Im so over fighting with my gear right now. I spent all this money on the X-H2S thinking it would solve my problems but honestly the lens situation is driving me up the wall. I've been using the 18-55 kit lens and some old manual glass for portraits but it's just not working. The AF hunts constantly and the bokeh looks like garbage, super busy and distracting. I've got a couple big gigs coming up here in Chicago—a big family reunion at Lincoln Park next month and then my first actual solo wedding in July—and I am panicking.
I need a dedicated portrait lens that actually keeps up with the H2S speed. I tried using the 35mm f2 but it just feels too wide and the background doesn't melt away like I need it to for professional work. I'm literally sitting here looking at my last gallery and I'm embarrassed to send it out. I've got about $1300 to spend which isn't a ton but it should be enough for something decent right? I've been looking at a few options but I keep seeing conflicting stuff online and it's making me even more stressed out.
- the 56mm f1.2 WR (is the new version actually worth the extra cash?)
- the 50mm f1.0 (ppl say it's a beast but is it too heavy for a long day?)
- the 90mm f2 (I heard the AF is legendary but the focal length seems scary long for tight spaces)
I really just want that creamy, dreamy look for skin tones but with tack sharp eyes. Is that too much to ask for? I'm tired of wasting money on gear that doesn't deliver and I'm honestly at my breaking point with this system if I can't find a lens that makes me love my photos again. What are you guys actually using for your pro work? help me out before I lose my mind...
Been looking at the data on the newer sensors and you definitely need something that can resolve all those megapixels. I went through a similar phase of gear frustration before I settled on my current setup for events. I ended up being incredibly satisfied with the Fujifilm XF 90mm f2 R LM WR. The quad linear motor is no joke; it is easily the fastest focusing lens in the lineup. Even though 90mm is tight, the compression makes skin tones look amazing and the bokeh is cleaner than the 56mm. If you are worried about space, you might look at the Sigma 56mm f1.4 DC DN Contemporary. It is a fraction of the price and the AF is snappy enough for weddings, though the build quality is more consumer-grade.
- 90mm f2: Insane sharpness and speed, but needs room to breathe.
- Sigma 56mm: Great value, very lightweight for 10-hour days. Personally, the 90mm changed how I shoot. It just works so well for those candid moments where you dont want to be in the subjects face.
Unfortunately, I had issues with the Fujinon XF 50mm f1.0 R WR weight during long days. Consult DPReview; the Viltrox 75mm f1.2 AF Fuji X provides superior value and sharpness.
Been thinking about your situation for a few hours now and I totally get the stress of gear letting you down right before a wedding. I went through the same thing with the 18-55 kit lens. It is okay for travel but for pro portraits, it just doesnt have the soul you want. Since you are worried about weight and reliability for long days, I actually found a different path that might save you some cash for extra batteries.
- Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary for Fujifilm X is a sleeper hit. It is way lighter than the f1.2 options, so your wrist wont be dying by the end of the reception. AF is super snappy on the H2S body too.
- If you really want that long compression but the 90mm is too expensive or scary, Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD is a solid workhorse. It is not a prime, but the f2.8 constant aperture gives a very clean look and the stabilization is a nice safety net when you get tired and shaky. You got this. Once you get a lens that actually talks to your camera properly, the H2S is gonna feel like a totally different beast.
I was honestly disappointed with how the older glass performed on the H2S. Unfortunately, the original 56mm had too many issues with focus hunting for professional work. You need something more reliable for those Chicago gigs.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR is the best choice for that look
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 90mm f/2 R LM WR for incredible AF speed The 50mm f1.0 is honestly just too heavy and wasnt as good as expected.
