Honestly, im about to throw my kit lens out the window. Every time I try to shoot some architecture or even just get a full shot of my small apartment in Chicago, the edges look like trash and I just cant fit enough in the frame. I have a trip to Europe coming up in three weeks and this current setup is stressing me out so much because I know my travel photos are gonna look cramped and boring. My budget is around 600-700 bucks maybe a bit more if its really worth it, but I just need something reliable that actually works with the X-S20 autofocus without hunting all over the place. Im tired of fiddling with settings only to come home with blurry shots that miss the point. Does anyone have a wide-angle lens they actually swear by for this body? Im looking at the Viltrox 13mm vs the Fuji 10-24 but I keep reading mixed reviews and my anxiety is through the roof because I dont want to waste money on something that wont fix this. Seriously, what should I get?
Honestly, grab the Fujifilm XF 14mm F2.8 R. It is sharp, super reliable for architecture, and way less distorted than zooms. Dont stress, this glass is solid for travel.
I totally feel your pain with that kit lens. Taking it to Europe would be a mistake, especially if you want to capture those massive cathedrals without feeling like you are backed into a wall. I used to struggle with the same thing until I bit the bullet and grabbed the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 for my X-S20. Honestly, it changed everything for my travel shots.
- The 13mm focal length is super wide but doesnt have that weird fisheye distortion that ruins architecture.
- That f/1.4 aperture is a lifesaver when you are shooting in dimly lit museums or cafes where you dont want to crank your ISO up to the moon.
- Autofocus on this lens is snappy enough that I barely notice it, which is way better than the older manual focus options I tried in the past. If you really crave the flexibility of a zoom, the Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f/4 R OIS WR is a classic, but honestly, the variable aperture and the price tag can be a drag. The Viltrox is cheaper, sharper in the corners, and lets in way more light. I used it on a trip through Italy last summer and it stayed on my camera 90% of the time. Just make sure you update the firmware once you get it and you will be golden. Dont overthink it, just pick one and start practicing before your flight.
Solid advice 👍
Same here!