This Is the Lens Fujifilm Wildlife Shooters Have Asked for Since 2018

Fujifilm has created some fantastic lenses over the years. Optics such as XF 18-55mm f2.8-4, XF 50-140mm f2.8, and XC 50-230mm f4.5-6.7 have all helped wildlife and bird photographers get the best results. As part of their growing portfolio, reports suggest that the X series will receive a new lens, which will be introduced alongside the upcoming X-T6.

According to Fuji Rumors, the company will introduce Fujinon XF 400mm, which was asked for back in 2018. The latter was a result of a survey the portal conducted, where they asked a wildlife photographer which XF lens that they wished to see. The response included Fujinon XF 400mm f4 R LM OIS WR and Fujinon XF 400mm f2.8 R LM OIS WR. Although the only “confirmation” is an anonymous tip, it remains to be seen what the specs will reveal in the near future.

At the moment, Fujifilm has the XF 500mm f5.6, and the XF 150-600mm f5.6 lenses in their portfolio. In this regard, questions are raised about whether a 400mm makes sense. To some, the 400mm will be close to 500mm, and somewhat redundant. However, if Fujifilm launches an f4 version, which is what many people want, then there will certainly be some takers. In fact, one commentor on Fuji Rumors noted that a 400mm f4 lens patet was filed in 2022, which makes the launch a possibility three years later.

There are some who expect that Fujifilm will introduce a f4.5 lens, much like the Nikon 400mm f4.5. This also means that the lens can be cheap and lightweight and stand apart from the 500mm f5.6.

At the same time, there are some people who still wish to get a 400mm f2.8. However, Nikon has its own 400mm f2.8, which costs around $14,000, which proves a f2.8 version will be expensive and impractical in some cases.

One recurring question has been how Fujifilm can make a prime lens small enough to fit on an APS-C camera mount. The 500mm lens simply projects a larger image circle across the X and GF mounts. So, will Fujifilm follow a similar train of thoughts? Fujifilm is known to make smaller cameras and so, the 400mm lens will have to adhere to that.

Overall, a 400mm can fill the gap in some cases, only if it’s quicker and lighter than other existing options. This can help photographers shoot in low light, including wildlife at dusk and dawn. A bright aperture can also result in improved autofocus performance, which makes their jobs easier.

However, as is the case with reports such as this, the chances of the lens being real must be taken with a grain of salt. Usually, reports are launched even before an official date, so one has no other option but to wait. Fujifilm has multiple lens patents, including an all-in-one zoom lens that can compete with Tampon. So which one is finally released will only be decided by trends.