Ive been shooting with the X-T4 for ages and usually rely on my 56mm f1.2 but the autofocus just died on me right before a big series of family shoots I have scheduled next month. I dont have the cash to drop on a brand new 56mm R WR right now and my budget is strictly under $500 which is honestly tough for decent glass.
Ive looked at a few options but I need that compression and nice bokeh without crazy chromatic aberration:
- Viltrox 75mm 1.2
- XF 50mm f2
- Sigma 56mm f1.4
Im worried about the AF speed on the third party stuff but I gotta find something fast... what would you guys pick?
Just saw this thread! Im super excited to help you find a cost-effective solution. Are you primarily shooting these family portraits in a spacious outdoor setting or a tighter indoor studio? Heres my breakdown of these amazing options:
- Sigma 56mm f1.4 DC DN Contemporary Fuji X for fantastic sharpness.
- Viltrox 75mm f1.2 AF Fuji X-Mount for incredible bokeh. These are basically steals for the price!
Re: "Just saw this thread! Im super excited to..." - those are solid picks! Since you are on a strict budget but need that professional look for your clients, here is a methodical breakdown of a few more options:
- Viltrox 85mm f1.8 II Fuji X-Mount. This lens offers superior compression compared to your old 56mm. It fits perfectly under the $500 limit and the autofocus motor is actually very quiet and fast on newer bodies like your X-T4. The bokeh is fantastic!
- TTArtisan 56mm f1.8 Fuji X-Mount. If saving money is the top priority, this is the one. Its remarkably sharp for being under $200. The AF is snappy enough for kids running around during family shoots.
- Tokina atx-m 56mm f1.4 Fuji X-Mount. This provides a very similar experience to the Sigma but sometimes goes on sale for even less. It handles chromatic aberration well which was one of your concerns. Honestly, dont let the third-party label scare you off. The tech has come a long way and these will definitely get the job done for your upcoming series... good luck with the shoots!
Just catching up on this thread and honestly I have a bit of a different take. I am kinda a cautious person with gear because I have had bad luck in the past. Last year I tried a cheaper lens for a big family event and the autofocus just kept hunting at the worst moments... it was pretty stressful tbh. Since then I have stayed with native gear and I am really satisfied with how reliably it works well for me. No complaints since making that switch. A couple things I was wondering about:
- Have you looked into the cost of a professional repair for your old lens?
- Are you gonna be chasing around toddlers or is it mostly just posed groups? I would be a little worried about trusting a brand new third party system right before a big series of paid shoots. Sometimes sticking with what you know is the safest bet even if you have to go the used route... maybe check some resale sites for a used Fuji original?
Just wanted to say thanks for everyone chiming in. Super helpful discussion.
