Some of you asked us about a brand new addition to the Fuji XF line of lenses – XF 16mm F1.4. In short – we are not getting this lens. Don’t get us wrong. Based on early reviews and samples, we are confident that Fuji has produced another winner: all metal, sharp and bright with minimal distortion. In fact, Fuji lenses are the prime reason we use Fuji exclusively.
However, the art of photography is the art of choices – on every level. We cannot and do not want to carry all the lenses available. After going through backpacks of gear throughout our photographic life, we have now simplified our gear and reduced our lens choices to a minimum. Kasia and I operate and see in three focal lengths: XF 14mm F 2.8, XF 23mm F2 (X100S) and XF 56mm F1.2. Occasionally, we shoot with the XF 50-140mm F2.8 lens. My favourite morning routine is to leave the house with just the Fuji X100S (XF 23mm F2).
In short, if we want to go wide-angle, we reach for the XF 14mm F2.8. Then, there is the X100S with its XF 23mm F2.0. For our needs – this is enough. But this is just us. For some photographers, the XF 16mm F1.4 lens could be a must-have. For example, the brilliant Damien Lovegrove has been shooting with the XF 16mm F1.4 for a while now and this lens is a natural fit for him (XF 14mm could be too wide).
Ultimately, it is you that must decide how you see and which focal lengths you excel in. The only advice we would have is: Don’t overdo it. Many new photographers get into the trap of buying all possible lenses at once. With a full bag of lenses they are not able to train their eye. The best approach is to start with just one focal length, master it and then add another perspective.
All right, enough of this. This morning I wanted to find a new perspective on Vancouver. Here are a few images shot with the X100S, X-T1 coupled with XF 14mm F2.8 and XF 56mm F1.2.
2015 © Kasia & Olaf Sztaba Photography. All rights reserved.
My personal spin on this is that pros or proams that shoot in the rain a lot will buy this one?
14mm owners who love shooting the night sky will benefit greatly from the speed of the new lens. Otherwise, the 14mm is so sharp (and so small and light) that the 16mm seems a little redundant.