The Enduring Appeal of the Fujifilm 35mm f/1.4: A Classic Lens Revisited

The Fujifilm XF 35mm f/1.4 R, despite its age, remains a popular choice for many. This informative video takes a look at why.

Coming to you from Roman Fox, this insightful video dives into the experience of using the Fujifilm 35mm f/1.4 lens in the bustling streets of Tokyo. Fox, having never extensively used this lens before, embarks on a day-long exploration to uncover the qualities that contribute to its cult following. He examines the lens's size and weight, noting its advantage over the newer Fujifilm XF 33mm f/1.4 in terms of portability and comfort during extended shoots. This factor is particularly relevant for street and travel photographers who value a lightweight and compact setup.

Fox also discusses the autofocus performance of the 35mm f/1.4, acknowledging its limitations compared to contemporary lenses. However, he emphasizes that for his style of photography, which relies on capturing fleeting moments and spontaneous compositions, the autofocus capabilities are sufficient. He further explores the lens' image quality, reserving judgment until he has had the opportunity to review the images in detail. This approach underscores the importance of considering the practical application and individual preferences when evaluating a lens.

Beyond the technical aspects, the video highlights the subjective experience of using the Fujifilm 35mm f/1.4. Fox's observations on the lens's rendering and character, along with his creative approach to capturing the vibrant streets of Tokyo, offer a glimpse into the artistic possibilities that this classic lens presents. The video encourages viewers to look beyond specifications and consider the unique qualities that older lenses can bring to their photography. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Fox.


 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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