So I just picked up the X-S20 after years with my old X-T20 and honestly the IBIS is a total game changer for me. But here is the thing. I have a huge trip to Kyoto and Osaka in literally 10 days and I realized all my zooms are just too bulky for the kind of street photography I want to do. I have about 750 bucks to drop on one solid prime right now.
My logic was to go with the 23mm f2 because its tiny and fast but then I keep seeing everyone rave about the 33mm f1.4 being the new gold standard for these sensors. I do a lot of low light stuff near the food stalls at night so the extra stop really matters but I am worried the 33mm might feel too tight on a crop sensor in those narrow alleys. Then I thought maybe the older 35mm f1.4 for the character people talk about? But I need snappy autofocus for moving crowds so that might be a massive mistake. I am totally stuck between the older Fujicron f2 lenses and the newer LM glass and I am running out of time to order. Does the X-S20 handle the older glass fast enough or should I just stick to the modern stuff? The clock is ticking...
Honestly, for Kyotos narrow streets and the night markets in Osaka, 23mm is usually the sweet spot. Ive spent time in Gion and the 33mm can feel pretty cramped when youre trying to capture the vibe of the food stalls. Since you have the Fujifilm X-S20 Mirrorless Camera, the IBIS helps a lot with slower shutter speeds, but you still need fast AF for moving crowds.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/1.4 R LM WR is the top choice. Its snappy and weather resistant.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR is a decent option if you want to stay small and light.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 33mm f/1.4 R LM WR is technically better glass but might be frustrating in tight alleys. The X-S20 makes older lenses feel faster than they did on the T20, but the newer LM motors are just more reliable for tracking. Go with the 23mm focal length... it is much more versatile for Japan street stuff.
