What prime lens should I actually pick up for my X-Pro3 if I'm mostly doing street stuff in Chicago? I finally pulled the trigger on a used X-Pro3 in that Dura Black finish—it looks so sick—and I really want to stick to one lens for a while to just learn the system and get that muscle memory down. I've been doing a ton of research online and it seems like everyone is totally split between a few different options and I cant make up my mind.
I've been looking at these specifically:
- 23mm f2 (the fujicron one)
- 35mm f1.4 (for the so called magic)
- 27mm f2.8 (the pancake version)
The 23mm seems like the obvious choice for that classic 35mm equivalent field of view and everyone calls it the fujicron because it's so small and the autofocus is apparently lightning fast. But then I see these incredible, moody shots with the 35mm f1.4 and people keep talking about the soul of that lens. I'm just worried the autofocus is gonna be way too loud and hunt too much for quick snapshots when I'm walking around the Loop or on the L train.
The thing is, I'm still a little bit shy when it comes to getting right in people's faces for photos, so part of me thinks the 35mm would give me that extra bit of space so I dont feel like I'm invading their bubble. But then I read that the f2 lenses are way better for the OVF specifically because they don't block the bottom right corner of the viewfinder nearly as much as the older f1.4 stuff. Does that actually matter much in real world use or is it just something people complain about on forums?
I've got a budget of about $600 max and I'm totally fine buying used gear. I’m actually heading out to NYC in three weeks for a vacation and I'm dying to have this figured out before I get on the plane so I can just focus on shooting. I'll be doing a lot of subway shots and busy sidewalk stuff. Is the 23mm wide enough for tight city streets or am I gonna regret not having that 35mm look? I really want that rangefinder experience to feel right and not have a massive lens hanging off the front... if anyone has used these on an X-Pro body specifically Id love to hear what felt the most natural.
That Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f/1.4 R was such a letdown for fast street stuff. Unfortunately, when I took it to NYC last year the hunting autofocus was a total mess in those crowds. The OVF blockage is way worse than people say, too. Quick question tho, are you mostly shooting during the day? If so, the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR is way better for keeping a low profile.
> 27mm f2.8 (the pancake version) Coming back to this, building on the earlier suggestion, I would suggest the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR for your trip. It is quite cost-effective when purchased used. Be careful with the older non-WR version tho, as it lacks a physical aperture ring. For an X-Pro body, that tactile control is vital. Make sure to check the autofocus noise... it is audible, but the pancake size makes it the most practical choice for subways.
Honestly I think you should just grab the 23mm. I used it for a week straight in the Loop and it felt so right on my X-Pro. Not sure about the 35mm OVF blockage, but someone told me it definitely gets in the way. It just works. I have been super satisfied with how snappy it is for subway shots... it just works well for that rangefinder vibe tho. Dont overthink it.
100% agree
