If you have a Fujifilm X Series camera and street photography appeals to you, stay here because I’m bringing you three Fujinon XFs, lenses recommended especially for street photography, of course. To delve deeper into street photography, do not miss the mega guide that we have prepared for you with all the tips and tricks of Street Photography.
Now we come to the topic that concerns us today.
How should a lens be for street photography?
Before talking to you about the three lenses that I want to present to you, let me tell you what characteristics a lens should have for street photography.
- Light and compact: Discretion is an important point when photographing the street so as not to attract attention, therefore, the ideal is for the lens to be as compact as possible, and if it weighs little, the better. It will be much more comfortable for you to go out and hit the streets.
- Bright: You will do street photography the same day as at night, on the street or inside public places, so a bright lens that adapts to different situations is ideal.
- Fast and quiet focus: Because of the speed with which the street scenes happen, you want the focus to be fast. The street does not give second chances. On the other hand, if it is silent, it will guarantee discretion.
- Focal distance: the ideal for street photography is a standard focal length that allows you to cover some context without too much distortion and that you have to get close enough to the scene to engage the viewer. Between 24mm-50mm is the most recommended.
- Zoom or fixed focal?: in this case it is a personal decision, what do you prefer comfort or image quality? With fixed focal lengths you will have to zoom with your feet, but you will gain in quality.
Now yes, let’s see those objectives with which to throw yourself into the street to hunt the moments with which you have always dreamed.
Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8
This is a very compact lens (of the so-called pancakes) which makes it ideal for going unnoticed on the street. In addition, it is perfect to always carry with you, due to how small and light it is.
- 7 elements in 5 groups
- Number of blades: 7 rounded
- Focal length: 27mm (41mm equivalent)
- Maximum aperture: f/2.8
- f/16 minimum aperture
- View Angle: 55.5°
- Filter diameter: ø39mm
- Dimensions: 61.2mm x 23mm
- Weight: 78g
- Price: N/A
Here is an example of the type of photography you can do with it. To see images, look at this link.
Photo taken with a Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8
Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR
Equivalent to a 35mm, very bright and quite affordable, it is a lens that does not disappoint for its image quality. Their characteristics are:
- 10 elements in 6 groups
- Number of blades: 9 (rounded)
- Maximum aperture: f/2
- f/16 minimum aperture
- View Angle: 63.4°
- Filter diameter: ø43mm
- Dimensions: 60mm x 51.9mm
- Weight: 180g
- Price: €450.99
It is a very compact and lightweight lens and is sealed against splash water and dust. It has a focus ring and diaphragm openings.
The best thing is that in addition to being compact and light, although solidly built, it is fast to focus. If we add to that that it is quite bright, it becomes a very appealing option, right?
Gallery of photos taken with the Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR
This is a sample of photographs taken with this lens.
In this link you will find some more to give you a more specific idea of the type of photos you can achieve with this objective.
Fujinon XF 35mm f/1.4 R
For lovers of bokeh. It’s not the fastest focus nor the quietest but it won’t give you any problems either. In fact it is the favorite of most fujistas. With a good metal construction and great image quality. Characteristic:
- 8 elements in 6 groups
- Focal length: 35mm (53mm equivalent)
- View Angle: 44.2°
- Maximum aperture: f/1.4
- Minimum aperture: f/16
- Number of blades: 7 (rounded)
- Filter diameter: ø52mm
- Dimensions: 65mm x 50.4mm
- Weight: 187g
- Price: €606.99
This is one of those lenses that become essential and the closest thing to the King of lenses for Fujifilm, Mario’s favorite.
Gallery of photos taken with the Fujinon XF 35mm f:1.4 R
Here are some examples of images taken in different situations by this lens.
More example photos here.
What did you think? Do you have any already? Have you tried it on the street? We would love for you to tell us about your experience👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻, other readers will surely appreciate it. And if you found it useful, do not hesitate to share it!