length but now I’m in love with it. Anyways, thanks for sharing and I look forward to more of your videos.
I agree, the 28mm focal length is only uninspiring if you don't know how to use it. The trick is to bring it close enough to your subject. It's great for street portraits. But, get close for it to show its character. Thanks for the review. I'm new to Fuji and didn't know this lens exists. Cheers!
Straight to the point. Backed up with good example photos. Yes, man! I want such video about every fuji compatible lens out there )) And thanks for this one. It's great.
Great video Reggie! I put off getting this lens, as I had 3 Fuji Zooms that did 18mm, including the 16-55mm f2.8, and because of the "bad" reviews. I've had for years the 27mm f2.8 which on my Pro2 was a great walk around lens, but I just wanted something wider, faster, and the 18mm f2 is Fuji's most compact XF lens that has an aperture ring (wasn't a big deal as my front command dial changes aperture just like my Nikons used to do). I also used to love my Nikon 28mm f2.8 Ai-S lens on my full frame Nikons before I switched to Fuji. But I found a used perfect condition copy for €250 (about $280) so I bought it. I wish I had bought this years earlier. I shoot weddings with 2 X-T2s, and I haven't taken the 18mm to a wedding, but on my Pro2 for personal work I love it, and it fits the style of that camera. But as others have mentioned, Kevin Mullins, who honestly was the Fuji photographer whose work inspired me to switch to Fuji (didn't know you yet Reggie :-) ), uses it, and shared in a video how he got a great shot of a child at a wedding where any of the larger Fuji lenses would have scared the child off. For some candids it can be great.
Eros Lomboy I haven’t yet. Typically I use the 16mm 1.4 or the 18-55. Either way I do use a shotgun mic. But possibly you can try using a lav mic or rode wireless go
Well said - you comments about seeing and creating and gear are spot on! And I happened to just pick up one of these on Fleabay. Looking forward to the lens. That old 28mm ff focal length is the classic wide for sure. Not too wide to distort but wide enough. After starting out with a 50mm back in the film days, 28mm was my next lens.
Would this be suitable to take images of stationary cars within a small garage? I currently use the 35mm lens which is great however this is mainly used when the car is outdoors and space is available.
Great video. I just bought an X-T30 and I'm looking for a great street lens that is small and around the 35mm full frame length. I was trying to decide between the 18 and the 27 pancakes...I love how small they are. But yes the reviews are bad. So started looking at the 23mm f2 or go bigger with the 23mm f1.4
@@Reggiebphoto Thanks for the reply. My XT30 comes tomorrow (its my walk around fun camera...shoot with a D850). Think I'll play with it for a few weeks before getting any other lenses but still eyeing the 1.4 (but its so much bigger!)
Reggie, fantastic photos. You covered many doubts I had with this lens. The selfie tip is great! I think you can do anything with this lens and the 35mm f1.4. Though I still wish Fuji remade both lenses to add WR. Still, might look for one used. Well done.
Not shooting Fuji just yet but I was thinking of getting this lens for the low profile once I do switch but I keep seeing that it’s not a good lens. I wonder if the 27mm is better.
Falando Jones Photography I owned the 27 and didn’t like it for two reasons: 2.8 aperture and no aperture ring. Just didn’t cut it for my style of shooting.
Reggie Ballesteros. Ah gotcha. You made some convincing points about using the 18mm. It’s easy to hide behind the lens and not use your brain. Thanks for the video and yes more casual content would be great!
Reggie, amazing edits my man! I love your style and wish I could replicate it haha! I have been shooting weddings for years on Sony (I do lots of video too), but am swapping to Fuji for photography because I can't get the skin tones to work for Sony RAW files. I'd rather the tones be closer out of camera. I just picked up a 56mm 1.2 and 18mm F2. Shooting a wedding in a few weeks, so will see how the 18mm does! Great review, and great points! I subscribed!
3:26 Well said Reggie, it is people that take photos not lenses of cameras. I'm looking for a compact lens like the 18 or 27mm, good and useful video. Thanks Raggie.
I have been using this little lens from day one when I used it on my X Pro1. Its a great little all rounder that makes you think, and you need to think to get the best from it. Strong review, well done.
@@Reggiebphoto www.flickr.com/photos/139694630@N08/albums/72157712113803083 Went out and shot these today XT2 &18mmf2, a great little lens that get badmouthed to much.
My favorite lens, size, color rendition, contrast, it’s glued on to my xe3, perfect for every day use, and street photography using zone focusing. I would like to hear your opinion on Fuji’s 60mm lens, according to the images on Flickr, it haves the same punch
My xe3 has the 27, 35f2, and the 18mm on 95% of the time; in that order. Wide is always a challenge for me, but I enjoy the change up from time to time.
I got mine as part of a package at the end of the X-Pro1 era. I love this little lens for Macro, it's wonderful with a Macro extension tube. Great in Museums for it's close focus, and perfectly adequate IQ for landscape. The comments you make about lighting and composition are absolutely spot on. I have the 35mm F1:1.4 and the 55-200 Zoom. The 18mm lives on my X-M1 body, the X-Pro1, I use almost exclusively with a PK-FX adaptor and my vintage PK mount lenses. Loved the video, Liked and Subbed!
I got one of these after I picked up a very clean X-E4 at a local camera store. For some reason🤔, the 18mm f/2 is almost always on that camera. It's a great walk-around lens. An X-E3/X-E4 with it is a nice alternative to the seemingly hard to find X100V or decently-priced used X100F (which I also have).
Really nice photos Reggie. I was wondering if it is much better than just using the 18-55 mm kit lens at 18 mm though. The kit lens is stabilised too. I like that the 18 mm prime is so small and F2 though, would be good on my XT30 I imagine.
I have heard the same criticism about the focal length not being “inspiring” or “interesting”, which is really perplexing. People find focal lengths inspiring/interesting? I’ve always made lens decisions based on need. That is, can I capture what I am visualizing with this lens?
It's funny you mention the 35mm F1.4 That particular lens has a molded fifth element to it and 9 elements. The 18 f2 has has a lower element count like the 35 with a molded 5th and 7th element. If you crop the 18 down to the same viewing area as the 35mm,..it produces similar images. It seems kinda weird the 35 1.4 is loved...yet the 18 F2 not so much..they are both character lens.
@@Reggiebphoto Keep it on the low down. People who pixel peep and stress about edge to edge sharpness wont notice this lens has a character to it. I suspect because of the 18mm that people assume it will be good for golden hour/landscape style work. When you look at the element grouping, and that this lens was released first of all for the x-pro 1, it all makes a lot more sense. The x-pro has always been fuji's flagship camera for people who prefer street/candid style photography. I suspect this intention for this lens was for more documentary-esque styled images. Great for about towns and cities. Great for indoor, mid low light. Great for contrast and colour saturation. Great for people who like to be anywhere from 1-4 meters from their subject and to capture it in a more environmental way. A great focal length for all of the above. I personally don't feel this lens was designed for the great outdoors, but it was highly designed street/indoor/closer proximity/parallax use and to give character over sharpness.
Thank you for such a great video! I have a X-T20 with a 35mm f1.7 and will get a 58mm f2. Both are manual lenses, so I want to get a fuji lens that can autofocus when the need is there. It’s honestly down to this, the 18mm f2 or the 27mm f2.8.. I mostly shoot black and white street (with some street portraits) and documentary style. Would love to hear your opinion on which one you would choose!
@@Reggiebphoto Thank you for replying! I've just gotten used to the aperture ring since I recently made the switch to fuji, so going back on one lens wouldn't really be a problem I think. The low light is definetly something I will think about! If you were to just compare focal lengths for street and your preferences, would you still pick the 18mm?
I agree on all these great points you make. I’m coming from the film side of photography and its been a while since I’ve shot digital, However my main shooter was an olympus om-1n with the 28mm lens, its great for everyday. Soon I’ll be picking up this lens and the xpro3 for my everyday and see how it compares, I definitely wanted a physical aperture ring so thats why I went with this over the 27mm.
Hello Reggie. I am very curious about the video performance of this lens after new software. Video is important to me. I will or will not buy this lens. I don't know if there is a video focus problem. Do you have an opinion on this matter? Thank you.
Hey Reggie Do you prefer this lens or the 27mm pancake for a compact street photography kit? Personally, I own a 27mm that always sits on my X-T20 but I wanted to get your opinion on the comparison between that lens and the 18mm F2. Thanks!
Thank you for the POSTIVE review on this lens. I agree that a lot of others tend to pixel peep and complain about the lens that I was afraid to purchase it. But with it's quality image, it is still superb!
Hi Reggie, i’m on the fence whether to get the 18f2 and the 18f1.4, justifying the $650 price difference (f2 used vs f1.4 new). Any comparison soon between the two?
Love ur color science , really nice work your photos are high level. Can i ask When you go out with family and friends which lens do u use most? The more versatile for you i mean
Excellent video, I have 5 Fuji primes and the 28mm f2 is maybe my favorite. With the X-T3 focus pretty fast and the IQ is great, so I don't get why people consider it Fuji’s worst.
You just talked me out of selling my copy of this lens. I already had it up for sale. I just felt like the Samyang 12mm had replaced it for me, but I realize now that I don’t wanna be without this lens. So thanks for that! :D
I will be buying this lens, Reggie is a legend ! I sold my samyang 12mm and replaced it with the xf14mm 2.8 omg so in love with that lens and this 18mm and my 23 1.4 will complete my wide kit !
should i save more and get the 16mm 1.4? is the different that much with 18mm f2? can i get same quality like 16mm 1.4 using this 18mm f2? which one u choose if u can only pick one
You are spot on on this. I love the 28mm point of view. Leica uses it for its Leica Q, Ricoh for its GR series en Fuji for its X100. I am a bit worried about the focus noise. Is it that bad?
Makes just as much noise at the 35mm 1.4. My take is if you are caring about noise when taking photos, one isn’t focused on taking photos but how they look/sound taking photos
I apologize for my comment. It was insensitive and ignorant. If you are distracted by af noise, unfortunately I wouldn’t be a good gauge as I’m not familiar with what types of sounds, volumes, or frequencies you can tolerate or not.
Its funny that some people complain about the fuji 18mm focal length, yet everyone is are all over the leica q/q2 with a 28mm lens saying how amazing it is!!!
28mm equ fov is super versatile, I got the xf10 which now can be had for not much more than just this lens. Now that’s portable and does great street, architecture and people photography. I’d like to pair it with a bigger Fuji body and the 18-55mm for when i want to shoot with the flexibility of the zoom
Thank You Reggie!!!!! I love how you compose your images and made me think about this lens. I was planing to get a Fuji camera together with the 35 F2 but I was not sure of which other lens could I get. With one do you think should I get ? I use my camera on hollidays most of the time and I like to do street photography and sometimes landscape .... Gracias
andres blanco I personally would consider the xt30 or the xt3, and choose based on the form factor you want. The xt30 with the 18 would be a tiny yet mighty combo for sure, along eith the 35 f2
It's a great lens for its compactness and image quality vs price. The 18-55 kit lens covers this focal length already so many people who have it may find the 18mm pointless but ithe 18-55 is so big on my xe2 I feel I need to use the additional grip bracket which makes the whole set up much bigger. The 18mm for street and general city photography is perfect, and with the hood on it has the ideal amount of grip to be comfortable.
Well said‼️. The 18 is my fav Fuji lens….I’ve shot decades in other system using the 28. You can be very sloppy with your shooting and not get weird distortions with people on the edges. So it actually saves your bacon this way.
I’m new to photography and I have the 16-55mm lens but I’m looking for a small lens for street photography and travel. Would you recommend 18mm or 35mm f2?
Love this lens for its size and image quality. I didn’t watch any reviews before purchasing the lens because it’s the only compact option that was available. Originally, I wanted the 27mm but it’s out of stock due to the popularity so I got the 18mm instead. I never noticed anything bad and was quite happy with the results. Perhaps because I don’t photograph charts and I don’t pixel peep. So I was quite surprised to see so much bad feedback about this lens. Yeah wider lenses are more demanding and require better composition skills so there is no hiding behind 50/85mm bokeh 😄
The only dilemma with this lens is which one to use when you own both 16 and 18. Ended up selling mine 18 just because I bought it new same price as I sold it later used. And I’m regretting it since, maybe sometime I will buy it again 250-300$ is pretty cheap for this great lens
Leed yes i totally agree. I own both and use them for different things. The 18 is a day to day lens, and the 16 is for my pro shoots. But I’m really wondering if I should try shooting some pro work with the 18.
"the best camera is the one you have with you" I currently only use my phone as my Nikon D3300 and 18-200 Lens is far too big. I was now going to buy the X-T3 and thought of this lens. Thanks for this great review!
I've been wavering between this one and the 27mm. The only real reason for me to get the 27 over this would be it's even smaller size, but it's not that big of a difference. IQ seems to be better with the 18mm and I think it's more versatile overall. Think I'll get the 18. This video was helpful, thank you. :)
I have an X-E3 and am rlly looking forward to getting this one, been talking with people and they say it’s one of their favorite combos. Thank u for making this video! I appreciated the comments saying the same ^ :)
Thanks for the video! Size, aperture, and price makes the 18mm a capable and compact street photography tool for me. It doesnt have OIS and it isnt weather sealed, but I take it as challange to learn more on how to adjust my camera settings in order to get the most of it. And lastly, it looks great on my Fuji 😁
@@Reggiebphoto Depending on the light I put it on, and it looks nice, although it makes the process of putting the cap on and off a little bit difficult 😂. Still, if I just want to go out shooting I usually leave it at home in order to keep the system pocketable. Cheers and thanx again for the great content!
I used Nikon 28mm shift lenses as my standard glass for almost a quarter-century, one for monochrome the other for colour and I put well over three hundred thousand frames through the F3's .... the pictures were for editorial mostly and nobody .... absolutely nobody ever complained that the images were "Meh". The focal length gives great depth of field, good perspective but doesn't make distant object disappear as can happen with a 24mm or 20mm lens .... couple that to it being the standard focal length for 'phones and the image you produce is what everyone ..... except for the pixel-counters and lens sniffers, expects to see.
I shoot film and the Leica Q2. There is no deal breaking faults with this lens for me. Owned it 5 times. And just bought another to put on a Graphite X-Pro 2 I bought for the summer. Even used this lens in dark concert venues and bars.
Curious any of you Fujifilm wedding photographers out there use this lens for weddings? Admittedly, I purchased this lens purely for travel and documenting my family. While my favorite wedding lens of all time was the 28mm 1.8G on Nikon, I’ve reserve the 16mm 1.4 and 23mm 1.4 for wedding days. I personally haven’t used f2 lenses for weddings on Fuji due to keeping the ISOs down. Now I'm thinking I should give this a go for wedding? Hmm ...
Do it. The 18 (28mm) is a classic documentary length. When you're wanting to get context and story telling and not blowing out the background, it's sooo so good.
stephen heraldo i used the 28mm heavily on Nikon. The 28mm 1.8 was my favorite lens on Nikon. I was asking more about Fuji shooters using it in weddings. I stay away from f2 and f2.8 since shooting Fuji in wedding days as I want to keep ISO’s low to counteract the inherent image quality difference of not being on Nikon full frame anymore
Yep I started to use it this year for weddings and now me and my wife (who shoots with me) fight over it. Obviously you can get this focal length on the kit zoom 18-55 (also underated by many). I also know Kevin Mullins (great interview on fujicast by the way :-) uses it a lot at weddings and rates it highly. Great video Reggie and some lovely example images. What you said at the end well Amen! so many pixel peepers out there let’s remember it light, composition and moment not a great lens that makes an image
Warren Burke yes amen! Might ruffle a few feathers with that comment but it needs to be said to those who make excuses haha
I think Kevin Mullins is a fan of the lens for his wedding stuff
I own almost all fixed Fuji Film lenses and this one is of my favorite. It's so small and versatile when traveling. Combine it with 35 1.4 and you have ultimate light travel kit.
Well said! My uncle told me once, "a good tradesman never blames his tools". Makes sense. Yes please, more casual style review opinions!
OMG this lens is SOOO BAD. Its not sharp enough if I'm at 500% zoom in Lightroom! Because we all know photography is all about sharpness right?
Honeyball Lecter lol
Exactly. There are so few lenses that are tack sharp when you zoom in a lot that you would end up not buying anything.
My Tri-X at 800ASA was never sharp but hey ..... we had grain and texture not "bokeh" and anyway, the bigger the print the further away you stand, unless you're one of the sad types that leaves noseprints on the picture-glass.
Not all the photography. Photography is artwork in the meantime so feel free to express yourself in severek ways and don’t be a slave o sharpness
Great video. Totally agree. It's such a versatile focal length, and I love how compact it is. (And I love that black and white family selfie. Such a happy mood.)
Rivki Locker yup, the compact size is what seals the deal. And thanks haha. It’s one of my favorite shots to date. We have it printed at home
The fact is, sharpness in the center is more than enough for me. This lens has been my go-to when going out to dinner with my family as it's so small and discreet. It's also wide enough that it gets everyone across the dinner table, so it's a fantastic lens for that.
Abdon Phir'athon totally agree! Glad I’m not the only one who uses it as a go to for going out. I owned the 23mm f2 at one point but much prefer the 18mm
Great argument, looking into buying my third fuji lens sometime soon. Debating between this and the 27mm pancake lens to go with my X-T2. Also thanks for splicing in photos as you talk, it's incredible how many youtube channels fail to do this simple technique.
Dr3up you know why they fail to do it? Cause they probsbly don’t really take photos 😂. I’m a photographer first before youtube, so I lean into that. I had the 27 and didn’t like it because of the 2.8 (wanted better low light) and that it lacked the aperture ring (my workflow really relies on the aperture ring). What exactly are your goals/wants for this lens?
The most underated lens by Fuji, but you have shown that the most important is the photographer.
Congratulations, very nice photos!
Keep on good stuff!
niku2 thanks so much my friend!
Man... All ur photos r composed very well and its very apparent that ur editing style enhances the composition.
Justin Bae thanks for the kind words my friend
There is no bad lense on the market since 1896. Too many guys just don't know how to handle.
Truth 🙌🙌
If people didn't buy lenses because they are not sharp in the corners open wide, then the market would be like 1 or 2 lenses tops.
Eh. Canons 18-55 kit lens sucks.
Great review! I own the 16mm f2.8 and think about getting the 18mm f2 instead. I had it for a few weeks as a loner and hoped that the 16mm will give me the same feeling, but I feel that I can work better with the 18mm focal length.
Thanks for your review!
glad to have helped you decide. it's an awesome lens and should serve you well!
I totally liked this video and ultimately agreed on every points. That's a very good analysis of the situation for that lens. In order to tackle it, you needed to go into the consumerism psychology and photography skills and identify responsibilities into this rabbit hole. I learned a lot about myself too. I shoot a lot with 28mm and never realised I was using the least forgiving lens which make totally sens. Also I respect a lot the risk you took to put out this option that goes against the stream.
Thanks for the comment
Well done Reggie...enjoy your enthusiasm and attitude toward getting out there and shooting!
Jerry Wade thanks so much!
I use the 23 f2 quite a bit, but often find myself wishing it was a bit wider, yet when I use the 16 f2.8 I find that to be far too wide. I wonder if this maybe would be a good balance. The whole autofocus speed and noise gives me pause though. I use a composition technique that’s kinda dependent on very fast AF, as I essentially refocus for every shot. I also don’t want my lenses to make too much noise. Anyhoo, seems like an interesting option.
Thanks for the video! Wonderful photos in it too!
Torb you have all the cards available, just gotta pick your poison.
Damian Brown uses the 18mm f2 for pro jobs. He has posted several videos regarding this lens. Check out the associated comments as well:
18mm f2 review
ruclips.net/video/aNPmt91744Q/видео.html
18mm f2, 35mm f1.4, 60mm f2.4 original trio
ruclips.net/video/8DF5e1ICtHc/видео.html
The 18mm f2 gets some love at 7:19 in this video about his event kit
ruclips.net/video/R3eTHMY2DR0/видео.html
thanks for sharing!
Reggie, you have the best photography videos out there in my opinion ! great job. Subscribed.
Chris Breizh thanks my friend! I’m humbled!
The 35f2 is my all around lens, I'm satisfied with the output, I used it on weddings, birthdays and personal shoots, owning one lens is a bit challenging but I always find a way to make it work. I feel dreadful for not shooting for 2weeks now. I got a message from the camera shop that my lens is unfixable 😭
To Ni :( I’m sorry to hear
I love your video. I replaced my X100F by a combo XE3 18mmF2 because I have a preference for the 28mm focal length. If people have problems with focus noise, they can just use the focusing area. I do the focus once at 4m at f5 and I'm quiet for the day and if I set it to f8 then I don't have to worry about anything anymore.
awesome!
Great point great video. 6 months ago I purchased a used Xt1 because the style and reviews intrigued me. I had been using affordable, legacy lenses due to budget and enjoying total manua controll. This week I received a used xc 15-45 and I love it. Coming from an analog film background, I can so appreciate the potential of this awesome little "kit lens". Anyway I think you're absolutely correct about the 18mm and the first chance I get, I hope to get one.
Rafael Xenes awesome! Glad you’re enjoying the Fuji system :)
Once again, proud to be your follower
Ayman Mehdi thanks so much!!
I really like your reviews. They’re always on point and that’s really good. I like the way you talk and show pictures in the same time, it’s like a compelling story. Thank you for the info.
thanks so much for the great feedback. yes when reviewiing photo gear, i think it's super important to show photos, haha. any special requests for any future reviews?
excellent statement Reggie! (best camera is the one with you) - xf27 is also a fun prime and in my opinion totaly underrated - small, light and super sharp center-corner-to-corner@fully-open - will look at the xf18f2 for my backbacking trips! greets from Germany
Ps Schorb nice! Yes definitely worth the try
About to buy a xt30 and was tossing up between a 23mm f2 and this - was leaning this way as I love street / landscape photography and felt the 23 might not be quite wide enough. Now I’m certain this is the one. Thanks for the great video.
Well I did buy an XT30 and the 18mm f2 + 50mm f2. No regrets - what an awesome pair of lenses! Just created a new insta @dustyframer
Awesome!
Hi Reggie, this video made my finally pull the trigger and get this lens and I’m really enjoying the versatility and focus on composition/framing, even though the 28mm focal is considered to be bleh! I got lovely street pics in Seattle!
Hi! Will I notice a significant difference between an 18-55mm lens and an 18mm f/2 lens?
I use Fujifilm cameras exclusively for my wedding photography and I use the 18mm at every wedding. If you’re shooting in a documentary style it’s generally at a higher aperture to get more in focus on each frame so the f2 isn’t so much of an issue. It’s also a dirt cheap lens to pick up, especially second hand (maybe because of all the dislike of it online). I particularly like it for dance floor shots because it’s small and I don’t mind if it gets bashed by a drunk father of the bride!
Barry Forshaw totally agree great on the dance floor lens
Haha thanks for the comment!
Nice!!
I absolutely loved this video! Not just because I’ve been lusting over this lens for a while but also because I agree one hundred percent with what you talked about in regards to the focal length, the sharpness of the lens being good enough, the size and the concept of using what you have and making it work for you rather than hiding behind the “magic of the lens”. Great video. I had to make a choice recently as to wether I would get this lens or an x70 or an xf10. Long story short, without intending to I ended up with the xf10 and the x70 which I absolutely love. I wasn’t used to the focal length but now I’m in love with it. Anyways, thanks for sharing and I look forward to more of your videos.
sarifoto thanks for the comment!!
Great, flowing presentation and review of this lens. Thank-you!
Thanks for the feedback!
I agree, the 28mm focal length is only uninspiring if you don't know how to use it. The trick is to bring it close enough to your subject. It's great for street portraits. But, get close for it to show its character.
Thanks for the review. I'm new to Fuji and didn't know this lens exists. Cheers!
What would you suggest is the best combination lens to the 18/2 to maximize form factor while still offering something different composition wise?
Straight to the point. Backed up with good example photos. Yes, man! I want such video about every fuji compatible lens out there )) And thanks for this one. It's great.
Haha, my hope and plan is to do so! Glad you liked this format :)
Great video Reggie! I put off getting this lens, as I had 3 Fuji Zooms that did 18mm, including the 16-55mm f2.8, and because of the "bad" reviews. I've had for years the 27mm f2.8 which on my Pro2 was a great walk around lens, but I just wanted something wider, faster, and the 18mm f2 is Fuji's most compact XF lens that has an aperture ring (wasn't a big deal as my front command dial changes aperture just like my Nikons used to do). I also used to love my Nikon 28mm f2.8 Ai-S lens on my full frame Nikons before I switched to Fuji. But I found a used perfect condition copy for €250 (about $280) so I bought it. I wish I had bought this years earlier. I shoot weddings with 2 X-T2s, and I haven't taken the 18mm to a wedding, but on my Pro2 for personal work I love it, and it fits the style of that camera. But as others have mentioned, Kevin Mullins, who honestly was the Fuji photographer whose work inspired me to switch to Fuji (didn't know you yet Reggie :-) ), uses it, and shared in a video how he got a great shot of a child at a wedding where any of the larger Fuji lenses would have scared the child off. For some candids it can be great.
It’s a great lens for sure
Hi RB, i wanted to ask for 18mm do you have tried it for vlogging? How would you address the “mechanical” noise?
Eros Lomboy I haven’t yet. Typically I use the 16mm 1.4 or the 18-55. Either way I do use a shotgun mic. But possibly you can try using a lav mic or rode wireless go
Well said - you comments about seeing and creating and gear are spot on!
And I happened to just pick up one of these on Fleabay. Looking forward to the lens. That old 28mm ff focal length is the classic wide for sure. Not too wide to distort but wide enough. After starting out with a 50mm back in the film days, 28mm was my next lens.
Would this be suitable to take images of stationary cars within a small garage? I currently use the 35mm lens which is great however this is mainly used when the car is outdoors and space is available.
It depends on the size of the garage. Also chdck out the 16mm 1.4
@@Reggiebphoto The garage is about two cars wide (if there was no space inbetween the cars). I'll have a look at that lens.
Great video. I just bought an X-T30 and I'm looking for a great street lens that is small and around the 35mm full frame length. I was trying to decide between the 18 and the 27 pancakes...I love how small they are. But yes the reviews are bad. So started looking at the 23mm f2 or go bigger with the 23mm f1.4
Tim Bliss yeah the reviews don’t do the lens justice. I honestly think the 23 f2 is worse than the 18 f2. It’s extremely soft. I owned it and sold it
@@Reggiebphoto Thanks for the reply. My XT30 comes tomorrow (its my walk around fun camera...shoot with a D850). Think I'll play with it for a few weeks before getting any other lenses but still eyeing the 1.4 (but its so much bigger!)
Reggie, fantastic photos. You covered many doubts I had with this lens. The selfie tip is great! I think you can do anything with this lens and the 35mm f1.4. Though I still wish Fuji remade both lenses to add WR. Still, might look for one used. Well done.
José A. Ochoa thanks! Both the 18 and 35 are awesome
Not shooting Fuji just yet but I was thinking of getting this lens for the low profile once I do switch but I keep seeing that it’s not a good lens. I wonder if the 27mm is better.
Falando Jones Photography I owned the 27 and didn’t like it for two reasons: 2.8 aperture and no aperture ring. Just didn’t cut it for my style of shooting.
Reggie Ballesteros. Ah gotcha. You made some convincing points about using the 18mm. It’s easy to hide behind the lens and not use your brain. Thanks for the video and yes more casual content would be great!
Falando Jones Photography awesome. This video was easier to make. So definitely feeling inspired to make more.
Reggie, amazing edits my man! I love your style and wish I could replicate it haha! I have been shooting weddings for years on Sony (I do lots of video too), but am swapping to Fuji for photography because I can't get the skin tones to work for Sony RAW files. I'd rather the tones be closer out of camera. I just picked up a 56mm 1.2 and 18mm F2. Shooting a wedding in a few weeks, so will see how the 18mm does! Great review, and great points! I subscribed!
Tretheway Media I have a link to get my presets available in the description if you want to replicate my look for photos
3:26 Well said Reggie, it is people that take photos not lenses of cameras. I'm looking for a compact lens like the 18 or 27mm, good and useful video. Thanks Raggie.
Sorry for the late reply! Thanks for your comment. THe 18 is my preferred compact lens since it still has the awesome aperture ring.
Well said. In this day an age : If your photos are bad, it's probably not the camera (or lens), that holds you back.
Yes!
I have been using this little lens from day one when I used it on my X Pro1. Its a great little all rounder that makes you think, and you need to think to get the best from it. Strong review, well done.
Ian Kydd'Miller thanks so much!
@@Reggiebphoto www.flickr.com/photos/139694630@N08/albums/72157712113803083
Went out and shot these today XT2 &18mmf2, a great little lens that get badmouthed to much.
28mm (FF equivalent) is one of the most iconic focal length there are.
100%
Excellent down to earth advice .... Great video Reggie.
My favorite lens, size, color rendition, contrast, it’s glued on to my xe3, perfect for every day use, and street photography using zone focusing. I would like to hear your opinion on Fuji’s 60mm lens, according to the images on Flickr, it haves the same punch
it's one of the few fuji primes i have not tried yet.
My xe3 has the 27, 35f2, and the 18mm on 95% of the time; in that order.
Wide is always a challenge for me, but I enjoy the change up from time to time.
Sonho Lee nice! I prefer wides for my style of shooting.
Dude tnx for the realistic and honest review! Subscribed immediately. also bought the “underdog” lens. No regrets
Al Kay nice! Happy shooting!
I got mine as part of a package at the end of the X-Pro1 era. I love this little lens for Macro, it's wonderful with a Macro extension tube. Great in Museums for it's close focus, and perfectly adequate IQ for landscape. The comments you make about lighting and composition are absolutely spot on.
I have the 35mm F1:1.4 and the 55-200 Zoom. The 18mm lives on my X-M1 body, the X-Pro1, I use almost exclusively with a PK-FX adaptor and my vintage PK mount lenses.
Loved the video, Liked and Subbed!
Henry Siegertsz thanks my friend!
Reggie, you share a family name with my favourite golfer of all time!
Was that pic with boba guys taken in san ramon?
Yes lol of the dog?
I got one of these after I picked up a very clean X-E4 at a local camera store. For some reason🤔, the 18mm f/2 is almost always on that camera. It's a great walk-around lens. An X-E3/X-E4 with it is a nice alternative to the seemingly hard to find X100V or decently-priced used X100F (which I also have).
Great video! I’m gonna switch out the 18-55 kit to this lens and practice my photography skills!💪🏻 thanks
🙌🏽
Really nice photos Reggie. I was wondering if it is much better than just using the 18-55 mm kit lens at 18 mm though. The kit lens is stabilised too. I like that the 18 mm prime is so small and F2 though, would be good on my XT30 I imagine.
The size and portability is the real question here
You are awesome….Thanks for this review….I just got this lens second hand…..and am loving it!
I have heard the same criticism about the focal length not being “inspiring” or “interesting”, which is really perplexing. People find focal lengths inspiring/interesting? I’ve always made lens decisions based on need. That is, can I capture what I am visualizing with this lens?
Yeah who knows
It's funny you mention the 35mm F1.4 That particular lens has a molded fifth element to it and 9 elements. The 18 f2 has has a lower element count like the 35 with a molded 5th and 7th element. If you crop the 18 down to the same viewing area as the 35mm,..it produces similar images. It seems kinda weird the 35 1.4 is loved...yet the 18 F2 not so much..they are both character lens.
david neville haha I didn’t even know that. Makes thing even more interesting
@@Reggiebphoto Keep it on the low down.
People who pixel peep and stress about edge to edge sharpness wont notice this lens has a character to it.
I suspect because of the 18mm that people assume it will be good for golden hour/landscape style work.
When you look at the element grouping, and that this lens was released first of all for the x-pro 1, it all makes a lot more sense. The x-pro has always been fuji's flagship camera for people who prefer street/candid style photography. I suspect this intention for this lens was for more documentary-esque styled images. Great for about towns and cities. Great for indoor, mid low light. Great for contrast and colour saturation. Great for people who like to be anywhere from 1-4 meters from their subject and to capture it in a more environmental way. A great focal length for all of the above. I personally don't feel this lens was designed for the great outdoors, but it was highly designed street/indoor/closer proximity/parallax use and to give character over sharpness.
david neville 👍 good stuff
Real. I did the same cutting test as you. Very similar results. Then I also compared with WCL X-100 and in the center XF18 is better.
Thank you for such a great video! I have a X-T20 with a 35mm f1.7 and will get a 58mm f2. Both are manual lenses, so I want to get a fuji lens that can autofocus when the need is there. It’s honestly down to this, the 18mm f2 or the 27mm f2.8.. I mostly shoot black and white street (with some street portraits) and documentary style. Would love to hear your opinion on which one you would choose!
18mm f2 is my preferred. Had the 27 2.8 and sold it pretty quickly. 2.8 was not good enough in low light and I missed the aperture ringb
@@Reggiebphoto Thank you for replying! I've just gotten used to the aperture ring since I recently made the switch to fuji, so going back on one lens wouldn't really be a problem I think. The low light is definetly something I will think about! If you were to just compare focal lengths for street and your preferences, would you still pick the 18mm?
I agree on all these great points you make. I’m coming from the film side of photography and its been a while since I’ve shot digital, However my main shooter was an olympus om-1n with the 28mm lens, its great for everyday. Soon I’ll be picking up this lens and the xpro3 for my everyday and see how it compares, I definitely wanted a physical aperture ring so thats why I went with this over the 27mm.
👍
The F2 aperture and small size was the selling point for me. Can’t wait to try it out soon
Hello Reggie. I am very curious about the video performance of this lens after new software. Video is important to me. I will or will not buy this lens. I don't know if there is a video focus problem. Do you have an opinion on this matter? Thank you.
VE ŞİMDİ MİKROFONDA; if you use af for video, I wouldn’t recommend this lens
@@Reggiebphoto thank you very much
Loooove the philosophy and thoughts! Great video and feeling better educated 👍🏼
Great to hear!
People that think a focal length makes a photo are people who clearly don't know how to make photos. Great review man!
Totally agree!
Hey Reggie
Do you prefer this lens or the 27mm pancake for a compact street photography kit?
Personally, I own a 27mm that always sits on my X-T20 but I wanted to get your opinion on the comparison between that lens and the 18mm F2.
Thanks!
Carlos Briceno I prefer the 18
Thank you for the POSTIVE review on this lens. I agree that a lot of others tend to pixel peep and complain about the lens that I was afraid to purchase it. But with it's quality image, it is still superb!
Of course! It’s a great lens
Preach! Haven't tried the lens, but I certainly want to now. Thanks for sharing your insight.
Joseph Abad you’re welcome haha.
Hi Reggie, i’m on the fence whether to get the 18f2 and the 18f1.4, justifying the $650 price difference (f2 used vs f1.4 new).
Any comparison soon between the two?
No comparison, other than I sold
The f2 in order to
Buy the 1.4. It really depends on what
You’re looking for.
@@Reggiebphoto hmmm that kinda explains it. I guess i'd better start saving for the 1.4
Yeah I prefer it used for low light, close focus and faster af. Compact size isn’t really a priority for me
I bought the dip. Very happy got a mint copy of 18/f2 for less than half the price. All you said are spot on.
Nice
Is the focusing noise worse than on the 27/2.8?
Similar
Love ur color science , really nice work your photos are high level. Can i ask When you go out with family and friends which lens do u use most? The more versatile for you i mean
Reggie...do you have a link or folder that has your 18/2 images to view specifically?
i'm not sure if i get your question. like a public link online for you to view the images?
Reggie Ballesteros Yes but just the 18/2 images like the samples in your video. Don’t see them on Instagram or Flickr.
Great work! Exactly what I needed to hear and see.
Nice! Glad to hear :)
Excellent video, I have 5 Fuji primes and the 28mm f2 is maybe my favorite. With the X-T3 focus pretty fast and the IQ is great, so I don't get why people consider it Fuji’s worst.
Thx Reg...well said...well thought out. Good editing & production, too.
Ron Friesen thank you my friend!
28mm shot square is a nice focal length. I think 28mm has a lot of flexibility. Too many people get carried away with criticism and nit picking.
Carlo Santin agreed
You just talked me out of selling my copy of this lens. I already had it up for sale. I just felt like the Samyang 12mm had replaced it for me, but I realize now that I don’t wanna be without this lens. So thanks for that! :D
Eirik Havre haha awesome!
I will be buying this lens, Reggie is a legend !
I sold my samyang 12mm and replaced it with the xf14mm 2.8 omg so in love with that lens and this 18mm and my 23 1.4 will complete my wide kit !
🙌🙌
should i save more and get the 16mm 1.4? is the different that much with 18mm f2? can i get same quality like 16mm 1.4 using this 18mm f2? which one u choose if u can only pick one
They’re totally different lenses
which do u prever for video production? and why
16mm because overall it’s more versatile for video shots and smoother af
can't wait for you to review the new 18/f1.4 on your wedding photography
Wooow....I love the colors in your photo!! Do you work in post production or with a film simulation? Thanks and have a good light!!
You are spot on on this. I love the 28mm point of view. Leica uses it for its Leica Q, Ricoh for its GR series en Fuji for its X100. I am a bit worried about the focus noise. Is it that bad?
Makes just as much noise at the 35mm 1.4. My take is if you are caring about noise when taking photos, one isn’t focused on taking photos but how they look/sound taking photos
Reggie Ballesteros and then there are autistic people who get distracted by certain types of noises. Sorry I asked anything lol.
I apologize for my comment. It was insensitive and ignorant. If you are distracted by af noise, unfortunately I wouldn’t be a good gauge as I’m not familiar with what types of sounds, volumes, or frequencies you can tolerate or not.
Reggie Ballesteros no worries mate. I bought the xf18 for my X-pro3 today
👍
I agree mate!!! When people lack art and composition skill they blame it on the gear.
Yup yup!
Its funny that some people complain about the fuji 18mm focal length, yet everyone is are all over the leica q/q2 with a 28mm lens saying how amazing it is!!!
Lol I know haha.
28mm equ fov is super versatile, I got the xf10 which now can be had for not much more than just this lens. Now that’s portable and does great street, architecture and people photography. I’d like to pair it with a bigger Fuji body and the 18-55mm for when i want to shoot with the flexibility of the zoom
Hi. Is this also the smallest lens for taking good videos?
It’s af for video isn’t that great .
@@Reggiebphoto Thanks a lot. What's your bet between the 23mm and 18-55 for videos? ☺️
My suggestion is always to get the 18-55 with the kit (as it’s a great steal) snd it’s good with vidoe for the ois. The 23 f2 is solid too fkr vidoe
Wow! Thank you so much! Good day 😊
Yup!
Your photos show that there are no bad lenses. Amazing stuff!
Haha thanks
What's your view on this lens against the 16mm f2.8 ? Really can't make my mind..
I prefer 1.4 lenses tbh just a preference
Thank You Reggie!!!!! I love how you compose your images and made me think about this lens. I was planing to get a Fuji camera together with the 35 F2 but I was not sure of which other lens could I get. With one do you think should I get ? I use my camera on hollidays most of the time and I like to do street photography and sometimes landscape .... Gracias
andres blanco I personally would consider the xt30 or the xt3, and choose based on the form factor you want. The xt30 with the 18 would be a tiny yet mighty combo for sure, along eith the 35 f2
Thank you ver y much!!!👍🏼
andres blanco I’ve got some links to the gear in the description!
It's a great lens for its compactness and image quality vs price. The 18-55 kit lens covers this focal length already so many people who have it may find the 18mm pointless but ithe 18-55 is so big on my xe2 I feel I need to use the additional grip bracket which makes the whole set up much bigger. The 18mm for street and general city photography is perfect, and with the hood on it has the ideal amount of grip to be comfortable.
M P thanks for sharing!
Well said‼️. The 18 is my fav Fuji lens….I’ve shot decades in other system using the 28. You can be very sloppy with your shooting and not get weird distortions with people on the edges. So it actually saves your bacon this way.
I’m new to photography and I have the 16-55mm lens but I’m looking for a small lens for street photography and travel. Would you recommend 18mm or 35mm f2?
Both
Planning to get this for my videos. Thanks for doing this review! ;)
DanPip-Tology for video, just make sure you have a separate audio source. The af noise will be picked up by an internal mic
Love this lens for its size and image quality. I didn’t watch any reviews before purchasing the lens because it’s the only compact option that was available. Originally, I wanted the 27mm but it’s out of stock due to the popularity so I got the 18mm instead. I never noticed anything bad and was quite happy with the results. Perhaps because I don’t photograph charts and I don’t pixel peep. So I was quite surprised to see so much bad feedback about this lens. Yeah wider lenses are more demanding and require better composition skills so there is no hiding behind 50/85mm bokeh 😄
love your color of your Photos, is it from the camera? what colour simulation do you use..
Ricky Fay i edit using my own preset in Lightroom
reggiebphotography.com/fujifilm-preset
Thanks Reggie!!! This helped a lot
The only dilemma with this lens is which one to use when you own both 16 and 18. Ended up selling mine 18 just because I bought it new same price as I sold it later used. And I’m regretting it since, maybe sometime I will buy it again 250-300$ is pretty cheap for this great lens
Leed yes i totally agree. I own both and use them for different things. The 18 is a day to day lens, and the 16 is for my pro shoots. But I’m really wondering if I should try shooting some pro work with the 18.
"the best camera is the one you have with you"
I currently only use my phone as my Nikon D3300 and 18-200 Lens is far too big. I was now going to buy the X-T3 and thought of this lens. Thanks for this great review!
· you’re welcome! Yes,
You also have to want to bring the camera with you too.
So I can understand you wanting to decrease the size of your kit
I've been wavering between this one and the 27mm. The only real reason for me to get the 27 over this would be it's even smaller size, but it's not that big of a difference. IQ seems to be better with the 18mm and I think it's more versatile overall. Think I'll get the 18.
This video was helpful, thank you. :)
xy i has both and the 2.8 was limiting for my photography style. The 18 is my favorite fuji compact prime for sure!
I have an X-E3 and am rlly looking forward to getting this one, been talking with people and they say it’s one of their favorite combos. Thank u for making this video! I appreciated the comments saying the same ^ :)
Jared Kinz it’s a great lens!
@1:06 omg great shot, love this photo!
Thanks for the video! Size, aperture, and price makes the 18mm a capable and compact street photography tool for me. It doesnt have OIS and it isnt weather sealed, but I take it as challange to learn more on how to adjust my camera settings in order to get the most of it. And lastly, it looks great on my Fuji 😁
Anton Hei totally agree! Do you use it with or without the hood?
@@Reggiebphoto Depending on the light I put it on, and it looks nice, although it makes the process of putting the cap on and off a little bit difficult 😂. Still, if I just want to go out shooting I usually leave it at home in order to keep the system pocketable. Cheers and thanx again for the great content!
Anton Hei I use it without the hood to keep it as small as possible :)
I used Nikon 28mm shift lenses as my standard glass for almost a quarter-century, one for monochrome the other for colour and I put well over three hundred thousand frames through the F3's .... the pictures were for editorial mostly and nobody .... absolutely nobody ever complained that the images were "Meh". The focal length gives great depth of field, good perspective but doesn't make distant object disappear as can happen with a 24mm or 20mm lens .... couple that to it being the standard focal length for 'phones and the image you produce is what everyone ..... except for the pixel-counters and lens sniffers, expects to see.
I shoot film and the Leica Q2. There is no deal breaking faults with this lens for me. Owned it 5 times. And just bought another to put on a Graphite X-Pro 2 I bought for the summer. Even used this lens in dark concert venues and bars.
thanks for sharing this. i just bought this lens after 35mm and before 90mm. and i love 18mm magic!
ingrid djunaidy of course. The 18mm lens is awesome!
I have exactly the same lenses and bought then at the same order you did xD