I have the 23mm f2 and used it exclusively to photograph my cousin's wedding (as a amateur, don't worry, I never got in the way of the actual pro photographer). Anyway, while getting the long shots (such as in the ceremony) and speeches just didn't work out all that well (which is fine, since I just did it for fun)… but for everything else I ended up really happy with the results. Consistently using this throughout the whole wedding lended my photo set a very ”being there” kind of vibe which I'm really happy with. At a later wedding (amateur again, for a friend, again: stayed out of the way of the pro) I used a combination of 23mm f2 and 35mm f2 (with a few shots with 16mm 2.8 to capture the whole room). In that situation many of the tele shots worked out a little better (aside from the ceremony again, haha). I think if I where to do wedding photography seriously I would probably invest in the 50mm to get that reach and pair it with couple of X-Pro2 or X-Pro3. I personally don't really want even shallower depth of field than that. It's harder to get properly into focus and having some sense of context is nice anyway. Espescially with the X-Pro3 that focuses down to -6 EV focusing won't be a problem in the dim light either. And I kinda think high ISO images (at least with the Fuji X series) often look quite nice anyway. Thanks for the review btw!
Hey man! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts and experiences - there’s always something new to learn 🙃 I agree on all the points you bring up. Am gonna shoot my coming up wedding with an XPro 3 and an XT3 and the lenses I mentioned in this video. Gonna have a blast! Take care
Thanks Cris. Thanks for a detailed review! Have a question, will 50mm f2 be too wide for potrait photo of 2 people at dinner parties indoors. Also wedding photos? I am only an enthusiast photographer and occasionally take photos at parties.
Thanks Erik! I’d rather go with a 35mm which will give you a wider FOV for more than one person - especially if you don’t have enough room to back off. They made an f2 model as well and it’s a great lens. Take care
I bought the 50mm f2 a few months ago, and it has quickly become my favorite lens for street and family photography. It is about half the size and weight of the 33mm f1.4 and its sharpness and autofocus are similar.
I've got the xf23 f1.4 and xf56 f1.2, but the lens I use the more is the xf35 f1.4, I love it. For weddings, the xf16 f1.4 is a very good lens to get more backgrounds
Nice Franck! I agree the 23 and 56 are really good focal lengths and I find them perfect. I used to bring around the 10-24mm and the 90 with me as well but ended up not really using them. I should give the 16mm a try 😉 take care
Hey Cris, thanks for the insight about both. I just bought the Fujinon 50mm f2 for my X-S10 and I am a complete n00b to professional cameras. My goal is to shoot portraits and portrait videos (if that's what you call it) at the gym. Today I took some photos at the gym at A1.4 and they were great but the videos were good when in focus however any time another human comes into the scene the lens focuses on that new person instead of locking focus on my subject. Not sure what setting I need to change and also, would you recommend the Fujinon 50mm f2 for what I want to do or the Fujinon 56m f1.2?
Hello there, thanks. I think the 50mm f2 is better for AF than the 56mm. There are settings to only select AF when your subject is in a certain area of the frame (to avoid focusing on other people when entering the frame). That should fix the problem 😉 cheers
Great, informative, no-nonsense video. I use the 23mm f2 on my xt20 for street photography, urban landscapes, and environmental portraits. It's a great little lens. For everything else, I use the 18 - 55 mm kit lens, mostly at 55mm. I don't shoot much in low light, so a big aperture is not a big deal for me. I am thinking about the 50 mm f2.
Thanks for stopping by Lawrence and for the feedback - much appreciated. Despite being a “kit lens” the 18-55mm is a fantastic optics and I shot amazing landscapes in LA with it back in 2015. If you like the 23mm f2 you will enjoy the 50mm f2 as well for portrait. Take care
Hi, nice video! I know that now you have also new Fuji 56mm 1.2 WR. Are you still using also 50mm f2 at weddings? I found that 56mm 1.2 WR is not the best in AFC (with Xt3) and I am wondering if I should also buy 50mm f2 for moving subjects? Thank you. Blaz
Hi there, I personally still own and use the 56mm f1.2 mark I (didn't find the second generation to be worth the change personally). I now shoot my wedding on Leica cameras since that video but I think you can't go wrong with the 50mm in terms of AF (it's the best of the line up at that focal length). You lose a stop and 1/3 but truth be told... not a big deal in my experience. Take care!
i dont have the 56 1.2, but i do use the 50 f2 for the reception with godox strobe lights and oh my is it wonderful for the candid dancing moments with the flashes. It is literally the only reason why i have held on to that lens.
Using a vitlrox speed booster 0.71 multiplay with canon EF 50 1.8 = 35 1.3 or with the Fringer adapter the Canon EF 85 1.8. My most preferred lense is the XF 16-55 2.8. Using 2 or 3 cameras. 2 X-H1 and one XT 20
Hello! The sigma is super duper sharp. That said, I love the f2 models from Fuji - they are super amazing and I also owned the 50mm and really like the form factor and the rendering. Sigma has a stop more but I find them pretty similar otherwise.
I was in fujifilm plaza HQ in Tokyo and I think I'm going for the 50mm f2 did some tests there plus I plan use for video with gimbal that fast autofocus it's going to be good
One thing great about the X-T4 at weddings is for lowlight shots of non moving subjects like taking shots of the wedding cake, gift table, wedding party dining table, etc. you can use longer shutter speeds and lower iso (200-400) thanks to the IBIS. So in those scenarios there’s no need for 1.2/1.4 of course moving subjects are a different story. Great shots! 👍🏻
I use the 56 f1,4 for portraits and to pop details in photos. For wide i use the 14mm f2,8 its great, a bit wider than every 24mm equivalent lens and every smartphone out there. Love it for including a lot from landscape, groups, market places destinations, and astrophotography. , I have been torn between a 23 and a 35, and have not completely settled yet, but as a everything lens both actually works great. I must say I prefer the weight of the 35mm f1.4 over the 23mm. I dont stress with weather sealing, i used cameras and lenses not wr for ages and a simple plastic zip bag with a hole for the glass is more weather resistant than a gasket. I like faster primes, taking indoor shots from clubs, evening and night shots from streets and so on. Anyway the fujicrons are perfectly fine as well if dark scenes is not important. As it is I probably keep the 35mm f1,4 as the normal lens coupled with the 14mm and the 56mm, and the rest is for special usage, i will try and see... Autofocus on new firmware XT5 is extremely good, all the issues is pretty much gone on the 35mmand the 56mm. So i'm waiting to test out the new XS20 which has the same auto focus deal. That is a light setup that might do the trick in the future. Thanks for a great video.
Thanks for watching and for your personal feedback! Yes these are both great lenses that I take with me in most of my shoots. I will be receiving the S20 soon - stay tuned 😉 cheers!
That was pretty good Chris. I pretty much agree with what you said. I work in a very similar way to you. Short and long. 23mm and 50mm. However my differences are as follows: firstly I use two X-Pro2s as this style of shooting works better with the X-Pro2 due to its hybrid viewfinder. I set the exposure for the scene in EVF and then switch to OVF to work with the frame lines, looking outside them to assist composition. I very rarely chimp when I’m working. This detracts from concentrating on the job in hand. The other differences are lenses. I carry the amazing XF16mm 1.4 and switch to this from the 23mm when I’m working directly with people. The 23mm or 35mm are great when you’re capturing the general scene but the 16mm is so great when you get intimate. The other lens I carry is the 90mm f2. A great lens for picking out cameo moments. I also use other combinations of these same primes. It’s important to use your feet to compose, thinking all the time. Prime lenses work so well for this much better than zooms. Zooms are ok for when your movement is restricted but they tend to be bulky, which can be an issue. Give the the X-Pro2/3 a try and maybe those lenses. Anyway, thanks for the video. You’re a man in the same mould as me. It’s good to know others feel and work in the same way. All the best!
Hey man, thanks a lot for stopping by and glad you liked the video - it's great to know other photographers use a similar setup out there! You've got a hell of a setup there! That's great. Funny enough, I will be rocking my X-Pro3 in a couple of weeks for my coming wedding along side my X-T3. That'll be perfect to test. I have been using the X100F for some weddings and it worked great BUT the speed was not up for the challenge (IMHO) so had to swap to another X-T2 with a 23mm. I used to have the 90mm and sold it after a while as I was using the 56mm way more. You're not the first one telling me about the 16mm 1.4 and I will get my hands on it and try it during a wedding for my close work with people, might be good indeed. Zooms wise, am not a big fan either - besides maybe the 10-24 that I sometimes take out of my camera bag but very seldomly (also for aperture and sharpness reasons). I might even do a little video with my X-Pro3 and T3 combo - who knows... Take care! ps: dunno if you saw my latest leather dual camera strap but if you use that in weddings and don't have one, I highly suggest you give it a look - it's a killer strap!
Cris Photography cheers Cris. Deffo not a zoom lens fan either. Do you use the OVF much on the X-Pro series? I really find it helps a lot with composition. I’ve been looking for suitable straps so I’ll have a look. Thanks again and good luck with your upcoming wedding
Yes babe definitely use my OVF when shooting with the 100 or Pro series. With a 23 I definitely use the OVF most of the time - as when I shoot street photography. Cheers!
Hello Cris. Even after 3 years your video is still very relevant! :)) I have acquired the 50mm over a year but never found a real practical use for it until this year where I took it with me for some trips to give it a new try. And I took it with me to a trip in southern Italy and had a very convincing experience with it, daytime as well as evening and night time, took nice shots of fireworks, dimly lit streets, it was fast responsive and the autofocus is so quiet. I'm now pondering whether I should add the 23 f2 and 35 f2 to my collection, maybe the 23f2 is enough as you also said the 35 being close to the 50 in terms of focal lenght, and I feel the same there. :)
Great! Happy it's still helpful. Honestly I'd take a 23 if you already have the 50 so you have enough difference between the 2. If you can afford them all 3 then go for it but the 23 is my favorite. Take care!
Nice video. Curious what you don’t like about the 23mm f1.4? Faster autofocus than the 56mm f1.2, not soft close up or at the edges wide open like the 23mm f2. I do own the 56mm f1.2, which is great, although the only f2 lenses I own are the 18mm and 90mm, which are both amazing. But your results look great Cris.
Hey Nathan, thanks for your comment! I really like the 23 f1.4 but don’t use it as much for weddings as I shoot 80% 50mm or 56mm and only 20% with the 23 and I use it at 5.6 normally. So using the smaller more compact one is best for me. But don’t give me wrong - the 23 1.4 is gorgeous and I shot amazing shots with it ☺️. 18mm - that’s an interesting one too indeed can’t agree more. I sold my 90 as I wasn’t using it enough. Take care!
No, the 56 is not WR. That didn't stop me from using it for the past 4 years on ALL my weddings and photo shoots for clients and never have I ever had a problem ;) But if you are going to use it in very humid, dusty, etc. environments you might want to consider the 50mm f1 (if the wider than f2 aperture is important to you) or get the 50mm f2 if that ain't a deal breaker. Cheers
@@cris_photography yeah I loved your review / images and performance of the lens - I’m just worried it won’t be safe to shoot in rain as I like to do night stills in that sort of atmosphere.
@@ModernGamerTV don’t shoot under the actual rain (no mater if WR or not - it is not WATERproof!) but if you plan on using an umbrella for example or a FEW drops should be ok. More than that tho… would go with WR.
I have the 23mm f2 and the 50mm f2. Bought them both to have a set of primes that would be super light and compact. However, there's something about the pictures that I take with my Zeiss 32mm and my Fuji 90mm that beats these two lenses. They are both very good but seem to be missing that "je ne sais quoi".
One question, you said you do not use a flash, which is what I am going for, but how do you do when you get to a very very dark scene and people ask you to photograph there? Like the bride say "I really want a shot here" etc ...
Hello, good question. I normally let my XT2,3 or 4 chose the best settings (bar the aperture which I set manually). I set the camera to never go under 1/125th of a second and to go anywhere from 200 to 12800 ISO. When it is REALLY dark that it cranks up the iso even when Fully opened (such as f1.2 for example) and I get noise - I convert those files into B&W, which makes the noise more « pleasing ». That’s how I do normally. With a good and fast lens, you should be able to keep the ISO low enough to keep some information for post. Hope that can help. Cheers
Hi, just come across this video as I'm looking for a lens in the 50(ish)mm range for wedding and portrait photography. Aside the lenses, and bearing in mind it is now 2021, would you still recommend the X-T2? I have an X-T4 but would like to have a capable back up camera. The X-T2 and X-T20/30 are all older technology when compared to the X-T4 but they still seem to have a great following and, for the most part, when looking around TH-cam, appear to be able to deliver the goods. Would love to hear your thoughts in 2021. 😊
Hello Darren, funny you’d write now, I literally JUST finished exporting the final edits of my last wedding! To answer your question, here’s what I used: X-T2 on one side with the 23mm f2 and sometimes the 10-24mm f4 for wider shots and an X-T3 with the 56mm f1.2 That is all I use in 2021. I am planning to make a new video about my current gear, my editing (currently editing my shots in Kodak Portra 400 and 800) so stay tuned! Take care Ps: while I love the X-T4, don’t see a real need to upgrade even though my XT2 literally has scotch tape on the screen as it fell and partially broke but it works great for taking wedding shot 😊
@@cris_photography thank you for such a rapid and insightful reply. My X-T4 was not an upgrade, as such, but my first foray into the world of Fuji (and it's a great place to be!). I'm with you on the X-T3 as it uses pretty much the same technology as the X-T4, except for the battery, perhaps? I'll still look at the X-T2 as it'll be the back up/2nd camera so will likely get less use than the main one. My sights are currently set on the 56mm f1.2 and the 16mm f1.4. I have the 35mm f2 but it isn't really doing a lot for me at the moment, I tend to take most photos (for pleasure and not in a professional capacity) with my 16-80mm f4 kit lens. Perhaps I should take a look at the 23mm?! I look forward to seeing your next wedding video as I'm trying to learn as much as I can, and as quickly as I can, so that I can hit the ground running. Now subscribed 👍🏼😊
I know 35mm and 85mm full frame equivalent is the most popular combination for weddings but I’d like to see more done with 35+50 (which is 23 and 33/35 in Fuji land). 85mm shots of individuals and couples always seem detached/voueuristic to me while 50mm seems more natural and intimate. The photographer would be granted access to get close enough to make 50mm work during the ceremony, too.
have purchased Fujinon 23mm f2 and Sigma 30mm f1.4 at the same time. My plan was to test them during week, make decision and return one of them back to shop. I cannot be more suprised - I didn't need week, not day, not one hour. After few shoots I can tell you that Sigma for Fujifilm is much more SHARPER, and as bonus of course it has BETTER BOKEH (I cant compare with fujinon 23 f1.4, but this one has old SLOOOWER AF speed). As bonus - Sigma is cheaper. So I am a big fan of this Sigma solutions :) I will definitely try that 56mm
Hello there! I remember you telling me about the sigma - that is surprising indeed! Good that it works better for you 😉 enjoy! And yes try the 56mm when oui can it is also very good. Cheers!
I have the 23 f2 and use it on my xt20. A great lens for street and urban landscape photography! I'm considering the 50mm f2, but not sure how much I would use it.
Cool Lawrence! Yes I love the 23mm f2 for street too. I did a review on this channel on the 50 f1. It’s an interesting lens - but not for everyone indeed. Cheers!
Thank you ,your video is very interesting... I own 56mm . I have to say that i have never had any speed problems with autofocus, but when you need boket it's unmatched. It's not even heavy... So i prefer it over 50. About 23mm I prefer version F.1,4. But I agree with you that it's important not to be so visible . I apologize if my English is not perfect. I'm following you, congratulation great shots! Photographer is more important than the lenses and the body... You're very good photographer.
Ciao Roberto, il tuo inglese è ottimo! Parlo anche l'italiano perfettamente e dal nome deduco che sei italiano :) Grazie per il tuo commento ed in fatti il mio obiettivo favorito è il 56mm f1.2 che è semplicemente perfetto. Grazie x esserti abbonato e x i complimenti sulle mie foto - molto apprezzato! Sono d'accordo, il fotografo fa tutta la differenza. A presto ;)
@@cris_photography Ciao Cris, si sono italiano di Torino. Grazie per avermi risposto... Fantastico il fatto tu che parli anche italiano! Allora ti seguo ancora più volentieri per potermi confrontare con te, a presto ci sentiamo!
Hey Sami, I shoot single mode most of the time and if there are moment where I need to be faster I switch to CH such as a running shot for example (and I swap to C focusing mode as well). Cheers
Thanks for sharing, I have recently switched to Fuji for my weddings and it was a bit of getting used to at the beginning, I’m not fussed about the weight I’m a strong guy I rather something my hand can wrap around so I love the grip, I have just starting now shooting again and I have now two brand new XT4s and many lenses, I am a bit of a lens slut, my. Favourite are the 14mm f2.8, 16mm f1.4, 23mm f1.4, 50mm f2, 56mm f1.2 and the 90mm f2. But I don’t always use them all on every wedding depends on the environment, space lighting etc. The biggest challenge coming from a full frame system prior was to get used to the grain Fuji offers, some people call it noise but for me a now love it especially editing via Capture one the film like grain is probably one of the best features Fuji provides, The AF could be better but it’s good enough especially now with the AF having. -6 ev which basically can focus in total darkness, I really do find Fuji a lot more fun to use the other brands, the images also look great straight out of camera and very timeless feel.
Hey Elias, thanks for stopping by and for sharing your experience with Fuji! I agree with you with your choice of lenses - luv them all. Although I don't really use the 14 and the 16 cause I have the 10-24 f4 that covers a wide range (generally during daylight) so a wider aperture isn't needed for what I do and I sold my 90mm a few months back as I found myself using the 56mm f1.2 way more - but it's an excellent lens! I can't agree more with you on the Fuji photo quality and the fun of using the cameras. I would never go back to anything else! Take care :)
Great review.. I just change from nikon to fujifilm xt2.. I do weddings also and my main lrns for nikon was nikon 85. 1.8 and 35 sigma art 1.4. And I was looking what to buy for the fujifilm. You gave me the answer . Thank you so much :)
Hey George, thanks a lot for stopping by and glad I could help you decide! Am sure you will find what you are looking for - especially for wedding 😉 Take care
Hey Stefan, thanks for stopping by. Honestly I never looked back at buying the 56 and it was I think my best purchase ever - lens wise! Now in terms of bad weather, depends how back the weather is dust and humidity wise. 50 might be better for that. Yes - I am super curious about the f1 lens as well!! Take care
I've used it at weddings for a few years now, and it has been in some light rain. I just try to keep it covered up when I'm not shooting and it has been fine. It does definitely make me nervous though, and once I bought the 50mm f2 I switch it out whenever the weather gets spooky.
@@cris_photography I tried that when I first started but got into too many situations where flash was necessary. So I use available as much as possible but use flash when I need to.
Don’t get me wrong, I own 2 Godox AD400pro, 3 Fuji external flashes, an aputure 200D II, several external lights, etc. But clients know I like to not use it for candid purposes. Now, if there are posed shots for groups indoor for example, I setup some lights and flashes, that I do do. But otherwise I tried at 99% to go flashless and if needed I convert to b&W if the results are too grainy. Take care
After using the 16-55 mm now I am spoilt and can't use 18-55 mm any more. People who say 16-55 mm or 50-140 mm lenses are heavy and expensive. Please. Grow up. I resale market I got them both for 2400 aud, which is like 1600 USD. I will keep my primes in case I want to challenge myself on a boring day. But both my other zoom lenses I will sell off eventually, the 16-80 and 18-55 mm. Don't their use much tbf. I kept them just in case my gf finds them useful and cause I got them from the used market.
I own the 50mm f/2. I've been thinking about renting a 56mm f/1.2 for a wedding. I've never done a wedding, but have done events. In this time of Pandemic has this changed your equipment or approach to shooting weddings. I know there will be a small list of attendees, and there will be social distancing. Any thoughts you might have would be much appreciated! Subscribed!
Hey Bill, first of all thanks for subscribing - appreciated ;) I just shot a wedding yesterday! And I've shot it all with my 56mm on the X-T3 and the 23f2 on the X-Pro3. To be honest, I tend to come back to the 56 for its versatility in weddings. Sure, when it's bright sunshine you dont necessarily need to open that much, BUT the bokeh it gives you when fully opened is great. This time my 50 stayed in my bag along with the 10-24 and they were not used. When the evening shots came, I did not have to change lens and had enough light. My 2 cent: give it a try - I don't think you'll be disappointed and you might fall in love with it! Take care and hope it helped.
Hey Terje, referring to the 50mm f1? I should be able to put my hands on one in a couple of weeks and I’ll make a video... super curious and excited though!
Hey Jason, ya I also tend to go for the 56mm for most of my work... I love the organic look of the bokeh and the overall quality of the lens. Ya, can’t wait to put my hands on the 50 f1! Am curious...
This useless intros (you are not a tv station guys) and the final question trying to engage viewers to write comments are taking away a lot of the quality.
I have the 23mm f2 and used it exclusively to photograph my cousin's wedding (as a amateur, don't worry, I never got in the way of the actual pro photographer). Anyway, while getting the long shots (such as in the ceremony) and speeches just didn't work out all that well (which is fine, since I just did it for fun)… but for everything else I ended up really happy with the results. Consistently using this throughout the whole wedding lended my photo set a very ”being there” kind of vibe which I'm really happy with.
At a later wedding (amateur again, for a friend, again: stayed out of the way of the pro) I used a combination of 23mm f2 and 35mm f2 (with a few shots with 16mm 2.8 to capture the whole room). In that situation many of the tele shots worked out a little better (aside from the ceremony again, haha).
I think if I where to do wedding photography seriously I would probably invest in the 50mm to get that reach and pair it with couple of X-Pro2 or X-Pro3. I personally don't really want even shallower depth of field than that. It's harder to get properly into focus and having some sense of context is nice anyway. Espescially with the X-Pro3 that focuses down to -6 EV focusing won't be a problem in the dim light either. And I kinda think high ISO images (at least with the Fuji X series) often look quite nice anyway.
Thanks for the review btw!
Hey man! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts and experiences - there’s always something new to learn 🙃
I agree on all the points you bring up. Am gonna shoot my coming up wedding with an XPro 3 and an XT3 and the lenses I mentioned in this video. Gonna have a blast!
Take care
Reading this makes me feel like you should do weddings more often :-)
👍🏼😉
Man it’s been two years, any other cousin got married?
Thanks Cris. Thanks for a detailed review! Have a question, will 50mm f2 be too wide for potrait photo of 2 people at dinner parties indoors. Also wedding photos? I am only an enthusiast photographer and occasionally take photos at parties.
Thanks Erik! I’d rather go with a 35mm which will give you a wider FOV for more than one person - especially if you don’t have enough room to back off. They made an f2 model as well and it’s a great lens. Take care
I bought the 50mm f2 a few months ago, and it has quickly become my favorite lens for street and family photography. It is about half the size and weight of the 33mm f1.4 and its sharpness and autofocus are similar.
I agree 👍🏼 other than the extra stop, it is really good and MUCH more compact which is great!
I've got the xf23 f1.4 and xf56 f1.2, but the lens I use the more is the xf35 f1.4, I love it. For weddings, the xf16 f1.4 is a very good lens to get more backgrounds
Nice Franck! I agree the 23 and 56 are really good focal lengths and I find them perfect. I used to bring around the 10-24mm and the 90 with me as well but ended up not really using them. I should give the 16mm a try 😉 take care
This is my setup. That 35 1.4 is gorgeous. A bit slow to focus but very beautiful images.
Hey Cris, thanks for the insight about both. I just bought the Fujinon 50mm f2 for my X-S10 and I am a complete n00b to professional cameras. My goal is to shoot portraits and portrait videos (if that's what you call it) at the gym. Today I took some photos at the gym at A1.4 and they were great but the videos were good when in focus however any time another human comes into the scene the lens focuses on that new person instead of locking focus on my subject. Not sure what setting I need to change and also, would you recommend the Fujinon 50mm f2 for what I want to do or the Fujinon 56m f1.2?
Hello there, thanks. I think the 50mm f2 is better for AF than the 56mm. There are settings to only select AF when your subject is in a certain area of the frame (to avoid focusing on other people when entering the frame). That should fix the problem 😉 cheers
Hi. What lens can you recommend for makeup artist. ?
Hello, i love the 56mm f1.2 for portraits personally paired with the 18mm f1.4
That’d be my choice
Take care
Great, informative, no-nonsense video. I use the 23mm f2 on my xt20 for street photography, urban landscapes, and environmental portraits. It's a great little lens. For everything else, I use the 18 - 55 mm kit lens, mostly at 55mm. I don't shoot much in low light, so a big aperture is not a big deal for me. I am thinking about the 50 mm f2.
Thanks for stopping by Lawrence and for the feedback - much appreciated.
Despite being a “kit lens” the 18-55mm is a fantastic optics and I shot amazing landscapes in LA with it back in 2015. If you like the 23mm f2 you will enjoy the 50mm f2 as well for portrait. Take care
Hi, nice video! I know that now you have also new Fuji 56mm 1.2 WR. Are you still using also 50mm f2 at weddings? I found that 56mm 1.2 WR is not the best in AFC (with Xt3) and I am wondering if I should also buy 50mm f2 for moving subjects? Thank you. Blaz
Hi there, I personally still own and use the 56mm f1.2 mark I (didn't find the second generation to be worth the change personally). I now shoot my wedding on Leica cameras since that video but I think you can't go wrong with the 50mm in terms of AF (it's the best of the line up at that focal length). You lose a stop and 1/3 but truth be told... not a big deal in my experience. Take care!
i dont have the 56 1.2, but i do use the 50 f2 for the reception with godox strobe lights and oh my is it wonderful for the candid dancing moments with the flashes. It is literally the only reason why i have held on to that lens.
Interesting setup! Great use of the lens 👍🏼
Using a vitlrox speed booster 0.71 multiplay with canon EF 50 1.8 = 35 1.3 or with the Fringer adapter the Canon EF 85 1.8. My most preferred lense is the XF 16-55 2.8. Using 2 or 3 cameras. 2 X-H1 and one XT 20
Cool Man - great choice!
How does the 50mm f2 compare with the Sigma 56mm f1.4? -- I used to own the 50/2 and loved it.
Hello! The sigma is super duper sharp. That said, I love the f2 models from Fuji - they are super amazing and I also owned the 50mm and really like the form factor and the rendering. Sigma has a stop more but I find them pretty similar otherwise.
@@cris_photography thanks!
@5 min 25 seconds the arguments you mention apply to the 50, but you mention the 56 ?
Yep - meant 56 and then 50
I was in fujifilm plaza HQ in Tokyo and I think I'm going for the 50mm f2 did some tests there plus I plan use for video with gimbal that fast autofocus it's going to be good
Awesome Eriol, great choice
@@cris_photography thaxxx😀
One thing great about the X-T4 at weddings is for lowlight shots of non moving subjects like taking shots of the wedding cake, gift table, wedding party dining table, etc. you can use longer shutter speeds and lower iso (200-400) thanks to the IBIS. So in those scenarios there’s no need for 1.2/1.4 of course moving subjects are a different story. Great shots! 👍🏻
Hey man! Thanks for stopping by and for the tips - you’re absolutely right! I gotta try that out in my next wedding coming up. Take care
I use the 56 f1,4 for portraits and to pop details in photos.
For wide i use the 14mm f2,8 its great, a bit wider than every 24mm equivalent lens and every smartphone out there. Love it for including a lot from landscape, groups, market places destinations, and astrophotography. ,
I have been torn between a 23 and a 35, and have not completely settled yet, but as a everything lens both actually works great. I must say I prefer the weight of the 35mm f1.4 over the 23mm. I dont stress with weather sealing, i used cameras and lenses not wr for ages and a simple plastic zip bag with a hole for the glass is more weather resistant than a gasket. I like faster primes, taking indoor shots from clubs, evening and night shots from streets and so on.
Anyway the fujicrons are perfectly fine as well if dark scenes is not important.
As it is I probably keep the 35mm f1,4 as the normal lens coupled with the 14mm and the 56mm, and the rest is for special usage, i will try and see...
Autofocus on new firmware XT5 is extremely good, all the issues is pretty much gone on the 35mmand the 56mm. So i'm waiting to test out the new XS20 which has the same auto focus deal. That is a light setup that might do the trick in the future.
Thanks for a great video.
Thanks for watching and for your personal feedback!
Yes these are both great lenses that I take with me in most of my shoots.
I will be receiving the S20 soon - stay tuned 😉 cheers!
That was pretty good Chris. I pretty much agree with what you said. I work in a very similar way to you. Short and long. 23mm and 50mm. However my differences are as follows: firstly I use two X-Pro2s as this style of shooting works better with the X-Pro2 due to its hybrid viewfinder. I set the exposure for the scene in EVF and then switch to OVF to work with the frame lines, looking outside them to assist composition. I very rarely chimp when I’m working. This detracts from concentrating on the job in hand. The other differences are lenses. I carry the amazing XF16mm 1.4 and switch to this from the 23mm when I’m working directly with people. The 23mm or 35mm are great when you’re capturing the general scene but the 16mm is so great when you get intimate. The other lens I carry is the 90mm f2. A great lens for picking out cameo moments. I also use other combinations of these same primes. It’s important to use your feet to compose, thinking all the time. Prime lenses work so well for this much better than zooms. Zooms are ok for when your movement is restricted but they tend to be bulky, which can be an issue.
Give the the X-Pro2/3 a try and maybe those lenses.
Anyway, thanks for the video. You’re a man in the same mould as me. It’s good to know others feel and work in the same way. All the best!
Hey man, thanks a lot for stopping by and glad you liked the video - it's great to know other photographers use a similar setup out there!
You've got a hell of a setup there! That's great. Funny enough, I will be rocking my X-Pro3 in a couple of weeks for my coming wedding along side my X-T3. That'll be perfect to test.
I have been using the X100F for some weddings and it worked great BUT the speed was not up for the challenge (IMHO) so had to swap to another X-T2 with a 23mm.
I used to have the 90mm and sold it after a while as I was using the 56mm way more. You're not the first one telling me about the 16mm 1.4 and I will get my hands on it and try it during a wedding for my close work with people, might be good indeed.
Zooms wise, am not a big fan either - besides maybe the 10-24 that I sometimes take out of my camera bag but very seldomly (also for aperture and sharpness reasons).
I might even do a little video with my X-Pro3 and T3 combo - who knows...
Take care!
ps: dunno if you saw my latest leather dual camera strap but if you use that in weddings and don't have one, I highly suggest you give it a look - it's a killer strap!
Cris Photography cheers Cris. Deffo not a zoom lens fan either. Do you use the OVF much on the X-Pro series? I really find it helps a lot with composition. I’ve been looking for suitable straps so I’ll have a look. Thanks again and good luck with your upcoming wedding
Yes babe definitely use my OVF when shooting with the 100 or Pro series. With a 23 I definitely use the OVF most of the time - as when I shoot street photography. Cheers!
Hello Cris. Even after 3 years your video is still very relevant! :)) I have acquired the 50mm over a year but never found a real practical use for it until this year where I took it with me for some trips to give it a new try. And I took it with me to a trip in southern Italy and had a very convincing experience with it, daytime as well as evening and night time, took nice shots of fireworks, dimly lit streets, it was fast responsive and the autofocus is so quiet. I'm now pondering whether I should add the 23 f2 and 35 f2 to my collection, maybe the 23f2 is enough as you also said the 35 being close to the 50 in terms of focal lenght, and I feel the same there. :)
Great! Happy it's still helpful.
Honestly I'd take a 23 if you already have the 50 so you have enough difference between the 2. If you can afford them all 3 then go for it but the 23 is my favorite. Take care!
Nice video. Curious what you don’t like about the 23mm f1.4? Faster autofocus than the 56mm f1.2, not soft close up or at the edges wide open like the 23mm f2. I do own the 56mm f1.2, which is great, although the only f2 lenses I own are the 18mm and 90mm, which are both amazing. But your results look great Cris.
Hey Nathan, thanks for your comment! I really like the 23 f1.4 but don’t use it as much for weddings as I shoot 80% 50mm or 56mm and only 20% with the 23 and I use it at 5.6 normally. So using the smaller more compact one is best for me. But don’t give me wrong - the 23 1.4 is gorgeous and I shot amazing shots with it ☺️. 18mm - that’s an interesting one too indeed can’t agree more. I sold my 90 as I wasn’t using it enough. Take care!
Informative video, Cris. I have gone with XT2 23mm 1.4 and the 50mm f2. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for stopping by! And great choice on the 23 and 50. Think those are great focal lengths - perfect combo. Take care
Very interesting. Thank you for your work.
Thank you for watching and glad it was helpful 😒
What about weather sealing? I wanted to get the 56 but hear there is no weather seal?
No, the 56 is not WR. That didn't stop me from using it for the past 4 years on ALL my weddings and photo shoots for clients and never have I ever had a problem ;) But if you are going to use it in very humid, dusty, etc. environments you might want to consider the 50mm f1 (if the wider than f2 aperture is important to you) or get the 50mm f2 if that ain't a deal breaker. Cheers
@@cris_photography yeah I loved your review / images and performance of the lens - I’m just worried it won’t be safe to shoot in rain as I like to do night stills in that sort of atmosphere.
@@ModernGamerTV don’t shoot under the actual rain (no mater if WR or not - it is not WATERproof!) but if you plan on using an umbrella for example or a FEW drops should be ok. More than that tho… would go with WR.
I have the 23mm f2 and the 50mm f2. Bought them both to have a set of primes that would be super light and compact. However, there's something about the pictures that I take with my Zeiss 32mm and my Fuji 90mm that beats these two lenses. They are both very good but seem to be missing that "je ne sais quoi".
Yup, the “je ne sais quoi” indeed! I have the same feeling about the f1.4 lenses… something different to it.
Take care
One question, you said you do not use a flash, which is what I am going for, but how do you do when you get to a very very dark scene and people ask you to photograph there? Like the bride say "I really want a shot here" etc ...
Hello, good question. I normally let my XT2,3 or 4 chose the best settings (bar the aperture which I set manually). I set the camera to never go under 1/125th of a second and to go anywhere from 200 to 12800 ISO. When it is REALLY dark that it cranks up the iso even when Fully opened (such as f1.2 for example) and I get noise - I convert those files into B&W, which makes the noise more « pleasing ».
That’s how I do normally. With a good and fast lens, you should be able to keep the ISO low enough to keep some information for post.
Hope that can help.
Cheers
@@cris_photography yes it makes sense, in BW I can have some nice photos in low light, tks for the response!
Hi, just come across this video as I'm looking for a lens in the 50(ish)mm range for wedding and portrait photography. Aside the lenses, and bearing in mind it is now 2021, would you still recommend the X-T2? I have an X-T4 but would like to have a capable back up camera. The X-T2 and X-T20/30 are all older technology when compared to the X-T4 but they still seem to have a great following and, for the most part, when looking around TH-cam, appear to be able to deliver the goods. Would love to hear your thoughts in 2021. 😊
Hello Darren, funny you’d write now, I literally JUST finished exporting the final edits of my last wedding!
To answer your question, here’s what I used:
X-T2 on one side with the 23mm f2 and sometimes the 10-24mm f4 for wider shots and an X-T3 with the 56mm f1.2
That is all I use in 2021. I am planning to make a new video about my current gear, my editing (currently editing my shots in Kodak Portra 400 and 800) so stay tuned!
Take care
Ps: while I love the X-T4, don’t see a real need to upgrade even though my XT2 literally has scotch tape on the screen as it fell and partially broke but it works great for taking wedding shot 😊
@@cris_photography thank you for such a rapid and insightful reply. My X-T4 was not an upgrade, as such, but my first foray into the world of Fuji (and it's a great place to be!). I'm with you on the X-T3 as it uses pretty much the same technology as the X-T4, except for the battery, perhaps? I'll still look at the X-T2 as it'll be the back up/2nd camera so will likely get less use than the main one. My sights are currently set on the 56mm f1.2 and the 16mm f1.4. I have the 35mm f2 but it isn't really doing a lot for me at the moment, I tend to take most photos (for pleasure and not in a professional capacity) with my 16-80mm f4 kit lens. Perhaps I should take a look at the 23mm?! I look forward to seeing your next wedding video as I'm trying to learn as much as I can, and as quickly as I can, so that I can hit the ground running. Now subscribed 👍🏼😊
Hello Darren, i just posted a new wedding video - might be of some help to you. Cheers
I know 35mm and 85mm full frame equivalent is the most popular combination for weddings but I’d like to see more done with 35+50 (which is 23 and 33/35 in Fuji land). 85mm shots of individuals and couples always seem detached/voueuristic to me while 50mm seems more natural and intimate. The photographer would be granted access to get close enough to make 50mm work during the ceremony, too.
Interesting idea! I should try at my next wedding see how it’d look 👍🏼
@@cris_photography yes please, send me the pics 😆
Thank you for this!
You’re welcome!
have purchased Fujinon 23mm f2 and Sigma 30mm f1.4 at the same time. My plan was to test them during week, make decision and return one of them back to shop. I cannot be more suprised - I didn't need week, not day, not one hour. After few shoots I can tell you that Sigma for Fujifilm is much more SHARPER, and as bonus of course it has BETTER BOKEH (I cant compare with fujinon 23 f1.4, but this one has old SLOOOWER AF speed). As bonus - Sigma is cheaper.
So I am a big fan of this Sigma solutions :) I will definitely try that 56mm
Hello there! I remember you telling me about the sigma - that is surprising indeed! Good that it works better for you 😉 enjoy! And yes try the 56mm when oui can it is also very good. Cheers!
Do you sell presets for weddings Cris? Your photos look amazing
Thanks a lot Gilberto! I do not currently sell preset packs but I might at some point soon! Take care
I have the 23 f2 and use it on my xt20. A great lens for street and urban landscape photography! I'm considering the 50mm f2, but not sure how much I would use it.
Cool Lawrence! Yes I love the 23mm f2 for street too. I did a review on this channel on the 50 f1. It’s an interesting lens - but not for everyone indeed.
Cheers!
Thank you ,your video is very interesting... I own 56mm . I have to say that i have never had any speed problems with autofocus, but when you need boket it's unmatched. It's not even heavy... So i prefer it over 50. About 23mm I prefer version F.1,4. But I agree with you that it's important not to be so visible . I apologize if my English is not perfect. I'm following you, congratulation great shots! Photographer is more important than the lenses and the body... You're very good photographer.
Ciao Roberto, il tuo inglese è ottimo! Parlo anche l'italiano perfettamente e dal nome deduco che sei italiano :)
Grazie per il tuo commento ed in fatti il mio obiettivo favorito è il 56mm f1.2 che è semplicemente perfetto. Grazie x esserti abbonato e x i complimenti sulle mie foto - molto apprezzato! Sono d'accordo, il fotografo fa tutta la differenza.
A presto ;)
@@cris_photography Ciao Cris, si sono italiano di Torino. Grazie per avermi risposto... Fantastico il fatto tu che parli anche italiano! Allora ti seguo ancora più volentieri per potermi confrontare con te, a presto ci sentiamo!
do you shoot CL/CH to capture the perfect moment or just a single frame
Hey Sami, I shoot single mode most of the time and if there are moment where I need to be faster I switch to CH such as a running shot for example (and I swap to C focusing mode as well). Cheers
50mm 1.4 af-s from Nikon. I've bought it one week after I've purchased my first camera
👍🏼
Thanks for sharing, I have recently switched to Fuji for my weddings and it was a bit of getting used to at the beginning, I’m not fussed about the weight I’m a strong guy I rather something my hand can wrap around so I love the grip, I have just starting now shooting again and I have now two brand new XT4s and many lenses, I am a bit of a lens slut, my. Favourite are the 14mm f2.8, 16mm f1.4, 23mm f1.4, 50mm f2, 56mm f1.2 and the 90mm f2. But I don’t always use them all on every wedding depends on the environment, space lighting etc. The biggest challenge coming from a full frame system prior was to get used to the grain Fuji offers, some people call it noise but for me a now love it especially editing via Capture one the film like grain is probably one of the best features Fuji provides, The AF could be better but it’s good enough especially now with the AF having. -6 ev which basically can focus in total darkness, I really do find Fuji a lot more fun to use the other brands, the images also look great straight out of camera and very timeless feel.
Hey Elias, thanks for stopping by and for sharing your experience with Fuji! I agree with you with your choice of lenses - luv them all. Although I don't really use the 14 and the 16 cause I have the 10-24 f4 that covers a wide range (generally during daylight) so a wider aperture isn't needed for what I do and I sold my 90mm a few months back as I found myself using the 56mm f1.2 way more - but it's an excellent lens!
I can't agree more with you on the Fuji photo quality and the fun of using the cameras. I would never go back to anything else!
Take care :)
Great review.. I just change from nikon to fujifilm xt2.. I do weddings also and my main lrns for nikon was nikon 85. 1.8 and 35 sigma art 1.4. And I was looking what to buy for the fujifilm. You gave me the answer . Thank you so much :)
Hey George, thanks a lot for stopping by and glad I could help you decide!
Am sure you will find what you are looking for - especially for wedding 😉
Take care
im thinking to buy the 56mm f1.2 but i don't know how fragile is under bad weather..and im curious when the 50mm f1 is gonna be released :D
Hey Stefan, thanks for stopping by. Honestly I never looked back at buying the 56 and it was I think my best purchase ever - lens wise! Now in terms of bad weather, depends how back the weather is dust and humidity wise. 50 might be better for that. Yes - I am super curious about the f1 lens as well!!
Take care
I've used it at weddings for a few years now, and it has been in some light rain. I just try to keep it covered up when I'm not shooting and it has been fine. It does definitely make me nervous though, and once I bought the 50mm f2 I switch it out whenever the weather gets spooky.
Zach Hanford thanks for the reply :)
I shoot weddings and portraits with two X-T2’s also.
Great choice!
You don’t use flash at all?
No, not for weddings
@@cris_photography I tried that when I first started but got into too many situations where flash was necessary. So I use available as much as possible but use flash when I need to.
Don’t get me wrong, I own 2 Godox AD400pro, 3 Fuji external flashes, an aputure 200D II, several external lights, etc. But clients know I like to not use it for candid purposes. Now, if there are posed shots for groups indoor for example, I setup some lights and flashes, that I do do. But otherwise I tried at 99% to go flashless and if needed I convert to b&W if the results are too grainy. Take care
@@cris_photography Gotcha
Thanks man, I was looking for someone talking about what lens combo he uses for a wedding
Great Kadehr - glad it could help you out in some way! Take care 😉
After using the 16-55 mm now I am spoilt and can't use 18-55 mm any more. People who say 16-55 mm or 50-140 mm lenses are heavy and expensive. Please. Grow up. I resale market I got them both for 2400 aud, which is like 1600 USD. I will keep my primes in case I want to challenge myself on a boring day. But both my other zoom lenses I will sell off eventually, the 16-80 and 18-55 mm. Don't their use much tbf. I kept them just in case my gf finds them useful and cause I got them from the used market.
Those are great lenses that I personally quite appreciate 👍🏼😉
Great review! Makes total sense what you say
Hey Oliver, thanks a lot for stopping by and for the feedback - much appreciated!
Take care
thank you!
I own the 50mm f/2. I've been thinking about renting a 56mm f/1.2 for a wedding. I've never done a wedding, but have done events. In this time of Pandemic has this changed your equipment or approach to shooting weddings. I know there will be a small list of attendees, and there will be social distancing. Any thoughts you might have would be much appreciated! Subscribed!
Hey Bill, first of all thanks for subscribing - appreciated ;)
I just shot a wedding yesterday! And I've shot it all with my 56mm on the X-T3 and the 23f2 on the X-Pro3. To be honest, I tend to come back to the 56 for its versatility in weddings. Sure, when it's bright sunshine you dont necessarily need to open that much, BUT the bokeh it gives you when fully opened is great. This time my 50 stayed in my bag along with the 10-24 and they were not used. When the evening shots came, I did not have to change lens and had enough light.
My 2 cent: give it a try - I don't think you'll be disappointed and you might fall in love with it!
Take care and hope it helped.
Thanks, very helpful
Glad to hear! Take care
50-140 f2.8 for me very versatile..
That is indeed a very versatile lens
Enter the Viltrox 56mm 1.4
the best of both worlds!
Ive GOT to get my hands on one of those!
Thanks man
You're welcome!
There is only one king lens. It’s the 56 1.2 🤘🏼
Hey Matteo, funny enough that is the one lens I always come back to... so yes, can only agree with you. Cheers
@@cris_photography That statement has changed....right?
Hey Terje, referring to the 50mm f1? I should be able to put my hands on one in a couple of weeks and I’ll make a video... super curious and excited though!
I like the video
Thanks
Good thumbnail photograph.
Thanks 😊
56mm all day over the 50mm. But we use the 50mm for video a lot. Looking forward to getting the 50mm f1
Hey Jason, ya I also tend to go for the 56mm for most of my work... I love the organic look of the bokeh and the overall quality of the lens. Ya, can’t wait to put my hands on the 50 f1! Am curious...
Cris Photography I am was on the verge of buying the gfx 50r but I want to wait on the 80mm f1.8 tbh. I love the mitakon 35mm too.
Can I come to Switzerland to shoot a wedding with you I would like to be wedding photographer?
😊 maybe one day why not! Take care
Tiptop Bilder :) Grüsse aus Konstanz
Danke schone! 😊👍🏼
Soooooooo you need 3 xt2 lol
😂😂👍🏼
This useless intros (you are not a tv station guys) and the final question trying to engage viewers to write comments are taking away a lot of the quality.
Thanks for the feedback
Nothing new, nothing interesting
These lenses are several years old... what did you expect? Sorry mate, not gonna go on the moon with it lol