Thank you for this video - I agree 100% with your approach and share similar emotions. Just recently I got 35 1.4 instead of 33 1.4 and I am very happy with this lens. Now I am looking for 23 1.4 and was tempted to get the new one but fully agree with your comments. As a amateur I will be fine with slower, smaller and not-so-perfect lens but the ‘character’ and willingness to reach out for it (and price) will make up for these flaws.
Just bought the 23mm 1.4 WR lens. Ive always wanted it and I love this series of lenses. I own the 16mm 1.4 and the 56mm 1.2 and I love them and how they look and feel. Thank you fo your video its great to know others feel the same way I do.
I totally agree with you Ahmed, definitely not buying the new ones, I splurge with the old ones... Great review and honest review, you gained a subscriber in me...
Agree with you on all fronts. Got a xpro3 with xf 18 f2, 35 1.4, 60 2.4 and 23 1.4. These are older lenses but they look cooler (especially the xf 18 f2) the lenses do have character and are plenty fast enough (yes even the xf 60). i think the 23 1.4 might even be the fastest of the bunch
I considered selling my 23mm f1.4 about a year ago but the buyer (not identified by their initials are MPB) claimed there was some dust inside the lens. I still shoot with this lens and have not noticed any artifacts in the files. I find it interesting to match the earlier lenses with their contemporary sensors like the 12 and 16 MP variants. These pairings, in combination with some of the film simulation recipes, produce iconic images. More support for the position that you don't have to employ the latest gear.
Just bought an old 23mm 1.4 for $400 recently. I really love it. It feels like classics and render a good quality photos. Im a wedding and portrait photographer and still it check the boxes what I need. Good review as always.
I agree 100%. I, too, was getting sucked in with all the "new" gear talk but at the end of the day, you have to realize the reason for the marketing ploy and decide whether you really NEED all the newer lenses.
I have to agree with you on everything here, i just ordered the older version of the 23mm 1.4 to mount to my X-PRO3, I love the smaller size versus the larger newer size, i did order the square hood for it, i don't shoot in foul weather ANYWAY so the weather proof thing does NOTHING for me.
I updated from the 23 f2 to old 23 f1.4 and thought it was kinda clunky looking on my Xpro3, bug love it now. Makes no sense to update to way bigger 23mm.
Thanks for your video portraying your clearly emotional attachment to your photography. It’s good to see. The new 23 and 33 f1.4’s have been designed for the planned 40 mpx sensor next year. It’s a pity that their appearance doesn’t keep with the traditional look of the first editions. No doubt this will be the start of a range of lenses and cameras of higher resolution performance. It will be interesting to see if their planned 40 mpx camera has a traditional or modern appearance. I expect they will want to differentiate the look between the two product ranges. It seems Fuji will have two ranges of camera and lens types; 26 and 40 mpx. This could be the start of Fuji’s insurgence into the “full frame” market where higher resolution dominates and where in the main the Canon, Sony Sigma and Nikon Z lenses don’t have the Fuji traditional look. Hopefully Fuji will continue to develop the 26 mpx equipment as well. This new Fuji strategy may be designed to pinch out the need for full frame if they can be successful either side of the full frame market with high resolution APS-C and medium format ranges. But let the buyer beware of the High Megapixel Myth; all camera manufacturers peddle the ‘higher megapixel is better’ message to sell more cameras and lenses. Unless one needs to print REALLY large or crop heavily, 26 mpx is more than enough for most people. One can get a really good size A4 print from only 6 mpx. Interesting times ahead!
Ooooooo if Fuji jumps into full frame I’d definitely be interested in that. I wonder if the newer lenses have a wide enough opening to support full frame 🤔
I highly doubt Fuji will get into the full frame market, especially with what their doing with their medium format cams. The GFX 100s is smaller than the Nikon d500.
A little late but I totally agree with all your points. Another reason why I decided to get the old one was that it’s made in Japan. The new ones are manufactured in the Philippines and China.
The 35mm focal length on a full-frame camera is my personal favorite for one-lens/one-body situations. I have a Nikkor 35mm f/1.4 for my Nikon SLRs. I have a Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 for my Leica rangefinders. For my Fuji APS-C digital mirrorless, I have the old 23mm f/1.4 Fujinon. I am not buying the new version because I am very satisfied with the image quality of my old version. I do not need the faster auto focus of the new version. The difference in size and weight is not important to me because I also have a Fuji 23mm f/2 that I use when I need a smaller and lighter weight lens. I do not need the weather resistance of the new version because I have a Fuji 16-55mm f/2.8 zoom lens that I use when I need weather sealing. Plus, the 16-55mm is better suited for video.
totally agree on the generic look. I'm so happy that I'm not alone in thinking that. really feel like the new ones lost all that Fuji Charm. might not have to do anything with image quality but a lot with making you want to pick up your beautiful fuji camera. thanks for this video!
Agree with you. Slow photography is my thing. Even vintage lenses give me personally satisfying results. As an amateur I don't need to produce to please customers. I only need to enjoy using the camera plus lens and produce thé images I like. That is my highest priority. When I have to please my family members with pictures from a family event, this 23mm mark 1 does the job, usually coupled with the 50mmf2 for the portraits.
The New 23mm f1.4 WR which tempting is that its minimum focus distance can do more closer to subject which Wedding photographer can take a detail like rings more close and can crop it again. Thats one of the reason to upgrade I think
@@eidfilms yeah the old one 0.28m and the new WR 0.19m .. As the user of first 23mm I feel being limit if want to photo small detail of object, and that's why the new 23mm is so tempting to have one just because this focal length is so great. Great video btw hope you can make new content of the 23mm WR and discuss about the min. focus distance. Thanks
I had an x-t3 with 16mm 1.4, 23mm 1.4 and 56 1.2 and a 27mm. I sold it all for a Sony a7r4 with 24mm gm, 35mm 2.8, 55mm and a 85mm GM. The Sony produces great pictures, reproduces exactly, very clinical. The Sony feels like a small computer device, in my opinion it has no soul. I regret selling the Fuji because I cannot reproduce the feel in the images from the Sony.! I’m now gonna buy the new x-t5 with the same old lenses.!
great - I am keeping my XT3 and 23 - 56 - 10-24 tho would be tempted if ever get a second camera GXF 50 if the new GFX 50 or if it is a GFX60 it would be a no nonsense rig
I use Fuji exclusively for video and One of my favorite lens for documentary/conversation is the new 33mm f1.4, so i don't understand your comment that "who would use that lens or (fuji for that matter) for video. Please explain
I'm migrating back to Fujifilm (years ago, I owned the X-T1 and the x100S) from Sony FF. I agree with you on the 23mm (though you keep calling it the 35mm). I loved the x100S, and had no complaints about the image quality from its 23mm f/2: I wish I hadn't sold it, but I'll be rectifying that error soon. The new 23mm f/1.4 is built to satisfy those whose photographic passion is for looking at test charts and photos of brick walls. Blowing up the image to 100% in order to peer into the out-of-focus areas and make pronouncements about _bokeh,_ a word they love but can't pronounce (Hint: Japanese is unaccented). Typing on the Internet. Anything but actually going out and making images, or looking at an actual print from a normal viewing distance. They'd call a Cooke triplet rubbish, but never look at "Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico." So here's a fixed focal length lens with *15 elements* in 10 groups, bulky, heavy, expensive. But that 1/4" sq. in. triangle at the upper right of the frame is SO sharp! Interestingly, the Pictorialists of the late-19th to early-20th centuries thought lenses of their time were too sharp: they wanted a more painterly effect.
I whole heartedly agree - I wish I hadn't upgraded my old MK1 lens for the new WR version of the XF 23mm F/1.4 lens. I'm primarily a hobbyist stills photographer, who mistakenly purchased the new lens which I thought I'd need to go with my recently bought X-H2 camera. Yes the autofocus with the combined new lens & body is quicker, but the old lens performance was improved when used on the X-H2, so the real improvement was really only marginal with the MK2 lens, and although side by side comparisons would probably show the later lens to be sharper particularly in the corners, I'd still prefer the somewhat warmer/softer glow of the earlier lens. Again, although rather subjective, to my mind the form, factor of the latest series of Fuji F/1.4 lenses, has taken a backward step, both in weight & size, and although the "Fujicrons" would probably better meet my needs, they don't particularly float my boat either. So for the immediate future I'll probably stick with my old XF35 F/1.4 & XF18 F/2, (with X-Pro2), when I want to travel light & either replace the MK2 XF23 F/1.4 (WR) with the MK1 version, or just retain it to use as a supplementary lens when out shooting nature & landscape photography with my X-H2?
I own the old 23mm and am planning to buy the new version soon. You are definitely making good points in this video and I will likely keep the older version for now. However I think weather resistance and faster focus are game changers
One thing's for sure - the original 23 1.4 looks better than the new one. Same with the 35 and it's new 33 brother. Might not matter to others but aesthetics is very important to me. Nice shot btw 5:32
I feel Fujifilm is going in the direction which is the reason I left Sony full frame - the caeras are getting way more expensive and the lenses are bigger which, as you say, is taking us into DSLR territory. Recently got a mint condition original 23/1.4 for nearly a third of the price of the new model. So what if the corners are not as sharp at 1.4 - they are usually not what I focus on anyway.
I didn’t buy it either, but I bought the 18 mm 1.4, as it’s so sharp I can use it for the 23 mm range by cropping. Hence I get two lenses for the price of one. Less weight to carry. Plus I do a lot of street photography, and that demands a faster focus. The close focusing is awesome!
I am thinking about getting the 18mm 1.4 and pairing it with my 35mm f2. I have the 23mm f2 but those two lengths are similar and I like 35 for environmental portraits.
I switched from Canon to Fujifilm because I wanted a much lighter system with all the analog types of dials and retro look. I own the XT3 and a backpack full of Fuji lenses. The weight for my backpack is now about 19 pounds compared to my old Canon backpack of gear that was 37 pounds. I really don’t know if I will be updating or buying anything else from Fujifilm. I feel that Fujifilm has lost their MoJo or way. Like all big companies they distance themselves from their customer base. I like the size and feel of the old lenses and refuse to buy any of the new ones. If Fuji keeps heading the direction of a modern DSLR then I will probably just go ahead and go do something different. I like the the old aperture rings on the lens and all the stuff you mentioned in your video. I completely agree. As for now I don’t see anything in the Fujifilm line up that interest me.
Some good points here. I got sucked into swapping my XT2 for the XT4 with 16-80mm zoom last year simply because it was new and it came into stock all of a sudden! Have regretted ever since! Having said that I'll probably swap my 16mm f1.4 for the new 18mm f1.4 at some point but will keep my 35mm f1.4 on the XT30 and have a long think what to do with the XT4.
@@eidfilms I agree with you, the new glass look like those Nikkkor Z tubes, no charm at all. I have the 23f2, but I am thinking in getting the old 1.4.
@@eidfilms that's really interesting. The vintage vibe comes from the xt5 sensor? The lack of sharpness? Or the increase pixels on a slightly less sharp image?
I’m not buying one (yet) because of the X100V. That fixed lens wouldn’t be possible on the X-mount due to how close the rear element is to the sensor. A true pancake lens, with excellent sharpness and beautiful rendering that can focus as close as 10cm. That with an XF 50mm f1 on the X-Pro3 and I have everything I need.
My setup -xpro3 -xf 18-55 -voigtlander nokton 23 f1.2 -xf 50 f1 I highly recommend the Voigtalnder as its light and compact yet packs a huge punch giving that warm Leica look. Strongly recommend
A NEW Fujifilm XT5 Owner., and I must say - If you do NOT have any lense then I'd buy the NEW 23mm f1.4 [it will also have a better resell value down the road - new tech]. But if you have the old 23mm f1.4 or f2.0 I think its not going to make a huge impact to upgrade. I was initially drawn to the size of the older ones. But after much research the New Tech is going to give you a better overall experince ESPECIALLY with the XT5 [40MP Lense]. These new lenses including the new 18mm and the new 56mm are designed to match with the 40MP lense. Keep this in mind!
I'm agree with the design of a new 18mm, 23mm & 33mm its look like a Canon kit lens and its feel like lost the Fuji characteristic sadly even the said they have future plan on they this new design for the up coming a new Fujifilm body.
I do think these new lenses will be future proof once the new sensor comes out , so if you are going upgrade your camera then it’s a different slant to your argument.
Valid points. I recently purchased the XF 33mm f1.4 despite having the 35 f2 WR (my most used lens) AND the 35mm f1.4. The 33mm really is a perfect lens in optical and AF performance but the weight and size is annoying…It lacks the design. The 35mmf1.4 LOOKS cool and makes you grab it and go out but the 33mm is just a black piece of metal attached to your camera (despite being perfect in every sense), it really lacks a refreshing design. I also have the 23mm f2 and after having large apertures on my 35/33mm I really want f1.4 on my 23mm. I might get the older version if I find one for a good price. My cameras are the X-Pro3 and X-H1.
That's the exact feeling I got when they announced this lens. I would prefer keeping my 23mm 1.4 and buy a used 23mm F2 for its WR capabilities. I don't like where Fuji's lenses are going, bulky like DSLR, super expensive and with a boring design. I switched to Fuji for the small size and Fuji is going the opposite direction with the new stuff.
Yep, absulutely agreed. But it is direction of all camera producers. To produce high end lenses with higher profit then less expensive lenses. The old Fuji lenses has a some kind of character and much pleasant design. These new f1.4 lenses are ugly and clinical. The sharpness is not everything. I prefer less sharp lens with some character and uniq rendition over the sharpest clinical lens without any character. That's why I chose Fuji...
Fuji are well intentioned. They are responding to users’ desire for the things their old lenses lacked - perfect optical quality and weather resistance. The problem is they have taken away what the users already had and didn’t realise they wanted - compactness, aesthetics and lenses that produce characterful photos. This was their original philosophy on their first line of lenses - as they didn’t have previous feedback to sway their design philosophy. It reminds me of something I learnt in a product design course - you shouldn’t always give the target users what they say they want, because they don’t always know what they want.
I respect your opinion but, for my point of view, after owning the new 33mm f1.4, is that, speaking of size/weight, the older lenses arent small enough compared to the newer versions for it to be really a deal breaker. Compared to a f2, sure. But even then, you have to be real here and compare weights of body+lens 1 vs body+lens 2 to make some sense. And so, if the body weights 600g, and lens weights 1 300g vs the new one with 370g, thats a 8% increase overall. Not much. I can live with that for better AF with linear motors, the WR and the overall IQ is superb, next level really. As for size, i mean, if you can actually fit the camera and lens in your pocket (XE4+27mm f2.8 for example), the smaller size makes a lot of sense. But, if the body+lens is somewhat big already (doenst fit in pocket), making it 5mm longer and the lens bulk 5mm bigger is neglegible. The only argument that makes sense for me are if you really like the lens 'character' and the clutch focus ring. I've found that the 33mm f1.4 has beautiful character, not clinical at all. But thats me. Thanks for the video
i only have 18-55 kit for my XT-20 since 2017 and this one would be my first purchase prime. I didnt get money from photography, and $900 for hobby is ... much hahaha
Stick with your Brownie! If you are talented enough you can make great photos with any gear. But if you are average, like most of us, buy the best gear you can get. Then at least the state of the art technology allows you to produce images that will wow your audience!
Weight! Weight! What??? Better Autofocus, Sharper Image (although by not much) and Weather Resistance are not enough reasons to buy or upgrade this lens? Really? Well enjoy your old lens no problem. But for me I will take quality and durability over how cute a lens may look any time. peace.
Decrease 'friction' in order to do the thing; like, do you only eat take-aways lol. The stated dilemma is brought about by basic enemies of the soul, nl. envy and desire to burn money. Have a good day bro
i completely disagree, its not much bigger and and miles above and beyond better in every way, those who reluctantly refuse to see change are the same people who always get left behind
Last checked, lenses much have good color rendering, auto-focus and quality build. No vender platform is perfect, but I will say the comments about FujiFilm are disingenuous and why don't you talk the platform you really support (Sony?).
this lens can not focus well... it has untold problems to customers all over the world, I don't understand how people like this lens... just use it wide open check your photos closer.
Finally, someone says it. The new lens look is boring across the board. Not just Fuji (but they should know better). It's not subjective, if you have any product design sense. People love Leica and Voigtlander looking lenses for a reason, otherwise they wouldn't be purchasing all of the manual focus Chinese knock-offs for their X system. Good video.
Thank you for this video - I agree 100% with your approach and share similar emotions. Just recently I got 35 1.4 instead of 33 1.4 and I am very happy with this lens. Now I am looking for 23 1.4 and was tempted to get the new one but fully agree with your comments. As a amateur I will be fine with slower, smaller and not-so-perfect lens but the ‘character’ and willingness to reach out for it (and price) will make up for these flaws.
Just bought the 23mm 1.4 WR lens. Ive always wanted it and I love this series of lenses. I own the 16mm 1.4 and the 56mm 1.2 and I love them and how they look and feel. Thank you fo your video its great to know others feel the same way I do.
I totally agree with you Ahmed, definitely not buying the new ones, I splurge with the old ones... Great review and honest review, you gained a subscriber in me...
Thank you for so practical thoughts. Subscribed and happy to share! :)
Agree with you on all fronts. Got a xpro3 with xf 18 f2, 35 1.4, 60 2.4 and 23 1.4. These are older lenses but they look cooler (especially the xf 18 f2) the lenses do have character and are plenty fast enough (yes even the xf 60). i think the 23 1.4 might even be the fastest of the bunch
Totally agree. Obsession of gear can be a hinderance to your creativity.
I considered selling my 23mm f1.4 about a year ago but the buyer (not identified by their initials are MPB) claimed there was some dust inside the lens. I still shoot with this lens and have not noticed any artifacts in the files. I find it interesting to match the earlier lenses with their contemporary sensors like the 12 and 16 MP variants. These pairings, in combination with some of the film simulation recipes, produce iconic images. More support for the position that you don't have to employ the latest gear.
Just bought an old 23mm 1.4 for $400 recently. I really love it. It feels like classics and render a good quality photos. Im a wedding and portrait photographer and still it check the boxes what I need. Good review as always.
Which is the old? I am completely new to Fuji and making the switch!
I agree 100%. I, too, was getting sucked in with all the "new" gear talk but at the end of the day, you have to realize the reason for the marketing ploy and decide whether you really NEED all the newer lenses.
I can’t agree with you more. Loving your content, keep it coming!
Thank you so much, really appreciate it
I have to agree with you on everything here, i just ordered the older version of the 23mm 1.4 to mount to my X-PRO3, I love the smaller size versus the larger newer size, i did order the square hood for it, i don't shoot in foul weather ANYWAY so the weather proof thing does NOTHING for me.
I updated from the 23 f2 to old 23 f1.4 and thought it was kinda clunky looking on my Xpro3, bug love it now. Makes no sense to update to way bigger 23mm.
Great vid. I agree you. It's not always the tools but how we use them. Great use of the word "espouse", haven't heard that used on RUclips before 😁😁
Great analysis. Thank you.
Thanks for such honest advice
Thanks for your video portraying your clearly emotional attachment to your photography. It’s good to see. The new 23 and 33 f1.4’s have been designed for the planned 40 mpx sensor next year. It’s a pity that their appearance doesn’t keep with the traditional look of the first editions. No doubt this will be the start of a range of lenses and cameras of higher resolution performance. It will be interesting to see if their planned 40 mpx camera has a traditional or modern appearance. I expect they will want to differentiate the look between the two product ranges. It seems Fuji will have two ranges of camera and lens types; 26 and 40 mpx. This could be the start of Fuji’s insurgence into the “full frame” market where higher resolution dominates and where in the main the Canon, Sony Sigma and Nikon Z lenses don’t have the Fuji traditional look. Hopefully Fuji will continue to develop the 26 mpx equipment as well. This new Fuji strategy may be designed to pinch out the need for full frame if they can be successful either side of the full frame market with high resolution APS-C and medium format ranges. But let the buyer beware of the High Megapixel Myth; all camera manufacturers peddle the ‘higher megapixel is better’ message to sell more cameras and lenses. Unless one needs to print REALLY large or crop heavily, 26 mpx is more than enough for most people. One can get a really good size A4 print from only 6 mpx. Interesting times ahead!
Ooooooo if Fuji jumps into full frame I’d definitely be interested in that. I wonder if the newer lenses have a wide enough opening to support full frame 🤔
I highly doubt Fuji will get into the full frame market, especially with what their doing with their medium format cams. The GFX 100s is smaller than the Nikon d500.
Higher mp also forces you to spend more on storage space, and faster processors to handle the higher res. Ugh!
You’re not alone!
But the old one is in the way of the ovf on the xpro 3. Thats why the new one is nice. Smaller diameter so its not in the way.
agree with everything you said. i have the original 23 and 35 1.4
Great video
I have the XT5 and I m wondering how this lens performs on the camera
A little late but I totally agree with all your points. Another reason why I decided to get the old one was that it’s made in Japan. The new ones are manufactured in the Philippines and China.
Great video! I just got the F2 WR I like the size but not the sound of it, so that could a issue for some people
This makes so much sense , thank you for saving me from my GAS 😂 subscribed
The 35mm focal length on a full-frame camera is my personal favorite for one-lens/one-body situations. I have a Nikkor 35mm f/1.4 for my Nikon SLRs. I have a Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 for my Leica rangefinders.
For my Fuji APS-C digital mirrorless, I have the old 23mm f/1.4 Fujinon. I am not buying the new version because I am very satisfied with the image quality of my old version. I do not need the faster auto focus of the new version. The difference in size and weight is not important to me because I also have a Fuji 23mm f/2 that I use when I need a smaller and lighter weight lens. I do not need the weather resistance of the new version because I have a Fuji 16-55mm f/2.8 zoom lens that I use when I need weather sealing. Plus, the 16-55mm is better suited for video.
totally agree on the generic look. I'm so happy that I'm not alone in thinking that. really feel like the new ones lost all that Fuji Charm. might not have to do anything with image quality but a lot with making you want to pick up your beautiful fuji camera. thanks for this video!
I totally agree with you!
Agree with you. Slow photography is my thing. Even vintage lenses give me personally satisfying results. As an amateur I don't need to produce to please customers. I only need to enjoy using the camera plus lens and produce thé images I like. That is my highest priority. When I have to please my family members with pictures from a family event, this 23mm mark 1 does the job, usually coupled with the 50mmf2 for the portraits.
Soooo true 👏🏻 thx
What matters is the photo not the tool right?
The New 23mm f1.4 WR which tempting is that its minimum focus distance can do more closer to subject which Wedding photographer can take a detail like rings more close and can crop it again. Thats one of the reason to upgrade I think
Oooo I didn’t consider this! I preordered it and will try it when it arrives
@@eidfilms yeah the old one 0.28m and the new WR 0.19m .. As the user of first 23mm I feel being limit if want to photo small detail of object, and that's why the new 23mm is so tempting to have one just because this focal length is so great.
Great video btw hope you can make new content of the 23mm WR and discuss about the min. focus distance. Thanks
@@eidfilms at the end you bought the new xf 23mm f/1.4 wr... is that right? :) xf 16mm f/1.4 is better for minimum focus distance! ;)
I had an x-t3 with 16mm 1.4, 23mm 1.4 and 56 1.2 and a 27mm. I sold it all for a Sony a7r4 with 24mm gm, 35mm 2.8, 55mm and a 85mm GM.
The Sony produces great pictures, reproduces exactly, very clinical. The Sony feels like a small computer device, in my opinion it has no soul.
I regret selling the Fuji because I cannot reproduce the feel in the images from the Sony.!
I’m now gonna buy the new x-t5 with the same old lenses.!
funny yet not funny
great - I am keeping my XT3 and 23 - 56 - 10-24
tho would be tempted if ever get a second camera
GXF 50 if the new GFX 50 or if it is a GFX60 it would be a no nonsense rig
I use Fuji exclusively for video and One of my favorite lens for documentary/conversation is the new 33mm f1.4, so i don't understand your comment that "who would use that lens or (fuji for that matter) for video. Please explain
I'm migrating back to Fujifilm (years ago, I owned the X-T1 and the x100S) from Sony FF. I agree with you on the 23mm (though you keep calling it the 35mm). I loved the x100S, and had no complaints about the image quality from its 23mm f/2: I wish I hadn't sold it, but I'll be rectifying that error soon.
The new 23mm f/1.4 is built to satisfy those whose photographic passion is for looking at test charts and photos of brick walls. Blowing up the image to 100% in order to peer into the out-of-focus areas and make pronouncements about _bokeh,_ a word they love but can't pronounce (Hint: Japanese is unaccented). Typing on the Internet. Anything but actually going out and making images, or looking at an actual print from a normal viewing distance. They'd call a Cooke triplet rubbish, but never look at "Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico."
So here's a fixed focal length lens with *15 elements* in 10 groups, bulky, heavy, expensive. But that 1/4" sq. in. triangle at the upper right of the frame is SO sharp! Interestingly, the Pictorialists of the late-19th to early-20th centuries thought lenses of their time were too sharp: they wanted a more painterly effect.
I whole heartedly agree - I wish I hadn't upgraded my old MK1 lens for the new WR version of the XF 23mm F/1.4 lens.
I'm primarily a hobbyist stills photographer, who mistakenly purchased the new lens which I thought I'd need to go with my recently bought X-H2 camera.
Yes the autofocus with the combined new lens & body is quicker, but the old lens performance was improved when used on the X-H2, so the real improvement was really only marginal with the MK2 lens, and although side by side comparisons would probably show the later lens to be sharper particularly in the corners, I'd still prefer the somewhat warmer/softer glow of the earlier lens.
Again, although rather subjective, to my mind the form, factor of the latest series of Fuji F/1.4 lenses, has taken a backward step, both in weight & size, and although the "Fujicrons" would probably better meet my needs, they don't particularly float my boat either.
So for the immediate future I'll probably stick with my old XF35 F/1.4 & XF18 F/2, (with X-Pro2), when I want to travel light & either replace the MK2 XF23 F/1.4 (WR) with the MK1 version, or just retain it to use as a supplementary lens when out shooting nature & landscape photography with my X-H2?
How does the focusing speed of the 18mm f2 compare to the 35mm f1.4? I just picked up the latter lens and I’m enjoying it a lot
Probably going to be my next purchase 😊
I prefer the old version; not only for its lightness and compactness, but also for the MF system which allows me to shoot easily in hyperfocal.
I own the old 23mm and am planning to buy the new version soon. You are definitely making good points in this video and I will likely keep the older version for now. However I think weather resistance and faster focus are game changers
I agree 100 percent
One thing's for sure - the original 23 1.4 looks better than the new one. Same with the 35 and it's new 33 brother.
Might not matter to others but aesthetics is very important to me.
Nice shot btw 5:32
I feel Fujifilm is going in the direction which is the reason I left Sony full frame - the caeras are getting way more expensive and the lenses are bigger which, as you say, is taking us into DSLR territory. Recently got a mint condition original 23/1.4 for nearly a third of the price of the new model. So what if the corners are not as sharp at 1.4 - they are usually not what I focus on anyway.
I didn’t buy it either, but I bought the 18 mm 1.4, as it’s so sharp I can use it for the 23 mm range by cropping. Hence I get two lenses for the price of one. Less weight to carry.
Plus I do a lot of street photography, and that demands a faster focus. The close focusing is awesome!
I am thinking about getting the 18mm 1.4 and pairing it with my 35mm f2. I have the 23mm f2 but those two lengths are similar and I like 35 for environmental portraits.
Fuji not for video?? 🤔
Fuji xt series where/are great for video over the last years. 10 bit output collar machines ✨👌🏼
I switched from Canon to Fujifilm because I wanted a much lighter system with all the analog types of dials and retro look.
I own the XT3 and a backpack full of Fuji lenses. The weight for my backpack is now about 19 pounds compared to my old Canon backpack of gear that was 37 pounds.
I really don’t know if I will be updating or buying anything else from Fujifilm.
I feel that Fujifilm has lost their MoJo or way.
Like all big companies they distance themselves from their customer base.
I like the size and feel of the old lenses and refuse to buy any of the new ones.
If Fuji keeps heading the direction of a modern DSLR then I will probably just go ahead and go do something different.
I like the the old aperture rings on the lens and all the stuff you mentioned in your video. I completely agree.
As for now I don’t see anything in the Fujifilm line up that interest me.
Some good points here. I got sucked into swapping my XT2 for the XT4 with 16-80mm zoom last year simply because it was new and it came into stock all of a sudden! Have regretted ever since! Having said that I'll probably swap my 16mm f1.4 for the new 18mm f1.4 at some point but will keep my 35mm f1.4 on the XT30 and have a long think what to do with the XT4.
Just curious why you regret swapping the XT2 for XT4?
33 mm f/1.4 will be the one I am looking forward to. 23 mm f/1.4 does struggle to auto focus in low light.
That’s a great lens as well, the new one looks fantastic… The focal length is a little bit too zoomed in for my taste
I agree. I have the 33 f1.4. It is excellent optically but I wish the view was a bit wider.
It is a little confusing when you are talking about the "35" but showing the 23mm. Love your sample images 👏🏼👏🏼
Haha, yeah sorry I always think in full frame equivalent focal lengths 😀
@@eidfilms I agree with you, the new glass look like those Nikkkor Z tubes, no charm at all. I have the 23f2, but I am thinking in getting the old 1.4.
Can the old fuji 23mm f1.4 work well with the xt5 or does it work better with the xt4 26mb sensor?
It does work with it. Won’t be tack sharp but will be good enough and will give more of a special vintage-y vibe
@@eidfilms that's really interesting. The vintage vibe comes from the xt5 sensor? The lack of sharpness? Or the increase pixels on a slightly less sharp image?
@@Jgheiler from the lens. The newer one is larger and has a lot more glass elements which makes the images sharper.
I’m not buying one (yet) because of the X100V. That fixed lens wouldn’t be possible on the X-mount due to how close the rear element is to the sensor. A true pancake lens, with excellent sharpness and beautiful rendering that can focus as close as 10cm.
That with an XF 50mm f1 on the X-Pro3 and I have everything I need.
My setup
-xpro3
-xf 18-55
-voigtlander nokton 23 f1.2
-xf 50 f1
I highly recommend the Voigtalnder as its light and compact yet packs a huge punch giving that warm Leica look. Strongly recommend
I do think they've been pursuing video quite heavily because the LM was a big selling point.
What filter are you using ?
Just a UV filter fro Breaklthrough
Love how cheap the original lens is now compared to original cost. Hope Fuji keep doing this, also got the 56 at a far lower price.
A NEW Fujifilm XT5 Owner., and I must say - If you do NOT have any lense then I'd buy the NEW 23mm f1.4 [it will also have a better resell value down the road - new tech].
But if you have the old 23mm f1.4 or f2.0 I think its not going to make a huge impact to upgrade.
I was initially drawn to the size of the older ones. But after much research the New Tech is going to give you a better overall experince ESPECIALLY with the XT5 [40MP Lense]. These new lenses including the new 18mm and the new 56mm are designed to match with the 40MP lense.
Keep this in mind!
I'm agree with the design of a new 18mm, 23mm & 33mm its look like a Canon kit lens and its feel like lost the Fuji characteristic sadly even the said they have future plan on they this new design for the up coming a new Fujifilm body.
Ya I’m remit people to buy the older ones while they can
Agreed 👍
I think I'm goin for the 18mm / 33mm as a pair
I do think these new lenses will be future proof once the new sensor comes out , so if you are going upgrade your camera then it’s a different slant to your argument.
people are putting old lenses on GFX 50s
Valid points. I recently purchased the XF 33mm f1.4 despite having the 35 f2 WR (my most used lens) AND the 35mm f1.4. The 33mm really is a perfect lens in optical and AF performance but the weight and size is annoying…It lacks the design. The 35mmf1.4 LOOKS cool and makes you grab it and go out but the 33mm is just a black piece of metal attached to your camera (despite being perfect in every sense), it really lacks a refreshing design. I also have the 23mm f2 and after having large apertures on my 35/33mm I really want f1.4 on my 23mm. I might get the older version if I find one for a good price. My cameras are the X-Pro3 and X-H1.
Any regrets?
That's the exact feeling I got when they announced this lens. I would prefer keeping my 23mm 1.4 and buy a used 23mm F2 for its WR capabilities.
I don't like where Fuji's lenses are going, bulky like DSLR, super expensive and with a boring design.
I switched to Fuji for the small size and Fuji is going the opposite direction with the new stuff.
Yep, absulutely agreed. But it is direction of all camera producers. To produce high end lenses with higher profit then less expensive lenses. The old Fuji lenses has a some kind of character and much pleasant design. These new f1.4 lenses are ugly and clinical. The sharpness is not everything. I prefer less sharp lens with some character and uniq rendition over the sharpest clinical lens without any character. That's why I chose Fuji...
The question is… will these older lenses be able to keep up with the new 40mp sensor.
@@djbowlz2128 I guess not but then I don't really have the finance nor the immediate need to switch to higher mp count.
Fuji are well intentioned. They are responding to users’ desire for the things their old lenses lacked - perfect optical quality and weather resistance. The problem is they have taken away what the users already had and didn’t realise they wanted - compactness, aesthetics and lenses that produce characterful photos. This was their original philosophy on their first line of lenses - as they didn’t have previous feedback to sway their design philosophy. It reminds me of something I learnt in a product design course - you shouldn’t always give the target users what they say they want, because they don’t always know what they want.
@@djbowlz2128 hopefully not. It will then send loads of the older lenses onto the used market and bring their prices crashing down! 😆
I respect your opinion but, for my point of view, after owning the new 33mm f1.4, is that, speaking of size/weight, the older lenses arent small enough compared to the newer versions for it to be really a deal breaker. Compared to a f2, sure. But even then, you have to be real here and compare weights of body+lens 1 vs body+lens 2 to make some sense. And so, if the body weights 600g, and lens weights 1 300g vs the new one with 370g, thats a 8% increase overall. Not much. I can live with that for better AF with linear motors, the WR and the overall IQ is superb, next level really. As for size, i mean, if you can actually fit the camera and lens in your pocket (XE4+27mm f2.8 for example), the smaller size makes a lot of sense. But, if the body+lens is somewhat big already (doenst fit in pocket), making it 5mm longer and the lens bulk 5mm bigger is neglegible. The only argument that makes sense for me are if you really like the lens 'character' and the clutch focus ring. I've found that the 33mm f1.4 has beautiful character, not clinical at all. But thats me. Thanks for the video
i only have 18-55 kit for my XT-20 since 2017 and this one would be my first purchase prime. I didnt get money from photography, and $900 for hobby is ... much hahaha
Yeah that’s a great kit, I’m glad you’re able to restrain yourself and not spend extra money on gear… That’s something that I struggle with constantly
@@eidfilms haha because there are nothing to spend, if its pure hobby buying best gears wont make any money,so...
👍👌
jus got on 375 usd get those before they gone!
Stick with your Brownie! If you are talented enough you can make great photos with any gear. But if you are average, like most of us, buy the best gear you can get. Then at least the state of the art technology allows you to produce images that will wow your audience!
Weight! Weight! What??? Better Autofocus, Sharper Image (although by not much) and Weather Resistance are not enough reasons to buy or upgrade this lens? Really? Well enjoy your old lens no problem. But for me I will take quality and durability over how cute a lens may look any time. peace.
i'm buying the old one only because its USD 320 used :)
Why i decided to eat Pizza today
Always a good reason to eat pizza my friend
Decrease 'friction' in order to do the thing; like, do you only eat take-aways lol. The stated dilemma is brought about by basic enemies of the soul, nl. envy and desire to burn money. Have a good day bro
Haha, yeah I over analyze everything :)
i completely disagree, its not much bigger and and miles above and beyond better in every way, those who reluctantly refuse to see change are the same people who always get left behind
The new lens Great for professional, but for hobbyist, they can choose what they like, what they prefer.
Aesthetics wise it’s pretty forgettable though.
Totally agree.
The new lens design is ugly. I mean, too modern to combine with the camera retro design.
Also then they produce X-T4 it looks not as good as X-T3
Last checked, lenses much have good color rendering, auto-focus and quality build. No vender platform is perfect, but I will say the comments about FujiFilm are disingenuous and why don't you talk the platform you really support (Sony?).
agree with look, ill rather buy 18mm f1.4 or just viltrox 23mm instead of this abomination XD
this lens can not focus well... it has untold problems to customers all over the world, I don't understand how people like this lens... just use it wide open check your photos closer.
While I understand your arguments about the size, price and weight, the rest is so shallow 🙄
Finally, someone says it. The new lens look is boring across the board. Not just Fuji (but they should know better). It's not subjective, if you have any product design sense. People love Leica and Voigtlander looking lenses for a reason, otherwise they wouldn't be purchasing all of the manual focus Chinese knock-offs for their X system. Good video.
Fuji looked at Viltrox and copied..... brrr, lol.
😴