So I just got the Fujifilm X-S20 last week and honestly I have no idea what I am doing lol. Its my first real camera after just using my iPhone for years and I am super overwhelmed by all the buttons and settings. I currently have the lens that came in the box—the 18-55 one I think? It takes okay pictures but I see all these photos online with that really pretty blurry background look and mine just look kinda flat. Someone told me I need a prime lens but I dont really get what that means... like you cant zoom at all? That sounds kind of annoying to be honest but people say the quality is way better so I want to try it out.
I am going on a big trip to Tokyo next month and I really want to get some good shots of the streets at night and maybe some portraits of my girlfriend but I dont want to be carrying a massive bag of gear around. My budget is probably around 400 or maybe 500 dollars if I stretch it but I'd rather stay lower if possible since the camera was already so expensive. I live in a pretty rainy area too so maybe something that wont break if it gets a tiny bit wet? Or maybe that doesnt matter for a beginner.
I was looking at the 35mm one because people say thats normal but then there is a 23mm and a 50mm and I am just staring at the numbers and getting a total headache. Is 35mm too zoomed in for street stuff? I just want one lens that I can leave on the camera most of the time that makes the photos look professional you know? Sorry if this is a really basic question I just feel like I am drowning in all the options and dont want to waste money on something I wont use. Which prime lens should I actually get for this camera if I just want that one perfect all rounder...
I totally get the headache with the numbers, I was exactly there when I started. A prime just means it doesnt zoom, so you use your feet to move closer. It sounds annoying until you see the photos... honestly, the quality jump is huge compared to the kit lens. For Tokyo and those portraits of your girlfriend, I have been super satisfied with the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f/2 R WR. I remember walking through a rainy Shinjuku night with this exact setup and feeling so relieved I didnt have a giant zoom lens. Here is why it works so well:
- It is weather resistant (WR), so if it gets a bit wet, you wont have a heart attack.
- The f/2 aperture gets you that pretty background blur you want, especially if you get close to your subject.
- It is super small and light, which is a lifesaver when you are traveling. The 35mm focal length is what people call a normal lens because it basically mimics how the human eye sees things. It isnt too wide and it isnt too zoomed in. If you really want to maximize that blurry look and dont mind skipping the weather sealing, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary for Fujifilm X is another killer choice that fits your budget. I have used both and honestly, having that f/1.4 on the Sigma for night shots is amazing, but the Fuji f/2 is just such a reliable little tank for travel.
Grab the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR!
- Weather sealed for rain
- Perfect wide angle for Tokyo I used it in Osaka and it didnt disappoint, simply amazing!
> I just want one lens that I can leave on the camera most of the time that makes the photos look professional you know? Quick reply while I have a sec. I would suggest looking at the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary for Fujifilm X. It makes the background look amazing for those portraits. Just be super careful though, because it isn't weather sealed. If it starts raining in Tokyo, you gotta make sure to keep it dry so you dont ruin your expensive new camera!
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Just wanted to say thanks for everyone chiming in. Super helpful discussion.
