I just got the X-S20 and I am honestly panicking because my trip to Tokyo is in two weeks and I still havent picked a lens for street photography. I am torn between the 23mm f2 and the 35mm f2. I need something fast because I want to shoot at night but my budget is strictly under 450 dollars. The 23mm seems better for crowded alleys but I am scared of having to get too close to people. But then I worry the 35mm will be too tight for the city?
- needs to be compact
- fast autofocus is a must
- budget is around $400 used
Im leaning toward the 23mm but keep second guessing everything... which one is better for a nervous beginner?
Late to the thread but I really need to weigh in here before you pull the trigger. @Reply #1 - good point! It is definitely a common headache for Fuji users. Honestly, if youre nervous, you should just go with the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR. I have shot in Shinjuku and Golden Gai plenty of times, and the 35mm is basically a death trap in those cramped spaces. Youll find yourself constantly backing into walls or stepping into traffic just to get a decent frame. Here are a few things you need to be careful about:
- Field of view: Tokyo is tighter than you think. The 23mm gives you that safety net. You can always crop in a bit, but you cant un-crop the 35mm when your back is against a vending machine.
- Used gear safety: Stay within that $400 budget by looking at reputable used dealers like MPB or KEH. I would suggest avoiding private sellers on Marketplace right before a big trip. You need a solid return policy in case the autofocus motor is wonky or the glass has hidden scratches.
- Autofocus reliability: Stick to the native f/2 Fujicron lenses. Be careful with third-party glass like the Viltrox 23mm f/1.4 AF Fujifilm X-Mount. While it is faster for night, the AF tracking can be inconsistent on the X-S20 compared to native glass.
- Weather sealing: It rains a lot in Japan. The WR on the Fuji f/2 series is a literal lifesaver for street stuff. Make sure you buy it today so you have at least a week to test for decentering issues. You dont want to find out the lens is blurry on one side once you land at Narita.
No way, I literally just dealt with this yesterday. Small world.
