Thanks so much for interesting video. Been watching for several months now and have come to admire how you explore the Fuji X system without becoming condescending (its only APS-C!) or evangelizing like an “X Photographer.” I appreciate the integrity. It’s great to hear from a real working photographer. I also appreciate that you are doing these videos out of a real love for photography and not just trying to use You Tube to leverage your videos into a full time monetizing and sell stuff gig. Unlike some nameless others - although I did like your comment on his recent XH-1 video. You really should have a camera for more than a day before you review it. It takes me a month just to get thru the manual. Still hope you will have a meet-up for us Joisey guys (and gals).
I really loved this lens so much, the focal length is amazing, especially for street photography. Never experienced it being as soft closeup as in this video though. I stepped it down to 2.8 which made it a whole lot sharper. Maybe i haven't compared it enough with the sharpness of other lenses though.
Omar, since you like to shoot close, you really should review the 60mm f2.4. It’s a total sleeper of a lens: gorgeous shots on products and food and it can be had for a steal. This is the most gorgeous overlooked lens I’ve come across in Fuji land.
I've learned so much about shooting just from this "lens review." Thanks so much for all of this detail! This was an incredible mini-masterclass on using your gear!!
I have both 23mm lenses, thinking the Brick was too heavy I bought the f/2, but I totally agree with you. The 1.4 is so much more fun to shoot with for those close shots and sharpness wide open!
I suspect the haziness with close focusing at f2 is a result of Fuji adding a lens group to change the angle of incidence to be narrower. The short flange distance means that you get smearing in the corners with wide lenses and they have to correct for that.
people totally misunderstand the existance of the 23 f2. It's mainly developed for autofocus videography. 1. its the fastest & most silent autofocus fujifilm lens with minimal weight 2. it has the perfect focal range for general video shooting 3. in videography you rarely have to shoot f2, most of the time it's f4 or above. 4. the silver version looks sexy, but there is the titanium too which is gorgeous 5. it has only 43mm filter diameter, so your variable ND can be much smaller, with feather weight ergonomics in the and compared to 16-55mm - which is the other (heavier but more versatile) option 6. sharpness is not the desired aspect when you shooting movies, so that filmy-look is a plus actually with this lens 7. if you are on a gimbal setup with mic & ND filter & maybe a cage + two handed gimbal ring... you want a lighter setup, so 23mm 2.0 is a must 8. WR is useful but most of the time overrated feature. 9. when you are on the move the smaller diameter lens is easier to keep safe, less protruding front element compared to 16-55. 10. 2.0 can be useful in low light videography too with less digital noise in the outcome.
Some people are obsessed with sharpness and care less of the actual craft of making good photographs. I had the 23mm 1.4 and now I have the 23mm F2, yes the 1.4 is sharper at the widest aperture but also bulkier (I use a XE3), the f2 disadvantage is only at F2 to 2.8 at the minimum focus distance range, in My case I manly shoot within 2.8 to 8. Why I kept the 23mm f2? well 94% of my photography with this lens is not made within minimal closing distances, for that I use the 35mm F2 or the 18-55mm. If a chose a 23mm to shoot it is not because I want to get close, is the oposite. But I guess in the end is a matter of style of photography.
Nice review, Omar! Always interesting to hear how other photographers use lenses, because we're sort of opposite-thinking in terms of preferred aperture, not to mention subject matter. (I shoot landscape and products, alway on a solid tripod, and always at least at f/8 or f/11...Bokeh is not a concern for me, rather image sharpness and expansive DOF.) That said, though I agree that this 23 f/2 isn't up to snuff at f/2, since I never shoot wide open, it's not an issue for me. In fact, I find that at f/8-f/11, it's superbly sharp, though not quite as good as my stellar Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 Macro, the absolute sharpest lens I've used in 40 years of photography! It's my "Go To" for small product shooting. Did you happen to see "The Angry Photographer"'s review of this lens? He called it stellar, and almost as fantastic as teh XF16mm f/1.4! Thanks again! .
U da man, Omar. Seriously, your videos are great. Upbeat, knowledgeable, they cover the bases very well. Thank you. The lens comparisons are especially helpful. Keep up the great content! Keep it real and keep on keeping it light! Thumbs way up!
If you could only shoot sharp with this lens with f5.6 i definitely would use the kit lens and safe the money. Keep up Omar, you are better than that Fro guy who can't use a Fuji. :D
Carlos Vega Would’ve loved to see some minimum focus distance shots on your 35mm review. Yes the lens is amazing. Except for its weakness. Lol. Don’t see why you’re calling this review bullshit.
@Carlos Vega Hi Carlos. As a landscape and product photographer, I always shoot for maximum sharpness and DOF, so never shoot wide open. For my kind of photography, this XF23 f/2 is super-sharp.
I just posted my review of the 23mm f2 (shoutout to Omar!) and, like you, I experienced the softness. It's interesting because you have others like Ken or Carlos who don't experience it. I still enjoy the versatility of the lens, but I'm on the fence with this one.
I really felt like you were a bit too goofy for my liking. Then you kept popping up when I was looking for Fuji videos. Now I have binged your videos and found you refreshing. You come off as genuinely good natured and positive. Also, your content is very informative and great for my purposes. Thank You.
Just bought this bad boy today. Shot a few test frames in lousy frigging light in the garden and I agree - close up it's a bit iffy at f2 but so what! Got it for what it can do well, its weight and the price and not for what it can't do well. I've already got the 35 f2 which is stellar, this complements it for walk-about with my X-T2, Weather resistant, light,(sharp mostly) and fast. I'm lovin' it already. Good to know though that it's not me but the lens at f2. P.S. the 80mm is a beast - heavy and amazing IQ everywhere but really hard to use well hand held as there is NO DoF very close-up.
I absolutely love the f/2 line of lenses. Small, lightweight, fast AF, and extremely affordable. I will say they are not great wide open and up close like you like to shoot. You said you had better luck with the 35/2 up close but I didn't. I found that to be soft as well. Nonetheless, it's still a great little lens. No lens if perfect so a little softness wide open and close up isn't too much to sacrifice in the grand scheme of things
just got the 23mm f2 lens today and tested it, unfortunatele everything you said here is true! very soft at f2 and very sharp at f5.6. not worth the price point IMO.
Well, I got the 23mm f/2 as well today. And while I see a certain softness at close distance at f/2 - it's nowhere close to the results in the video. Maybe I've been lucky and got a good one? Comparing it to the 35mm f/1.4 at close distance at f/1.4 the 35mm is way softer. Yes - at 1.4 so that comparison is not really fair. Just to give you an impression how my 23mm f/2 performs.
I really appreciate your insights and sense of humour. Informative, refreshing & genuine. Thank you for your guidance 👍👍 Currently using the 23 Mm/f2 😎
Sold mine for a 35mm f1.4. I know it's a different focal length but still.. no regrets so far. Great shots and thanks for the review Omar! The best as always!
I have the kit lens, 35 F2, 23 F2. My 23 f2 is exactly like yours, have to stop it down to f4 and beyond to get anything acceptable. At first I just thought it was a bad copy but seeing all the comments here makes me realise it isn't. Funny thing is I bought all three together and never really bothered with the kit lens, and everyone seems to be raving about it, maybe it's time to give it another go! The 35 f2 is my fave, never comes off the camera.
I rented the F1.4 out of curiosity and I cannot stress enough the magic that it produces. the images, after shooting with the 35 F2 and 23 F2 for 3 months just made my head explode. The F1.4 lenses have something to them optically that far surpasses their F2 counterparts.
I had the 23mm f/2 and I didn't really get along with it so I sold it and I picked a 35mm f/1.4 on sale and I couldn't be happier. There's just something about that I can't put my finger on that has made my shooting so much more enjoyable.
I've owned both and I think "far surpasses" is an exaggeration. The 1.4 *is* optically superior but the difference is more modest, except of course at minimum focus distance. The 23/2 does not truly work properly at its minimum focus distance and that is just a fact.
Lovely photos, a joy to see. Sorry you were let down by the lens. Wow, the 16 looks wonderful, thanks for including it. As always, very enjoyable and helpful.
I have the X100F and even that 23mm f2 lens at wide open, close up the shot is soft and hazing, even tried manual focusing and was a bit better however not much but stopping down it becomes sharper and no more hazing.
Hey Omar, i sold the 27mm to buy used x100s (for almost the same price!) just to have 23mm focal length lol. After watching this i’m glad i made that decision. Having 2 bodies is much easier than change the lens for sure, but X100 series is just “brilliant” camera.
I opted to get the 7Artisans 25mm f/1.8 for this focal length for three reasons. 1. It's cheap (£55 delivered off eBay) and 2. It's slightly faster at f1.8 and 3. It's a really small lens. Having looked at loads of reviews of 23mm /f2 I couldn't justify spending £400 on a lens I wouldn't use to often and just wanted to tie me over. I'm very optimistic on the up and coming Viltrox 23mm f/1.4 though and if that's anywhere near the quality of the 85mm f/1.8 I'll get that in the near future. Nice honest review as always.
Man you just can’t compare a 60 dollar lens with a 400 😂 I had both lenses and I can tell the xf23 is sharper, weather resist, Autofocus, sharper on f2 then your s on 2.8 😂
when you said "im the last one to purchase this lens" im officially the last one lol, paired with a xt2. such a difference since I've been using the 35mmf2 for 4 years. Thank you Omar ! rewatching this incase I missed something over the years.
Hey Omar, do yourself a favor and try out the 23mm 1.4, sharp wide open even at minimum focus distance. While you're at it, try out the 35mm 1.4 as well. Fuji one-point-fours have a certain magic the f2's just can't beat..
Coni Glione I have an X100T and just got an XT3. I actually plan on buying the 23 f2 for the XT3 just so I don't need to bring two bodies all the time - X100T for fun/random street stuff, XT2 and a couple lenses including the 23 (probably f2) when I want to shoot more FL than what the X100T can offer.
@Coni Glione no, you probably wouldn't come back if you did get an xt3. :) also normally I would agree with your suggestion. Wide is 16mm (with the cheap samyang as specialty UWA), X100 for "normal", and 56mm for a short tele/portrait. Truth be told I'd be perfectly happy with just the X100T and I've been telling everybody about it. Actually went 3 years with just that and the two adapters that I barely used. I like more of street/reportage style photography documenting my travels. That works when I take photos just for me. Thing is I'm getting married in less than a year and I've been "forced" to change photography styles a little. I'd be happy with just the 12mm for UWA but I need one with AF and variable FL. Those are the only reasons I chose the 10-24 over the 16mm and why I'm considering the 23 f2 to replace the X100T. PS I realize this is a long reply thanks for reading this far. Go get an xt3. :)
This review made me subscribe to your channel. I can now be sure you are not sponsored. I bought it few weeks ago. It is [mostly] soft at f/2, decent at f/2.8 and great from f/4 and on. Aside from sharpness and [corrected] vignetting @f/2 it is a great performer (no distorsion, aberrations…). And yes - there is the close focus issue... a pity. You have reviewed all the aspects. Great review.
Omar! Love the vids! What do you think of this lens on the XT5, vs the Viltrox 23 perhaps? Would love to hear your thoughts! Thanks and please keeps the amazing content coming!
Great video. Spot on comments. I have tested nearly all of the Fuji range and used to own a tonne of kit. Now just 1 body X-T2 Graphite + 2 lenses 16mm f1.4 fabulooouuusss! Crop it to 23mm equiv. or 35mm equiv. and it excels the 23 f2 easily and matches the brilliant 35mm f2 even though cropped by 100% . Of course the other lens I own is a well used and battered 56mm f1.2 old, slow, noisy, heavy but epic. Your review is so sensible which, as you are about as crazy as I am, is amazing. Keep up the great work and the entertainment. Gary
Hi Omar. the 23F2 is an interesting one. I think you nailed it at the beginning of the video when you mentioned the 16mm F1.4. Do yourself a favour and get it, (call it a late present to self from Santa) you wont regret it. Image quality superb and excellent close focusing and I believe will offer you more than the 12mm Rokinon. I tried to love the 23F2 on my Xpro2 and my XT20 but in fact I prefer the 27mm. Strangely on my X100F I love the 23mm focal length and it just seems to render differently (maybe an interesting comparison video to disprove my theory). Cant explain it and maybe my imagination but I prefer the imagery from the X100F. I tend to use it at F4, 5.6 and 8.0 as defintely produces a crisper offering at these apertures. I guess we are all being picky but should consider ourselves lucky to have so many choices! All the best from Dubai, Steve.
Thanks for this Omar. I have this lens on hold at KEH for a trade and really looking forward to using it. Your sample photos are awesome. Love your videos too. Hell of a nice guy, too, and always giving out great hints, tips and insight.
The hazy effect is the reason why I return the lens. Iike to shoot wide open. Thanks for confirming it is not the problem only i have. The one I would use most of the time is only the 35 f2 and 18-55 kit.
Good to see someone put the necessary emphasis on the downside of this lens. There really is something technically off about it. People have argued the point of shooting close with this lens as if you shouldn't be trying to in the first place. I returned it after comparing shots from my 18-55mm at the 23 (f/3.2) length, major difference. I exchanged it for the 35 f/2 and man, that lens performs VERY well.
I agree, the lens fails time and time again at F2 no matter the distance, it’s erratic! I wish Fuji fix the issue. Like you explained the kit lens performs better at 23mm than the 23mm. The aperture May not be F2 but hey you stop down the 23, so what the heck! For that reason I gave mine to my daughter. Great review.
Hi Omar.. If you were to buy a new Fuji Camera, what Kit would you prefer: 23mm f2 or 18-55 f2.8-4? I would like to use more for Portrait, but also bit landscape. I am buying in addition a Rokinon 85mm f1.4. No sure about my decision.
It's a brilliant lens, he's complaining too much. He also doesnt use focus peaking and is relying on the AG for close focus at f2, which will NOT nail the focus
Hey Omar! Thanks for the video and the review. You mentioned in your video that you'll make a comparison video of 23mm f2.0 vs 27mm f2.7 pancake lens but I think you didn't have time to do that or I couldn't find the video. I was wondering if you have to choose only one of the lenses between the 23mm f2.0 and 27mm f2.8 (mainly for street photography) which one would be your choice? Especially since you have a chance to get the 27mm f2.8 with R and WR features on the Mark II version.
problems like the ones you show and describe here may not have to do with the actual sharpness or the lack of it from the lens but with the combination of shutter speed and the actual very narrow depth of field with the lens at 2.0. I've just been shooting/testing some macro shots with a Raynox lens on my 55-200 Fujinon .... getting things sharp is very difficult handheld, because of the extremely narrow depth of field ... a real test will come from shooting with a tripod and then seeing if it's the actual sharpness or just the very narrow band of sharpness .... also autofocus may be an issue here .... autofocus is a no-no in macro just because of the very narrow depth of field ... so there be similar issues here .... since especially close up the depth of field is extremely narrow .....
This lens is one of the few that doesn't have a firmware update yet. I hoping they can do something with the firmware to help some of the focusing issues at the more wide open stops.
I backed the Kamlan 28mm f1.4 manual lens on Kickstarter, just got it in the post today. Looking forward to trying it out! All metal, real Aperture ring, but the Aperture ring turns very heavy, hopefully loosens up with use.
Pretty sure a billion people already said you should try the 23mm f1.4.... but, well, try it. It's the one lens that made my 35 f2 and 16 f1.4 stay at home and end up being sold.
I ordered the lens before I saw your review, when you said, " this was my first hint at eh ooh ahh " I knew I was looking forward to receiving a bit of a dud ....wide open is how I like to shoot. Thanks, I'll check you out Omar, before my next purchase.
have you shot using a macro? If you shoot really close wide open, the haziness that you are mentioning (or shallow depth of field ) is more pronounced. Nothing wrong with the lens. It is working as expected. Optics in action!
I converted an X-T20 to infrared. This 23mm f/2 gives a nice perspective and is small and light -- with NO hot spots. I shoot it at f/11 and it's great. This lens and the Fujifilm14mm f/2.8 are ideal for IR :-)
Another great video from a great man! :) Do you have plans in the future to create a video about the comparison of X-T2 and your "Baby" X-T20? :) And which on do you love most. HAHAHA LOL
Thank you very much, Omar! I really enjoy your videos, mostly your practice tests. A test in a laboratory would not find such issues. By the way, some other photographers have the issue at the fx 35 f2 either. Eventually it’s not a macro lens.
Have you tested the 23mm f1.4? I haven't used it, but physics-wise it should be worse close-up and wide open. Faster lenses typically need moving elements and other (expensive) optical tricks to overcome their natural softness close-up. I do have the 27mm. You would expect it to be better wide open and close up because it's not as fast. I think they could make the 23mm f2 sharper close-up, but it would be way more expensive. Also, I don't think you mentioned which 16mm you tried. Again, the f2.8 is slower. The 16 f1.4 is TWICE as expensive as the 23mm. Good, Fast or Cheap. Pick two.
I love this lens! Probably my most used lens. But considering I don't shoot close up, I never noticed the flaws the lens has, though I have heard of them. Isn't this the same lens on the X100F? Or is that the 1.4 version? Great video as always Omar! Loving the podcast to! :D
Please help... I'm a little confused. Why would you use a wide-angle lens to do close up? isn't it built to be environmental editorial and street photography?
Hi Omar, thank you for you videos it really helps alot. Just new in the fuji system. For night photography say night portrait and landscape shots do I still need 23 or 35 f2 prime or the 18-55mm f2.8 will do the trick? Thanks in advance for the answer!
Omar, first I love your film bro! :D Btw, I have the 35mm also the 18 55mm kit lens and I just looking a prime lens to adopt for street but BIG confuse about the 23mm and 50mm uh oh .. I can't reach the f1.4 or 1.2 so I consider just for f2 . sad :(
Hi Omar, I am very new with photography. I have my fujifilm XT-20. I have 35mm f1.4 and the kit lens 18-55 F2.8 -4 which is quite heavy for daily use. I am in dilemma to pick between these 2 lenses. If u could suggest which one I should go 27MM F2.8R WR or 23mm F2 R WR for general use such example to walk around the city to take pic of street, architectural, city night view and landscape?
Would you say that this 23mm prime is sharper than the 18-55mm at 23mm? Also, do you think its worth getting the 23mm if I already have the 18-55mm? Thanks Omar. Keep up the great reviews!!
I own among other lenses 23mm f2 and at short foocus it has a bit haze but other than that it beat easily 16-55 and certainly kit lens at f2.8. Maybe it is my copy but I see no delta between other lenses other than 16 f1.4 which is league above all others. Having sad that I do not understand comments below (especially from people who do not own or tried lens) .The lens is not made for macro or close up work, but street photography photography so if you doing that often look no further.It is lighter and focus faster (plus WR) than 23mm f1.4 , which require xpro body to get some balance in your hand. The later one will also block the OVF on xpro-2 way more than 23 f2.
Are you letting the X-T2 feel like it’s part of the family yet? You have kids, it’s just not cool telling the X-T20 that it’s number one and you love it best in front of the X-T2. You’re going to have problems later when the X-T2 starts acting out.
Hi .i just wait for my new xt2 and i ordered all ready xf23mm 2.0.i m beginner and i want to use camera at home to make so picture from my kids.Did i make mistake?i shut take 35mm 2.0?35mm make a better quality picture?I just want to have one lens main lens..maybe in the futher zoom lens to make some birds pic...
I wish I can afford these prime lenses. But I'm definitely happy with my 16-55 f2.8, especially for landscape. It covers wide to nice zoomie. However, Having a 35 mm f2... all primes sounds delicious
I had it and sold it yesterday, im gonna say its not the best lens Fuji made, its so soft in the middle at F2!, i would need to stop at 2.8 to 4 to get decent sharpness. 35mm F2 is sharp and has a better contrast at $100 less, this lens needs an update or recall or something
Guess you should have bought the 23 F1.4? I bought the 23mm F2 used & for the cost it's a great lens. For my style of shooting it works fine. Although I think the 23 F1.4 will find its way into my bag at some point. Omar thanks for the review.
![[안방1열 풀캠4K] 베이비몬스터 'DRIP' (BABYMONSTER FullCam)│@SBS Inkigayo 241110](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/AQ4RIghEvUs/mqdefault.jpg)
Thanks so much for interesting video. Been watching for several months now and have come to admire how you explore the Fuji X system without becoming condescending (its only APS-C!) or evangelizing like an “X Photographer.” I appreciate the integrity. It’s great to hear from a real working photographer. I also appreciate that you are doing these videos out of a real love for photography and not just trying to use You Tube to leverage your videos into a full time monetizing and sell stuff gig. Unlike some nameless others - although I did like your comment on his recent XH-1 video. You really should have a camera for more than a day before you review it. It takes me a month just to get thru the manual. Still hope you will have a meet-up for us Joisey guys (and gals).
I really loved this lens so much, the focal length is amazing, especially for street photography. Never experienced it being as soft closeup as in this video though. I stepped it down to 2.8 which made it a whole lot sharper. Maybe i haven't compared it enough with the sharpness of other lenses though.
Yep!! My experience with this lens also, and I have the pictures to prove it!
Th minimum focusing distance seems soft but back off a bit and it is OK. But sometimes I love the softness for more intimate pics
Omar, since you like to shoot close, you really should review the 60mm f2.4. It’s a total sleeper of a lens: gorgeous shots on products and food and it can be had for a steal. This is the most gorgeous overlooked lens I’ve come across in Fuji land.
I've learned so much about shooting just from this "lens review." Thanks so much for all of this detail! This was an incredible mini-masterclass on using your gear!!
I have both 23mm lenses, thinking the Brick was too heavy I bought the f/2, but I totally agree with you. The 1.4 is so much more fun to shoot with for those close shots and sharpness wide open!
I suspect the haziness with close focusing at f2 is a result of Fuji adding a lens group to change the angle of incidence to be narrower. The short flange distance means that you get smearing in the corners with wide lenses and they have to correct for that.
The reason why i like watching your reviews is that they are both informative and entertaining! excellent review
people totally misunderstand the existance of the 23 f2. It's mainly developed for autofocus videography.
1. its the fastest & most silent autofocus fujifilm lens with minimal weight
2. it has the perfect focal range for general video shooting
3. in videography you rarely have to shoot f2, most of the time it's f4 or above.
4. the silver version looks sexy, but there is the titanium too which is gorgeous
5. it has only 43mm filter diameter, so your variable ND can be much smaller, with feather weight ergonomics in the and compared to 16-55mm - which is the other (heavier but more versatile) option
6. sharpness is not the desired aspect when you shooting movies, so that filmy-look is a plus actually with this lens
7. if you are on a gimbal setup with mic & ND filter & maybe a cage + two handed gimbal ring... you want a lighter setup, so 23mm 2.0 is a must
8. WR is useful but most of the time overrated feature.
9. when you are on the move the smaller diameter lens is easier to keep safe, less protruding front element compared to 16-55.
10. 2.0 can be useful in low light videography too with less digital noise in the outcome.
you're the most charming & distinct character among all youtubers. Love your awesome work bro from Brisbane, Australia.
I absolutely agree.. he not only gives good info.. he has this charming style. Very enjoyable to watch. Zürich, Switzerland
Some people are obsessed with sharpness and care less of the actual craft of making good photographs. I had the 23mm 1.4 and now I have the 23mm F2, yes the 1.4 is sharper at the widest aperture but also bulkier (I use a XE3), the f2 disadvantage is only at F2 to 2.8 at the minimum focus distance range, in My case I manly shoot within 2.8 to 8. Why I kept the 23mm f2? well 94% of my photography with this lens is not made within minimal closing distances, for that I use the 35mm F2 or the 18-55mm. If a chose a 23mm to shoot it is not because I want to get close, is the oposite. But I guess in the end is a matter of style of photography.
Nice review, Omar! Always interesting to hear how other photographers use lenses, because we're sort of opposite-thinking in terms of preferred aperture, not to mention subject matter. (I shoot landscape and products, alway on a solid tripod, and always at least at f/8 or f/11...Bokeh is not a concern for me, rather image sharpness and expansive DOF.) That said, though I agree that this 23 f/2 isn't up to snuff at f/2, since I never shoot wide open, it's not an issue for me. In fact, I find that at f/8-f/11, it's superbly sharp, though not quite as good as my stellar Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 Macro, the absolute sharpest lens I've used in 40 years of photography! It's my "Go To" for small product shooting. Did you happen to see "The Angry Photographer"'s review of this lens? He called it stellar, and almost as fantastic as teh XF16mm f/1.4! Thanks again! .
U da man, Omar. Seriously, your videos are great. Upbeat, knowledgeable, they cover the bases very well. Thank you. The lens comparisons are especially helpful. Keep up the great content! Keep it real and keep on keeping it light! Thumbs way up!
If you could only shoot sharp with this lens with f5.6 i definitely would use the kit lens and safe the money. Keep up Omar, you are better than that Fro guy who can't use a Fuji. :D
haha.. Kit lens all da way baby. Thanks for the love.
D'Works definitely!!!!
Omar Gonzalez Photography oh without regrets!!!
Carlos Vega Would’ve loved to see some minimum focus distance shots on your 35mm review. Yes the lens is amazing. Except for its weakness. Lol. Don’t see why you’re calling this review bullshit.
@Carlos Vega Hi Carlos. As a landscape and product photographer, I always shoot for maximum sharpness and DOF, so never shoot wide open. For my kind of photography, this XF23 f/2 is super-sharp.
I just posted my review of the 23mm f2 (shoutout to Omar!) and, like you, I experienced the softness. It's interesting because you have others like Ken or Carlos who don't experience it. I still enjoy the versatility of the lens, but I'm on the fence with this one.
I really felt like you were a bit too goofy for my liking. Then you kept popping up when I was looking for Fuji videos. Now I have binged your videos and found you refreshing. You come off as genuinely good natured and positive. Also, your content is very informative and great for my purposes. Thank You.
Just bought this bad boy today. Shot a few test frames in lousy frigging light in the garden and I agree - close up it's a bit iffy at f2 but so what! Got it for what it can do well, its weight and the price and not for what it can't do well. I've already got the 35 f2 which is stellar, this complements it for walk-about with my X-T2, Weather resistant, light,(sharp mostly) and fast. I'm lovin' it already. Good to know though that it's not me but the lens at f2. P.S. the 80mm is a beast - heavy and amazing IQ everywhere but really hard to use well hand held as there is NO DoF very close-up.
I absolutely love the f/2 line of lenses. Small, lightweight, fast AF, and extremely affordable. I will say they are not great wide open and up close like you like to shoot. You said you had better luck with the 35/2 up close but I didn't. I found that to be soft as well. Nonetheless, it's still a great little lens. No lens if perfect so a little softness wide open and close up isn't too much to sacrifice in the grand scheme of things
just got the 23mm f2 lens today and tested it, unfortunatele everything you said here is true! very soft at f2 and very sharp at f5.6. not worth the price point IMO.
Well, I got the 23mm f/2 as well today. And while I see a certain softness at close distance at f/2 - it's nowhere close to the results in the video. Maybe I've been lucky and got a good one?
Comparing it to the 35mm f/1.4 at close distance at f/1.4 the 35mm is way softer. Yes - at 1.4 so that comparison is not really fair. Just to give you an impression how my 23mm f/2 performs.
I really appreciate your insights and sense of humour. Informative, refreshing & genuine. Thank you for your guidance 👍👍 Currently using the 23 Mm/f2 😎
Sold mine for a 35mm f1.4. I know it's a different focal length but still.. no regrets so far. Great shots and thanks for the review Omar! The best as always!
You said it all, shooting street between 5.6-8 this lens is pure magic. Shooting wide open...mmm no. Great video as always :)
I have the kit lens, 35 F2, 23 F2. My 23 f2 is exactly like yours, have to stop it down to f4 and beyond to get anything acceptable. At first I just thought it was a bad copy but seeing all the comments here makes me realise it isn't. Funny thing is I bought all three together and never really bothered with the kit lens, and everyone seems to be raving about it, maybe it's time to give it another go! The 35 f2 is my fave, never comes off the camera.
I rented the F1.4 out of curiosity and I cannot stress enough the magic that it produces. the images, after shooting with the 35 F2 and 23 F2 for 3 months just made my head explode. The F1.4 lenses have something to them optically that far surpasses their F2 counterparts.
So I've heard! I'll get my hands on one. Still love the 23 focal length. .
Similar to me
I had the 23mm f/2 and I didn't really get along with it so I sold it and I picked a 35mm f/1.4 on sale and I couldn't be happier. There's just something about that I can't put my finger on that has made my shooting so much more enjoyable.
I've owned both and I think "far surpasses" is an exaggeration. The 1.4 *is* optically superior but the difference is more modest, except of course at minimum focus distance. The 23/2 does not truly work properly at its minimum focus distance and that is just a fact.
I was going to mention the 16mm, but you figured it out on your own. Great video.
Lovely photos, a joy to see. Sorry you were let down by the lens. Wow, the 16 looks wonderful, thanks for including it. As always, very enjoyable and helpful.
This is like the 4th video of yours I've stumbled upon and watched to the end. Guess it's time to sub.
I think that you might like the 60mm f2.4 macro. I picked it up used several weeks ago and really like it.
The pancake lens is just about as versatile as the xt-20 itself. So freaking sharp, too. I'll take the pancake over the 23mm any day.
cosmogang Me too.
You are crazy. The 27 next to the 23 f2 is a joke!
Best review of this lens. I bought it cheap together with my X-E3 and haven't really used it so far.
Super video! one of your best dude. Such a pleasure to watch you ! Cheers from FR.
I have the X100F and even that 23mm f2 lens at wide open, close up the shot is soft and hazing, even tried manual focusing and was a bit better however not much but stopping down it becomes sharper and no more hazing.
Hey Omar, i sold the 27mm to buy used x100s (for almost the same price!) just to have 23mm focal length lol. After watching this i’m glad i made that decision. Having 2 bodies is much easier than change the lens for sure, but X100 series is just “brilliant” camera.
I would love a review of the 50mm f2!
One of my favourite lenses!
I opted to get the 7Artisans 25mm f/1.8 for this focal length for three reasons. 1. It's cheap (£55 delivered off eBay) and 2. It's slightly faster at f1.8 and 3. It's a really small lens. Having looked at loads of reviews of 23mm /f2 I couldn't justify spending £400 on a lens I wouldn't use to often and just wanted to tie me over. I'm very optimistic on the up and coming Viltrox 23mm f/1.4 though and if that's anywhere near the quality of the 85mm f/1.8 I'll get that in the near future. Nice honest review as always.
Man you just can’t compare a 60 dollar lens with a 400 😂 I had both lenses and I can tell the xf23 is sharper, weather resist, Autofocus, sharper on f2 then your s on 2.8 😂
@@escooterpovaustria6699 I never compared it :) I just said I opted for the cheaper lens as it's not a focal length I use that often.
when you said "im the last one to purchase this lens" im officially the last one lol, paired with a xt2. such a difference since I've been using the 35mmf2 for 4 years. Thank you Omar !
rewatching this incase I missed something over the years.
Hey Omar, do yourself a favor and try out the 23mm 1.4, sharp wide open even at minimum focus distance.
While you're at it, try out the 35mm 1.4 as well. Fuji one-point-fours have a certain magic the f2's just can't beat..
I'm on it.
Coni Glione I have an X100T and just got an XT3. I actually plan on buying the 23 f2 for the XT3 just so I don't need to bring two bodies all the time - X100T for fun/random street stuff, XT2 and a couple lenses including the 23 (probably f2) when I want to shoot more FL than what the X100T can offer.
@Coni Glione no, you probably wouldn't come back if you did get an xt3. :) also normally I would agree with your suggestion. Wide is 16mm (with the cheap samyang as specialty UWA), X100 for "normal", and 56mm for a short tele/portrait.
Truth be told I'd be perfectly happy with just the X100T and I've been telling everybody about it. Actually went 3 years with just that and the two adapters that I barely used. I like more of street/reportage style photography documenting my travels. That works when I take photos just for me. Thing is I'm getting married in less than a year and I've been "forced" to change photography styles a little. I'd be happy with just the 12mm for UWA but I need one with AF and variable FL. Those are the only reasons I chose the 10-24 over the 16mm and why I'm considering the 23 f2 to replace the X100T.
PS I realize this is a long reply thanks for reading this far. Go get an xt3. :)
This review made me subscribe to your channel. I can now be sure you are not sponsored. I bought it few weeks ago. It is [mostly] soft at f/2, decent at f/2.8 and great from f/4 and on. Aside from sharpness and [corrected] vignetting @f/2 it is a great performer (no distorsion, aberrations…). And yes - there is the close focus issue... a pity. You have reviewed all the aspects. Great review.
Omar! Love the vids! What do you think of this lens on the XT5, vs the Viltrox 23 perhaps? Would love to hear your thoughts! Thanks and please keeps the amazing content coming!
Aw Darnit... I really wanted to get this lens. I'll stick with my 27 and my 35... Plus I totally agree with you on the 56mm 1.2. Love it.
35mm 2 and the 16mm 1.4 are the primes to keep you covered at the wide end.
Great video. Spot on comments. I have tested nearly all of the Fuji range and used to own a tonne of kit. Now just 1 body X-T2 Graphite + 2 lenses 16mm f1.4 fabulooouuusss! Crop it to 23mm equiv. or 35mm equiv. and it excels the 23 f2 easily and matches the brilliant 35mm f2 even though cropped by 100% . Of course the other lens I own is a well used and battered 56mm f1.2 old, slow, noisy, heavy but epic. Your review is so sensible which, as you are about as crazy as I am, is amazing. Keep up the great work and the entertainment. Gary
Thanks for the review. Have been on the fence for a long time about this lens. You’ve helped me make the correct decision. Many Thanks
Hi Omar. the 23F2 is an interesting one. I think you nailed it at the beginning of the video when you mentioned the 16mm F1.4. Do yourself a favour and get it, (call it a late present to self from Santa) you wont regret it. Image quality superb and excellent close focusing and I believe will offer you more than the 12mm Rokinon. I tried to love the 23F2 on my Xpro2 and my XT20 but in fact I prefer the 27mm. Strangely on my X100F I love the 23mm focal length and it just seems to render differently (maybe an interesting comparison video to disprove my theory). Cant explain it and maybe my imagination but I prefer the imagery from the X100F. I tend to use it at F4, 5.6 and 8.0 as defintely produces a crisper offering at these apertures. I guess we are all being picky but should consider ourselves lucky to have so many choices! All the best from Dubai, Steve.
Thanks for this Omar. I have this lens on hold at KEH for a trade and really looking forward to using it. Your sample photos are awesome. Love your videos too. Hell of a nice guy, too, and always giving out great hints, tips and insight.
thanks so much!! appreciate that
The hazy effect is the reason why I return the lens. Iike to shoot wide open. Thanks for confirming it is not the problem only i have. The one I would use most of the time is only the 35 f2 and 18-55 kit.
35mm f2 is a keeper for sure.
Omar Gonzalez Photography
Thinking about the 16mm 1.4, what you use this lens for best?
Still have mine and neve experienced the hazy effect. Far as I'm concern it's a good lens and if you're worrying about close up use a macro lens
I just want to say thank for these videos! you really help me be efficient with my xt-20. Always look forward to your videos!
You're welcome!
23mm is one of the best lens for fuji x series.. everyone should buy one
Good to see someone put the necessary emphasis on the downside of this lens. There really is something technically off about it. People have argued the point of shooting close with this lens as if you shouldn't be trying to in the first place. I returned it after comparing shots from my 18-55mm at the 23 (f/3.2) length, major difference. I exchanged it for the 35 f/2 and man, that lens performs VERY well.
Huh?? Haha. It's not a macro lens dude, it's a street lens.
I agree, the lens fails time and time again at F2 no matter the distance, it’s erratic! I wish Fuji fix the issue. Like you explained the kit lens performs better at 23mm than the 23mm. The aperture May not be F2 but hey you stop down the 23, so what the heck! For that reason I gave mine to my daughter. Great review.
Hi Omar.. If you were to buy a new Fuji Camera, what Kit would you prefer: 23mm f2 or 18-55 f2.8-4? I would like to use more for Portrait, but also bit landscape. I am buying in addition a Rokinon 85mm f1.4. No sure about my decision.
You're doing God's work Omar. Wouldn't buy a lens without your thoughts on it.Wanted to get the 23 f2,now not so much
It's a brilliant lens, he's complaining too much. He also doesnt use focus peaking and is relying on the AG for close focus at f2, which will NOT nail the focus
Hey Omar! Thanks for the video and the review. You mentioned in your video that you'll make a comparison video of 23mm f2.0 vs 27mm f2.7 pancake lens but I think you didn't have time to do that or I couldn't find the video. I was wondering if you have to choose only one of the lenses between the 23mm f2.0 and 27mm f2.8 (mainly for street photography) which one would be your choice? Especially since you have a chance to get the 27mm f2.8 with R and WR features on the Mark II version.
problems like the ones you show and describe here may not have to do with the actual sharpness or the lack of it from the lens but with the combination of shutter speed and the actual very narrow depth of field with the lens at 2.0.
I've just been shooting/testing some macro shots with a Raynox lens on my 55-200 Fujinon .... getting things sharp is very difficult handheld, because of the extremely narrow depth of field ...
a real test will come from shooting with a tripod and then seeing if it's the actual sharpness or just the very narrow band of sharpness ....
also autofocus may be an issue here .... autofocus is a no-no in macro just because of the very narrow depth of field ...
so there be similar issues here .... since especially close up the depth of field is extremely narrow .....
This lens is one of the few that doesn't have a firmware update yet. I hoping they can do something with the firmware to help some of the focusing issues at the more wide open stops.
YAAAS!!! Perfect review as always Omar.. I think im gonna hit that 16f1,4.. maaan details on that sneakers...
Hey Omar you should really try the 80mm macro from fuji. I think you would really like it since you like to shoot real close.
I backed the Kamlan 28mm f1.4 manual lens on Kickstarter, just got it in the post today. Looking forward to trying it out! All metal, real Aperture ring, but the Aperture ring turns very heavy, hopefully loosens up with use.
Pretty sure a billion people already said you should try the 23mm f1.4.... but, well, try it. It's the one lens that made my 35 f2 and 16 f1.4 stay at home and end up being sold.
Your videos are fantastic Omar, you should have your own network tv show!
I ordered the lens before I saw your review, when you said, " this was my first hint at eh ooh ahh " I knew I was looking forward to receiving a bit of a dud ....wide open is how I like to shoot. Thanks, I'll check you out Omar, before my next purchase.
Throw it in f/2.8 are move back just a bit from the minimum focus distance. Photos will be ridiculous sharp with no haze.
Thanks for the review. I appreciate your perspective.
I haven’t seen tons of your videos but I’m already a fan because you love Cap as well!
Debbie Mowry yay!!!
Love when you start and end with pics.....
Omar, great review....my experience was the same, but you explain it so much better..! Get the 18mm f2 for review...
great review omar i had to let mine go back and i got the 1.4 great lens …… always a great laugh watching your vlogs
This haze reminds me the one I get with my Fuji X100, first version, with the same focal length and aperture
I've been using the f/2 for awhile and honestly, I've always wondered if I should switch to the older version. It just never really did it for me.
have you shot using a macro? If you shoot really close wide open, the haziness that you are mentioning (or shallow depth of field ) is more pronounced. Nothing wrong with the lens. It is working as expected. Optics in action!
I like your review, I have the 23 f2 works very well for me.
I converted an X-T20 to infrared. This 23mm f/2 gives a nice perspective and is small and light -- with NO hot spots. I shoot it at f/11 and it's great. This lens and the Fujifilm14mm f/2.8 are ideal for IR :-)
Man your reviews are the BEST. Thanks :)
I recently found your channel and subscribed after just purchasing the X-T20. Love your videos! What lens would be best for landscapes?
Have you tried the 50mm f/2.0 its meant to smash the f/56mm 1.2 and us weather sealed :)
My 23mm f2 is sharp wide open not so much haze like yours.
I love it more than my 27mm
Exactly! Me as well. I also use focus peaking, which he did not. I think this is a bad review
So, I'm prefer Nikkor Ais 28, or 24 mm and focus Manual . For the price os the Fuji 23mm
My personal opinion of course.
Another great video from a great man! :) Do you have plans in the future to create a video about the comparison of X-T2 and your "Baby" X-T20? :) And which on do you love most. HAHAHA LOL
I have the 35f2 and 60macro and will skip the 23f2 based on your findings. Thank you. I also have tried the 23f1.4, and found the fuzziness below 2.8
Great video! Could you do something similar for the 50mm F2 and the 16mm F2.8?
For the first lens for an x-t4. Would you recommend this 23mm f2? Or 18-55 kit lens? I do mostly video...some pics
Thanks!!!
Thank you very much, Omar! I really enjoy your videos, mostly your practice tests. A test in a laboratory would not find such issues. By the way, some other photographers have the issue at the fx 35 f2 either. Eventually it’s not a macro lens.
Have you tested the 23mm f1.4? I haven't used it, but physics-wise it should be worse close-up and wide open.
Faster lenses typically need moving elements and other (expensive) optical tricks to overcome their natural softness close-up.
I do have the 27mm. You would expect it to be better wide open and close up because it's not as fast.
I think they could make the 23mm f2 sharper close-up, but it would be way more expensive.
Also, I don't think you mentioned which 16mm you tried. Again, the f2.8 is slower. The 16 f1.4 is TWICE as expensive as the 23mm.
Good, Fast or Cheap. Pick two.
I love this lens! Probably my most used lens. But considering I don't shoot close up, I never noticed the flaws the lens has, though I have heard of them. Isn't this the same lens on the X100F? Or is that the 1.4 version? Great video as always Omar! Loving the podcast to! :D
So happy it works for you. LOVED the focal length but didn't work for me.
Good review Omar, I like your photos.
Please help... I'm a little confused. Why would you use a wide-angle lens to do close up? isn't it built to be environmental editorial and street photography?
Hi Omar, thank you for you videos it really helps alot. Just new in the fuji system. For night photography say night portrait and landscape shots do I still need 23 or 35 f2 prime or the 18-55mm f2.8 will do the trick?
Thanks in advance for the answer!
Get the 23 1.4 for image quality. That lens is sharp at 1.4. I had it on a xt20. It’s too big for that body but I stuck it out because of the IQ.
Omar, first I love your film bro! :D Btw, I have the 35mm also the 18 55mm kit lens and I just looking a prime lens to adopt for street but BIG confuse about the 23mm and 50mm uh oh .. I can't reach the f1.4 or 1.2 so I consider just for f2 . sad :(
hahahahahha!! damn it Omar! I've been watching your videos for many years, and this is probably the funniest "JUST GET THE SHOT!!!!!""
Hi Omar, I am very new with photography. I have my fujifilm XT-20. I have 35mm f1.4 and the kit lens 18-55 F2.8 -4 which is quite heavy for daily use. I am in dilemma to pick between these 2 lenses. If u could suggest which one I should go 27MM F2.8R WR or 23mm F2 R WR for general use such example to walk around the city to take pic of street, architectural, city night view and landscape?
Bro I feel like I been to that beach resort in your initial images. Were those taken at Riu Guanacaste?
if you should choose this lens vs 16-80 or 18-55 at 23mm?
Would you say that this 23mm prime is sharper than the 18-55mm at 23mm? Also, do you think its worth getting the 23mm if I already have the 18-55mm? Thanks Omar. Keep up the great reviews!!
I’m thinking about the same thing, please let me know if you have the answer!
Love your videos man subbed
I own among other lenses 23mm f2 and at short foocus it has a bit haze but other than that it beat easily 16-55 and certainly kit lens at f2.8. Maybe it is my copy but I see no delta between other lenses other than 16 f1.4 which is league above all others. Having sad that I do not understand comments below (especially from people who do not own or tried lens) .The lens is not made for macro or close up work, but street photography photography so if you doing that often look no further.It is lighter and focus faster (plus WR) than 23mm f1.4 , which require xpro body to get some balance in your hand. The later one will also block the OVF on xpro-2 way more than 23 f2.
Exactly!! People are ignorant as hell, and Omar, while I love his fun loving ways, can give some horribly sunjective and somewhat inaccurate reviews.
Are you letting the X-T2 feel like it’s part of the family yet? You have kids, it’s just not cool telling the X-T20 that it’s number one and you love it best in front of the X-T2. You’re going to have problems later when the X-T2 starts acting out.
Hi .i just wait for my new xt2 and i ordered all ready xf23mm 2.0.i m beginner and i want to use camera at home to make so picture from my kids.Did i make mistake?i shut take 35mm 2.0?35mm make a better quality picture?I just want to have one lens main lens..maybe in the futher zoom lens to make some birds pic...
I wish I can afford these prime lenses. But I'm definitely happy with my 16-55 f2.8, especially for landscape. It covers wide to nice zoomie. However, Having a 35 mm f2... all primes sounds delicious
SeanKimStyle you won’t regret it!
Vianditya Pujiani My bank statement will LoL
save for the long game, use what you got! I hear ya buddy
I had it and sold it yesterday, im gonna say its not the best lens Fuji made, its so soft in the middle at F2!, i would need to stop at 2.8 to 4 to get decent sharpness. 35mm F2 is sharp and has a better contrast at $100 less, this lens needs an update or recall or something
you should try some old lens, cheap way to go prime, and some are awesome! If you are not frightened by manual stuff!
Did you try manual focus, did the haze clear? or is it just the character of this lens when wide open up close?
Guess you should have bought the 23 F1.4? I bought the 23mm F2 used & for the cost it's a great lens. For my style of shooting it works fine. Although I think the 23 F1.4 will find its way into my bag at some point. Omar thanks for the review.
What Fuji lens would produce such nice full body boke shots like the Sigma (7:31)? That is exactly what I am looking for!