Ive had the 70-300mm for about 6months now and had a chance to get some whale shots in Seward. I was impressed with the stabilization from the boat. Just got the 1.4 converter. Looking forward to catching the birds at Potter's Marsh on their way back south. Love the vids Dan! Summer is indeed too short here to be making TH-cam videos but thanks for getting one in!
Totally!! Summer is way too short up here!! I was shooting Arctic terns at Potter this spring with the 55-200. Got done great shots, so I’m excited to get back out there with the 70-300!
Thanks for the review Dan, and I agree with your comments. I struggled to get comfortable with my 100-400 out in the field, although it worked well enough in controlled environments. I was always happy with my 55-200, but often found it short on reach for wildlife. My new 70-300 replaces both lenses for most practical purposes, at a fraction of their combined weight. Initial results are very pleasing, and I expect to get a lot of use out of it in the bush, and around town. Keep up the good work!
Hey Jon, thanks so much for your comment. I do love the 100-400, but it is rather unwieldy at times. And I do like the 55-200, but sometime wish for a longer reach. The 70-300 obviously solves both of those issues with excellent image quality and form factor. Have fun with it during the rest of the summer and beyond. 👍
Hi from Western Australia. Dan everything you have said is spot on. You will continue to be impressed with this lens. I've been a Fuji shooter since 2016 and have the 100 - 400mm and the 1.4TC amongst other Fuji lens. In March this year as soon as it was available here I bought the 70-300mm primarily due to weight for hiking and have used it extensively on it's own and with the 1.4TC fitted for wildlife and surf photography fitted to the XT4. It is amazing, so sharp, quick to focus and lightweight and I am impressed with image quality with the 1.4TC fitted. I do a lot of bird photography from a kayak and this is ideal due to the weight and ease of use. Obviously the F8 with the 1.4TC compared to F5.6 for the 100-400 is the only down side so for low light the 100-400mm is my choice but I love this lens. Like you also said it's inconspicuous as you're not carrying a big lens and with the 1.4TC it's 420mm FF around 600mm equiv at F8. A lot in a small package with great image quality.
Hey Jon, thanks very much for your insight. Yes, I'm certain that I'll grow to love this new lens even more! It's extremely capable, and a good companion with the 100-400 for those times when I want to go light and fast and still get that long lens look. And with the excellent high ISO performance of the X Series camera, I'm not too worried about having go to f/8 with the 1.4x teleconverter, I know I'll still get excellent results. I'm excited to keep playing around with it in the next few months! Take care and be well!
Just got the 1.4 TC for the 70-300 and you were right Dan! The image quality is still excellent and the AF still works great! Really happy with my purchase and thanks for your recommendation on a comment from another video of yours i watched 👍
Awesome. Great to hear! I knew you'd be pleased with that combo. I think the 1.4x is an essential accessory to any of the X Series zoom lenses that will accommodate it. What have you been shooting with it?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I've been practicing with birds in the garden amongst the trees which is quite a good test and it's been great. It's going to be awesome for surf where the maximum aperture of F8 w/ the teleconverter won't really matter for the most part. I love the 70-300! I've used it on all 4 of my TH-cam short films so far (skateboarding, surf, wildlife and crashing waves) along with action/landscape photography and I'm pretty sure I'll never sell it.
So cool. And good to hear that the 1.4x is keeping up with bird photography. That's a testament to how good both the lens and the TC are. Yea, I would say that you'll get great results when shooting surf with that setup. And agree... the 70-300 is definitely a keeper lens!!! I'll go check out your channel and see what you've done with it!
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks dude and please let me know what you think of the films 👍. It's definitely great for video too and the "area AF" combination with the X-T4 and 70-300 really works great for filming action. I pretty much use it the same way as I do with single point continuous for photography and as you know yourself, the AF is super quick for taking photos.
I agree Dan, I love the 70-300 it's very versatile and rarely leaves my X-S10. Most of all the images you get from it are amazing, my next purchase for it will be the 1.4x converter.
Hey Rich, thanks fir your comment. I totally agree, the 70-300 is an amazingly versatile lens!! 👍😀 You’ll be blown away by how well it works with the 1.4x TC.
Hey Dan, maybe you have heard this hundred of time before, but you have been my guru for Fuji gears and photography philosophy. I have just pulled the trigger for the 70-300 for my upcoming hiking trip thanks to your video. I started with your recommended Fujicron 35/F2 then adding 16/F2.8 and 50/2. Cheers
That's so awesome! Great to hear, Bun! Thanks so much for your feedback, I hope you get your 70-300 soon. Such an awesome lens, you're going to love it! Where are you going on your trip?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Just got back from my hiking trip. Yes, absolutely love my 70-300 - lightweight, autofocus is fast, sharp enough for me. The 70-300 has the reach to practice the abbreviation technique that you champion. I’m from Cambodia - the mountain range I hiked is called “Virachey National Park”. Cheers Dan
I have been shooting with this lens (including the 1.4x and 2.0x TCs) for a couple of months now, and I enjoy very much the IQ it produces. It works best in good daylight as it is not a very fast lens (f4-5.6), and especially when used with the TCs. I have also experienced that sharpness drops when shooting with TCs and focusing on subjects beyond 100m. In general I like this lens and has been the most used lens since I got it.
Hey Sverre, you’re right, lens sharpness vacant be affected by using a TC, but I haven’t seen that with the 70-300 and the 1.4x. I would say there’s more of a loss with the 2x. Also, you do lose even more light with the TCs, but with the excellent high ISO performance of the Fuji cameras, I don’t see this as being much of an issue. I’m excited to keep using this lens and getting an even better fell further how it performs in a variety of situations and conditions.
Excellent review Dan! Coming from Nikon Z fullframe, the Fuji X- system is new to me. But after watching your video there are no doubts left: This lens is a no-brainer and certainly will enter my kit, together with the 10-24/4.0 and the 16-80/4.0, as soon as the X-H2 gets into my hands. I shoot mainly nature and landscape, and for this this telezoom will be extremely versatile 🤩Best regards from Switzerland.
Hi Markus, thanks so much for your comments. Yes, this 70-300 is an amazing lens, and I think you'll really enjoy using it. Keep up the good work and have a great fall over there!
I intend buying one, but I can't get hold of one here in the UK. Fuji emailed me to say they had them in stock, and I was on to their shop within a couple of minutes, but they'd all been sold. None of the independent retailers have them either. Really frustrating.
Been on a wait list from two big retailers for 6 months. I love my 100-400 but I thought it would be nice to have something lighter and bit longer reach than my 55-200 when walking trails here in Wisconsin. I did get the Tamron 18-300 but returned it for it seems to be okay optically but did not like the handling. No aperture ring and the focus ring is where you expect the aperture ring hence since I shoot mostly back button focus I kept moving focus when shooting. By the way I set the focus to the front button. It works better instead of the designated back button. I enjoy your channel since I found you a month or so ago and brought your book. Nicely done.
Hi Hubert, thanks for your comment. Yes, that's a familiar story, it seems that a lot of people are waiting for the 70-300 lens. That said, I heard from a couple of people this week who said they finally got theirs, so hopefully yours will arrive soon. And yes, I've never been a proponent of back button focus. Having shot action and fast moving subjects for over 30 years, I've always found that front button focus is just more efficient. Thanks for buying my book, I hope you're enjoying it. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
The maximum mag ratio of the XF70-300 lens is .33x, or 1:3. I don't know what it is exactly when the lens is set at the 70mm zoom. The angle of view goes from 22.9 degrees at 70mm to 5.4 degrees at 300mm. Hope that helps. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I am using X-T30ii with 23mm and viltrox 85mm lens. These mostly for potraits and some street photos and would like to try nature. I am looking to shot medium distance subject + closer subject but with good wide of view for that 70mm focal length. Thanks
Hey Paul, thanks for the comment. Glad to hear that you decided to order this lens Hopefully the backorder will be resolved quickly. You'll have tons of fun with then 70-300 when it arrives!
I've had mine since last summer. I've shot mountain biking, landscapes and flower closeups with it, sometimes combining it with the 1.4x TC and MCEX-11 Extension tube. Such a versatile lens!!!
Love your videos Dan. Agree superb lens for all the reasons that you say. I LOVE the out of focus bokeh backgrounds. I find the 1.4 converter softens it a little causing me to sytop down a stop. So instead I dont use the converter but instead stop down one stop for sharpness then crop like crazy! Im selling my 55-200mm!
Barry, thanks for your comment. That sounds like a good approach. Whatever works to help get you the look and images that appeal to you. The quality of that lens certainly holds up to some cropping. 👍
Good timing on this review. I have the 70-300 now but haven't had a chance to shoot much with it. Sounds like it's time to find a new home for the 55-200.
Hello Dan, is there a way to get a printed copy of your book at its current updated edition. What I could find on Amazon was probably an older edition.
Hi there - Yes, the new second edition print copy of the book is out now! You can find it on Amazon here: amzn.to/3EFUQ5U What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Great review and excellent book! I have the Fujifilm X-S10 with the 16-80mm F4 and I am looking for a longer lens that will compliment it. The 70-300mm looks like just what I need for wildlife photography, in particular bird photography. Have you used the 70-300mm for any bird photography and if so, how did you find the lens? I would also be looking at the 1.4X teleconverter.
Thanks for your comments! In good light, the 70-300 can indeed give you very good results. I got some of my favorite birding images ever this weekend with the 70-300 lens, and that's after shooting quite a bit with the new 150-600. Of course, the 70-300 is much less expensive, and way more compact. The 1.4X is an excellent add on, and it allows for even closer focusing. In lower light, the one stop loss could be a slight issue, depending on what you're shooting, but overall, I feel that the 1.4 is an amazing add-on for any of the compatible X Series lenses.
Those are the stabilization elements. When the camera is on and the lens is attached, they "tighten' up and are activated. When the lens is not attached, they kind of "float," but this is normal. They're built this way and you won't damage them under normal use.
As always, a very good review. When you go out for a bikeride, what is your prefered bag / backbag for your equipment? Maybe this could be a good topic for a next video?
Hi Patrick, thanks for the comment. I've got a couple of different camera bags I use for cycling. My favorite dependable super lightweight pack is the old Lowepro Flipside Sport AW 10L. danbaileyphoto.com/blog/field-test-review-of-the-lowepro-flipside-sport-aw/ Sadly, they're not made anymore, but there are a few to be found used/overstock on the web. The newer Flipside Trek is a nice pack, with a similar size and form factor. www.lowepro.com/us-en/flipside-trek-bp-250-aw-lp37014-pww/. I'm also a huge fan of the PhotoSport. I've used this a ton during the past decade and they have a new version coming out this fall: www.lowepro.com/us-en/collection/photo-sport/ Another good option is the PhotoCross series by Mindshif/ThinkTank: www.thinktankphoto.com/collections/photocross-backpacks/products/photocross-13-backpack I'm pretty picky about my camera bags, but it does sound like a good topic for a future video!
Thanks for this video Dan. I am watching a couple of 55-200 on ebay. Now I think I'll go for the 70-300. I'll be going to Olympic Nat'l Park in October and the light weight and weather sealing is what I need.
@@DanBaileyPhoto yes, please do.. They are going to release that lens this fall.. And its 18-300 3.5-6.3 lens.. Its listed on BnH and mentioned as coming soon 🙌
@@raymorgan4337 me too! Hope they make more tele lenses with fast apertures 🙌 and sigma is gonna release primes too by year end so good news for fuji 😅
@@anilkumarmalviya7038 Personally, I haven’t always been a fan of full range wide-to-tele zoom lenses, but I know that a lot of people like the convenience of carrying just one lens. Also, being the first “major brand” X-Mount lens release, it will be interesting to see how that Tamron performs.
Hi Dan, just stumbled upon your video as I am planning a safari trip in the next month and was thinking of buying a new lens for the same. I have the 55-200 and have used that in the past for wildlife trips but have felt that I could use a little more range. Mainly shoot large mammals but sometimes do enjoy shooting some birds as well, but rarely birds in flight. Would you recommend this over the new 150-600 or the 100-400 and is the 1.4 TC better than just cropping given the tc's cause a significant drop in light. I do spend about the first and last hour of the safari around sunrise and sunset where the light is pretty poor. (using an Xt3) Thanks !
Naishal, thanks for your comment. Both the 100-400 and 150-600 are great lenses, and both have their own unique limitations. The 100-400 is obviously shorter in focal length, but not being an internally focusing/zooming lens, it's shorter when the zoom is not extended, and thus a bit more compact. The 150-600 gives you that extra range, but it's one stop slower and has a longer barrel. However with Fuji's excellent high ISO performance, that one stop doesn't have to be much of an issue. Personally, I prefer the versatility of the 100-400. Both of these lenses will very much outperform the 55-200 in terms of autofocus performance. If possible, I would try them both out in a store and see which one feels better in your hands. Hope that helps.
Alberto, I would highly recommend the 70-300, and if you already have the 55-200, then selling that and getting the 1.4x TC would be a good move. Once you have the 70-300, I don't think you'll find yourself using the 55-200 very much anymore, if at all, and the 1.4X definitely adds performance value to the 70-300 lens. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
George, if you don’t mind the extra size and weight, you’ll see better performance from the red badge 100-400. It has faster AF, more durable construction and a tripod collar.
Hi Tim, I used my old Lowepro Flipside Sport 10L AW. Sadly, this exact pack is not made anymore, but Lowepro does have a number of newer Flipside models. I’ve always liked the LP packs for going light and fast. Another option is the PhotoCross by Mindshift. Those look pretty cool as well.
Thanks for the review Dan! Nothing tops hands on experience! I was thinking of buying the 100-400, but it's just to big and heavy. But I really want something longer than my 50-140mm. So this lens looks like it's a perfect fit.
Hey Guy, thanks for your comment. Yes, this lens does hit an ideal combination of size, weight and performance. 👍 What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I like to shoot nature, but for my work I do a lot of portraits. This lens is light and specialy for outdoor jobs, it could replace my 50-140.
Thanks for the review, Dan. I am looking for a longer companion for my 50-140, and I’m not sure if I should keep saving for the 100-400 or go for the 70-300. Decisions decisions.
That’s a tough one, Todd. Both are good lenses with specific advantages. How often do you use the 100-400 and is it ever an issue to carry that extra weight?
I have an XT3 with 16-80mm, 16mm and 56mm having started photography 18 months ago .. wanted to do landscape mostly but seem to be drifting into B/W industrial/street photography ( due to the hunting for contrast in light) which is all around my city ( Derby UK) ..but I’m still learning as my head hurt in the first year due to the complexity of understanding how to get all them settings correct lol
@@mazdaram226 That sounds like a pretty good setup. I used to dabble in that kind of photography when I first started, I lived in Boston and would sometimes visit my friend in NYC.I remember it being a lot of fun! And it just takes practice to get more comfortable with the camera settings.
Great review Dan. Thanks very much 😄👍. Now may I ask you something ? In what way does the 100-400 mm out perform this lens ? I am about to pull the trigger on the 100-400mm , but now I have my doubts🙈. Smaller and lighter and even cheaper than the 100-400mm. Whats not to like?
Michael, the 100-400 has twin linear autofocus motors. where the 70-300 only has one linear AF motor, so it does have noticeably faster focusing speed, especially when tracking moving subjects in lower light. It has 5 ED elements and 1 Super ED element, compared to 2 ED elements on the 70-300. Both are incredible lenses that produce very sharp images, both are weather sealed, and they both work with the Fuji teleconverters. Being a Red Badge Fuji lens, though, the 100-400 is a full-on pro quality lens, with a more rugged design, and increased fast focus performance. However, that does not diminish the 70-300, which does outperform the 100-400 with its close focusing capabilities, and has slightly better OIS image stabilization, (5.5 stops vs 5 stops). Plus, the size/weight of this lens is hard to beat. I have both lenses. If I'm shooting very fast action or fast motion video, I'll use the 100-400, but when I'm going out to shoot landscapes, travel and general photography, the 70-300 is just so much more enjoyable to carry, and it fits much more easily into my camera packs. I'm a huge fan of the 70-300, and would highly recommend it, unless you're specially looking to shoot very fast action in rugged environments. What kinds of subjects would you typically shoot with a lens like this?
@@DanBaileyPhoto hi Dan thanks for your reply, that helps me to decide. Because I am at the moment not into doing action photografi. More bird photografi and butterflies like that. And the size of the 70-300mm sounds perfect for me.
Michael, that's probably a good choice. Hopefully you're able to get one soon. Many places are out of stock, but I've seen a few that are shipping. Amazon is showing reasonable delivery times right now.
Informative but I already own the Fuji 100-400 mm plus a 1.4x converter, I love the photos I make of the Everglades wildlife. If I get any closer might end up as one of those critters dinner. I don’t see the 70-300mm adding anything to my kit. But it seems a reasonable option for someone. They might also want the 1.4 Fuji converter
Thanks for your comment. Yes, if you already have that setup, then the 70-300 would obviously be redundant. That said, as much as I love the 100-400, I don't take it with me on backcountry trips or long biking days. The 70-300 offers a similar view and performance, but in a much smaller and lighter weight form factor, so yes, I can see it have pretty wide appeal with a lot of shooters.
Kenneth, that's a difficult question. The 55-200 and 70-300 are two very similar lenses, with nearly identical design and form factor, and a very similar focal length range. I guess the answer depends on this: During those times when you're using the 55-200, do you wish that you had a slightly longer focal length? If you're 100% happy with the 55-200, then it's probably redundant to have that and the 70-300, because one of them is going to get left home most of the time.
sounds like another fine option for a hiker tele but getting pretty slow when using with 1.4x converter f/8 and super slow w/2x - f11 😳 happy to hear though that the image quality is there and you found the B/G bokeh more pleasing Dan! thanks for the review 🙏🏼 happy trails 🚵🏻♂️🚲🚲🚵🏻♂️
Hi Karen. Yes, it’s definitely slower, especially when using the teleconverters. However, with the excellent high ISO performance on the Fuji cameras, and the lens stabilization. it’s no real issue to crank up the ISO dial as needed. Also, I’m a huge fan of the 1.4x TC, but personally, I think the 2x takes away a little too much light and overall performance to make it worth carrying. Hope you’re having awesome summer, I’m doing a 100-mile mountain bike race on Saturday! Super psyched!! 🚵♂️💪😱
@@DanBaileyPhoto Hi Dan! Im having a pretty nice summer so far thanks! i hear ya on the fuji iso and i do have the x1.4 convrt’r which i like, x2 is always kinda ‘iffy’ as to quality performance in most systems so i have not invested in those since my Canon days. i may rent this lens to give it try on a hike or bike ride as well. I own both 55-200 & 100-400 which both are fantastic! But the 100-400 can get heavy on longer hikes 🥵 and no way i am hauling it on a bike ride 😅so this new lens is probably sweet for the additional reach & weight👌🏼 100 mi mt bike race!!! 😲 you’re an animal!! 💪🏼 💪🏼 i used to race mt bike x-country & downhill but the x-country races at my level were never more than 20- 24mi - downhill course... a few minutes 😜😆 except the Downieville DH (in Calif) which is both a bit of X & a lot of DH !! all good fun best of luck my friend, stay safe! 🤜🏼🚲🤛🏼
Karen, most of the XC races I do up here in Anchorage are about 10-12 miles, but I've done a few in the 40-50 mile range both here and in the lower 48. I really like that distance; did one last weekend, two 19 miles laps, and did the second lap faster than the first. 🔥 We also had 2 combo XC/DH races earlier this summer, those were really fun, and last year I did the ultra endurance 250 mile race. That was a beast, and it went better than I could have expected. We actually have a number of new downhill trails here in Anchorage, and the new Hilltop downhill bike park opens this weekend. Overall, our super fun biking options here are expanding in a big way! 👍 This weekend's 100-mile race is a classic alpine long distance XC race up and over 3 passes. This will be my first time doing it, but I feel pretty strong this year, and I love riding my bike for hours in the mountains, so how bad can it be?! 😀 Actually, looks like some rain for Saturday... hopefully not too much. The race is actually called the Soggy Bottom 100, so some rain is always kind of expected. Anyway, wish me luck and keep having fun in the outdoors! Maybe I'll come visit and ride in Downieville someday soon!
can you confirm if this lens + 1.4TC has a decent "optical resolution", as in it's more detailed than simply enlarging the image size digitally? I ask because some TC combos, while it gives you more reach... they lay the light on the senor a little inaccurately as to be no better than digital zoom.
From my experience with the 1.4x TC, using it with the 50-140, 100-400 and 70-300, it produces extremely good optical resolution. I think that its slight magnification range doesn't affect image quality as much as the longer 2.0x TC does. Overall, I've been very happy with the performance of the 1.4x. You do lose a stop of light, but I don't see that as being much of an issue, given how well the the X Series cameras do at higher ISO settings. The only real limitation is when you're shooting at VERY long distances, especially in the summer. Things can get a little soft, but that's more attributed to the fact that you're looking thorough so much air and heat shimmers. In those cases, distant subjects can get a little soft, but that's less a matter of optical performance of the lens and TC, as it is inherent limitations of any long lens when you push the range too far out in certain atmospheric conditions. Overall, I think the 1.4x TC is an amazing, high quality tool that extends the range of your lens with almost no loss in quality or performance.
@@DanBaileyPhoto I've had an XT3 for two years. I basically moved across from Nikon in order to simplify and enjoy the small form factor. I'm happy with the small primes but I'm looking for something that can match my old Nikon 300mm PF F4 and it looks like this 70-300 is a great contender (and a good price). I just like to shoot birds and wildlife... just an excuse to drag my lazy butt around the city and various nature parks. Other than that i do street photography with the smaller primes.
The X-T3 is an incredible camera. Such a powerful and fun creative machine with a very compact form factor. And yes, the 70-300 would be an excellent choice for birds and wildlife. The size and weight for the performance of this lens is pretty much unbeatable. You'll have fun with it, I'm sure.
I got the xc50-230 and thinking about upgrading to this 70-300, what do i improve besides the 70mm extra, better stabilisation, weather sealing and teleconverter option? And is 70mm extra significant?
I've actually used both lenses. The 70-300 has 2 ED (Extra low dispersion) elements, so it will have slightly better optics, especially on the long end when shooting distant subjects. It also has a 9 bladed aperture, vs. 7 blades on the 50-230, so it will have a more pleasing look (bokeh) with out of focus subjects in the background. And it has the Linear Autofocus motor, which is much faster than the stepping AF motor on the 50-230. The 50-230 is certainly a good lens, and it's very lightweight. The 50 vs 70mm focal length difference won't be a significant difference, (you'll see more improvement on the long end,) but overall, the 70-300 does have a number of features and performance upgrades that justify the price vs. the 50-300. What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot with the telephoto?
@@DanBaileyPhoto at this moment, motogp and other circuit activities, sometimes birds, but 230 is not very close and not that fast, on my xt4. Do you know the xc is 6.7 on 230, and the 70-300, 5.6 on 300, with the 1.4 teleconverter, 430mm with f8? That a big difference, right?
Yes, the slightly brighter aperture on the 70-300 will definitely make a difference. For shooting action, the 70-300 will indeed be the faster lens with regards to AF. It's not quite as fast as something like the 100-400, but it certainly performs better than the 50-230 for that kind of photography.
Yes, the X-T4 has a very fast AF system, but it has to work with the lens, so if the lens has a slower motor, then you'll see a difference in performance.
As I understand how tc works, it does not change the focus distance. I think if you focus the lens on some subject and then without moving the lens (assume the lens is mounted on a tripod, not the body) and without touching the focus ring (let's assume internal lenses remain in their current positions like in manual optics) you insert the tc then you remain in focus, but just a central area of the original image will be stretched to the whole sensor size.
Like I’m sure like most I’m waiting for mine. However, for those lucky few who have this lens … I always attach a CL filter to my lenses however, if the hood is continually employed on this lens, any opinion on if a protective filter is necessary? Thanks.
Hey Martin, I always keep the hood attached on all my X Series lenses, but I don’t use UV/skylight filters on my Fuji lenses, like I did back in the day with my Nikon glass. No real reason, I just never got into the practice. Also, I guess I don’t want to cover up that exceptional Fujinon glass with a remarkably less expensive piece of glass.
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thanks Dan - I normally cover the glass but so use a CL clear filter and good qulaity such as Nikon however, I’ll just use the lens hood on the 70-300 - and maybe a CPL from time to time altough I suspect I might not need one so much as on the wider angle lenses.
As I said, I used to put UV filters on all my lenses, but when I switched to Fuji, I just never got in the habit. Haven't felt I've needed them since then, but it definitely offers some protection for that nice, expensive glass.
i have heard the autofocusing on it is super fast (similarly to the newer 16-80 f4). I already own the 50-140mm w/ my XT4. I'm torn between just getting a 1.4 converter for the 50-140 or just getting this new lens for action, wildlife specifically. I realize they are two totally different lenses and the 50-140 isn't necessarily designed for action, sports, wild-life whereas this 70-300 sort of is. I've just started messing around with shooting moving objects like birds, or action for example.
Hey Spencer, thanks for your comment. The 70-300 is indeed a great lens, and it can certainly be used to shoot action subjects. It has a similar AF performance as the 55-200, which is not the fastest AF Fuji lens, but it’s still very capable. Being a slower aperture lens, through, you do need more light, and very good AF technique. Using the PRE-SHOT ES setting helps too, with very fast subjects. That said, its AF performance is not as good as what you have on the pro level 50-140. In most situations, you’ll find the 50-140 and 1.4x TC to be a higher performing AF lens than the 70-300. However, I do love the 70-300, and it does offer lots of awesome creative possibilities.
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks for taking the time to reply. I've been a bit torn on getting the TC or this lens. the 1.4x TC on the 50-140 f2.8 essentially brings it to an f4, if I'm converting that properly. is that correct? I am leaning towards getting the TC. Funny , I think both the TC's and the new lens are both back ordered! haha. also - should I stay away from the 2x TC completely? Thanks!
In my mind, the 1.4x with the 50-140 is a no brained. Same with the 70-300. It extends the performance of both with pretty much no loss of performance. Haven’t used the 2x. Totally happy with the 1.4.
@@DanBaileyPhoto awesome. I just found a used 1.4x in Excellent condition at Adorama and grabbed it for $369 USD. I think that's probably about as low as I could find in excellent condition and from a reputable source at least. wanted it before my Florida trip next week so I can practice bird photography and such at the beach! 😀
Great review. Dan I am looking at purchasing a telephoto lens and this Fuji XF 70 -300mm would fit the bill. Likewise the Fuji XF 90mm would also do a great job so if you accept the limitations of a fixed focal length. If you could only have one lens for travel and occasional hiking/landscape photography which would be your pick? Greeting from the UK. Best Mike
Hi Mike, that’s a tough question. I do love the Fuji 90mm lens, it’s astoundingly sharp, with extremely fast AF. However, the longer zoom and stabilization on the 70-300 makes it highly versatile for travel and landscapes.
Hi Dan, good to see you again, you videos are always great and very helpful. I don't know if you remember, but I have the 55-200 and the 100-400 but I’m considering trading in the 55-200 for the new one for all the reason that you mentioned, but if the difference in weight is only 8 grams between the 55-200 and the 70-300, does it say something (negative) about the build quality, is it more plasticky, maybe not as durable?
Hey Enrique, thanks for your comment. I wouldn't say anything negative about the build quality of the 70-300. Looking closely, it's pretty much identical in design and build to the 55-200. My guess is that with the newer manufacturing technology, perhaps they've been able to shave a bit of weight off of some the glass elements or use slightly lighter plastics on the barrel that offer the same durability. Of course, it doesn't feel as substantial as the 100-400, but it's designed to be a versatile, lightweight lens, and that's exactly what it is. The 55-200 has held up for me for all these years, and it's done fine. I even have a couple of dents in the plastic zoom ring! I expect the 70-300 to offer the same kind of performance and longevity.
That’s a tough one, Geoff. Given that the 55-200 is pretty much identical in form factor, it seems like that would be more redundant. I’d keep the 100-400 for those special times when you don’t mind carrying the extra size and weight. I guess it depends, though, do you find that you use the 100-400 regularly?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I hardly use the 100-400, while the 55-200 is always in my travel bag! I may get the 70-300 and see which I use! Are you doing any lower 48 workshops this fall, eg the Smokies??
I have the 70-300 and the 100-400. What I can say is the 70-300 is 90% of what the 100-400 is. The 100-400 is sharper at 400mm than the 70-300 is at 300mm. I need to keep the 70-300 below 250mm to keep absolute sharpness. The 100-400 focuses faster, and it is a bit faster speed at every focal length. It handles the 1.4TC better than the 70-300. When using the 1.4TC on the 70-300, I still get to F8, but at a much shorter focal length. Because of its slight loss in sharpness at 300mm, adding the 1.4TC at 300mm usually results in slightly soft images. I am keeping both lenses because the 70-300 is worlds ahead regarding portability, but if I am going on a wildlife shoot, the 100-400 goes with me.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts about these two excellent lenses. I mirror your analysis, both are extremely useful in a variety of situations. The 100-400 is indeed a beast of a lens and an excellent performer in critical situations, but you can't beat the portability, and performance of the 70-300 when you want to go with a lightweight kit. Despite the redundancy in focal length, they make for excellent companions in your overall lens arsenal.
Great review Dan, Although I have one comment regarding the editing of your video. Your image was cut at almost every paragraph. The result was micro jumps on your image that distract me and made me not paying attention to what you were saying. One cut per minute or every two minutes is acceptable. One cut every 5 seconds is annoying.. Your editing is harming your content and that Isa shame because the content is great.
Jorge, thank you for your comment, I appreciate the feedback. I’m always working on my video skills, and trying to make them smoother. It can be very challenging to get perfect takes of long spoken passages, so I often have to edit from multiple takes. Some people have excellent oratory skills, but I have seen a lot of YT videos with far worse editing. Again, I work hard to put out quality videos and I’ll keep up that task. 👍
Dario, here are a few more images that I've shot with the XF70-300mm lens. twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1465768178257068036 twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1464811558010122246 twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1462909379603152896 twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1461803829230391302 twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1461434062325776385 twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1461145910604230661 What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Cool. Thanks. The X-E4 is a great little camera. They're all so capable, but there's something special about the form factor of the X-E4. I still have my old XE-1, and I had an X-E3 for awhile. I remember that being a fun little camera! Anyway, have fun with yours and happy new year!
My wife told me I’m not allowed to watch your channel anymore cause I always buy your latest recommendation. Too bad. 70-300 on its way here.
Haha!! I hope don’t get you in trouble, Scott! You’re gonna love that new lens!! 😀
Ive had the 70-300mm for about 6months now and had a chance to get some whale shots in Seward. I was impressed with the stabilization from the boat. Just got the 1.4 converter. Looking forward to catching the birds at Potter's Marsh on their way back south. Love the vids Dan! Summer is indeed too short here to be making TH-cam videos but thanks for getting one in!
Totally!! Summer is way too short up here!! I was shooting Arctic terns at Potter this spring with the 55-200. Got done great shots, so I’m excited to get back out there with the 70-300!
Thanks for the review Dan, and I agree with your comments. I struggled to get comfortable with my 100-400 out in the field, although it worked well enough in controlled environments. I was always happy with my 55-200, but often found it short on reach for wildlife. My new 70-300 replaces both lenses for most practical purposes, at a fraction of their combined weight. Initial results are very pleasing, and I expect to get a lot of use out of it in the bush, and around town. Keep up the good work!
Hey Jon, thanks so much for your comment. I do love the 100-400, but it is rather unwieldy at times. And I do like the 55-200, but sometime wish for a longer reach. The 70-300 obviously solves both of those issues with excellent image quality and form factor. Have fun with it during the rest of the summer and beyond. 👍
Hi from Western Australia. Dan everything you have said is spot on. You will continue to be impressed with this lens. I've been a Fuji shooter since 2016 and have the 100 - 400mm and the 1.4TC amongst other Fuji lens. In March this year as soon as it was available here I bought the 70-300mm primarily due to weight for hiking and have used it extensively on it's own and with the 1.4TC fitted for wildlife and surf photography fitted to the XT4. It is amazing, so sharp, quick to focus and lightweight and I am impressed with image quality with the 1.4TC fitted. I do a lot of bird photography from a kayak and this is ideal due to the weight and ease of use. Obviously the F8 with the 1.4TC compared to F5.6 for the 100-400 is the only down side so for low light the 100-400mm is my choice but I love this lens. Like you also said it's inconspicuous as you're not carrying a big lens and with the 1.4TC it's 420mm FF around 600mm equiv at F8. A lot in a small package with great image quality.
Hey Jon, thanks very much for your insight. Yes, I'm certain that I'll grow to love this new lens even more! It's extremely capable, and a good companion with the 100-400 for those times when I want to go light and fast and still get that long lens look. And with the excellent high ISO performance of the X Series camera, I'm not too worried about having go to f/8 with the 1.4x teleconverter, I know I'll still get excellent results. I'm excited to keep playing around with it in the next few months! Take care and be well!
Just got the 1.4 TC for the 70-300 and you were right Dan! The image quality is still excellent and the AF still works great! Really happy with my purchase and thanks for your recommendation on a comment from another video of yours i watched 👍
Awesome. Great to hear! I knew you'd be pleased with that combo. I think the 1.4x is an essential accessory to any of the X Series zoom lenses that will accommodate it. What have you been shooting with it?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I've been practicing with birds in the garden amongst the trees which is quite a good test and it's been great. It's going to be awesome for surf where the maximum aperture of F8 w/ the teleconverter won't really matter for the most part.
I love the 70-300! I've used it on all 4 of my TH-cam short films so far (skateboarding, surf, wildlife and crashing waves) along with action/landscape photography and I'm pretty sure I'll never sell it.
So cool. And good to hear that the 1.4x is keeping up with bird photography. That's a testament to how good both the lens and the TC are. Yea, I would say that you'll get great results when shooting surf with that setup. And agree... the 70-300 is definitely a keeper lens!!! I'll go check out your channel and see what you've done with it!
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks dude and please let me know what you think of the films 👍. It's definitely great for video too and the "area AF" combination with the X-T4 and 70-300 really works great for filming action. I pretty much use it the same way as I do with single point continuous for photography and as you know yourself, the AF is super quick for taking photos.
Good to see you back, Dan, but totally understandable that you want to take full advantage of your short summer. Keep up the good work!
Thanks, Daniel! Hope you’re having a great summer, as well!
another great video. I just ordered this lens and I have the 1.4 convertor. I have the 100-400 but a beast to travel with
Hey Andy, great to hear! Yes, you'll find the 70-300 to be an amazing, and much more compact lens to travel with. I hope you're able to get one soon!
I agree Dan, I love the 70-300 it's very versatile and rarely leaves my X-S10. Most of all the images you get from it are amazing, my next purchase for it will be the 1.4x converter.
Hey Rich, thanks fir your comment. I totally agree, the 70-300 is an amazingly versatile lens!! 👍😀 You’ll be blown away by how well it works with the 1.4x TC.
Hey Dan, maybe you have heard this hundred of time before, but you have been my guru for Fuji gears and photography philosophy. I have just pulled the trigger for the 70-300 for my upcoming hiking trip thanks to your video. I started with your recommended Fujicron 35/F2 then adding 16/F2.8 and 50/2. Cheers
That's so awesome! Great to hear, Bun! Thanks so much for your feedback, I hope you get your 70-300 soon. Such an awesome lens, you're going to love it! Where are you going on your trip?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Just got back from my hiking trip. Yes, absolutely love my 70-300 - lightweight, autofocus is fast, sharp enough for me. The 70-300 has the reach to practice the abbreviation technique that you champion. I’m from Cambodia - the mountain range I hiked is called “Virachey National Park”. Cheers Dan
I have been shooting with this lens (including the 1.4x and 2.0x TCs) for a couple of months now, and I enjoy very much the IQ it produces. It works best in good daylight as it is not a very fast lens (f4-5.6), and especially when used with the TCs. I have also experienced that sharpness drops when shooting with TCs and focusing on subjects beyond 100m. In general I like this lens and has been the most used lens since I got it.
Hey Sverre, you’re right, lens sharpness vacant be affected by using a TC, but I haven’t seen that with the 70-300 and the 1.4x. I would say there’s more of a loss with the 2x. Also, you do lose even more light with the TCs, but with the excellent high ISO performance of the Fuji cameras, I don’t see this as being much of an issue. I’m excited to keep using this lens and getting an even better fell further how it performs in a variety of situations and conditions.
Considering to get this lens for Plane-spotting
That would be a good choice! You'd certainly be able to zoom in pretty far on distant aircraft.
Great video. Awesome lens. And after three months of waiting, I can finally pick up the 70-300 at Best Buy!
Yay!!!! That’s great news!! You’re going to love the 70-300. Have fun with it!!
Excellent review Dan! Coming from Nikon Z fullframe, the Fuji X- system is new to me. But after watching your video there are no doubts left: This lens is a no-brainer and certainly will enter my kit, together with the 10-24/4.0 and the 16-80/4.0, as soon as the X-H2 gets into my hands. I shoot mainly nature and landscape, and for this this telezoom will be extremely versatile 🤩Best regards from Switzerland.
Hi Markus, thanks so much for your comments. Yes, this 70-300 is an amazing lens, and I think you'll really enjoy using it. Keep up the good work and have a great fall over there!
Thank you - appreciate the info as always!
You’re most welcome, glad you enjoyed this!!
I intend buying one, but I can't get hold of one here in the UK. Fuji emailed me to say they had them in stock, and I was on to their shop within a couple of minutes, but they'd all been sold. None of the independent retailers have them either. Really frustrating.
Hey Graham, that’s a bummer indeed! It’s that way with a lot of stuff right now. I hope you’re able to get your hands on one soon!
E-infinity uk has them in, £669 … used them a lot to buy my lenses and camera , can’t find anyone cheaper and they are very helpful..
Very frustrating! I really want this lens too but gotta wait here in the UK.
Been on a wait list from two big retailers for 6 months. I love my 100-400 but I thought it would be nice to have something lighter and bit longer reach than my 55-200 when walking trails here in Wisconsin. I did get the Tamron 18-300 but returned it for it seems to be okay optically but did not like the handling. No aperture ring and the focus ring is where you expect the aperture ring hence since I shoot mostly back button focus I kept moving focus when shooting. By the way I set the focus to the front button. It works better instead of the designated back button. I enjoy your channel since I found you a month or so ago and brought your book. Nicely done.
Hi Hubert, thanks for your comment. Yes, that's a familiar story, it seems that a lot of people are waiting for the 70-300 lens. That said, I heard from a couple of people this week who said they finally got theirs, so hopefully yours will arrive soon. And yes, I've never been a proponent of back button focus. Having shot action and fast moving subjects for over 30 years, I've always found that front button focus is just more efficient.
Thanks for buying my book, I hope you're enjoying it. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Interested to get this, I wonder how big 'field of view' it can shot at 70mm?
The maximum mag ratio of the XF70-300 lens is .33x, or 1:3. I don't know what it is exactly when the lens is set at the 70mm zoom. The angle of view goes from 22.9 degrees at 70mm to 5.4 degrees at 300mm. Hope that helps. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I am using X-T30ii with 23mm and viltrox 85mm lens. These mostly for potraits and some street photos and would like to try nature. I am looking to shot medium distance subject + closer subject but with good wide of view for that 70mm focal length. Thanks
The 70-300 will do a great job with that, and its closeup capabilities are improved with the use of either the 1.4X TC or an MCEX extension tube.
Nice review Dan. I'm in envy of you, I ordered the 70-300 fuji lens and unfortunately it's on back order till the new year 2022. Can't wait.
Hey Paul, thanks for the comment. Glad to hear that you decided to order this lens Hopefully the backorder will be resolved quickly. You'll have tons of fun with then 70-300 when it arrives!
Thank you for a spot on analysis. I agree completely the 55-200 has been exchanged for the 70-300 + 1.4x and I am really pleased with it .
Thanks for your feedback. Yes, the new 70-300 with the 1.4x is an amazing combo! Have fun with it! What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot?
@@DanBaileyPhoto it has become my bring along combo…I mainly use it for landscape and wildlife; e.g. instagram.com/p/CRE17xoBWti/?
Cool! You’ve got a good eye. Some really good stuff in your IG feed. Keep up the good work!
@@DanBaileyPhoto thank you :-)
You're most welcome!
Just bought one and love it
Awesome!!! I know that they were on backorder for quite a long time, so I'm glad you were able to get one in hand. What have you shot with it so far?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I know right so lucky . I’ve bought yesterday and been shooting street photography. And you?
I've had mine since last summer. I've shot mountain biking, landscapes and flower closeups with it, sometimes combining it with the 1.4x TC and MCEX-11 Extension tube. Such a versatile lens!!!
Love your videos Dan. Agree superb lens for all the reasons that you say. I LOVE the out of focus bokeh backgrounds. I find the 1.4 converter softens it a little causing me to sytop down a stop. So instead I dont use the converter but instead stop down one stop for sharpness then crop like crazy! Im selling my 55-200mm!
Barry, thanks for your comment. That sounds like a good approach. Whatever works to help get you the look and images that appeal to you. The quality of that lens certainly holds up to some cropping. 👍
Good timing on this review. I have the 70-300 now but haven't had a chance to shoot much with it. Sounds like it's time to find a new home for the 55-200.
Hey Dianne, thanks for the comment. I think you’ll be really impressed once you start shooting with it!
Hello Dan, is there a way to get a printed copy of your book at its current updated edition. What I could find on Amazon was probably an older edition.
Hi there - Yes, the new second edition print copy of the book is out now! You can find it on Amazon here: amzn.to/3EFUQ5U
What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Great review and excellent book! I have the Fujifilm X-S10 with the 16-80mm F4 and I am looking for a longer lens that will compliment it. The 70-300mm looks like just what I need for wildlife photography, in particular bird photography. Have you used the 70-300mm for any bird photography and if so, how did you find the lens? I would also be looking at the 1.4X teleconverter.
Thanks for your comments! In good light, the 70-300 can indeed give you very good results. I got some of my favorite birding images ever this weekend with the 70-300 lens, and that's after shooting quite a bit with the new 150-600. Of course, the 70-300 is much less expensive, and way more compact. The 1.4X is an excellent add on, and it allows for even closer focusing. In lower light, the one stop loss could be a slight issue, depending on what you're shooting, but overall, I feel that the 1.4 is an amazing add-on for any of the compatible X Series lenses.
Excuse me, when the XF70-300MM lens is shaken, will there be strange noises inside??? Thank you
Those are the stabilization elements. When the camera is on and the lens is attached, they "tighten' up and are activated. When the lens is not attached, they kind of "float," but this is normal. They're built this way and you won't damage them under normal use.
As always, a very good review. When you go out for a bikeride, what is your prefered bag / backbag for your equipment? Maybe this could be a good topic for a next video?
Hi Patrick, thanks for the comment. I've got a couple of different camera bags I use for cycling. My favorite dependable super lightweight pack is the old Lowepro Flipside Sport AW 10L. danbaileyphoto.com/blog/field-test-review-of-the-lowepro-flipside-sport-aw/ Sadly, they're not made anymore, but there are a few to be found used/overstock on the web. The newer Flipside Trek is a nice pack, with a similar size and form factor. www.lowepro.com/us-en/flipside-trek-bp-250-aw-lp37014-pww/. I'm also a huge fan of the PhotoSport. I've used this a ton during the past decade and they have a new version coming out this fall: www.lowepro.com/us-en/collection/photo-sport/
Another good option is the PhotoCross series by Mindshif/ThinkTank: www.thinktankphoto.com/collections/photocross-backpacks/products/photocross-13-backpack
I'm pretty picky about my camera bags, but it does sound like a good topic for a future video!
Thanks for this video Dan. I am watching a couple of 55-200 on ebay. Now I think I'll go for the 70-300. I'll be going to Olympic Nat'l Park in October and the light weight and weather sealing is what I need.
Mark, sounds like the WR 70-300 will be a great lens for that trip!!
Can't wait to see you trying the Tamron for fuji when it releases and your thoughts on it 🙌
Anil, I hadn’t heard that Tamron was making a lens fur Fuji. 😀 I’ll look into it.
@@DanBaileyPhoto yes, please do.. They are going to release that lens this fall.. And its 18-300 3.5-6.3 lens.. Its listed on BnH and mentioned as coming soon 🙌
I'm hanging back until the Tamron is released.
@@raymorgan4337 me too! Hope they make more tele lenses with fast apertures 🙌 and sigma is gonna release primes too by year end so good news for fuji 😅
@@anilkumarmalviya7038 Personally, I haven’t always been a fan of full range wide-to-tele zoom lenses, but I know that a lot of people like the convenience of carrying just one lens. Also, being the first “major brand” X-Mount lens release, it will be interesting to see how that Tamron performs.
Great review Dan. Its a fantastic lens. I love mine.
Hey Tony, thanks for your comment, I’m glad to hear you’re loving that lens so much. What have you been shooting with it?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Mainly landscape but also some macro. The lens is impressive for both.
Totally! It's really an amazing, versatile outdoor photography lens!!
Hi Dan, just stumbled upon your video as I am planning a safari trip in the next month and was thinking of buying a new lens for the same. I have the 55-200 and have used that in the past for wildlife trips but have felt that I could use a little more range. Mainly shoot large mammals but sometimes do enjoy shooting some birds as well, but rarely birds in flight. Would you recommend this over the new 150-600 or the 100-400 and is the 1.4 TC better than just cropping given the tc's cause a significant drop in light. I do spend about the first and last hour of the safari around sunrise and sunset where the light is pretty poor. (using an Xt3) Thanks !
Naishal, thanks for your comment. Both the 100-400 and 150-600 are great lenses, and both have their own unique limitations. The 100-400 is obviously shorter in focal length, but not being an internally focusing/zooming lens, it's shorter when the zoom is not extended, and thus a bit more compact. The 150-600 gives you that extra range, but it's one stop slower and has a longer barrel. However with Fuji's excellent high ISO performance, that one stop doesn't have to be much of an issue. Personally, I prefer the versatility of the 100-400. Both of these lenses will very much outperform the 55-200 in terms of autofocus performance. If possible, I would try them both out in a store and see which one feels better in your hands. Hope that helps.
Did you by any chance experiment with the teleconverter plus an extension tube Dan?
Hey Martin, no I have not tried that yet. Should be an interesting combo, though. I’ll definitely experiment with and let you know how it works. .
I would like to buy the 70-300 but i don’t know if sell or not the 55-200 and buy a tc1.4 what do you suggest?
Alberto, I would highly recommend the 70-300, and if you already have the 55-200, then selling that and getting the 1.4x TC would be a good move. Once you have the 70-300, I don't think you'll find yourself using the 55-200 very much anymore, if at all, and the 1.4X definitely adds performance value to the 70-300 lens. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Dan, thanks for a great video, if you had to toss up between the 100-400 and the 70-300 with a 1.4 TC , which would you take. Principal use, wildlife?
George, if you don’t mind the extra size and weight, you’ll see better performance from the red badge 100-400. It has faster AF, more durable construction and a tripod collar.
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thank you Dan.
You're welcome, George!
Hi Dan,
Great review, thanks.
What bag were you using to cart the lense and XT4 around on the mountain bike, please?
Hi Tim, I used my old Lowepro Flipside Sport 10L AW. Sadly, this exact pack is not made anymore, but Lowepro does have a number of newer Flipside models. I’ve always liked the LP packs for going light and fast. Another option is the PhotoCross by Mindshift. Those look pretty cool as well.
Thanks for the review Dan! Nothing tops hands on experience! I was thinking of buying the 100-400, but it's just to big and heavy. But I really want something longer than my 50-140mm. So this lens looks like it's a perfect fit.
Hey Guy, thanks for your comment. Yes, this lens does hit an ideal combination of size, weight and performance. 👍 What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I like to shoot nature, but for my work I do a lot of portraits. This lens is light and specialy for outdoor jobs, it could replace my 50-140.
@@fotografieguyackermans7729 the 50-140 is probably better for portraits. it's really a lens in it's own league!
Thanks for sharing Dan. I never really read or watch any review about th 55-200. Have you ever reviewed that lens Dan?
Hi Nas, I did mention the 55-200 in this video: My 5 Most Used Fujifilm Lenses of 2020 th-cam.com/video/NjOGTgJ0PZg/w-d-xo.html
Great info in your review. How compatable will it be with my xpro3
Martin, this lens will be 100% compatible with your X-Pro 3.
Thanks for the review, Dan. I am looking for a longer companion for my 50-140, and I’m not sure if I should keep saving for the 100-400 or go for the 70-300. Decisions decisions.
That’s a tough one, Todd. Both are good lenses with specific advantages. How often do you use the 100-400 and is it ever an issue to carry that extra weight?
Superb review, thank you
You’re welcome! What Fuji model do you use and what do you like to photograph?
I have an XT3 with 16-80mm, 16mm and 56mm having started photography 18 months ago .. wanted to do landscape mostly but seem to be drifting into B/W industrial/street photography ( due to the hunting for contrast in light) which is all around my city ( Derby UK) ..but I’m still learning as my head hurt in the first year due to the complexity of understanding how to get all them settings correct lol
@@mazdaram226 That sounds like a pretty good setup. I used to dabble in that kind of photography when I first started, I lived in Boston and would sometimes visit my friend in NYC.I remember it being a lot of fun! And it just takes practice to get more comfortable with the camera settings.
Nice one matey
Great review Dan. Thanks very much 😄👍. Now may I ask you something ? In what way does the 100-400 mm out perform this lens ? I am about to pull the trigger on the 100-400mm , but now I have my doubts🙈. Smaller and lighter and even cheaper than the 100-400mm. Whats not to like?
Michael, the 100-400 has twin linear autofocus motors. where the 70-300 only has one linear AF motor, so it does have noticeably faster focusing speed, especially when tracking moving subjects in lower light. It has 5 ED elements and 1 Super ED element, compared to 2 ED elements on the 70-300.
Both are incredible lenses that produce very sharp images, both are weather sealed, and they both work with the Fuji teleconverters. Being a Red Badge Fuji lens, though, the 100-400 is a full-on pro quality lens, with a more rugged design, and increased fast focus performance. However, that does not diminish the 70-300, which does outperform the 100-400 with its close focusing capabilities, and has slightly better OIS image stabilization, (5.5 stops vs 5 stops). Plus, the size/weight of this lens is hard to beat.
I have both lenses. If I'm shooting very fast action or fast motion video, I'll use the 100-400, but when I'm going out to shoot landscapes, travel and general photography, the 70-300 is just so much more enjoyable to carry, and it fits much more easily into my camera packs. I'm a huge fan of the 70-300, and would highly recommend it, unless you're specially looking to shoot very fast action in rugged environments.
What kinds of subjects would you typically shoot with a lens like this?
@@DanBaileyPhoto hi Dan thanks for your reply, that helps me to decide. Because I am at the moment not into doing action photografi. More bird photografi and butterflies like that. And the size of the 70-300mm sounds perfect for me.
Michael, that's probably a good choice. Hopefully you're able to get one soon. Many places are out of stock, but I've seen a few that are shipping. Amazon is showing reasonable delivery times right now.
Informative but I already own the Fuji 100-400 mm plus a 1.4x converter, I love the photos I make of the Everglades wildlife. If I get any closer might end up as one of those critters dinner. I don’t see the 70-300mm adding anything to my kit. But it seems a reasonable option for someone. They might also want the 1.4 Fuji converter
Thanks for your comment. Yes, if you already have that setup, then the 70-300 would obviously be redundant. That said, as much as I love the 100-400, I don't take it with me on backcountry trips or long biking days. The 70-300 offers a similar view and performance, but in a much smaller and lighter weight form factor, so yes, I can see it have pretty wide appeal with a lot of shooters.
I have the 55-200 and the 100-400 I have a bit of a struggle with my self, do I need the 70-300 as well?
Kenneth, that's a difficult question. The 55-200 and 70-300 are two very similar lenses, with nearly identical design and form factor, and a very similar focal length range. I guess the answer depends on this: During those times when you're using the 55-200, do you wish that you had a slightly longer focal length? If you're 100% happy with the 55-200, then it's probably redundant to have that and the 70-300, because one of them is going to get left home most of the time.
sounds like another fine option for a hiker tele but getting pretty slow when using with 1.4x converter f/8 and super slow w/2x - f11 😳
happy to hear though that the image quality is there and you found the B/G bokeh more pleasing Dan! thanks for the review 🙏🏼 happy trails 🚵🏻♂️🚲🚲🚵🏻♂️
Hi Karen. Yes, it’s definitely slower, especially when using the teleconverters. However, with the excellent high ISO performance on the Fuji cameras, and the lens stabilization. it’s no real issue to crank up the ISO dial as needed. Also, I’m a huge fan of the 1.4x TC, but personally, I think the 2x takes away a little too much light and overall performance to make it worth carrying. Hope you’re having awesome summer, I’m doing a 100-mile mountain bike race on Saturday! Super psyched!! 🚵♂️💪😱
@@DanBaileyPhoto Hi Dan! Im having a pretty nice summer so far thanks!
i hear ya on the fuji iso and i do have the x1.4 convrt’r which i like, x2 is always kinda ‘iffy’ as to quality performance in most systems so i have not invested in those since my Canon days. i may rent this lens to give it try on a hike or bike ride as well. I own both 55-200 & 100-400 which both are fantastic! But the 100-400 can get heavy on longer hikes 🥵 and no way i am hauling it on a bike ride 😅so this new lens is probably sweet for the additional reach & weight👌🏼
100 mi mt bike race!!! 😲 you’re an animal!! 💪🏼 💪🏼 i used to race mt bike x-country & downhill but the x-country races at my level were never more than 20- 24mi - downhill course... a few minutes 😜😆 except the Downieville DH (in Calif) which is both a bit of X & a lot of DH !! all good fun
best of luck my friend, stay safe! 🤜🏼🚲🤛🏼
Karen, most of the XC races I do up here in Anchorage are about 10-12 miles, but I've done a few in the 40-50 mile range both here and in the lower 48. I really like that distance; did one last weekend, two 19 miles laps, and did the second lap faster than the first. 🔥 We also had 2 combo XC/DH races earlier this summer, those were really fun, and last year I did the ultra endurance 250 mile race. That was a beast, and it went better than I could have expected. We actually have a number of new downhill trails here in Anchorage, and the new Hilltop downhill bike park opens this weekend. Overall, our super fun biking options here are expanding in a big way! 👍
This weekend's 100-mile race is a classic alpine long distance XC race up and over 3 passes. This will be my first time doing it, but I feel pretty strong this year, and I love riding my bike for hours in the mountains, so how bad can it be?! 😀 Actually, looks like some rain for Saturday... hopefully not too much. The race is actually called the Soggy Bottom 100, so some rain is always kind of expected.
Anyway, wish me luck and keep having fun in the outdoors! Maybe I'll come visit and ride in Downieville someday soon!
can you confirm if this lens + 1.4TC has a decent "optical resolution", as in it's more detailed than simply enlarging the image size digitally? I ask because some TC combos, while it gives you more reach... they lay the light on the senor a little inaccurately as to be no better than digital zoom.
From my experience with the 1.4x TC, using it with the 50-140, 100-400 and 70-300, it produces extremely good optical resolution. I think that its slight magnification range doesn't affect image quality as much as the longer 2.0x TC does. Overall, I've been very happy with the performance of the 1.4x. You do lose a stop of light, but I don't see that as being much of an issue, given how well the the X Series cameras do at higher ISO settings.
The only real limitation is when you're shooting at VERY long distances, especially in the summer. Things can get a little soft, but that's more attributed to the fact that you're looking thorough so much air and heat shimmers. In those cases, distant subjects can get a little soft, but that's less a matter of optical performance of the lens and TC, as it is inherent limitations of any long lens when you push the range too far out in certain atmospheric conditions.
Overall, I think the 1.4x TC is an amazing, high quality tool that extends the range of your lens with almost no loss in quality or performance.
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks for the thoughtful reply :)
You're very welcome. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I've had an XT3 for two years. I basically moved across from Nikon in order to simplify and enjoy the small form factor. I'm happy with the small primes but I'm looking for something that can match my old Nikon 300mm PF F4 and it looks like this 70-300 is a great contender (and a good price). I just like to shoot birds and wildlife... just an excuse to drag my lazy butt around the city and various nature parks.
Other than that i do street photography with the smaller primes.
The X-T3 is an incredible camera. Such a powerful and fun creative machine with a very compact form factor. And yes, the 70-300 would be an excellent choice for birds and wildlife. The size and weight for the performance of this lens is pretty much unbeatable. You'll have fun with it, I'm sure.
I got the xc50-230 and thinking about upgrading to this 70-300, what do i improve besides the 70mm extra, better stabilisation, weather sealing and teleconverter option? And is 70mm extra significant?
I've actually used both lenses. The 70-300 has 2 ED (Extra low dispersion) elements, so it will have slightly better optics, especially on the long end when shooting distant subjects. It also has a 9 bladed aperture, vs. 7 blades on the 50-230, so it will have a more pleasing look (bokeh) with out of focus subjects in the background. And it has the Linear Autofocus motor, which is much faster than the stepping AF motor on the 50-230. The 50-230 is certainly a good lens, and it's very lightweight. The 50 vs 70mm focal length difference won't be a significant difference, (you'll see more improvement on the long end,) but overall, the 70-300 does have a number of features and performance upgrades that justify the price vs. the 50-300.
What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot with the telephoto?
@@DanBaileyPhoto at this moment, motogp and other circuit activities, sometimes birds, but 230 is not very close and not that fast, on my xt4. Do you know the xc is 6.7 on 230, and the 70-300, 5.6 on 300, with the 1.4 teleconverter, 430mm with f8? That a big difference, right?
Yes, the slightly brighter aperture on the 70-300 will definitely make a difference. For shooting action, the 70-300 will indeed be the faster lens with regards to AF. It's not quite as fast as something like the 100-400, but it certainly performs better than the 50-230 for that kind of photography.
@@DanBaileyPhoto nice, tank you, i guess the xc50-230 is slowing down the xt4
Yes, the X-T4 has a very fast AF system, but it has to work with the lens, so if the lens has a slower motor, then you'll see a difference in performance.
What is the minimum focus distance of 70-300 with 1.4 tc?
As I understand how tc works, it does not change the focus distance. I think if you focus the lens on some subject and then without moving the lens (assume the lens is mounted on a tripod, not the body) and without touching the focus ring (let's assume internal lenses remain in their current positions like in manual optics) you insert the tc then you remain in focus, but just a central area of the original image will be stretched to the whole sensor size.
Andrey is correct. Using a TC does not change the minimum focus distance of the lens, but it does increase magnification.
Like I’m sure like most I’m waiting for mine. However, for those lucky few who have this lens … I always attach a CL filter to my lenses however, if the hood is continually employed on this lens, any opinion on if a protective filter is necessary? Thanks.
Hey Martin, I always keep the hood attached on all my X Series lenses, but I don’t use UV/skylight filters on my Fuji lenses, like I did back in the day with my Nikon glass. No real reason, I just never got into the practice. Also, I guess I don’t want to cover up that exceptional Fujinon glass with a remarkably less expensive piece of glass.
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thanks Dan - I normally cover the glass but so use a CL clear filter and good qulaity such as Nikon however, I’ll just use the lens hood on the 70-300 - and maybe a CPL from time to time altough I suspect I might not need one so much as on the wider angle lenses.
As I said, I used to put UV filters on all my lenses, but when I switched to Fuji, I just never got in the habit. Haven't felt I've needed them since then, but it definitely offers some protection for that nice, expensive glass.
i have heard the autofocusing on it is super fast (similarly to the newer 16-80 f4). I already own the 50-140mm w/ my XT4. I'm torn between just getting a 1.4 converter for the 50-140 or just getting this new lens for action, wildlife specifically. I realize they are two totally different lenses and the 50-140 isn't necessarily designed for action, sports, wild-life whereas this 70-300 sort of is. I've just started messing around with shooting moving objects like birds, or action for example.
Hey Spencer, thanks for your comment. The 70-300 is indeed a great lens, and it can certainly be used to shoot action subjects. It has a similar AF performance as the 55-200, which is not the fastest AF Fuji lens, but it’s still very capable. Being a slower aperture lens, through, you do need more light, and very good AF technique. Using the PRE-SHOT ES setting helps too, with very fast subjects. That said, its AF performance is not as good as what you have on the pro level 50-140. In most situations, you’ll find the 50-140 and 1.4x TC to be a higher performing AF lens than the 70-300. However, I do love the 70-300, and it does offer lots of awesome creative possibilities.
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks for taking the time to reply. I've been a bit torn on getting the TC or this lens. the 1.4x TC on the 50-140 f2.8 essentially brings it to an f4, if I'm converting that properly. is that correct? I am leaning towards getting the TC. Funny , I think both the TC's and the new lens are both back ordered! haha. also - should I stay away from the 2x TC completely? Thanks!
In my mind, the 1.4x with the 50-140 is a no brained. Same with the 70-300. It extends the performance of both with pretty much no loss of performance. Haven’t used the 2x. Totally happy with the 1.4.
And yes, one stop. You won’t even notice it’s there.
@@DanBaileyPhoto awesome. I just found a used 1.4x in Excellent condition at Adorama and grabbed it for $369 USD. I think that's probably about as low as I could find in excellent condition and from a reputable source at least. wanted it before my Florida trip next week so I can practice bird photography and such at the beach!
😀
Great review. Dan I am looking at purchasing a telephoto lens and this Fuji XF 70 -300mm would fit the bill. Likewise the Fuji XF 90mm would also do a great job so if you accept the limitations of a fixed focal length. If you could only have one lens for travel and occasional hiking/landscape photography which would be your pick? Greeting from the UK. Best Mike
Hi Mike, that’s a tough question. I do love the Fuji 90mm lens, it’s astoundingly sharp, with extremely fast AF. However, the longer zoom and stabilization on the 70-300 makes it highly versatile for travel and landscapes.
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thanks Dan. Always appreciate your views. Best Mike
Thanks, Mike. 👍
Fuji made a great job.
Indeed they did! 👍
4000 ft of climbing on a single speed, you are a beast.😀
Great review!
Haha!! No way!! That’s not me on the single speed. That’s my teammate Stew. I like gears, man!!! 😀
Hi Dan, good to see you again, you videos are always great and very helpful. I don't know if you remember, but I have the 55-200 and the 100-400 but I’m considering trading in the 55-200 for the new one for all the reason that you mentioned, but if the difference in weight is only 8 grams between the 55-200 and the 70-300, does it say something (negative) about the build quality, is it more plasticky, maybe not as durable?
Hey Enrique, thanks for your comment. I wouldn't say anything negative about the build quality of the 70-300. Looking closely, it's pretty much identical in design and build to the 55-200. My guess is that with the newer manufacturing technology, perhaps they've been able to shave a bit of weight off of some the glass elements or use slightly lighter plastics on the barrel that offer the same durability.
Of course, it doesn't feel as substantial as the 100-400, but it's designed to be a versatile, lightweight lens, and that's exactly what it is. The 55-200 has held up for me for all these years, and it's done fine. I even have a couple of dents in the plastic zoom ring! I expect the 70-300 to offer the same kind of performance and longevity.
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thank you for the prompt reply.
@@Enrique-the-photographer you’re welcome! 👍
Sold to the man in the Ollie suit!!
😀😀😀👍👍👍Awesome!! Did you actually get one, or is it on back order?
@@DanBaileyPhoto not yet, but keen to get my hands on one in the not too distant future..
Yea... common story right now, unfortunately. Hopefully yours will arrive soon!
Thanks so much Dan. I may buy it, but I don’t think I should keep either the 55-200 or the 100-400. Care to comment? Geoff
That’s a tough one, Geoff. Given that the 55-200 is pretty much identical in form factor, it seems like that would be more redundant. I’d keep the 100-400 for those special times when you don’t mind carrying the extra size and weight. I guess it depends, though, do you find that you use the 100-400 regularly?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I hardly use the 100-400, while the 55-200 is always in my travel bag! I may get the 70-300 and see which I use! Are you doing any lower 48 workshops this fall, eg the Smokies??
Geoff, nothing planned as of yet, but likely not. If I do make it down to the lower 48 this year, it will likely be for family visits and bike riding.
A great lens - and for a lot of people a better value than either the 55-200 mm or the 100-400 mm (I have used all of them).
Hey Karsten, I would agree with you on that. It really does hit an attractive sweet spot for a lot of photographers.
I have the 70-300 and the 100-400. What I can say is the 70-300 is 90% of what the 100-400 is. The 100-400 is sharper at 400mm than the 70-300 is at 300mm. I need to keep the 70-300 below 250mm to keep absolute sharpness. The 100-400 focuses faster, and it is a bit faster speed at every focal length. It handles the 1.4TC better than the 70-300. When using the 1.4TC on the 70-300, I still get to F8, but at a much shorter focal length. Because of its slight loss in sharpness at 300mm, adding the 1.4TC at 300mm usually results in slightly soft images. I am keeping both lenses because the 70-300 is worlds ahead regarding portability, but if I am going on a wildlife shoot, the 100-400 goes with me.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts about these two excellent lenses. I mirror your analysis, both are extremely useful in a variety of situations. The 100-400 is indeed a beast of a lens and an excellent performer in critical situations, but you can't beat the portability, and performance of the 70-300 when you want to go with a lightweight kit. Despite the redundancy in focal length, they make for excellent companions in your overall lens arsenal.
Great review Dan, Although I have one comment regarding the editing of your video. Your image was cut at almost every paragraph. The result was micro jumps on your image that distract me and made me not paying attention to what you were saying. One cut per minute or every two minutes is acceptable. One cut every 5 seconds is annoying.. Your editing is harming your content and that Isa shame because the content is great.
Jorge, thank you for your comment, I appreciate the feedback. I’m always working on my video skills, and trying to make them smoother. It can be very challenging to get perfect takes of long spoken passages, so I often have to edit from multiple takes. Some people have excellent oratory skills, but I have seen a lot of YT videos with far worse editing. Again, I work hard to put out quality videos and I’ll keep up that task. 👍
Less chat, more example photos…
Dario, here are a few more images that I've shot with the XF70-300mm lens.
twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1465768178257068036
twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1464811558010122246
twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1462909379603152896
twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1461803829230391302
twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1461434062325776385
twitter.com/Danbaileyphoto/status/1461145910604230661
What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Thanks, very nice. I use XE4, previously had X100S and XT3 - mainly into street photography now
Cool. Thanks. The X-E4 is a great little camera. They're all so capable, but there's something special about the form factor of the X-E4. I still have my old XE-1, and I had an X-E3 for awhile. I remember that being a fun little camera! Anyway, have fun with yours and happy new year!