Fujifilm APS-C cameras have been in a league of their own. Not only do they offer compact, retro design, but also nice film simulations that make editing a bit easier. Like the cameras, their X-series lenses offer a nice focal range, including optics designed for long-distance subjects such as birds. Here is a look at 3 lenses that can help bird photographers.
Tamron 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 Di III
The 18-300mm is an ideal choice for young photographers who want to shoot wide-ranging subjects. It is the first APS-C lens with a 16.6x zoom ratio, and is a great option for those who want to carry less. Ergonomically, it is lightweight, but when zoomed out, it becomes twice its size. It also has a larger, friendlier design and is weather-resistant. The focusing system is quiet and has great close-up abilities. As a budget-friendly option, the lens is better suited for slower action. It is a versatile option, and the bokeh is also nice. The lens is also sharp, and the colors are nice as well. It is under $800.
Fujifilm 100-400mm f4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR
The 100-400mm is weather resistant, features 9 aperture blades, and is compatible with a 1.4x teleconverter. The lens is well-built for serious photography, and it has a large zoom ring. The size is compact when not zoomed out, making it easy to carry around. The lens feels solid in your hands, and it was able to withstand the rain. It also focuses very quickly with the X Pro 2, which is something given the model is at least a decade old. You also get really high quality of images, with the best bokeh and color rendition. “It’s sharp–very sharp actually. It’s one of Fujifilm’s sharpest lenses, only behind the 90mm f2 offering that they have,” we explained.
Fujifilm 150-600mm f5.6-8 R LM OIS WR
The 150-600mm is a long lens from Fujifilm and is 229mm to 914mm equivalent in 35mm. The lens is made of plastic, is off-white in color, and has multiple buttons and switches for more control. It is also weather-sealed, and it was able to withstand a cup of water in our tests. As for the focus, it is admirable. “This lens was able to capture some birds in flight reasonably well,” we explained in our review. “It did the best catching birds flying across the frame,” we added. The bokeh is soft, there is good sharpness, and it offers a nice depth of field along with vivid colors.