Prime lenses, especially those with a bright aperture, are a must for photographers. For instance, a 24mm lens can be a great tool for street and architecture photography, while an 85mm can do wonders with portraits and travel. The only drawback, though, one can face is that one has to carry multiple lenses or continuously switch between them when they are shooting in certain situations. But despite this, many photographers, especially pros, prefer a prime over a zoom. And now, it appears that four new prime lenses are likely to be released this year for Fujifilm cameras. Here’s a look at them.
TTArtisan To Launch A New Lens
According to Fujifilm Rumors, TTArtisan is set to release a 23mm f1.8 lens with autofocus capabilities. The lens is yet another addition after 35mm and 56mm f1.8 variations. While Fujifilm Rumors does not give much detail about its specifications, Asobinet reveals what it can consist of. Here is a look at its specs:
- Price: $127.00
- Lens Mount: X/E/Z
- Compatible Sensors: APS-C
- Focal Length: 23mm
- Lens Construction: 11 elements in 9 groups
- Maximum Aperture: f1.8
- Minimum Aperture: f16
- Aperture Blades: 9 sheets
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.3m
- Maximum Magnification: Not clear
- Filter Diameter: 52mm
- Image Stabilization: –
- Teleconverter: –
- Coating: Not clear
- Size: Not specified
- Weight: 210g
- Dust and Water Resistant: –
- AF: STM
- Aperture Ring: –
- Other Controls: –
- Accessories: Lens hood
Viltrox May Also Launch Three Lenses
In another report from Fujifilm Rumors, the website highlights that three new fixed lenses from Fujifilm are on the way. The report, which was first revealed by French publication Photo Trend, states the three lenses are as follows:
- Viltrox 35mm f/1.2 LAB
- Viltrox 50mm f/1.2 LAB
- Viltrox 85mm f/1.2 LAB
However, Photo Rumor states the LAB lenses will also be available for Nikon’s Z and Sony’s E mounts. According to the Weibo account that revealed the rumor, the lenses will be expected to launch in April during the NAB exhibition in Las Vegas.
What Can This Mean?
TTArtisan’s 23mm is quite cost-effective at just $127. However, for those who like to shoot manually, the lack of an aperture ring can be a hindrance. However, those who are new to the medium and need a less expensive lens than the Fujifilm offering can certainly opt for it. Unlike the Fujinon 23mm f1.4, TTArtisan offers a one-stop aperture difference, no weather sealing, and a smaller design. So, you win some, and you lose some. A lens of this nature only makes sense for those who are just beginning their journey with X series cameras. Otherwise, a professional has much better options out there.
As for Viltrox, the company is seriously thinking of expanding its LAB series. We have already reviewed its 135mm f1.8 LAB FE len, which performed wonderfully well with the Sony cameras. The chances of the f1.2 performing well are quite high in the case of Fujifilm cameras, too. However, whether the LAB lenses will be APS-C versions of the full-frame camera lenses remains unclear. If so, it will likely not be a choice by many FujiFilm users. The latter is keen on smaller lenses, and a full-frame lens will appear humongous on an X-series camera. And that would defeat any purpose.
Although the launch will happen sometime in the coming months, the fact that many third-party lens manufacturers are trying to cater to Fujifilm is great, even knowing that the company has an autofocus issue. However, not creating designs that are far more user-friendly for smaller APS-C cameras or heeding the suggestions of the photographers will create a challenge for its sale. Maybe younger photographers opt for these lenses, but they will soon switch to other brands for better ergonomics.