Why I Never Bothered to Buy the Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 Lens
- J. Logan
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
When it comes to photography, the choice of lens can significantly influence the outcome of your images. As a photographer, I’ve always been particular about the gear I invest in, and one lens that never made it onto my shopping list is the Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8. While it’s a highly regarded lens in the Fujifilm ecosystem, I found that it simply wouldn’t fit my personal or professional needs.
Limited Use Cases
One of the primary reasons I opted against the XF 50-140mm f/2.8 is that I rarely find myself in situations where I need a telephoto zoom lens. My photography typically revolves around a focal range of 23-75mm, which covers everything from street photography to portraits. This range allows me to capture wide scenes and intimate moments without the bulk of a longer lens. The XF 50-140mm, with its extended reach, feels excessive for my style, and I often find myself asking: when would I actually use it?
For instance, when photographing street scenes, I prefer to stay close to my subjects, capturing candid moments and emotions. The 23-75mm range is perfect for this, allowing me to be part of the environment rather than an observer from a distance. In portrait photography, I find that the 50mm and 85mm focal lengths provide just the right amount of compression and depth of field, making my subjects stand out beautifully without the need for a longer zoom lens.
Preference for Prime Lenses
In addition to my focal range preferences, I have a strong inclination toward prime lenses. The simplicity and optical quality of primes resonate with my shooting style. I appreciate the discipline they instill, as they force me to move around and find the best composition rather than relying on zooming in and out. For my telephoto needs, I lean on the Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 and the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 II. These two lenses provide me with the sharpness and bokeh I desire without the bulkiness of a zoom lens.
Prime lenses often deliver superior optical performance compared to zooms, and this is especially true for the XF 50mm f/2. It’s compact and lightweight, making it an ideal companion for long shooting sessions. The f/2 aperture allows for beautiful background separation, which is particularly useful for portrait work. It’s versatile enough for various situations, and its weather-sealing means I can use it in less-than-ideal conditions without worry.
Why the XF 50mm f/2 and Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 II Work for Me
The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 is a fantastic lens that strikes a perfect balance between size, weight, and optical performance. It’s compact and lightweight, making it an ideal companion for long shooting sessions. The f/2 aperture allows for beautiful background separation, which is particularly useful for portrait work. It’s versatile enough for various situations, and its weather-sealing means I can use it in less-than-ideal conditions without worry.
On the other hand, the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 II is a game-changer for my portrait photography. The f/1.8 aperture provides stunning depth of field, allowing me to create images that pop. The lens is sharp, and the colors it produces are vibrant and true to life. This lens has become a staple in my kit, allowing me to achieve the telephoto look I love without the need for a bulky zoom lens.
The combination of these two lenses gives me the flexibility I need for various shooting scenarios, from close-up portraits to slightly wider compositions, without the cumbersome size and weight of a zoom lens. I find that this setup allows me to be more agile and creative in my photography, which is something I truly value.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to skip the Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 lens comes down to my shooting style and preferences. I find that I thrive within a specific focal range and prefer the simplicity and quality of prime lenses. With the XF 50mm f/2 and Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 II in my arsenal, I feel well-equipped to tackle any situation that comes my way. The XF 50-140mm may be a fantastic option for many photographers, but for me, it simply isn’t necessary. By sticking to the lenses that align with my vision and approach to photography, I can create the images that resonate with my artistic intent.
My name is Jason Logan. I'm a photographer and content creator from Northern NJ. My hometown is Jersey City but reside in Bayonne. My personal motto is "Document Life".