So I just got the Fuji XS20 and I am super lost with all the lens stuff sorry if this is a total beginner question. I have the kit lens that came with it but everyone online says I need a prime lens for better photos? I dont really get why I would want a lens that doesnt zoom but I want that blurry background look for my cat photos and for when I visit Chicago next month.
My budget is like $400 maybe $500 tops since the camera was already pricey. I was thinking maybe the 35mm because it seems like the middle ground but then I saw the 23mm and got confused if thats better for buildings or what... which one should I actually get first?
I've tried dozens of these lenses over the years and if you are headed to Chicago, you definitely want a 23mm instead of a 35mm. I made the mistake of bringing a 35mm to a big city once and spent the whole time backing up into traffic trying to fit the buildings in my shot... it was a mess.
- Viltrox 23mm f/1.4 AF for Fujifilm X: This is the value king in my experience. That f/1.4 aperture is exactly what you need for the cat photos to get that blurry look. It is built well and fits your budget perfectly.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR: This one is much smaller. If you are walking around all day, you will appreciate how light it is. The autofocus is snappier, tho the background wont be quite as blurry. Ngl, the Viltrox is probably the move for the cat shots specifically since it lets in way more light.
Stumbled upon this today! Just a quick question tho, you planning on doing mostly street walks or indoor stuff in Chicago? Honestly, for city travel and cats, the Fujifilm XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR is amazing. Its so small people wont even notice you have a real camera, which is a huge safety plus. Super reliable and weather-sealed too. Love it!
Congrats on the X-S20! Primes are honestly a game changer for that blurry background look you want...
- Stick with any Fujifilm brand prime and you basically cant go wrong.
- For your cats, go with a standard focal length to get that nice bokeh.
- For Chicago, their wider lenses are gonna be your best friend for buildings. Honestly, any compact Fujifilm prime in your budget will blow that kit lens away.
I would narrow it down to these for reliability:
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f/2 R WR: This one is weather-sealed which is smart for Chicago weather. Its very durable and the autofocus is snappy.
- Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary for Fujifilm X: If you really want that background blur, f1.4 is technically better. Its a very solid, reputable alternative. The Fuji f2 is likely your safest long-term investment.