Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R Lens

Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R Lens: High-Performance APS-C Prime

The Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R Lens, a quintessential prime designed for the discerning photographer, combines superior optical performance with a compact, robust build, making it an indispensable tool for both amateur and professional photographers. Engineered for APS-C-format FUJIFILM X-mount cameras, this lens offers a 53mm equivalent focal length, ideal for a range of photographic needs—from portrait to street photography. Its maximum aperture of f/1.4 not only excels in low light conditions but also provides an artistic control over depth of field, allowing for strikingly sharp subjects against a smoothly blurred background. The optical construction of the lens includes 8 elements in 6 groups with one aspherical element, which diligently corrects distortion and spherical aberrations, leading to impeccable sharpness and accurate rendering. The seven-blade rounded diaphragm enhances the aesthetic quality of the bokeh, adding a creamy, consistent texture to the out-of-focus areas of the photograph.

The lens’s physical design speaks volumes about Fujifilm’s commitment to quality. A high-quality metal barrel not only adds durability but also gives the lens a premium feel and weight. The traditional aperture ring allows for tactile control over exposure settings, harking back to photography’s roots while satisfying the modern photographer’s need for precision. This lens does not feature image stabilization, a deliberate choice to maintain its compact size and ensure exceptional image quality in a more portable form factor. Weighing just 187 grams and measuring only 65mm in diameter by 50.4mm in length, it is remarkably lightweight and agile for such a high-performing lens.

Here is a detailed review from FeralGinger: 

The Super EBC (Electron Beam Coating) on the lens elements is another standout feature, significantly reducing flare and ghosting to enhance contrast and color fidelity in strong lighting conditions. The autofocus system, while slightly noisier than some modern lenses, is quick enough for most photography scenarios, and the manual focus ring provides added control for precision focusing. This lens is ideal for photographers who seek to capture vibrant, sharp images with a natural perspective and a depth that feels true to the eye’s perception.

Opt for the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R Lens if you're looking for a lens that promises not just to capture images but to do so with an exceptional clarity and artistic integrity that can transform everyday moments into spectacular visuals. Whether it's the subtle interplay of light and shadow in a dimly lit room or the crisp details of a face in a crowded street, this lens is built to deliver performance that can elevate your photographic artistry.

Features:

Prime Lens with Perfect Focal Length for Versatility

The Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R is a prime lens, meaning it has a fixed focal length of 35mm, which is equivalent to 53mm on a 35mm format. This focal length is considered ideal for a wide range of photography genres, including street, portrait, and everyday shooting. Its "normal" angle of view mimics that of the human eye, providing a natural perspective that is neither overly compressed like a telephoto lens nor distorted like a wide-angle lens. This makes the lens particularly useful for photographers looking to capture images that feel close to what one sees naturally.

Exceptional Aperture for Low Light and Depth of Field Control

With a maximum aperture of f/1.4, the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R excels in low-light conditions, allowing photographers to capture clear, detailed images even in dimly lit environments. This wide aperture also provides extensive control over depth of field, making it easier to isolate subjects from their backgrounds through selective focus techniques. Such a feature is invaluable for creating portraits with a soft, blurred background, drawing attention directly to the subject at hand.

Advanced Optical Design for Sharp Images

The optical design of this lens includes eight elements in six groups and incorporates one aspherical element to reduce distortion and spherical aberrations. The result is higher sharpness and more accurate rendering of images. This meticulous design ensures that the lens not only captures images with true-to-life sharpness but also maintains integrity across the entirety of the frame, from center to edge.

Built for Durability and Aesthetic Appeal

The lens's construction features a high-quality metal barrel that not only enhances its durability but also adds a tactile pleasure to its operation. The inclusion of a manual aperture ring allows photographers to adjust exposure settings quickly and with precision, offering a satisfying click with each change. This combination of durability and manual control appeals to both traditionalists who appreciate the feel of mechanical precision and modern users who demand robustness in their photography tools.

Superior Coatings for Enhanced Image Quality

Fujifilm’s Super EBC (Electron Beam Coating) is applied to the elements of the XF 35mm F1.4 R lens to reduce ghosting and flare. This treatment enhances contrast and color fidelity, especially in strong lighting conditions. The ability to suppress aberrations and flare significantly boosts the lens’s performance, ensuring that photographs are not only sharp but also vibrant and true to life.

Compact and Lightweight Design for On-the-Go Photography

Despite its metal construction and advanced optics, the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R remains light and compact, weighing only 187 grams. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who travel frequently or prefer to carry lighter gear. The lens’s size and weight make it unobtrusive, ideal for shooting in situations where a larger, heavier lens might be cumbersome.

Natural Bokeh for Artistic Photography

The rounded seven-blade diaphragm of the lens contributes to a pleasing out-of-focus quality, or bokeh, which is especially desirable in portraits and other applications where a smooth, creamy background is beneficial. This feature allows creative photographers to experiment with focus and light, using the bokeh effect to enhance the artistic expression in their photographs.

• Portrait Photography: The 53mm equivalent focal length and f/1.4 aperture allow for excellent subject isolation and beautiful background bokeh, making it ideal for capturing detailed, expressive portraits.
• Street Photography: The lens's compact size and fast aperture make it perfect for street photography, where quick, candid shots often require discretion and speed.
• Low-light Photography: With its wide f/1.4 aperture, the lens excels in low-light environments, enabling photographers to capture sharp, clear images in settings that require higher light sensitivity without relying on flash.
• Everyday Photography: The natural field of view similar to that of the human eye makes this lens suitable for a wide range of general photography needs, from family events to scenic shots.
• Landscape Photography: Although typically used for portraits and street photography, the sharpness and clarity provided by the lens also make it suitable for capturing detailed landscapes.
• Documentary Photography: The lens’s ability to produce high-quality images discreetly is perfect for documentary-style shoots where capturing the essence and authenticity of the moment is crucial.
• Event Photography: The fast aperture allows for capturing dynamic, vivid images in varied lighting conditions typically found in events like weddings or concerts.

Pros

• Exceptional Low Light Performance: The f/1.4 maximum aperture allows for outstanding low light capabilities and depth of field control.
• Superb Optical Quality: Features an optical design that includes one aspherical element, enhancing image sharpness and reducing distortions.
• Compact and Lightweight: Weighing just 187 grams and compact in size, making it highly portable and ideal for everyday shooting.
• High-Quality Build: Constructed with a robust metal barrel and a manual aperture ring, offering a premium tactile experience.
• Pleasing Bokeh: The seven-blade rounded diaphragm contributes to a smooth and aesthetically pleasing bokeh, ideal for portraits.
• Super EBC Coating: Reduces lens flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast and color fidelity in challenging lighting conditions.

Cons

• No Image Stabilization: Lacks built-in image stabilization, which can be a drawback in handheld shooting conditions.
• Noisy Autofocus System: The autofocus can be noisier and slower compared to newer lenses, which might be a concern for video shooting or discreet photography situations.
• Manual Focus Ring Stiffness: Some users find the manual focus ring to be a bit stiff, which may affect precise focus adjustments.
• Focus Breathing: Noticeable during video recording, which can be problematic for filmmakers requiring consistent framing.

• 53mm (35mm Equivalent)
• Aperture Range: f/1.4 to f/16
• One Aspherical Element
• X-Mount Lens/APS-C Format
• Rounded 7-Blade Diaphragm

• Model: Fujinon XF 35mm F1.4 R
• Lens Type: Prime lens
• Compatibility: APS-C-format FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras
• Focal Length: 35mm
• 35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 53mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
• Minimum Aperture: f/16
• Aperture Control: Number of blades - 7 (rounded diaphragm opening)
• Stop Size: 1/3 EV (22 stops)
• Lens Construction: 8 elements in 6 groups (includes 1 aspherical element)
• Focus Type: Autofocus
• Focus Range: Normal: 0.8m - ∞, Macro: 28cm - 2.0m
• Maximum Magnification: 0.17x
• Dimensions: Diameter x Length approx. 65.0mm x 50.4mm
• Weight: Approx. 187g
• Filter Size: ø52mm
• External Material: High-quality metal barrel
• Lens Coating: Super EBC (Electron Beam Coating) to reduce ghosting and flare
• Manual Aperture Ring: Yes
• Image Stabilization: No
• Mount Type: Fujifilm X-mount
• Angle of View: 44.2°
• Minimum Focus Distance: 28 cm

• Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R Lens
• FLCP-52 II Front Lens Cap
• RLCP-001 Rear Lens Cap
• Lens Hood
• Wrapping Cloth
• Limited Warranty

What type of camera is the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R lens compatible with?

This lens is designed for APS-C-format FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras, providing a 53mm equivalent focal length on a 35mm format.

Can the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R lens be used in low light conditions?

Yes, the lens has a maximum aperture of f/1.4, which allows for exceptional performance in low-light environments by enabling more light to reach the sensor.

Does this lens come with image stabilization?

No, the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R does not feature built-in image stabilization. Photographers will need to rely on camera stabilization or other methods to reduce camera shake.

What is the weight and size of the lens?

The lens is compact and lightweight, weighing approximately 187g with dimensions of 65.0mm in diameter and 50.4mm in length, making it ideal for travel and day-to-day photography.

Is there a manual focus option available on the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R lens?

Yes, the lens offers both autofocus and manual focus capabilities. The manual focus ring provides tactile feedback for precision focusing adjustments.

What are the main benefits of the aspherical element in the lens design?

The inclusion of one aspherical element in the lens construction helps to reduce distortion and spherical aberrations, enhancing image sharpness and accuracy.

What type of photography is the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R lens best suited for?

This lens is versatile and well-suited for a variety of photography styles including portraits, street photography, and general everyday shooting thanks to its standard focal length and wide aperture.