Our Favourite Fujifilm Zoom Lenses. 18-55mm vs. 16-55mm.

PhotographyFujifilm
Written By Tuan Lam
 

**Be sure to watch the video above if you want to see sample photos of what each lens can capture.

Fujifilm is known for their solid prime lenses, but having a good zoom is more versatile and makes it easier for shooting events or travelling around with you only want to carry one lens.

Our favourite Fujifilm lenses are the 16-55mm f2.8 and 18-55mm f2.8-4. What you get with one, you lose with the other, so we'll talk a little more about what we like about each, how we use them, and who they might be right for based on your photography needs.

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Fujifilm 16-55mm f2.8

PROS:

  • Constant f2.8 aperture

  • Great build quality/weather sealed

CONS:

  • More Expensive ($1000-$1500 CAD)

  • Bigger, heavier

  • No optical image stabilization

  • Flicker when zooming

We love both lenses, but the 16-55mm is our money-maker on wedding days. It's always attached to my XH1 and is perfect for photo and video work.

Why? Mainly because of the constant aperture. With it, you can zoom as needed to grab the shot without worrying about having to readjust any settings.

It's simply more convenient. Also, for a zoom lens, it's very sharp and professional-grade, so you don't have to worry about losing out on quality using a zoom over a prime lens.

One thing to note is the flickering when zooming. There’s examples in the video above, but if you’re recording video footage and you zoom while recording, you’ll notice a flicker as it readjusts to the new focal length. Something to note if you want to record and zoom at the same time to achieve a specific look.

Who is the 16-55 lens for?

Professionals and those who want the best mid length zoom.

A definite must for wedding photographers/videographers or those shooting events. Heck, if you want to chase the kids around and have the budget for it then you’ll love it.

Weight and size are the main factors to consider if you’re not using this lens to make money. It might get to be a little much to lug around all day just for casual photography.

Fujifilm 18-55mm f2.8

PROS:

  • Cheaper + $400-500 CAD used

  • Smaller/lighter

  • Optical Image Stabilization

CONS:

  • Varying aperture (f2.8-4)

  • No weather sealing

Who is the 18-55mm for?

Best for casual shooters and enthusiasts who want a smaller, convenient lens with optical image stabilization (OIS).

The OIS is the real differentiator here. It helps you shoot photos at lower shutter speeds, but also also reduces the shake when you want to capture the moment in video. Not many Fuji lenses at the moment have OIS, so it helps this lens really stand out. If you have an XH1 or XT4, then this is a moot point as those bodies have in-body stabilization.

And don’t let the idea of people calling it a “kit lens” throw you off. It’s truly great and if you compare it to other true kit lenses (from other manufacturers), you’ll notice the f stop values of Fuji’s 18-55 lens is lower than that of others providing a more usable range. It goes from f2.8 to 4, which is a great. Other kit lenses are usually are an f3.5 to 5.6, so you don’t get as much light in.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, if money is no issue, weight is not a concern, and you want the best quality — get the 16-55.

If you want a smaller, lighter lens with OIS — get the 18-55.

Hope that helped and join us over on YouTube if you have questions or to see what others are think of these lenses.

Take care,

Tuan

Tuan Lam
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Our Favourite Fujifilm Prime Lenses.