Im heading to Japan next month and need a single lens for my X-T30 II. Budget is around 600 bucks. I did some reading online and most people recommend the 18-55mm f2.8-4 zoom as the ultimate starter travel lens, but my logic was that it might make the tiny camera body feel way too front-heavy for walking 20k steps a day. So then I was thinking about the 27mm f2.8 pancake because it looks so compact. But then I get stuck thinking I will really miss having a zoom for street shots. Which one actually makes sense for this setup?
If you're worried about weight but still want to keep things simple, I would suggest looking at the Fujifilm XF 23mm f2 R WR. I know it's not a zoom, but hear me out. Walking 20k steps in Tokyo is no joke, and a heavy setup will definitely strain your neck by day three. The 23mm gives you a classic 35mm equivalent view, which is basically the gold standard for street photography. Just be careful if you aren't used to shooting with a prime lens. You have to zoom with your feet, which can be tricky in crowded spots like Shibuya. Make sure to practice walking around your local area with a fixed focal length before the trip so you don't get frustrated. The big plus is that it is weather-resistant, autofocus is snappy, and it fits easily under your 600 buck budget, leaving you with extra cash for food. Another option if you really need a lightweight zoom is the Fujifilm XC 15-45mm f3.5-5.6 OIS PZ. It's mostly plastic and feels kinda cheap, but it weighs nothing and the wider 15mm end is amazing for narrow Japanese alleys. Just watch out for the power zoom motor, it eats battery faster and can feel laggy when you're trying to capture a quick moment.
Just saw this thread and wanted to jump in since I did a two-week trip to Kyoto last year with the X-T30 II. I ended up taking the Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f2.8-4 R LM OIS and was super satisfied with it. Honestly, the whole front-heavy thing is kinda overblown. It felt totally fine even after walking 25k steps a day. But if you want something lighter, here are a couple of alternatives that work well:
- Fujifilm XF 35mm f2 R WR
- Super light, weather resistant, and costs around 399. The 50mm equivalent view is perfect for street shots.
- Fujifilm XC 15-45mm f3.5-5.6 OIS PZ
- Weighs next to nothing and is very cheap, though the power zoom takes getting used to. I think you will be happy with either, but dont rule out the 18-55 zoom just yet. It is a classic for a reason.
Honestly, I had issues with the autofocus speed on the Fujifilm XF 27mm f2.8 R WR during my last trip. It is unfortunately pretty noisy and slow. Try these instead:
- Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN Contemporary Fuji X - way lighter than the Fuji 18-55, constant f2.8, and under 500 bucks.
- Fujifilm XC 15-45mm f3.5-5.6 OIS PZ - super light but the power zoom is kinda annoying. Go with the Sigma, it balances way better.
To add to the point above: in my experience, weather sealing on the Fujifilm XF 23mm f2 R WR is a massive safety net. Japan gets sudden rain, and you dont want to ruin your gear.
