The Little Lens That Could
Let’s get one thing straight: the Fuji XF 35mm f/1.4 R is the underdog hero of the Fuji X-mount lineup. It’s small, it’s sharp, and it’s got a personality bigger than its f/1.4 aperture. Released in 2012 as one of Fuji’s first X-mount lenses, this little gem has aged like a fine wine—or at least like a decent boxed wine.
Is it perfect? No.
Is it ridiculously good for the price? Absolutely.
Optical Performance: “Sharp Enough to Cut Through Your Excuses”
Specs:
- Focal Length: 35mm (53mm equivalent on APS-C, because math).
- Aperture: f/1.4 (or “how to make your photos look expensive”).
- Construction: 8 elements in 6 groups, including 1 aspherical element (because Fuji loves showing off).
Sharpness:
- Wide Open (f/1.4): Center sharpness is chef’s kiss. Edges? Let’s call them “artistically soft.”
- Stopped Down (f/5.6): Sharp enough to count the pores on your subject’s nose (if you’re into that).