Fuji Reviews

Fujifilm XF 35mm f1.4 R: Re-Evaluating a First Generation X series Lens

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Fujifilm XF 35mm f1.4 R: Re-Evaluating a First Generation X series Lens

From time to time, I get questions about the XF 35mm f1.4 R lens.  They range from is the XF 35mm f1.4 still a good choice these days to discussions about how it compares to its f2 sibling.  I reviewed this lens back in 2012, when it was first released (you can still read the review here, if you want) but since a lot has changed over the years for the Fuji system, I thought I’d write up an article about this lens again.  This is not a new review; it’s more of an update.  There have been a lot of firmware updates both in the cameras, and the XF 35mm f1.4 itself.  Newer generation cameras have also changed the performance of not just this lens but others as well.  My photography in general has changed quite a bit since 2012 as well.  So, let’s just take a look at how this lens measures up now, and see if it’s still worth buying. [continue reading…]

My 6 Favorite Portrait Lenses For The Fuji X Series System

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My 6 Favorite Portrait Lenses For The Fuji X Series System:

I Haven’t posted much about Fuji lately, so while I’m waiting for my chance to use the new XF 16-80mm f4 R OIS WR lens, I thought I’d write up an article about my 6 favorite portrait lenses for the Fuji X Series system.  From time to time, I receive emails, and DMs on my Instagram asking me about my preferences for portrait lenses when it comes to Fuji.  So, here they are in no particular order. [continue reading…]

Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless Camera Review: Compact Powerhouse

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Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless Camera Review:

The new Fuji X-T30 follows the same philosophy as its predecessors by taking the essentials of what makes the higher end X-T series camera (the X-T3 in this case) so adored by its users, and putting all of that goodness into a smaller yet also more affordable body.  It’s a great idea, if you think about it, and many users seem to agree.  Some are so happy with their X-T10s, and X-T20s that they don’t even see the need to ever upgrade to higher end models of the Fujifilm X Series system.  So, does this recipe still work with the X-T30?  Read on and find out. [continue reading…]

Viltrox 85mm f1.8 STM Lens Review: For Fujifilm X Series

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Viltrox 85mm f1.8 STM Lens Review: For Fujifilm X Series:

Note from Admin: My site went down this month for a bit, so I’m playing a bit of catch up right now.  My review of the Viltrox 85mm f1.8 will be shorter than what you might be accustomed to on this site.

Fujifilm has released a ton of great lenses over the years, and has pretty much covered their bases when it comes to focal lengths except maybe in the ultra long telephoto area.  There are also a lot of third party lenses that will fit the Fuji X Series cameras with and without adapters.  One new lens that I recently tested that comes in X Mount is the Viltrox 85mm f1.8 STM.  Factoring in the crop factor from the Fuji’s APS-C sensor, and this lens becomes a 127.5mm equivalent.  This focal length is similar to Fujifilm’s own XF 90mm f2.  However, price wise, the XF 90mm retails for $949 where as the Viltrox retails for just $379.  That’s a huge difference, and oh, by the way, the Viltrox is autofocus as well :).  So, it does seem like this would make a great alternative for those looking for a longer telephoto that’s much more affordable, right?  Let’s take a closer look at it. [continue reading…]

Fujifilm XF 16mm f2.8 R WR Review: Tiny Powerhouse of a Lens

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Fujifilm XF 16mm f2.8 R WR Review: Tiny Powerhouse of a Lens

The 24mm focal length is popular because it’s versatile.  It can be used for cityscape or landscape, for street photography to even environmental portraiture.  It’s also a great everyday lens for some.  For a long time, Fujifilm’s 24mm equivalent was the 16mm f1.4, which is a superb lens but because of the f1.4 large aperture, it’s not only expensive, it’s also relatively large.  Some users just don’t need the f1.4 aperture, especially for a focal length that is used in areas of photography that, sometimes, can favor a larger depth of field.  I, for one, don’t even shoot a 35mm lens at wide open aperture that much let alone a 24mm (or in this case, a 24mm equivalent).  So, Fujifilm released the XF 16mm f2.8 R WR lens, which is not only much more compact but at the price of $399, it’s also a lot cheaper.  Let’s take a closer look. [continue reading…]