Fujifilm has unveiled the FUJINON XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR lens, a super-telephoto prime designed for wildlife, sports, and bird photography. This new lens offers the longest focal length in the current X Series lineup, with several features to support demanding outdoor photography.
According to Victor Ha, Vice President of Fujifilm’s Electronic Imaging and Optical Devices Divisions: “Optical image stabilization and linear motor-driven autofocus help the creator document all the action without missing a detail.”
Key Specifications of the FUJINON XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR:
- Focal Length: 500mm (35mm equivalent: 762mm)
- Aperture Range:
- Maximum: f/5.6
- Minimum: f/22
- Lens Construction: 21 elements in 14 groups
- Includes 2 Super ED elements and 5 ED elements
- Diaphragm Blades: 9 (rounded)
- Minimum Focus Distance: 2.75 meters
- Filter Thread Size: 95mm
- Dimensions: 104.5mm diameter, 255.5mm length
- Weight: 1,335 grams (2.94 lbs)
- Image Stabilization: Up to 5.5 stops
- Weather Resistance: Sealed at 20 points, operational down to 14°F (-10°C)
Performance and Key Features
The XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR offers a long focal length, equivalent to 762mm in full frame terms, making it well-suited for capturing distant subjects. With teleconverter compatibility, the lens can extend up to 1,524mm with the FUJINON XF 2X TC WR. Despite its reach, the lens weighs just 1,335 grams, making it relatively easy to handhold during extended sessions.
The lens uses a high-speed linear motor for autofocus, achieving focus in as little as 0.33 seconds when paired with a compatible X Series camera in high-performance mode. For smoother operation, the lens includes a focus limiter and focus preset functions, reducing the time needed to reacquire focus during fast-paced events.
Optical Design and Build
Fujifilm has incorporated 2 Super ED and 5 ED lens elements to minimize chromatic aberrations, ensuring high resolution and accurate colors across the frame. The lens is also fluorine-coated on the front element to resist water, oil, and stains, making it suitable for harsh environments. Its robust weather-sealing at 20 points ensures reliable performance in challenging conditions.
Teleconverter Compatibility
The lens supports the FUJINON XF 1.4X and XF 2X TC WR teleconverters, allowing users to extend its reach without sacrificing autofocus performance or weather resistance.
Pricing and Availability
The FUJINON XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR can be preordered now and will be available in December 2024 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $2,999.95 USD and $4,049.99 CAD.
