I'm moving to Tokyo next month and spent way too much on my X-Pro3. My logic was getting the 23mm f2 for those wide shots but I read it's super soft up close. Then everyone says the 35mm is sharper but I'm worried it's too tight for narrow streets. I'm just frustrated cause I can only afford one lens right now...
Tokyo is going to be absolutely amazing for your X-Pro3!! Honestly, you made a fantastic choice with that body. For the streets there, you 100% need to stick with the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR. I have used this lens for years in heavy rain and crowded spots, and it never lets me down! People talk way too much about the softness at close range, but for street photography, you are rarely shooting at the minimum focus distance anyway. It is such a reliable workhorse and the autofocus is lightning fast which is exactly what you need in Shibuya or Shinjuku! Here are my quick tips for making that lens shine:
- If you are worried about the softness, just stop down to f/2.8 or f/4 when you are shooting close up subjects and it becomes tack sharp.
- Trust the weather sealing because Tokyo gets some crazy downpours and this lens handles it like a total champ. You really dont need to worry about the 35mm being too tight because it definitely is for those small side streets. Stick with the 23mm and you will have a blast capturing the energy of the city! It is the safest bet for a one-lens setup and I promise you will love the results! It is just a fantastic piece of glass that feels like it was made for that camera. Let me know if you need anything else!
