> I mainly shoot street photography and some casual video, so I'm debating between the XF 23mm f/2 or the 35mm f/2. My budget is around $400. Yo, saw this earlier but just now responding. To understand which one fits ur Fujifilm X-S20 best, you gotta look at how focal lengths affect the story ur telling. Basically, the Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR is a 35mm equivalent—the "street king"—while the Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2 R WR is a 50mm equivalent. In my experience, focal length matters most for video. Wider is usually easier to stabilize, even with your IBIS. Honestly, I’ve been a bit disappointed with the 35mm f/2 for video work because it has noticeable focus breathing. It’s like the frame pulses every time the AF shifts, which is super distracting in 4K. I also had issues with the 23mm f/2 being a bit soft when shooting wide open at minimum focus distance—it's not as sharp as I expected for close-ups. But for your $400 budget, here's the move: The 23mm is better for street cuz it’s more immersive. You can usually find a used Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR for around $330-$350 on sites like MPB, leaving you cash for filters. If you’re really tight on funds, look at the Fujifilm XC 35mm f/2. It’s literally the same optics as the XF version but in a plastic body for like $199. Definately not as "pro" feeling, but the image quality is identical. Personally, I'd go with the 23mm for that classic street vibe. gl! 👍

This^ Also wanted to add that since you're on a budget, you should really think about the "field of view" before pulling the trigger. Basically, a 23mm lens gives you a wider look (like a 35mm on full frame), while the 35mm is more "zoomed in" (50mm equiv). Why it matters for ur setup:
- Street vibes: The Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR lets you capture the whole scene, which is honestly better for "storytelling" street shots where context is key. - Video: Wider is almost always better for handheld video on the Fujifilm X-S20 so you don't look too cropped in if you're vlogging. - Price: Both fit your $400 budget if you buy used, but the Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2 R WR is usually cheaper if you're buying new. I would suggest starting with the 23mm. It’s just more versatile for everyday stuff and street work. You can always crop in later, but you cant crop out! gl!

I was literally losing sleep over this same choice with my X-S20 a few weeks back. It sucks being stuck in gear limbo... I eventually realized I was looking at the wrong brands maybe. You might want to consider the Sigma 23mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary instead of the Fuji f/2. I used the Fuji 23mm for a weekend and the focus motor kept hunting during some casual video clips I was taking of my kid, which was super frustrating. The Sigma is just... snappier? Be careful with the Viltrox AF 23mm f/1.4 XF too. Its a great value but the purple fringing in bright street shots can be a pain to edit out later. If you want that classic look, I would suggest looking at the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary because it sits right in the middle of the two you're debating and that f/1.4 is a lifesaver when the sun goes down. Just watch out for the size difference tho, it's a bit chunkier than the fujicrons but the image quality makes up for it imo.

Solid advice 👍

+1

Honestly the X-S20 is such a beast for the price! I remember being stuck between focal lengths when I first started out and it totally drove me crazy lol. I ended up getting a lens that was way too tight for the narrow streets in my city and I actually regretted it because I couldnt fit the architecture in with the people... it just felt so cramped. Before you drop your cash though, are you mostly shooting in tight urban spots or more open areas? Also for the video side of things, are you gonna be doing mostly handheld vlogging or more cinematic stuff where you are behind the camera? Knowing that would really help narrow it down!

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