So I finally picked up an X-Pro3 after years on the X-T series and man the OVF is a different beast entirely. My logic was to just grab the 35mm f2 since everyone raves about it but then I started thinking about the frame lines and how much of the view the lens barrel actually blocks... kinda annoying. I'm mainly doing street stuff in Chicago next month and need to stay under $600 for a used copy. I looked at the 23mm f2 for the wider FOV but part of me wonders if the 27mm pancake is the real winner for keeping it low profile? Just cant decide if I should prioritize the glass speed or the viewfinder experience.
> Just cant decide if I should prioritize the glass speed or the viewfinder experience. Honestly, Im super satisfied with the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR for city trips. Last time I was in Chicago, that weather sealing saved my skin during a freezing rainstorm near the Loop. Its tiny enough that it barely touches the OVF frame, so I felt way safer navigating crowds since I could actually see people approaching from my periphery... definitely a reliable pick.
I shot Chicago last May! The Fujifilm Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR is amazing tho.
- 27mm: No OVF blockage
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR: Kinda blocks corner Pancake wins!
Ngl, if youre worried about the OVF blockage on an X-Pro3, you really need to look at the older glass that was basically designed for this body style. I have spent years swapping lenses on my Pro bodies and honestly, the smaller primes are the sweet spot for Chicago street work where you want to stay nimble without losing the frame.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 18mm f/2 R is the classic choice. It is tiny, almost a semi-pancake, and gives you that wide 28mm equivalent that works so well for urban layers. You can find these used for maybe $350 which is well under your budget.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR is a modern sleeper hit. It is weather-sealed, which is huge for midwest weather, and it barely clips the OVF corner compared to the f/2 Fujicrons. The 18mm has a certain character the newer lenses lack tbh. It is not the fastest focuser but for zone focusing it is perfect. Plus, that extra cash saved stays in your pocket for more coffee or travel costs...
Wow ok that changes things. Gonna have to rethink my approach now.
Wow ok that changes things. Gonna have to rethink my approach now.
Quick reply while I have a sec. Reading your post brings back such a wild memory from when my cousin visited me in the city. He brought this massive vintage rangefinder setup that was basically the size of a brick, and we spent three hours trying to find a spot to grab lunch near the river walk. He got so frustrated with his gear being too bulky that he ended up leaving his entire camera bag on a bench outside a cafe. We realized it twenty minutes later and sprinted back through the crowd like absolute maniacs. Honestly, I dont think I have ever seen someone run that fast in dress shoes. We found it sitting exactly where he left it, but the sheer panic of that afternoon is something I will never forget. It was just one of those chaotic days where the gear felt like the biggest enemy instead of a tool. Anyway, good luck with your upcoming trip!
