The Best Fujifilm Lenses After 4 Years of Trial & Error

Head to www.squarespace.com/romanfox to save 10% off your first purchase.
After nearly 5 years of using Fujifilm gear and trying almost all the lenses, I have shared what I believe is the best kit to do everything you need.
PRESETS, BOOKS, GUIDES & PRINTS:
www.snapsbyfox.com/shop
NEWSLETTER:
www.snapsbyfox.com/newsletter
FIND ME ON:
Vero: vero.co/snapsbyfox
Twitter: / snapsbyfox
Instagram: / snapsbyfox
BLOG:
www.snapsbyfox.com/blog
GEAR I USE:
Photo Camera: geni.us/y65Uxd
Video Camera: geni.us/0nQiAl
POV / Vlog Camera: geni.us/z8fbt
Travel Zoom Lens: geni.us/8dL3z
Wide Prime: geni.us/74FIN
Medium Prime: geni.us/Gxubw
Telephoto Zoom: geni.us/jnDL0oe
Ultra Wide Zoom: geni.us/ohXtZ
Computer: geni.us/MzRAw & geni.us/3i355m
Everyday Bag: geni.us/uKDyJk2 or geni.us/69tId
Travel Bag: geni.us/5h5l3YN or geni.us/iArcP
Full list of everything I own: www.snapsbyfox.com/my-gear
*Affiliate links - doesn’t cost you any extra & I get a small % to support me*
WHERE I GET MUSIC & SOUND EFFECTS:
share.epidemicsound.com/NbcpZ
*Epidemic Sound affiliate link - you get a free trial & I get a small % to support me*
CONTACT ME ON:
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.snapsbyfox.com
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
00:32 - Scope
01:53 - Lenses
09:20 - Street
10:46 - Minimal Travel
11:54 - Landscape / Cityscape
12:38 - Video
13:33 - Accessories
14:13 - Cheaper Alternatives

[@MikePGuitars]

Let’s all take a moment to appreciate this guy not always pushing every new body and every new lens or switching systems twice a year just for the clicks…

[@snapsbyfox]

changing systems is just pointless once you're invested. The way I see it, if I have to go to let's say Sony because my Fuji XT4 / XH2 can't do something, the camera is not the issue, I'm the issue lol. However I did pick up the XH2s and will get the XT5... but they are work tools so I can justify it

[@JoaquimGonsalves]

Ikr!

[@francissosing]

Amen

[@chromaticvisuelle]

@@snapsbyfox I disagree, its a pain in the ass to sell everything, but I really enjoyed my journey from Nikon to Sony and finally Fuji. Thinking of going back to Nikon, I found my xt2 lacking in some areas, the Z lenses and Z6ii are very tempting, or back to Sony with a used a7riii/a7iii.

[@Milchknirps]

@@chromaticvisuelle i dont't get it (may be its because i am not a native english speaker?!). Do i understand you right: You are saying, selling a System to invest in another is just shit, because your wasting a lot of money and getting every piece slled took some time and effort? And do you also consider to do it anyway because a Nikon Z can do any tiny bit better than you Fuji Cam? Man... that doesn't make much sense for me. Switching a System at one Point does not make sense. You have to invest Money, to get your Gear back. You have to take some time to learn your new Camera AND System. Sometimes i believe Switching Camera-Systems is the hobby. Not taking Photos ;-)

[@thesestillmoments]

I have been waiting for this video! You’ve made some in the past but have been wanting an updated one! Awesome as always! Thank you!

[@felixdachhauser5864]

Dear Roman, I just want you to know that I really enjoy your informative, relaxed and honest videos. I am a real perfectionist and I do care about the smallest details. However, there is something special about your chilled style and your overall approach to produce your videos. Keep on going!

[@youssefhamidi8152]

My fav one has been the original 23mm 1.4. Every portrait Ive done has such beautiful sharpness and bokeh. Its not sterile sharp but just the right amount that creates some magic in my pictures.

[@brianscoffield584]

You have grown on me over the last couple of weeks. Intelligent comments and your pictures speak for themselves. Many thanks.

[@ZNMKD]

Amazing video. Love the approach. Straightforward, easy to follow. No unnecessary drama. Thanks!

[@JoaquimGonsalves]

Thank you so much for the recommendations! I have the 18-55, 55-200, 23/35 f/2 versions and the old 56 1.2. Just did a run and gun shoot today with the XH2S and the 23/35/56 in places where we weren't exactly sure of the rules but were precisely the locations we wanted. In the end not only was my kit light and small enough to fit in one of the tiny ThinkTank Mirrorless mover bags(btw I highly recommend this bag for one man bands using the smaller Fuji glass. It's incredibly versatile even as a small audio gear bag) but we were able to get excellent results with just that, a couple of costume changes and finding every angle that worked for our goals on this shoot. The client was super happy and it also helped that he was very clear on what he wanted. I shoot photo and video and while for events I do sometimes find the f/2 lenses not bright enough(or even the 18-55 not bright enough) with flashes the results are more than sufficient especially considering I don't yet do this full time.

[@bryannguyen1980]

just got my 16-80 f4 couple weeks ago, and that lens has been my main one for basically everything. street, portrait, etc. contant f4 (not the widest but it does the job), wide range for focal, it basically fit in everything, and not that heavy so i can carry it everywhere. cant express how much im loving it

[@jedcurtis4109]

Cheers for the vid mate. Just went on a family holiday to Croatia with the 16 1.4, 35 1.4 and 55-200. Usage was 80% 35mm, 10% 16mm and 5% 55-200. Realized halfway through the trip that I could basically leave the 16 & 55-200 at home. Your idea of 16-55 and the 33 1.4 is a good shout for traveling. 👌

[@JosefFoti]

I really like your lens choice and I think your kit is as minimal as possible for how much it covers. I shoot quite a lot of portraits, events, weddings (I'm just getting into it), so I definitely shoot much more with primes but in general, if you divide your lens collection into kits for different purposes like you did in the video, it makes perfect sense. I also appreciate your point that you want your lenses to serve multiple purposes. That's really important for me as well.

[@StillSawyerPhotography]

You’re the man, I’ve been planning my switch from Sony to Fuji for the last couple weeks. Got my body choice down and now I need to choose my lenses. Thank you for this 🙏🏻

[@tomleo4670]

Hi Roman, thanks for this informative video! I do mostly landscape, a bit cityscape and a bit wildlife.. and I appreciate while hiking or walking longer distances the „cheaper“ but also much lighter options you mentioned at the end of your review, so I go with the 16-80mm f4 and the 70-300mm plus I toss in my bag the new 23mm f,4 WR, which I love.. great for close-up and low light as well as corner to corner sharp landscape shots.

[@craigcarlson4022]

Agreed. I am considering getting back into the Fuji system. And decisions about which lenses to consider are at the top of my list. I have a rental of the 16-55 arriving in two days so i can see for myself how it does. Thanks much for ALL your videos about lenses, and on how to choose one model cam over another.

[@callending]

Thank you for the end-piece on substitutions. Pros might share your preferences in the first segment, but it's great to see you included the more general purpose lenses for the rest of us.

[@bill3117]

Great choices on the lenses!!! I own the 16-55mm, and the 50-140mm and I love them. Thank you for opening my eyes on alternatives or additions!

[@aniketbhagat2425]

What an absolutely informative video. I personally use the 27mm for my everyday and street shots, 70-300 for tele and 18-135 for the all-in-one travel. And for those ultra wide landscapes and architecture, I keep a manual 12mm Samyang handy.

[@japanphotoexplore]

Great summary, Roman. I got the 16-55mm in 2015, shortly after it was released and its been the backbone of my business. I love the 50-140mm, for anything from head shots to concerts to landscapes. Image quality is incredible for a zoom lens.

[@ivardahl-larsen]

I have photographed with all kinds of cameras from 1969 until now and love Fuji as well as my trusted Pentaxes. But I have to admit that Fuji amazes me and I have two of them. Very nice the way you explained your ways of using your lenses and why. Well done young man, albeit I tend to use prime predominantly for my work except when wild life is to far away, amongst humans and nature's own specimens!👍

[@Deetroiter]

I’m a devoted Pentaxian as well but the excellence of these Fuji cameras cannot be denied. I’m a huge fan of the xpro 3

[@Kingjay814]

This kit is close to mine kind of. I use the 16-55 as main lens for almost everything. It's the one lens I don't leave behind and would he my one single lens if I had to get rid of everything else. The funny thing is that I use all of the cheaper alternatives that you suggest instead of your main picks. I love the thought process and explanation of each pick.

[@nevvanclarke9225]

I've only just started in the Fuji system literally as of today. I bought a Fuji film camera and I will actually start with the kit lens. I'm a pretty good photographer so I'll make that work for awhile. I have a heap of other camera gear that I can use for all sorts of different photography, but the reason I got into the Fuji system was simplicity. And just being able to go back out and shoot for fun.

[@aiv86]

Hi Roman thank for sharing, you have a great setup! I have used many lenses, but finally stop at this: 10-24/4, 33/1.4, 56/1.2. For many years I loved the wide angle a lot, and it was difficult for me to find scenes and compositions for mid and mid-telephoto, so I decided to shot for a month or so exclusively with 33/1.4 (usually I shoot street photos for a hobby). It was a hard task at start, but the more I shot, the more nice shots I got. And now my mindset changed a lot. I really fell in love with 33 perspective and a little compression it gives. Now this is my everyday lens) Although 10-24 & 56/1.2 are also great, love them too)

[@VinodSharmatelco_pro]

You are best man !!! . I have seen almost 200 videos over the year but no one explain better and the best part is you dont push

[@MartinKayStaff]

18-135mm is my main lens I walk around with. It covers 80% of what I do. It really is an affordable, tank of a lens that covers a lot of ground.

[@chriscoxdp]

Hi Roman, been lucky enough to spend 4 months in Norway. The thing I really found is a longer lens from about 35mm - 100mm on fuji is really nice to show the scale of the mountains. Really creates a towering feeling where as using a wider lens means it's not nearly the same. My 23mm makes the mountains not feel nearly as impressive.

[@bonedyone]

Roman, Thanks I needed this to justify my purchases to feel better about myself.

[@karlivanr]

Thank you so much for including the "cheaper alternatives" section of the video... shows that you care about the viewers. Have a good day

[@ho335o]

In my recent trip to New York, i brought the XT-3 with 16-80 f4, Viltrox 33 f1.4 and the X100v. XT-3 with 16-80 was what I used most of the time, along with X100v for night shots and more discreet street photography. Although, i didnt have much time to familiarize myself with the Viltrox before the trip.

[@Deminimis2]

I had the 10-24 (old one) which was one of my favorite lens, the 16-50 and the 50-140. It was the 50-140 which kind of drew me to the Fuji system. Compared to full frame I just preferred the size and weight. Not to mention the quality of those lens did not disappoint. Still I have always liked small cameras and small lens. I found myself using my smaller lens and cameras. So I decided to go with a smaller setup. I sold those huge lens and am now with the 23mm f2, 50mm f2, 27mm f2.8, 65mm macro f2.5 (Laowa), and the 70-300mm (I just wanted more reach). This what I go with for now but may add a 1.4 lens for low light stuff. But this for me is what I settled on for now. The only lens I miss is the 10-24. I could use a wider angle than what I have now. I have an XS-10 and an XE-3. The 27 stays on the XE-3. I just mix and match the other lens based upon what I need for different occasions. Take my camera out see what lens I use and then the next time just bring the lens that I do use. Just makes for a smaller lighter kit that I really like. It works for me. I am kind of glad that I got rid of stuff that I didn’t use. Glad that I got rid of my gas. It really took a while tho.

[@franciscranfield2051]

Good video and thank you for posting and I agree with all you say. When it comes to alternatives I would also suggest that the 18mm F2 original lens is an excellent performer. This lens for some reason gets a bad press but I have found it to be a great lens and easily can perform at a virtually indistinguishable level from the bigger and wider aperture primes. The 18-55 kit lens is also a great performer BUT only up to about 50mm - at 55mm its getting a bit soft - 18mm end though is superb. Another much overlooked Fuji lens is the 18-135mm, which is a great travel lens - built in stabilisation and weather sealed. I took this one lens on a road trip around the American West and the pictures were absolutely amazing from it and the X-T1. Basically I think that any XF Fuji lens will be more than 99% of users and it often comes down to personal preference as to size and aperture - final image wise to me they are all fantastic performers. Like you I own nearly all the Fuji XF lenses so I come from a position of use as a press photographer and heavy user of them and XT and X-Pro Fuji cameras. Regards.

[@Chrizzowski]

Some solid advice in there! More of a prime guy so I'm 16/1.4 - 33/1.4 - 56/1.2 and 70-300 for anything else. I shoot everything from landscape to street, weddings, snowboarding, climbing, architecture ... bit of everything really. A combination of two or three of those typically has me covered.

[@shivamkharwal3477]

Hi Roman, great informational video as always! I just got a Fuji XS10 in March this year and I've been using the XF 18-55 kit lens since then. Been planning to get a prime now but I think the 18-55 is a brilliant starting lens. The video quality is pretty damn amazing for a kit lens.

[@snapsbyfox]

yeah it is very good optically. It's just such a shame it's not weather sealed. If it was it would be perfect

[@alteki]

The Fujifilm XF18-55mm is perhaps the best kitlens available. Check the review on the channel of Christopher Frost: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6urhomfa7-Zpqc Cheers.

[@kennywitham]

I got the same camera but with the 16-80mm kit. Really loving that one too but it is a bit heavy for the X-S10 and not the sharpest Fuji lens. Excellent travel lense though as it covers every focal length you would ever want! Considering getting the 18-55 though as well for something a bit lighter.

[@ourhouseuk]

Great video with a very practical approach. Lovely work too

[@sorenmelchior]

As a landscape, portrait, & architecture photographer I use many lenses depending on my needs. For primes my 16 1.4 is a staple that’s on my camera the most. For portrait prime it’s the 50 f1.0, I also use the 80mm 2.8 Macro in some cases. I have a 35 f2.0, but honestly I never use it. For zooms the 8-16 f2.8 with the Lee 150mm filter system (yes, one can use filters with this lens if you don’t mind the bulk and high price tag). Next is the 55-140 f2.8 for portraits and landscape work. I also use the 100-400 with 1.4 extender for some work. For fun I just picked up a non Fuji fisheye (7artisans 4mm f2.8) to test and play around with. But with that lens, I need to mount the lens on a support or I get the fingers holding the camera in the image.

[@DebiSenGupta]

Thanks. Many videos cover the tech aspect of lenses. But few cover the practical use. Great video

[@user-pq3oq2nq2h]

Thanks Roman as always you make me think out the box, the 10-24mm looked very interesting to myself I would love to try it out, and I would like a good 1.4 lens for night time low light. Your kit seems to cover a large range of work and looks good to do the jobs you have lined up for them, good luck to you and thanks for your help.......

[@mattlikesplants]

This was really helpful. Thank you!

[@Beliroz]

I recently went to England and at first I only had the 35 f1.4, which really made me think outside of the box when walking around in the tight churches and streets. Then I bought a 10-24 to make it easier to document, which it absolutely did. I used the 10-24 for most of the trip, but in hindsight I enjoyed using the 35 more than the 10-24, and I personally think the 35 images was better, they’re more interesting.

[@snapsbyfox]

nice! yeah the 35 is special

[@powerlurker]

same i bring a zoom and a 35，find out using 35 most of the time

[@ryansadler2687]

Solid video mate! Super informational

[@rjohnbernales]

Thanks Roman. I like your thought process and appreciate this video. I don’t do this for a living so I like to keep it light with the xf27 and another small lens. I’m an older weak guy so I can’t be lugging around a lot of heavy gear.

[@OekologiskSmoer]

For me fast aperture primes are key. That is how you get results that stand out from iPhone photos. Even the faster f2.8 zooms are just not fast enough. From Fuji I’ve gone for 16mm f1.4, 27mm pancake and 56mm 1.2 - and 12mm f2 from rokinon. These cover almost all scenarios. However for light travel/nature I sometimes revert to zooms - 18-55mm and 55-200mm. Tiny setup for a huge range when I don’t care as much about shallow depth of field or light gathering. Love this relative small Fuji setup that covers everything I’d want to shoot.

[@joao.s.cardoso]

Nice video Roman. I got recently a 18-135 second hand and I'm strongly considering selling the 18-55 and the 55-200 because of that. Its a nice lens, not the best when it comes to sharpness but for that I prefer to use the primes anyway. I dont think you mentioned this one, but being WR, LM and OIS i do like to use it with the X-T4.

[@rajkamal.achanta]

Bless you bro.. thank you so much for this video.. I'm on a budget and i didn't know what lens to buy .

[@FussellFilms23]

Thank you for this video I will be getting a Fuji camera soon and not knowing much about the lens options apart from Fuji lens are good this has helped me narrow down the lens I need and are at the right price.

[@jaredcollins-photo]

I'm so glad you mentioned the 16-80mm F4 as a cheaper alternative that you'd recommend. I've had my eye on it for a few weeks now and I'm seriously considering purchasing it!

[@chriscard6544]

I really appreciate the honesty here

[@wilfs1196]

Excellent & informative as usual Roman. Just the facts, no b.s. Using an X-T3 , with my every day lens 18-55. I have a 35 f2, rarely used, my fault. Have the new 23 1.4, need to use it more , & the 70-300 which I use a lot in the winter. Have a relatively new X-E4, great for my travel plans which have tanked again. I am wanting the 16-55, but on a retiree’s pension , the 16-80 makes more sense, …. But I am only going around once. Will try to unload my infrequently used gear to justify the 16-55. The best laid plans of mice & men…………Keep the videos coming!

[@jonathanfostr]

Fantastic video as usual! You make great gear vids despite you hating them 😅 Can’t wait to hear more about how the xh2s is going 👌

[@treharris1677]

Excellent video! Thank you!! I take 2 x 2 week vacations per year (Japan, Indonesia, Australia, NZ, etc) and I've been planning southern Spain in February. I think a one camera body and 2 lens setup of 18mm and 33mm will work fine. Your video helped me clarify my thoughts. In Japan a few weeks ago my zoom lens got stuck at f22! My backup lens was the 60mm/f2.4 and it did well. I think one thing I might add for travel, when one may not have access to camera shops, is to have a backup lens and a backup camera body. I'm leaning toward carrying the X70 as my backup since it's light and has the focal length I tend to favor.

[@toomanyhobbies400]

After aquiring an APS-C body, I selected the Sigma 19mm F2.8 for my wide prime. It was small and affordable and kept the kit easy to handle. Later I moved up to the Sigma 16mm F1.4. Yes it was much larger and heavier, but I was surprised how easy it was to handle. By choking up on the lens I was able to perfectly balance the lens and body combo. This took the stress off my right hand, which only had to release the shutter while providing some stabilization. With the 16mm I gave away the small light kit, but it proved easy to handle the larger lens. I also gained more depth of field options and better low light performance. So perhaps renting two or three lenses and trying them out before you buy could help you decide which suits your needs best.

[@joshuachubbphotography]

My primary kit is Sony but I use Fuji for family and vacations. I use the 18mm f2 and 35mm 1.4. Both are small, have the same filter size, and oem square hoods.

[@maddhendrix]

As a hobby shooter, I've found my happy place with two primes. The 23 1.4 and the 56 1.4. I have the 35 f2 and that is a great little lense, but honestly the 56 basically lives on my camera.

[@milesharbord9339]

Think you mean 56 mm 1.2 ✌️

[@enigmabletchley6936]

Interesting selection. I do some pro work and for me the 10-24 is indispensable. I have used the 8-16 but I found the corners were very soft which put me off owning it. The next best lens I use all the time is the 18/1.4. If there is one prime I would keep it is this. You left out two interesting lenses. Imho, the XF80f2.8 is the best lens Fuji makes in terms of image quality. I use it as my first preference for any object shots. Even wide open it is sharp edge to edge and the colour draw is delicious. The other lens I acquired on a whim, just for kicks, is the XF56f1.2. This lens really challenges you to think of applications. If you are looking for the fun part of photography, this is the lens, imho. I completely agree with your assessment of all the other lenses, especially the 50-140. For a time I shot that side by side with the GFX50R+GF35-100 (an amazing lens, btw) and honestly, I thought the results on my X-T4+XF50-140 were better, or at least, those are the ones I gave the client. As I like to say to people: Fuji don't know how to make a bad lens, so choosing any Fuji lens should always be a great choice.

[@terrytracey3486]

I’ve different setups for certain times. I didn’t purchase the Fuji heavier lenses as I have them covered with my Nikon D850. So I was looking for something lighter. For landscape & hiking XT-4 10-24 f4 II, 16-80 f4, 70-300, everything cover and comfortable to walk with. For during the day walking the streets with no bag. XPro 2 23 f2, 35 f2 with 2 spare batteries and spare memory card. Walking streets at night XT-4, 23 f1.4 Lm and 18 f1.4 Lm. I didn’t really need these lenses but these were bought second with receipts, 3 months old and I saved €600 on both. Hard to refuse with GAS issues. Thanks Roman love the videos.

[@mercerna]

I haven't tried too many Fuji lenses yet, but I can certainly vouch for 16 f2.8 - it's quite cheap compared to the average, pretty wide for street/casual event/landscape, very light. It's been my default lens for a bit and I love it. Now, I still want to try the 16-55 because I do need a zoom lens, but I am planning on keeping that 16 just because it's so compact and light, plus you can get it in silver (which imo makes it less conspicuous if you are concerned about that). I do also plan to get the X-Pro4 when that comes out, and it will likely be my go-to lens for that camera. Another lens I had for a while is the new(ish) 23 f1.4 WR, and it's also really sharp and wide, although I might end up using it a lot less when I have a zoom. Will likely use it for astrophotography and poor lighting conditions to leverage that wide aperture. I did an after dusk event with those 2 lenses and was very pleased with the results. It was a bit difficult to freeze motion, but honestly that would probably require a flash or a counterproductive ISO, and I liked the blurry effect it had on motion and I still did get a lot of sharp photos.

[@dirkstadil8621]

I think you pritty much nailed it with your kit. Thanks for the work. I personally (no professional) like the Viltrox 13mm 1.4 for ultrawide (love the approx 20mm and the bright aperture), but I don't think, it would survive a rainstorm.

[@josephnash3015]

As a New-To-Me XT-1, I found this video very informative. I liked how you showed the priciest glass performs and how you use it. But then move on to say that these other lenses will work just as well for the budget minded.

[@jefforz807]

I have 16-80/F4 as the main/travel lens, paired with 23/F2 for streets. When I know I need further reach, I take 70-300/F4, and bring along 23/F2 and 56/1.2 to replace the 16-80/F4.

[@svaphrodite]

Interesting, thank you. Rather than the 33mm prime, I went with the 27mm pancake because that makes my XT2 a pocket camera, at least with my travel vest, and it's much less conspicuous than a big prime. IOW, it doesn't make me stand out. I like that, especially in places where tourists, especially American, may not receive the warmest welcome. BTW, I love Istanbul so I love seeing your shots. And now, at 75, I find I really like light weight gear! My travel combo is a 14mm Fuji, the 27mm, the 18-55 f/4 to 5.6 and a 16mm extension tube and/or Raynox DCR-250 Super Macro Snap-On Lens, and, of course, a CPL. I'm seriously thinking of getting a variable ND for running water shots. Thanks again!

[@TimvanderLeeuw]

My favourite Fuji zoom lenses are the 50-140mm f/2.8 and the 70-300mm. Both are fantastic. The 50-140mm is great in many circumstances. Fast aperture, fast and confident AF. Really nice lens for taking candid portraits of people across the room. The 70-300mm was not an instant-love for me but I've learned to really appreciate it for its combination of light weight, reach, and reasonably-close-focus and good AF. I can zoom quite some distance, I can also focus one nearby flying insects and shoot them in decent detail and good working distance. Primes, my favourites would be the 16mm f/1.4 and 80mm f/2.8 macro. None-Fuji primes that I love on my Fuji system are the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 and Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2x macro.

[@antonioferraro1807]

That's a very useful and honest video. Thanks.

[@SafeBeatzOfficial]

I've got the 33, 10-24, 16-80 and the 80mm f2.8 just for shits and giggles (and macro). Works pretty well for me. Might get the 50-140 or even 150-600 if it ever makes sense. Good video Roman!

[@MitchWebb94]

I've got the 33mm 1.4, 70-300mm and the 18-55 kit lens. If I had to make any changes, it would be to get rid of the 18-55 and just have a 16 or 18mm prime. Great video Roman!

[@tjkrueger2655]

Can't speak to the 18 and 33, but you nailed it with the 16-55 and 50-140... they're two of Fuji's best zooms, and never feel sterile in their utility.

[@lewis7394]

Of the new fast primes, I considered the 18 and 33 but ended up getting the 23 and 56. The new 56 still doesnt have a LM for some reason but I love the focal length too much to switch 😜 Thanks for the info!!

[@philipcooper8297]

I got the Fujinon xf 18-135mm as my first versatile ''super'' zoom lens, then sold it and then bought it again. These days the xf 18-135mm pretty much stays glued to my X-T30. Sure, it's an older design lens and sure it's not the sharpest Fujinon lens either, but it is so versatile. The OIS helps with the slower aperture, I mean 1/30ss handheld shots even at the telephoto end are possible, and when stopped down to f/7 - f/9 at anything between like 23mm and 110mm my copy of the lens produces corner to corner sharp images (26mpx x-trans IV). The only prime lens that I kept is the xf 35mm f/2 and that for sure is a tad sharper, it's definitely faster, but at the same time, I'm just too used to have the wide range ''super'' zoom lens on the camera. I'm a hobby photographer.

[@Metalfreakz17]

my favorite lens in general is the 50-140. but I think after that my most used lens is the 23mmf2. I also have the 50mmf2 but I tend to use it only for more close up pictures or if I want to travel light without the 50-140 and still have a small bit of reach.

[@proksalevente]

Based on this, I'm going to get a 24-70 f2.8 for my full frame body, add my favorite prime, probably 35 1.4 and get a 70-200. I don't really like and/or have the budget for an UWA zoom yet. This video was really helpful to me, I could see that my plans are indeed decent. Cheers!

[@ScottClintonPhotography]

As a fellow pro-shooter and x-series user, I agreed with most of your comments. For me, the 16-55 and 50-140 are my workhorses... Something I never thought I would say as traditionally I loathe zooms. I find the 8-16 to be too prone to flaring and opted for the 10-24 instead. I have rented the Fujifilm fast primes in the past, but found their performance somewhat lackluster compared to my Canon L-series primes which I adapt to Fuji. I do love the 23f2 as my go-to travel lens along with the Samyang/Rokinon 12mm f2. Recently I picked up a 16-80 which I am looking forward to using as a travel option. I am intrigued by the 27mm f2.8, but have not tried it. Cheers!

[@pteriss]

I mostly shoot events and at the moment I have an X-T20 with the 33 1.4 and my X-T3 with the original 56 1.2. Lovely combo.

[@mikefoster6018]

I'm still overjoyed with my 16-55mm combo with my X-T4 after months. It's very flexible and I also love how it's pushed me to stop going even faster than f2.8, as I was getting into a lazy habit of taking f1.2-f2 photos (on a prime) that were failing to nicely capture scenes. If I think I need the higher power for fading light, or if I think I'll want nice subject separation, I'll pack the f1.2 56mm, f2.8 16-55mm and X-T4 together on the street - but if I'm doing a lot of walking I'll usually leave the f1.2 at home to save weight.

[@singletrack29349]

I have two kits. For weddings and portraits: XH2 ~ 18/23/33 f1.4 50 f1. My daily carry/travel (and wedding back up) XT5 ~ 23/50 f2.

[@thelegendrubyrodd]

I roll with the 18-55 and the 35f2. With an Xt4. For what i do it does work very well however I have been wondering about the other choices so this video came in at the right time.

[@MeAMuse]

I think in general people should start with a standard zoom (ideally an F2.8... but kit will do), then you add a prime (most people will get a 50mm FF due to how cheap they are)... but generally I would advise this to be a lens that you easily visualize or that you have a common use for. I started with a 50mm FF eq... but quickly preferred 35mm.... these days I am experimenting with 28mm... Some people may prefer portraits as a focus and go for 85mm-115mm as their first prime... but the point is to choose a lens that limits you - while focusing you on subjects you love (could be a macro for flowers like my Mrs). After that... go wide and/or long... typically zooms.... but there are exceptions for wildlife or video shooters. In the end most people will end up with 3 zooms (wide, mid and tele) and some primes for the most common things you shoot. I also have a 24-240mm... and yes it is bad quality.... but man... hiking, travel, or location scouting.... it makes sense. There are always excuses to buy/try new/different gear.

[@joostverpoort]

Hi Roman, besides my 24-105 (on Lumix S5) I'm using some vintage lenses, 35mm f2.5, 55mm f1.2 and a 200mm f4. My wallet is very happy with this setup and I'm as well. Especially for street a manual lens is perfect, set to 5.6 and auto ISO and you manual focus easily with focus peaking. The three lenses cost me euro 215,- total. It doesn't have to be expensive.....but I'm Dutch....that's why I assume!

[@lawrencehorowitz9291]

Very well done video! I am not a professional and prefer lighter kit. My #1 choice for travel and street work is the 23f2 mounted on an Xpro2. I use the 50mm f2 on the rare occasion when I need a tighter crop.

[@snapsbyfox]

that's a classic combo!!

[@mamu5773]

I'm using the X-E4 with the 23 f2 for everyday stuff/dad cam. The 16-55 f2.8 for travel + circumstances in which I do not know which focal length would be best. 70-300 f4-f5.6 also for travel. The Samyang 12 f2 manual lens for super wide (but barely use this and it's on ebay at the moment 😁)

[@gam3955]

Thanks for sharing your camera and lenses, very interesting. On my X-H2, I use the 16-55 and the 90mm f2 (the one you’ve not mentioned) and on my X-E4, the 27mm and the 18-55mm f2,8-4

[@martinhendry]

Great vid cheers Roman

[@RalfSommerfeld]

Thanks for your helpful and great videos, greetz from Germany

[@chrismiller4863]

Good review. I definitely love the new 18 and 33 primes. I also travel with the 16-55 and 70-300. I brought the 10-24 as well and prefer it over the 8-16 but it doesn’t get a ton of use so I may sell it. I think about viltrox 13 for when I need just a bit wider or if I do astro but I don’t know that I do that enough to warrant the lens. I also still keep the old 56 for potraits. You are making me wonder if the 50-140 with a 2x would be a better option though.

[@martinskeidans7822]

Nice vid! I have found one lense, that has turned out to be one of my favourite- Pergear 25 1.8. It is by no means optically good, but somehow I enjoy the output.. there's something about it.

[@Kevodabomb_Media]

I really enjoy using the new 10-24, I love the wide angle look and being able to capture a whole building standing not far away. I’m debating selling my 35mm 1.4 to get the 33mm 1.4 since i shoot more video now a days. Going to Europe next year for a good while for the first time and am still trying to figure out my kit, but so far thinking it’ll be the 10-24 (to cover most of my daytime use age) the 33mm 1.4 (for specific shots and night street photography, etc) and the XC 50-230 just in case I need more reach somewhere.

[@justinhofmann2599]

Hi Roman, Crazy, this is pretty much exactly the same as my kit, except I have the 16 F1.4 instead of the 18! and T5 not H2. What you said is pretty much spot on and consistent with my experience with those lenses! I love the snappy fast response and 3D like render of the 33, totally agree the 50-140 is unique, and when you can make it work for that scene it is an absolute treat to use. 16-55 certainly has a unique character to it, definitely plenty sharp, just a smidge sharper than the 18-55, and 16-80 (not there's anything wrong with those lenses, they are both superb also) but it's just that unique marvellous render you mention is what distincts this lens. There's also the fact that both the longer red badge lenses you mentioned also just perform so consistently strong throughout both the aperture and zoom range (well to F16). The 8-16, I love the perspective, but I know I need to be extra aware of the direction of passing light as the bulbous front element can be unforgiving. I'll further add to the build quality of the 16-55 reflecting on my own recent stupid clumsiness where I accidentally let this lens slip through my fingers (detached from the body thankfully) from a height bit over a metre onto a timber floor!, it even bounced possibly as much as half a foot! My heart skipped a beat, I nearly started crying until took the lens cap and rear cap off only to discover no cracks or damage visually followed by a camera test to confirm not one indication of damage whatsoever. This personal experience is my testament to the absolute indestructible build quality of this lens!

[@jaspervos4345]

Perfect video!!! And wow, your 33mm pics are amazing!!! It makes me want a 33mm!!! (probably gonna start with a Viltrox)

[@Johnny.senpai]

I've got the 33mm 1.4 and the 50-140mm paired with the XT4 and they're all I need. Both lenses are tack sharp and cover majority of the scenarios I find myself in. The 18mm is definitely on my list but will keep my kit as is, to avoid over cumber myself with an extra lens in my bag. Ideally would love a new lens from Fuji with internal zooming and weather resistance so I can have a one lens one body travel kit.

[@itonuoro3813]

Thank you for this interesting video! I have a Fujifim 18-55 1:2,8 lens and what disturbed me was, that over the time the autofocus-motor got slower and slower. A quick shot is impossible now. So I replaced the lens by a 35 mm prime lens from fujifilm, and this lens focusses as fast as lightning and delivers razor-sharp photos. To my experience, this prime lens is a much better lens than the varifocal lens, because it is so lightweight, fast and sharp. And I have learned, I don't miss the wide range of focal lengths, the low weight of the camera is much more important for me. When I carry it around with me the whole day, it does not become uncomfortable. A camera with a wide focal length is useless, when it is laying at home, because you do not want to take it out with you due to its weight.

[@p3rrypm]

So, my go to lenses are currently the 50 F/1, 35 F/1.4, and 16-55. I’ll use these for just about every type of shooting you can imagine and the scenarios where I can’t, I’ll go with the 150-600 as that will pretty much take care of every type of shooting I could ask for, but I might budget for a 30 Macro in the future in the hopes that I can then do everything I need with this kit.

[@TheSgyro]

Great video 😁.. The alternatives are prolly all I need😄

[@ruudmaas2480]

Only use one lens on every outing. Myself most of the time I only use the 35mm f2 for my woodland photography. I do take the 50mm f2 with me but this lens is mostly used for portrait work. I do not worry about shots I do miss because of the limitations of the focal length. I focus on the images I do get with the focal length in use.😁 If necessary and possible I zoom with my feet👍👍

[@bloomylicious]

Very excited to be getting the 27mm f2.8 for crimbo. I am a complete amateur with an X-T30, and I mostly use my camera for photos of friends and family. I think what you said early in the video was very important, different people have different requirements depending on their budget and what they do with their gear.

[@snapsbyfox]

that's a great set up!

[@venom2k2]

Enjoy the lens! I bought the old version and before I actually got it I was unsure if I really needed it. Turns out this lens is fantastic and the size and weight are such a big plus. I love this little gem!

[@bloomylicious]

@@venom2k2 that's what I'm looking forward to most, I know there are better lenses but just to have that small lightweight lens that doesn't stand out too much should be great.

[@smh988]

I've got mostly the same lenses, and, what is most interesting to me is that my experience pretty much mirrors yours, including: 'not quite as sharp' (16-55 f2.8 - and why I sold it); 'super-sharp' (50-140 - use this lens more than I every figured I would); stupidly-too-loose aperture ring that moves way too easily (35mm f1.4). etc... After decades of waffling/trading/using various brands -and foolishly loosing a minor fortune- I realized the Fuji ecosystem to be most compelling. For reasons that everybody talks about, but, also reasons adjacent and peripherical, not the least of which is an apparent willingness of corporate to actually listen to their customers.

[@Cornbeefhole]

When lockdown was lifted in the UK, we travelled to Venice in February, took my X-T3 with 16mm 1.4 and 16-80mm and Samyang 8mm 2.8 all in a sling bag.

[@1inkedchick]

Great video Roman! I have an X-T4 and my go-to kit is the XF 33mm f/1.4 and the XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR. Honestly, the 18-135mm barely ever leaves my camera body. I have had amazing good fortune with this lens and it seems like this is one that kind of flies under the radar in the Fuji world. I have used this lens for everything and surprisingly it seems to excel when creating close-up detail shots (ex. leaf details in the fall).

[@paynalward6921]

I agree with you, that 18-135 is sharp! I also have the 16-55 and it's better in construction, but the 18-135 stays on the X-Pro3 and really gets a lot of use. Yet, few people seem to know about what a steal this lens is.

[@chaddonal4331]

How is it for video?

[@PhiggysDOTcom]

@@paynalward6921 I agree it’s always with me on one of my Fujifilm bodies it was the first zoom I purchased when I purchased my first X body Xpro 1 almost a decade ago. !

[@timothylinn]

Great video, Roman. I always enjoy hearing your thoughts on photography. I can definitely relate to your struggle with the hood on the 50-140. In my case, I had this problem with the XF 16-55. Before that, I had the same problem with my old EF 24-105. I wish that every lens hood used a push button release design like the XF 100-400. My experience is that hoods with this design never bind. Canon uses push button hood releases with all their RF lenses and it is awesome. One problem I _did_ have with the 50-140’s hood was keeping track of the little door. This is another thing that the XF 100-400’s hood got right.

[@PhotoRoots]

Hi Timothy (and Roman). On the 50-140 lens hood, if you start by lining up the white mark on the hood with the mark on the lens, and then try to put the hood, on it will work beautifully. For a year this frustrated me but is not a problem anymore. LOVE this lens, and the 1.4 teleconverter is great with it.

[@timothylinn]

@@PhotoRoots Thanks for the suggestion, PhotoRoots. Alignment was not my issue with the hood on the XF16-55. What I eventually learned is that I could minimize the effort by being very deliberate about where I grabbed the hood to remove it. I had to treat it like a stuck filter. Anyway, the push button release totally resolves the issue for me.

[@michelruoff3479]

On my Minolta (film camera) I use 28mm and 50mm (both fullframe of course) and I love it. The 28 is for landscape, cities and everything. And the 50 is the same, but also for portraits. Love this combo! But zoom lenses from the 90s or 80s are crap. On my XT2 I use the XF23 and the XF55-200 and it’s a great combo. I had the 18-55 but it was not sharp. I‘m not a pixel peeper but it was not good, even if you didn’t zoom in. I like a small combo so the 23 is perfect. I‘m thinking about the 12mm Samyang for Astro and landscape.

[@IchBinDerJesko]

I just bought a used x-t3 with the 18-55mm kit. I’m coming from a a6000 which I truly loved but I expect a huge upgrade. For the future I’m definitely planing on buying either the 23mm f2 or the 35mm f2 (the 33mm f1.4 would be awesome for sure but is out of my price range right now…). I’m not quite sure yet if I’ll keep the 18-55 later on or I might swap it out for the 16-80 f4. We’ll see. Great video, thanks for sharing 🙏

[@gordonbrown5901]

Thanks for the invitation for us to share what we use. For urban environments I'll bring the 18-55 zoom and either the 27mm or 35mm 1.4, depending on lighting. For more open areas I'll use the 16-80 instead of the 18-55. For a 'go light' outing it's either the 27mm only or my X100F. Thank you..

[@briii3752]

I know it is quite a high aperture at 18mm with 3.5 i guess but the Tamron 18-300mm can take on everything even though it might not be as clear as you as a professional might want to it serves great for beginners to semi profs. Especially considering the wide range is huge for that little money.

[@SHI-ts5cl]

My favorite three lenses are in order the 35/1.4, 50-140/2.8, and 23/1.4. The 60/2.4 is also very sharp, and the 14/2.8 is quite spectacular.

[@anthonystonehouse]

I’ve also bought and sold most Fuji lenses but ended up with a slightly different (though similar) set of lenses. I never went with the zooms you have as always thought they were too big and heavy for travel, maybe I should reconsider. I ended up with the 23 1.4 WR, 33 1.4, 35 2 (when I need to be more discreet), 56 1.2, 16-80 and 50-230.