Which Fuji Prime Lens Should You Buy? COMPLETE BUYING GUIDE

[@thegrayyernaut]

When you have a camera and a kit lens, just take photos, go out and take photos. After a while, take a look at all the photos taken and see which focal length is the most commonly used. Mine were around 35 and 50. So those were the primes I got.

[@RenanMeloC]

what were your kit lens

[@ben.huynh.2012]

if I can only pick one, I would choose the 23 f2 ! cheap & good !

[@art_means_artificial]

16 23 56 are covering all needs

[@adamontiveros-oberg1528]

The dog walk test/guided learning should be standard practice for anyone who ever recommends lenses of any brand.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

:)

[@bardofhighrenown]

I agree! As someone new, I don't have a great grasp of the differences besides the numbers on the spec sheet. The practical demonstration was immediately helpful in figuring out what I wanted.

[@chuckcatipay7947]

your calculator is a game changer. I have my xt200 and the calculator came up with xf 50mm f1.0 and xc 35mm f2. and I learned that my xt200 is just an entry level and to buy that XF lens could outweigh or too OP for my entry-level body. so i guess, I'll go for XC 35mm. THANK YOU BROTHA!

[@Film_Fog]

I’ve owned FujiFilm primes and zooms for over a year and I still can’t decide each time I’m about to set out for the day. I often take the 16mm f/1.4 and 23mm f/2 or 50mm f/2 when I could have taken the 16-55mm f/2.8 and vice versa. As for the 50-140mm, i leave it at home when I need it most!

[@rumporridge1]

You should see me on a shoot. Switching primes like crazy lol. But that 90 is sublime.

[@migneault62]

1 - What focal length : Need a bit of each 2 - Budget : Let's just say, I need incentive to put myself out there to shoot weddings 3 - Weight And Size : I need some glass to carry in my pocket everyday, but on events I don't mind weight 4 - Bokeh : Sad to say it, but I need some of that WoW factor 5 - Low light : I want to shoot candid family and friends at dinners and such, so ++ this one! 6 - Sharpness : Meh, any modern glass is fine for me, I'd rather work on lighting the scene and composition 7 - WR ( Weather Resistance ) : Need some glass for this, gotta shoot that beautiful white snow! 8 -Details and Close focus distance : Meh, I'll go with 20$ macro filters Result : Buy ALL THE GLASS (except the macro one)

[@togp3403]

I’m in awe of how much work was put into this, this is quite literally the best, most comprehensive video on KZbin regarding this topic. I don’t understand how it’s gotten this little attention compared to what it deserves.

[@jonhoward7627]

I also sold the 50 f2, but have the 56. It’s way slower and heavier but I just preferred the rendering /character overall and light gathering capabilities.

[@cosmogang]

The 27mm f2.8 is so awesome. I've used it for so many gigs and some of my highest quality work had been made with it.

[@GONZOFAM7]

I love my 27mm it's in my X-E2 for EDC.

[@rayyoong7366]

I have been considering getting the 27mm f2.8 - interested to hear your opinion on it - do you find it is neither wide enough (35mm) or too close to the subject (50mm); what about min focus distance?

[@cosmogang]

@@rayyoong7366 it can focus pretty darn close, and it also works well with the Fuji extension tubes. The 27mm focal length (~41mm) is very natural and similar to what the eye sees. It renders beautifully, the shots have depth and sharpness for days. I got my latest copy of the lens for about $200 brand new - no brainier!

[@1spitfirepilot]

All your usual qualities in evidence here - clear, sane, humane, useful, and with humour. Great.

[@roxikoko3744]

For weddings I have outdoor setup and indoor setup. Indoor: 16mm 1.4 * 56m 1.2 * 80mm f2.8 macro * X100F Outdoor: 10-24mm f4 * 35mm f2 or 50mm f2 depending on space * 90mm f2 If it starts getting dark outside I switch back to the indoor setup Sometimes Mitakon 35mm 0.95mm

[@Ian61432]

This is outstanding - you've really hit the nail on the head with every lens there! And then to going to the extent of coding a whole calculator takes this to another level. It works great too! I'm glad I'm not the only one who thought the 16mm 1.4 wasn't so sharp - beautiful images though. The 35mm 2.0 was my first prime and I still love it today. I can only dream of owning that 80mm macro one day! Thanks again for sharing all your knowledge with us - you're really too kind!

[@CHCH179]

my first fuji lens is 35mm 1.4. I am a sucker for wide aperture and that is an easy decision to make over the F2 version. during the earlier year of my photo hobby, i was critical about sharpness and that 1.4 lens certainly did disappoint me. But as i enjoy photography more, i slowly found myself care less about the technical quality of my gear and more on the enjoyment of using it. That is where i started to fall in love with that glass again and the fuji system.

[@Tokitoriki]

My expirience so far is this... initially new shooters will gravitate towards tele/bokeh side and the more you shoot the more you start to like wider lenses... with bokeh coming in as less important.

[@PeterEvansPeteTakesPictures]

This is a pretty good summary, and kudos for showing samples from different shooting situations. I too share your love for the 50mm, if I didn't shoot low-light so much it would spend far much more time on my camera! I thought you were pretty much bang on with all the summaries, apart from one... and of this I speak of the 18mm f/2. I just find this to be a beautiful lens. I was foolish enough to sell it once upon a time when I got the 16mm f/1.4, but it wasn't long before I felt I had to buy it back. It's small, light and I feel it has a beautiful 3D rendering 'pop' to its images. It's not the sharpest lens in the Fujifilm pantheon, but I think it's sharp enough, having more of a bite than the 23mm f/2 at close quarters and the 27mm f/2.8 all round. At the same time it has a slightly filmic quality which is nice for street, whilst I find the 16mm f/1.4 almost too sharp - and a bit too big. I've had very little trouble with purple fringing though that could be because the in-camera JPEG system and Capture One take care of all that. I've found the 18mm to be perfect for road trips, street photography and most of all flash photography for grungy clubs and at weddings. Pop this on an X-Pro or an X-E and add the dinky little EF-X20 flash and you have a perfect combo for that 80's zine look, black and white or colour. As it's not wide enough to distort I find it makes a pretty good environmental portrait lens too. The downside to the 18mm is that I'm not convinced that Fujifilm had the best quality control out of the gate for it. When I replaced it I got a used crummy copy that was pretty soft, tried replacing that and I still had issues, but the third was as wonderful as the original I had. So my advice is not to be dissuaded, this can be an amazing lens, just make sure you're able to try it out first, or the place you're buying from has a good returns policy. If you ever want to see some of my examples with this lens to prove I'm not drunk, just ask. :) Oh, finally great work on the 'Kindness Before Cameras' thing. I do a bit of Age Concern and community events shooting. For those who are mulling doing such work, not only does it help a good cause, but you can actually walk away with some compelling images once you've immersed yourself enough and built up mutual trust.

[@ozuidema]

Peter Evans Hi Pete, thanks for this interesting recommendation. I don’t use my 16mm 1.4 often (as good as the lens is) and have thought a few times about buying the 18mm, which I would slap on my XE3, which I either use as a second body next to my XT2 or as a standalone lightweight camera for city trips, parties etc. The 18mm does seem to be a bit controversial; would love to see some of your shots.

[@jaspervos4345]

First fuji lens I purchased after getting my camera was the 56mm 1.2. That might seem odd, but it was a perfect choice. For me, using it as a street lens, just from a step back, it is really nice. For the rest, i will try all your lenses. The 35mm 1.4 is my next favourite, the rest I will have to find out.

[@FoodLifeStyleAndTravel]

I am a traveler content creator (photo+video) and new to the DSLR world, after watching tons of content on the internet came up with these 4 options, help me finalize one. 1) 9mm prime + 10-24 zoom + 35mm prime + 55-200 zoom 2) 9mm prime + 10-24 zoom + 35mm prime + 50-140 zoom 3)9mm prime + 16-55 zoom + 50-140 zoom 4)9mm prime + 16-55 zoom + 55 -200 zoom Thank you for helping.

[@Honkus]

50 f2, i agree, one of my favorites and I find myself using it often and it rarely leaves my X-T3. Wonderful video, great overall review.

[@IanInChengdu]

I have the 16mm f2, 35mm f2 and the 23mm f2. The lens I have used the most since I bought it is the 16mm f2. I love this lens for me it's fuji's lens of the year.

[@Frostroomhead]

I have only 16mm f/1.4 for my soul. And 60mm f/2.4 macro for stock photography. And I want 35 f/1.4 for my soul too :D

[@suzannebradbury]

I wish you’d done this video last year to save me buying a million lenses. Finally settled on 16 1.4 and 35 f2. Debating swapping 56 for 50 due to weight now I have kids.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

** UPDATES ** A few people are disagreeing with me about my 35mm f2 vs f1.4 sharpness claims. As I stated in the video, I'm mostly relying on MTF and my own experiences with these two. The sharpness is very close, I hope I didn't give the impression that it's massively different. But I do consider the f2 version sharper. Others have reported seeing the opposite from published articles.Another thing to keep in mind though is that since this is a much older lens and Fuji's QC tolerances have no doubt changed through the years, it's entirely possible that there are, proportionally, more bad copies floating around out there. I'm not really sure, but I still stand behind what I've seen as matching the MTF but I just wanted to make sure people know that my assertions here are in question.

[@sailonstellarwinds]

Your device for letting newer photographers identify their favoured focal lengths was amazing, kudos. All those shots are lovely, by the way.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Thanks!

[@JohannesLabusch]

If you're considering getting all of the following: 16, 18, 23, 27, 35, 50, 56 (=a cool 4500$, roughly), may I suggest getting over your silly aversion to zoom lenses and getting the 16-55? Boom. Done.

[@IntersexGamer]

I always find your videos helpful of course. That being said I dont think you did the 27mm justice. It is an awesome lens that can do almost everything you would want from a lens. Now granted I am biased since its my newest lens but its so cheap used and so compact with a 40mm equivalent focal length I get just the right amount of telephoto and wide. Ive had plenty of times where a 50mm equivalent was too much indoors where often id have to really press myself against the wall to get everything in shot but with the 27mm thats all gone. If i want a 50mm look I just crop in a bit. It goes wide enough for me at least so getting in someone's face for the shot isnt necessary but I can do it if I have to and of course if I ask nicely first. Really if I could only have one fuji lens the 27mm is it for me. Ive got it set up on my x-e1 with an 81B filter with neckstrap, extra sd cards, extra battery and if I can manage the last bit of details a small rode video mic size shotgun mic as well and all that fits into a small lens case. I know its not for everyone and lack of aperture ring can get on people's nerves as well as how the af moves but its a crucial part to my dream kit and its one lens ill be keeping for the rest of my days.

[@GONZOFAM7]

I agree I love the 27mm on my X-E2. Good for portraits nice and close, good around a table during a dinner party, excellent on the street and just wide enough for some landscape stuff. All sharp and quick.

[@williar1961]

VapeyGamer totally agree on the 27mm lens 👍

[@sundawg911]

I am laughing cause I used the calculator and it recommended me the lens I already have, I was looking at maybe adding another lens. Too funny.

[@drum4life42]

This is a great way for photographers to find out which focal length suits their style best. Great job!

[@jayceelewis_]

Thank you! I bought my first Fuji camera and prime recently - a used X-T1 and the 35mm f/2. This helps a lot with deciding what to buy next. I’m leaning towards the 90 or the 50 next.

[@scott2100]

I'm just getting into photography (bought an X-T100 a couple weeks ago), I find myself going more towards wide angle pictures than anything on the longer end of the kit lens. The XF16 F2.8 might be what I will be getting in the near future as as I tend to gravitate towards architectural, landscapes and astro.

[@jonlouis2582]

Honestly, I love your videos and almost always agree with you. I am not a newer photographer, I'm an old goat, but I have been happily shooting with Fuji's 2 "worst" lenses the 18, and 27, not because they are cheap, but because I like them. Sharpness isn't everything. Great job with this.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Agreed. Sharpness is DEFINITELY not everything.

[@RandyPollock]

The point to not overlook is that there is so many great lens from Fuji and so many third party lens for Fuji it keeps the excitement fresh...the only problem is figuring out which to take out each day.

[@princemoby2012]

Hi, used your calculator and the recommendation is exactly the lens I bought last week, an XC 35mm f2! Your algorithm is fantastic!

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Great to hear!

[@MinhNguyen-we5fs]

Dude you have the whole Fuji system and a Telecaster?! You've got my dream life!

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Haha. Yes, very fortunate

[@zytrec1]

You helped me out with selecting my first Fuji prime about a year ago. You keep making these helpful videos for not beginner maybe but novice photographers such as myself. It is very kind of you. Thank you. I used your calculator by the way. Pausing your video midway before reviewing the lenses one by one. 50mmf2 is the first recommendation. Guess what I am currently debating whether I buy used or new copy of my second Fuji prime and replacing my vintage Pentacon 50mmf1.8. So it works.

[@Bloggerky]

Very informative and well done. The real hurdle for most of us is figuring out what we actually need and will use. Only time, experimentation and experience will tell. The 23mm f/2 is my Swiss army knife prime for personal work and travel when I want to go light. I use zooms for event work. Everybody is different; there is no "best" for all. Thanks.

[@Mr_Leonidas]

The f2 version is way sharper. But for me it's too 'clinical' - I sold it for the f/1.4 that's softer and renders a unique character. Sharpness is overrated. Look at the history of photography. Some of the world most iconic photographs are anything but sharp. Enjoy. And great video Andrew.

[@EntonationStudios]

Also, stopped down, the 35mm 1.4 is as sharp as the f2. Some comparisons say it's actually sharper. I'll admit, I love my 35 1.4. You won't have a better lens for travelling

[@marion_roberts]

I agree with your assessment of the 35 f2 being the clinical lens. It's the reason why I stick with it to this day, a reference lens for the rest out there.

[@zlatyklas]

xf 35 f1.4 is much sharper than f2 version...

[@kierenkd]

My rule of thumb is to shoot with the kit lens as much as possible before spending more on gear. Then once you have a collection of photos, set up smart folders (in os or application) to count pictures in a range between 20-24mm, 25-29, etc. Then also search for F-stop, then also ISO, then rating. Do you need something wider, faster at a range more than others? If so, look at rating? Are they your best pics or the average ones? Maybe quality over quality. Hou may want to go wider or longer

[@wuokawuoka]

👍 God bless the XC16-50. Got proof that 35mm on Fuji X was my focal length. Then tried the f2 and f1.4 to keep the latter. Now rinse and repeat for 16mm or lower.

[@user-fr4lv1tc4n]

Best channel about Fuji I've ever seen in KZbin! It was helping me to make a final decision about purchasing a new camera and lens. Thank's for your true feelings about this products.

[@ThisIsMyFullName]

I bought the 16mm F2.8 this summer, to bring with me on vacation to New York. I went back and forth on whether to buy it, but I was so happy I did! I was trying to take pictures with the 18-55mm but it just didn't do it for me, so the 16mm was on my camera for most of the trip. The wide lens was just perfect for capturing tall buildings and wide architecture, not to mention for street photography in crowded streets where the lens size was also a big advantage. So I would highly recommend the 16mm F2.8 for street photography, if you love a wide field of view.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Sort of the same thing happened with me. Bought it just to review it when it first came out. Have loved it and haven't been able to sell it. //A

[@Man0fMetal]

On the low light score, you did not take into consideration focal length and OIS. with a 90mmF2 i would have had to have a shutter speed of around 1/150 to get consistently sharp photos hand held, whilst with the 35mmF2 I could use around 1/60. Thats 1.5 more stops of light. and the 35mmf1.4 would be on par with the 56mm1.2 since you need 1/90 for sharp photos, exactly half a stop apart, and the two lenses are exactly half a stop apart in f.stops. and the 200mmF2 has OIS that could easily let you shoot at 1/30 making it just as good for lowlight(or better if the subject is not moving) as these two. I dont like going under 1/60 for people but you get the point :) Although this all depends on how and what you are shooting. maybe a few more questions should be added to the lens calulator. Do you mainly shoot with tripod. Do you often shoot fast moving subjects etc.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Valid point

[@tl2935]

I didn’t want to admit it, but I agree the 90mm F2 renders portraits much better. The out of focus areas are just more pleasing in almost every scenario. I do need the 56mm for the 1.2 and shorter focal length. Excellent video!

[@mpimpaophoto2075]

Hey there! I am a Nikon shooter although I have had an X-Pro1 that I loved and currently own an X-T20 that I also treasure and extremely enjoy shooting with. I only have one fuji lens, though, as all my (small) arsenal is Nikon. But, it was really interesting using your tool only to find out that the suggestion was precisely the only Fuji lens I own: the 35mm f2. I guess that means that both your tool is "accurate" and that my choice was a reasoned one. Nice video, as usual.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Haha. Yay!

[@diba4645]

My always with me lens is the 35/1.4 on a X-E3. Perfect!

[@gracee7242]

Haven’t even started the video yet, but I can already tell it will be amazing! I just bought my first Fuji camera (x-t30) and you’ve helped me so much! Thanks :)

[@saina6171]

How are you liking it so far. I m thinking of getting xt3 too as my first camera🙂

[@brian-beeler]

Thanks so much for talking about the drawbacks of bigger lenses which is something many don't think about. I love my 16mm f/1.4 but would've bought the f/2.8 if it had been out just because the f/1.4 is so big. I use the much unloved 60mm f/2.4 for portraits when traveling specifically because it's a tiny lens compared to others with a lower f/stop. I bought it new for $265 while in Vietnam which was a steal but if I had to pay full price I would've gone with the 50mm f/2 which as you said is a great lens. You really made a very complete video about primes. Good job. =)

[@VargasKoch]

For what it's worth, I did a fast test of my 16mm f/2.8 on my X-T3 alongside an EF-S 10-18mm IS STM using a Fringer adapter. It seems to me the 16mm give a field of view very closely to the 10-18mm at 14mm. Perhaps even a smidge wider, but I wouldn't swear on it.

[@EddieInzauto]

You touched on something very important in the 18mm description that is hugely important to someone like me: aberration and flare. I can't stand any sort of fringing and I can't stand flare. I've gotten rid of lenses that are otherwise wonderful because they just can't handle light or focus it cleanly in this regard. That would be a very cool addition to this calculator.

[@pngnbxr]

The 35 f2 was my first lens and I still love this thing. I love the tactile sensation of the aperture ring and I often find myself just sitting around handling the lens turning the ring. Just for fun how would you rank the aperture rings of all the prime lenses?

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

I really love the aperture rings on the 90mm f2, the 35mm f2, the 16mm 2.8, and the 50mm f2. The ones I don't like are the older lenses, like the 18mm f2, 35mm 1.4 and even the 56mm 1.2 is too loose. I also don't really like the 80mm 2.8 as it doesn't have as deep ridges and is almost TOO stiff, so it's not as easy to move with one finger.

[@KillTheARCANE]

Glad to see the 50mm f2 vindicated. I really like this one. It's small, fast (in my experience), and portable. That hood, tho. No bueno. The 23mm. f2 is fine yet a bit soft for my taste and my use. (I photograph my own artwork). This one has saved me from a lot of tiny places where I can't use the 50mm. f2. I'd love to trade this one for the 16mm. f2.8, for it's sharpness and price, but I'm not sure if i should due to focal length distortion. :: I keep coming to this video to convince myself that i need that 80mm. f.8 for it's dual purpose, sharpness and image stabilization! Hahaha.

[@simonrockstream]

Best camera related video i've ever seen. Thank you Andrew. You're awesome

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Thanks, friend!

[@zach.hanford]

Regarding the 50mm f2 vs the 56mm f1.2, I was pleasantly surprised in actual use. I ended up using it for couples portraits on a wedding last week because we happened to get caught in the rain before the reception and I couldn't risk the 56mm without weather sealing. When I got home and saw the photos, I enjoyed them a lot more than I expected to. It's definitely higher contrast and significantly more flare resistant(in my experiences) than the 56mm. And the focus speed is night and day different. All in all, I agree with your thoughts on all of these lenses. The few times I've used the 90mm over the 56mm I've been pleasantly surprised too(I own both, buy my fiancee has permanent dibs on the 90). Sometimes the 90mm is a little too sharp for my tastes, and I have to soften the skin a little. While I enjoy the slightly swirly bokeh of the 35mm f2, I still reach for my Mitakon more often. I haven't used any of the Fuji primes on the wide side of things. The X100F is my go-to in that range, but I have been eyeing both of the 16mms.

[@MisterBrightsiide]

I don't think you understand how much I love you for making the lens calculator along with this handy video.

[@Scotsail100]

Thanks, Andrew for the Video. I moved from shooting full frame Nikon to Fuji XT-2 about two years ago. Am moving to all prime Fuji lenses. So far, have 56mm f1.2, 90mm f2, and 18-55 f2.8-4 zoom, but trading that for 16mm f2.8 and 35mm f2. I like Portraits, Events and Landscapes. I do a lot of Hiking, so total weight of camera body+lens is significant. I have fully portable Studio setup with StrobePro AD200 Pro lighting, round heads, barn doors, softboxes, gels, beauty dish, foldable backdrop, reflector, light stands, Godox on-camera controller, etc, and love how it works with the XT-2 for Portraits. Used to shoot with Nikon D750 plus 24-70 f2.8, such a heavy camera and lens combo when you're hiking 53 km and tent camping. I used film DSLRs for 32 years before changing to digital over 12 years ago. Hated digital at first (and went back to Minolta DSLR and film for a while), but persisted with digital as the technology improved. What I love about the Fuji system is 1) it reminds me of my film cameras, esp the Pentax ME, with visible dials for most important functions (can glance at Fuji and know what principal settings are immediately, without having to go into menus and drop down sub-menus) and the viewfinder is superb. 2) It's small and light, including the lenses, and the lenses are FAST (are you listening, Nikon, for your crop sensor cameras and mirrorless cameras?) 3) It has two card slots, which is imperative for professional Events 4) the lenses come with aperture rings, which Nikon abandoned years ago 5) having shot full frame and crop sensor cameras, even if I zoom right in in Lightroom (esp for Portraits), I cannot distinguish the difference in quality between Nikon full frame and Fuji's crop sensor 6)The XT-2 can shoot very fast frames per second ad there are crazy number of focus points, (unlike the Nikon D750's 51 AF points) 7) I can afford the camera and the lenses from the same manufacturer (can you say that about Sony? How many Sony shooter shoot with Sony lenses?) 8) Fuji cares enough to listen to its Customers and issues firmware updates at no cost to correct and improve features (are you listening, Nikon?) 9) the lenses are very high quality, made of metal, not plastic, and are VERY FAST, and can have auto and manual focussing 10) I almost always shoot RAW, but even the .jpg shots right out of the camera are amazing, and I love the .jpg preset image effects like Provia and lots of others 11) ultimately, for me, the Experience of using the camera is so enjoyable, I just want to take more pictures. At the end of the day, that last item is what it's all about. The Experience.

[@claes-goranleveland9278]

Excellent video, as usual! Choosing the right lens is not easy, but very important for the right experience of photography.

[@thedondeluxe6941]

Fall and freezing temperatures in Norway once again reminds me that I really should buy weather sealed lenses! I think the 23mm F2 is my choice if/when I find a good deal on an X-Pro 2... which is also weather sealed :-)

[@joe_a_photo]

This channel goes above and beyond to help its viewers. Very impressive

[@richard141724]

I've found it hard to like Fuji photos, too sharp and digital. And a tad cool. But that shot of the boy at 9:38 is great for my preferences. I would love to know the settings used for this. I have an X-T2 and a single lens, Zeiss 50mm. My preference is for film at the moment.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

It's interesting you should say that. The "too sharp and digital" is my issue with Sony and why I prefer Fuji. But compared to film, well yes. And yes, Fuji is definitely cooler in the tones.

[@karacop78]

Excellent analysis, that confirms my experience as well. I went for the 16mm f1.4 for landscapes and time lapses, the 56mm for indoor family portraits, and the "kit lens" for video. Oh, and the 100-400 for birds. But I wish Fuji makes a 500mm f5.6 or something like that, and the long rumored 10mm prime. Still, this is a very strong primes line-up between all systems, for sure the best dedicated aps-c one.

[@artemholstov9207]

Nice video overall. But sorry, I disagree about the 35mm f1.4 - in addition to that nice rendering, it is also very sharp. Out of all my lenses, it is definitely my favourite one.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Not according to MTF

[@artemholstov9207]

@@AndrewGoodCamera Fair enough Andrew, MTF charts can be useful when selecting a lens. But in a direct comparison between 35 f1.4 and 35 f2 wr, I could not see that the older lens was any softer than the f2. If anything, my copy of 35 f1.4 seemed slightly sharper at f2 than the 35 f2 which I tested. I saw some published articles reporting similar observations. One weakness that the 35 f1.4 has is high coma when wide open. I cannot say if the f2 wr is better in this regard because I do not own one (I only tested one in a shop). Other than the coma, in my experience, 35 f1.4 is an excellent lens optically.

[@likwidmods2314]

@@AndrewGoodCamera already had that discussion and MTF is wide open: you're comparing 1.4 vs f2... 35 1.4 is sharper than f2

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Again. It's not just MTF. I'm basing this on my experience also. The differences are very small and many others agree with you that I am wrong. So it could be that my testing of the lenses could be chalked up to bad copies or that my vision sucks. :) Either way, I do feel the argument is largely silly, because the differences are so small, and again, neither are particularly sharp lenses, when compared to the full spectrum of Fuji lenses.

[@likwidmods2314]

@@AndrewGoodCamera I totally agree that rating lenses by their sharpness is rather silly, there's much more into a lens than that and your opinion surprised me a bit as 35 1.4 is probably the nicest, most original rendering lens in Fuji setup. 35 f2 takes good, proper pictures, 35 1.4 captures amazing amd outstanding pictures. I wish and hope you would have another look at this lens and change your opinion :)

[@mvonwalter6927]

I did the lens calculator and the result is exactly the lens I already bought last week. So that felt good :D

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

:) Nice!

[@GoranSlika]

Having not tried the 80, I'm having a failure of the imagination in picturing something somehow sharper than the 16/1.4 and 35/2 (especially around f4 for both)

[@grimacemcccheese]

Out of the photography youtubers I've seen you guys have some of the nicest sample photos I've ever seen. Kudos

[@mribi]

Thanks for this video. Could you do a video on using the 16mm 1.4 for video? I know it’s loud but is it smooth and accurate for b roll purposes? I can’t justify the price for a photo only lens but if it’s suitable for video (ignoring AF noise) then that would be awesome. For reference I find the 23mm 1.4 AF in video totally serviceable.

[@arielaganon5367]

I like 35F2 coz it's the only lens i have..

[@EddieInzauto]

This may be the wisest camera owner in the world.

[@heeling007]

Bravo

[@jaspreetsidhu5708]

xf 16mm f1.4 and 90mm f2, xf 50-140, and the famous 18-55 are my top picks/lenses I own, and maybe the 8-16mm but that's a future purchase for me.

[@azuragrafis]

sultan

[@styx9133]

literally started my research on what lens to get yesterday. thanks as always, helping with the fuji gear choices!

[@ttoniross]

I only have one lens which is 35mm f2. Size matters to me and weather resistant too, here in the Philippines rain is always expected. I need a wide lens for indoor tight places and architecture, thinking about the 16mm f2.8. Looking forward to try the 56 f1.2 to use mainly for portraits but I'm not quite sure yet. I find shooting more with a light set up which means the f2 lenses is perfect for me. Besides I'm always on a tight budget and I'm not crazy for bokeh, composition matters to me more.

[@jooyoonchung3593]

Brilliant way to help people use their subconscious preferences to buy a way to satisfy said preferences. ❤️

[@adambroadhead]

This is a great video with reasoned opinion. I own the 23 f2, 35f2 and when choosing a portrait lens I watched a LOT of videos and read far too many articles. This video would shurely have helped immensely. In the end I rented the 56,90 and 18 (as a wildcard lens for multiple uses) over a bank holiday weekend and the 90 edged it in speed and quality. I loved the 56 images but didn't really enjoy the experience of using the lens, but it may have been the lens I was using as it had no doubt been through many hands. I would say that using the calculator then renting the lens recommendations would be a great way to go for those deciding which prime to go for. Excellent video!

[@reeyarathore]

Thank for help you really helped find my Fuji Prime as soon as I finished watching this video, I purchased Prime 56 mm and 90 mm Prime

[@stevieb7121]

Brilliant video. Thank you. One of the most informative pieces I've seen on YT! You were beginning to sound a little tired by the end.... but, again, great work.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Haha. Thanks. I always need more sleep. //A

[@likwidmods2314]

Andrew I really like your videos and look forward to every next one. This one is pretty (long) good but please, check some facts; 35 1.4 is SHARPER than 35 f2 at same apertures(up to f5.6, anything above that is super sharp anyway so it's irrelevant)

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

No way is the 35 1.4 sharper than the f2.

[@likwidmods2314]

@@AndrewGoodCamera www.fujivsfuji.com/35mm-f1pt4-vs-35mm-f2-wr alikgriffin.com/fujifilm-35mm-f1-4-vs-35mm-f2-lens-comparison/ admiringlight.com/blog/fuji-35mm-f1-4-vs-fuji-35mm-f2/ first three I've found. Not super scientific comparisons but I think you're not the one who does or cares about lab tests(what I gained from your videos). These are the result of quick search(haven't found any saying f2 is sharper), I remember reasearching this subject a while ago and there were more(I don't think so many people got it wrong with 1.4 being sharper)

[@eortizfoto]

@@likwidmods2314 this is just one review. I've seen tons of them which claims that the f2 is actually sharper. I had both, tested them and got the same conclusion. I kept the f2 just for the wr and faster focusing. That might be the copy of the lens or a mistake.

[@likwidmods2314]

@@eortizfoto there are THREE reviews I linked... Like I said , a result of 5 min search, there's many more

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

I'm going off Fuji MTF data

[@Frag-ile]

Thank you very much for providing a great overview and comprehensive breakdown of various comparable qualities of each lens. I have been anguishing about which prime to pick up for a while here and your scoring table shown here (since the calculator seems to be gone?) really helped me come down off the fence with a little more confidence.

[@SazLowify]

Thanks for making these videos! I know that if I was just starting out the whole "what do you see..." comparison would have be SUPER useful. Your videos are always so well made and thought through, that calculator you made is going straight into my bookmarks. Thank you again!!

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

:) thanks!

[@onegrapefruitlover]

Ok that's it, I'm going to bite the bullet and get the 16mm f/1.4 It's going to be my first higher-end lens so I'm having trouble keeping my expectations in check lol

[@AlokSomani]

It's my favorite XF lens. My experience with its sharpness is also very different than what Andrew experienced, but then again, I've never tried the 16mm f2.8. Either way, the 16mm f1.4 renders beautifully, so enjoy!

[@mikefoster6018]

I love love love my 16-55 f2.8 for street photography. If only its f2.8 were more like f1.4, it'd have everything I need. (It's weight doesn't bother me - I use a short strap so that my wrist takes half its weight off my fingers). Alas, f2.8 is decent but still has some issues on a crop sensor: 1) fuzzy iso in low light, so not ideal for the coming dark London evenings; 2) performs like f4.2 (equivalent full frame) for depth of field, so I often find myself stepping further back and zooming to 55mm in order to make the most of my bokeh/separation (which was leading to some slightly formal-looking street photos). So today my lovely new 33mm f1.4 arrived and I'm about to take it for a spin :)

[@oguzcagri]

50 mm, and 90 mm best for me.... These are perfect focal lenght. i really dont like wide angel lens.. i never use those..

[@mikeburns1725]

I like the calculator, but maybe it's just because it validated the two primes I use the most; the 50 f2 and the 35 f2. :)

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

:)

[@V4D2]

Andrew This is the approach I'd take (if my channel was ready..) , in order to make a beginner intro for Fuji primes. The concept is Very good man. Lens descriptions....examples..possible scenarios. Excellent. I actually learned a few things.. too ;) I was under the impression the 35mm f1.4 would be my next lens, in case the upcoming 35 f1 would cost an arm and a leg....and I learned it is not as sharp as I thought it was...and also...that they cancelled the f1 lens. What's that all about ?? Who needs a ~75mm f1 equivalent....instead of a 50mm f1...?? Wtf?? (!) It really kills me that the 90mm has no OIS. It is SO my kind of lens.. And I love the 80..but that bokeh rendering really killed me when I tried it out last year. The 90mm's got so much more character...

[@petergabriel8448]

My 35mm f1.4 is not soft at all at close focusing. The reason I love it is because of the rendering and light falloff. Just beautiful. The f2 lenses may be sharper, but they just don't render as beautiful, and their oversaturated colors makes the images look digital. I bought the 60mm f2.4 used, not for macro, which it is not very good at, but for portrature, which it is excellent at. Super sharp and with very creamy bokeh.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Well I disagree with just about everything you're saying. And this is the first I've ever heard anyone claim the f2 lenses are over saturated. They are certainly more warm than the faster primes (in general). But saying they make images look "more digital", this is a bizarre statement on several levels. But no disrespect here. If you've found what works for your style, that's what matters most. We can at least agree that we enjoy shooting Fuji.

[@petergabriel8448]

I’m not the only one feeling this way: www.fujix-forum.com/threads/35mm-f1-4-at-close-focus-distances.68248/ Also, I claimed that the f2’s are more saturated, making the images look punchier and more plasticy. Especially skintones. If your favorite simulation is Classic Chrome you probably wont notice as it desaturates heavily. Could you have a bad 35mm f1.4? Mine is razor sharp even at f1.4

[@petergabriel8448]

On a side note; I agree with the 50mm f2 being an inpressive lens. The close focusing is impressive. Again, I sold mine, as I didn’t find the rendering very neutral, and didn’t like the tonality.

[@petergabriel8448]

I feel like I am rambling now, but don’t forget that the 35mm f1.4 was designed to be sharpest in the center, as this comparison clearly shows, the f1.4 wins when it comes to sharpness. www.fujivsfuji.com/35mm-f1pt4-vs-35mm-f2-wr/

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Yes. I'm well aware of the Fuji v Fuji study. The results do not mirror my own. Mine were closer to Chris Frost. But lens variation is real

[@mydemon]

What a fantastic video. Watched it 3 times in a row. Only possible improvement I can think of: would be amazing to see the lens name as a banner at the bottom of the screen all the while you're talking about the lens. Especially for non-english speaker sometimes it's hard to keep track ("was it the 23 or the 35mm?" "Are we talking about the f1.2 or the f2.0 again?"...) And so on

[@Titancarreon]

If i had to pick one, 56mm f1.2. cause anything wide, goes to my phone camera anyway.

[@Baldureksinwarek]

right now i'm in the process of choosing what lenses to buy for my first fuji camera and this video appeared.. glad i subsribed :)) thank you for this

[@paul8914]

I only own the 50mm and love it.

[@RyanH0809]

This is such a good video! Well thought out, man. And I love the interactive, role-playing nature. Also, very astute of you to recognize that most new and incoming photographers are compelled to photograph what's right in front of them, that which they love and want to share, their pets!

[@MrJed_s]

Love it! I've been known to make something very similar (but just in Google Sheets) for complex purchasing decisions (laptops, phones, camera bodies etc). My version for Fuji X lenses is still a work in progress. I was recommended the 35mm lenses, and since I'm currently looking for a 35mm f/1.4 second hand, I'd say it's a pretty good recommendation!

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Nice! Yes, I make decision calculators in Google Sheets all the time too. This is just the JavaScript version of that one, in fact. Mind twins. :)

[@MrJed_s]

@@AndrewGoodCamera It's definitely nice to know I'm not the only one haha. If we are mind twins then I must have some latent photographic ability in there somewhere ;)

[@Dannnnnnnnnyy]

5:45 and 5:50 pictures are the same. i'm onto you! my life is whole and full.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Oh crap. You're right. 🤦

[@marion_roberts]

I tried the Andrewlator and I laughed because it recommended the 80mm f2.8,which is exactly what I got in my sights next. I'll go cry now because my budget for it is not complete yet lol.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

😆

[@marion_roberts]

@@AndrewGoodCamera Update on my post. Found a seller of a used 80mm in mint condition and now I'm on the brink of owning one,so excited 😁. I have a question though; I'm mostly planning on using it for 4k video using xt3. Just how close can I get to a subject? Using a quarter for reference,would it fill the frame or closer?Saw your video about bokeh btw, man your channel just keeps answering the right questions.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

nice. It's a great lens. As far close focus, it's less accurate to describe in terms of "how close". We'd speak in terms of reproduction ratio. Since the 80mm 2.8 gives you a 1:1 reproduction ratio, that means that, for example, an object which is .9 inches will completely fill the frame, edge to edge, and be in focus, because the sensor's width is .9 inches. Whereas something like the 16mm 1.4, which is roughly a 1:4 ratio, would mean that same .9 inches object would fill only a 4th of the width of the frame. Going off close focus alone is inaccurate, since different lenses, even at the same distance, will reproduce objects at various sizes.

[@marion_roberts]

@@AndrewGoodCamera My eyes went F0.95 when you mentioned .9" filling the frame,now I'm really excited 😄. Thanks! Can't wait for your next vid.

[@Disharmonikash]

loving the fender telecaster in the background :)

[@JohnDAlmonte]

Having trouble deciding between a used 14mm and a 16mm f2.8. I enjoy travel photography and street photography, and occasionally landscape/seascape photography. Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks!

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Honestly, they are very close to the same focal length, so I'd say it comes down to weight/size and price. I really love them both.

[@V4D2]

I still haven't been able to close my trio : 16mm 27 pancake Xxxx ?? Tele :/ And the 50mm f2 is not tight enough.. Thanks for the video.. I've really been enjoying these recent ones..man. I feel you've been actively upping your game. Keep it up ;) Cheers from Portugal

[@wagnerjean-francois942]

Andrew On The 90mm: " It's My Favorite Aperture LING!"...(ring)😄😂🤣Fantastic Video!👍

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

:)

[@antonengblom]

Wow! So fantastic work you have done here! Both quality and love. Thank you so much and have a great day. Greetings from Gothenburg, Sweden.

[@jonspoard8416]

I choose 9 for wide angle and widest lens it recommended was the 50mm. Top was the 90mm

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

If wide angle is your most important characteristic, your other scores need to be lower. Calculator has to weigh everything. If you give four tens, focal length importance is diluted

[@jonspoard8416]

@@AndrewGoodCamera My scores were 9-4-7-4-2-7-5-8-4-3

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

If you want a wide angle, don't put a 7 on tele. Simple

[@jonspoard8416]

@@AndrewGoodCamera "The purpose of this video is to help you find the best Fuji prime LENSES" I "simply" answered the question. "Please choose a number between 0-10 of how important that factor is to you and your photography"

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

@@jonspoard8416 What do you want from me? I'm giving the recommendation I would give you based on the scores you provided. If you don't like it, don't use it buddy.

[@M0nkee_mode]

All I need is a 35 f2 and a 10-24 a 18-55 and a telephoto for some portraits my pet photography landscapes and animals.

[@kristiejochim3170]

Great video and I can’t wait to check out the calculator. I’m currently trying to figure out which lenses to keep and which to sell... Any chance of a video of how you go about setting up your camera/focus modes? I still seem to have issues nailing the focus. Especially with kids running around. I would love to know your go to method of how you capture your kids. Thanks!

[@illdee04]

Did the test... My top recommended is 90mmf2 and I also may like the 50mmf2... The problem is the minimum focus distance. I also like shooting really close to subjects. I need to find how close I can shoot with these lense. The test was pretty accurate. These 2 lenses were in my mind the whole time. Also the 35mm and the expensive macro which I will not get because is way too much for me lol 😂 unless someone get it for me as a gift, waiting for 🎅 Santa. Awesome video btw 👍

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Thanks!

[@Dkouki97]

Good idea making this guide! My recommendation was the 50 f2. Would be nice to use this one more!

[@AndyUrtu2]

Thank you! I am new to Fuji and your video REALLY helped me understand my choices.

[@alecssson]

Andrew, what's your opinion on the current state of Fuji (non-camera) software? As an iOS / macOS user myself Fuji's lack of foresight and commitment in terms of software support seems quite a letdown. There are ongoing issues with both Camera Remote app on iOS13 and the whole suite of Fujifilm software on macOS Catalina and I'm getting the feeling that software is just not integral to the Fujifilm x ecosystem. Why is this still a thing with camera manufacturers in 2019?

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Yup. Fuji is a hardware manufacturer. These apps are clearly not a priority