So I finally pulled the trigger on the X-H2S after shooting on my beat up X-T3 for way too long. That stacked sensor is honestly a game changer for the fast action stuff I do but man it wiped out my bank account way faster than I planned for. I've got a family wedding coming up next month in Seattle—I'm not the main pro or anything but I promised to grab some candid shots—and I realized my prime setup just isn't gonna cut it for the ceremony when I need to be mobile.
I really need a decent zoom but I'm looking at like a $500 or maybe $600 max budget right now which is kinda embarrassing for a body this nice. I've been looking at the Sigma 18-50 since it's tiny and cheap but I'm worried it won't keep up with the autofocus speed of the X-H2S or if the lack of aperture ring is gonna drive me crazy. Is the Fuji 18-135 worth it for the range or is the glass too soft for the 26mp sensor? I know the 16-80 exists too but I've heard some weird things about the sharpness at the edges. What's the best bang for your buck zoom that actually takes advantage of the new AF system without breaking the bank?
Seriously, grab the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary! It is amazing for the price and the autofocus is crazy fast on that new body. Youll love it!
I actually ended up picking up the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR for a similar trip and I have been super happy with the results. I know there is a lot of noise online about the edges being soft, but technically speaking, the center resolution is excellent and that is where your subject is gonna be for wedding candids anyway. I used it during a hectic family reunion last summer and the 6 stops of OIS was a total safety net when things got shaky. Here is why it fits the X-H2S so well:
- The autofocus drive is whisper quiet and matches the high-speed data throughput of the new sensor.
- Constant f/4 means you dont have to constantly mess with your shutter speed as you zoom.
- The weather sealing is top-notch for peace of mind if that Seattle weather decides to turn. It basically gives you the reliability you need when you cant afford to miss a moment. I wouldnt worry too much about the pixel peepers... the glass holds up fine for what you need.
Saving this whole thread. So much good info here you guys are awesome.
Just catching up on this thread now... I went through the same dilemma when I got my H2S. Tbh I'm a bit more conservative with gear and usually stick to the original Fuji lenses because I want that guaranteed compatibility with the new AF system. I've been really satisfied with my choice to stay first-party. Looking at the options, here is how they stacked up for me:
This was my first zoom and honestly it works well even today. Its built like a tank and the linear motor is super quiet. You can find these used for a steal, leaving you money for extra batteries.
This is what I eventually moved to for the extra reach. Constant f/4 is much safer for keeping your exposure steady when zooming during a ceremony. The OIS is incredible and helps keep things sharp if your hands are a bit shaky after holding the camera all day. People talk about the edges being soft but for wedding candids it really isnt a problem.
I tried this one too but found it a bit bulky. The range is nice but I felt more comfortable with the 16-80 for overall reliability. I've had no complaints with the 16-80 so far. It's a solid, safe middle ground that wont let you down.
Just found this thread...
- Stick with third-party glass from Tamron or Sigma to save money.
- Unfortunately, older manufacturer zooms are super disappointing and just not as good as expected for that price.
