Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR Long Term Review
Introduction
Long-term readers of this blog will know that I purchased the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR upon its release in May 2021. That means I've used the lens for well over two years now.
In this long-term review, I'll explain the technical elements of the lens, why it's an excellent fit for me (and perhaps you) and why it is now the number one lens I use for my professional wedding photography.
Of course, I'll share some images, too, and hopefully answer any niggling questions you may have if you are on the fence about purchasing the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR.
The Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR lens is a prime wide-angle lens designed for Fujifilm's X-series mirrorless cameras.
It features a fast maximum aperture of f/1.4, which allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to create a shallow depth of field for artistic and creative photography.
This lens is significant in the world of photography because it offers several advantages:
Low-Light Performance: The wide f/1.4 aperture lets in a lot of light, making it ideal for shooting in challenging lighting conditions without a flash.
Shallow Depth of Field: The large aperture enables a shallow depth of field, allowing photographers to achieve beautiful background blur (bokeh) and isolate subjects effectively.
Versatile Wide Angle: I think The 18mm focal length is excellent for capturing weddings, landscapes, architecture, street photography, and environmental portraits, providing a broader perspective.
High-Quality Optics: Fujinon lenses are known for their optical quality, and this lens is no exception, delivering sharp and detailed images in a solid and sturdy build.
Weather Resistance: The "WR" signifies that it is weather-resistant, making it suitable for shooting in various environmental conditions.
The Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR lens is highly regarded among many photographers that I know for its versatility, excellent image quality, and ability to perform well in low-light situations, making it a valuable tool for various photographic styles.
Of course, my primary use of the lens right now is as a Documentary Wedding Photographer. I’m using the lens in my Family Photography, too. I’m generally not using it for Street Photography as I still prefer my X100V for this - though I’ve seen some incredible Street Photography images from others using the 18mm.
The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR can offer really pleasing depth of field.
Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR Technical Specifications:
Focal Length: 18mm (equivalent to 27mm in 35mm format)
Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
Minimum Aperture: f/16
Lens Mount: Fujifilm X-Mount
Angle of View: 76.5 degrees
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.2m (7.87 inches)
Maximum Magnification: 0.15x
Optical Design: 15 elements in 9 groups, including three aspherical elements and 1 ED (extra-low dispersion) element
Diaphragm Blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm opening)
Focus Type: Autofocus with a linear motor (LM)
Image Stabilization: No (reliant on the camera's in-body image stabilization, if available)
Filter Thread: 62mm
Dimensions (DxL): 68.8mm x 75.6mm (2.71 x 2.98 inches)
Weight: 370g (13.05 oz)
Weather Resistance: Yes (WR - Weather Resistant)
Included Accessories: Front and rear lens caps, lens hood, wrapping cloth
The lens has all the features I need as a fast-paced documentary photographer.
The wide maximum aperture allows excellent low-light performance. I often shoot in dimly lit environments and prefer not to use a flash, making it ideal for indoor and nighttime photography.
The 18mm focal length provides a moderately wide-angle perspective. It's excellent for capturing context-driven images. It also works well for environmental portraits, where you want to include some of the subject's surroundings.
The lens's optical design, including aspherical and ED elements, helps ensure sharp, detailed images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberrations. This optical quality is essential for professional-level results, in my opinion.
The linear motor autofocus system is fast, accurate, and quiet, making it suitable for capturing candid moments, street scenes, and any situation where quick and discreet focusing is required.
The lens's weather-resistant construction allows photographers to shoot in challenging weather conditions, including rain and dust. This is advantageous for outdoor and travel photographers who may encounter unpredictable weather.
Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR v Fujinon XF 18mm f/2 R lens
Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR v Fujinon XF 18mm f/2 R lens
Many of you may consider getting the XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR or, perhaps, picking up a second-hand copy of the legendary XF 18mm f/2 R lens.
I've used both for a considerable amount of time, and there are some substantial details you may wish to consider.
Aperture:
Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR: This lens has a wider maximum aperture of f/1.4. The larger aperture allows more light to enter the lens, making it highly effective for low-light shooting and achieving a shallower depth of field for creative effects. This extra stop of light is invaluable when shooting, especially winter weddings.
Fujinon XF 18mm f/2 R: The older lens has a maximum aperture of f/2, which is still considered reasonably wide but less light-gathering than the f/1.4 aperture of the newer model.
Low-Light Performance:
Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR: The f/1.4 aperture of this lens provides significantly better low-light performance than the f/2 lens. It can capture sharp images in dimly lit conditions with lower ISO settings.
Depth of Field Control:
Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR: The wider aperture allows for a shallower depth of field, making it easier to isolate subjects from the background.
Fujinon XF 18mm f/2 R: While it can still produce some background blur, the f/2 lens has a less pronounced depth of field, making it better suited for scenarios where maximum subject isolation is not critical.
Optical Design:
Both lenses have high-quality optics, but the Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR features a more complex optical design with additional elements, including aspherical and ED elements. This design contributes to improved image quality, reduced distortion, and better control over optical aberrations.
Size and Weight:
The Fujinon XF 18mm f/2 R is more compact and lightweight than the newer f/1.4 lens. This makes it attractive for those seeking a more portable and inconspicuous street or travel photography lens.
Weather Resistance:
The Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR features weather resistance (WR) in its construction, making it suitable for outdoor shooting in adverse conditions. The older f/2 lens does not have this feature.
Autofocus:
Both lenses offer autofocus capabilities, but the newer f/1.4 lens incorporates a linear motor (LM) autofocus system, which is faster and quieter than the older lens's autofocus mechanism. I found the F2 lens way too slow for shooting at weddings and would only ever use it for non-professional work.
So, for me, the Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR lens offers superior low-light performance, better depth of field control, improved image quality, and weather resistance compared to the older Fujinon XF 18mm f/2 R lens.
However, the older f/2 lens remains a more compact and lightweight option for photographers prioritizing portability and discreet shooting.
The choice between the two lenses depends on individual shooting preferences and the specific requirements of your style and projects. However, the newer F1.4 lens should be the best choice for almost all professional, fast-paced shooting scenarios.
XF 18mm F1.4 Lens for Street Photography?
As mentioned, I still prefer to use my beloved Fujifilm X100V for Street Photography.
However, the Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 lens is a versatile, high-quality lens that excels in street photography due to its wide aperture, compact size, excellent image quality, and fast autofocus.
Whether you capture candid moments or street scenes, this lens is an excellent choice for various street photography styles and situations.
My Current Gear for Photographing Weddings:
I shoot everything with a combination of the Fujifilm X-T5 and X-Pro3 and exclusively with the new XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR lens and the current XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR.
Until the new 18mm lens became available, I insisted on coupling my 56mm lens with the first generation 23mm F1.4 Lens. As the new 23mm and 18mm lenses were announced reasonably close together, I was convinced I would simply upgrade to the more recent 23mm model. I was even part of the Fujifilm promotional event for that lens.
However, the 18mm lens launched first, and it's fair to say I was smitten. I never purchased the new 23mm F1.4 lens and don't feel I'll ever need to.
By the way, at this point, you may be interested in my Documentary Wedding Photography Workshop - which includes a free complete set of my latest profiles and presets.
What the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR Lens Gives Me:
As a documentary wedding photographer, I aim to freeze moments. The tools I choose are crucial to achieving this goal. This is why I feel the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR lens has become my favourite lens ever from Fujifilm.
Minimal Distortion on the Edges:
One of the standout features of the XF 18mm f/1.4 lens is its remarkable ability to maintain edge-to-edge clarity and minimal distortion. When documenting weddings, you often find yourself in tight spaces, capturing candid moments as they unfold. With this lens, I can confidently frame my shots, knowing that faces and details at the edges of the frame will remain distortion-free.
Whether I'm capturing a close-up of a teary-eyed parent during the vows or a lively dance floor scene, the XF 18mm f/1.4 consistently delivers sharpness and accurate perspective.
Lightning-Fast Focusing:
Weddings are filled with fleeting moments - a stolen glance, a hearty laugh, or an unexpected kiss. These moments tell the day's story; missing them is not an option. The XF 18mm f/1.4's fast and precise autofocus system is a game-changer for me.
Whether I'm documenting the exchange of rings or the exchange of vows, I can trust this lens to quickly lock onto my subjects, ensuring that I capture the perfect shot every time. The lens's Linear Motor (LM) ensures near-silent focusing, allowing me to work discreetly during those intimate moments.
Wide Aperture for Low-Light Shooting:
Weddings often transition from bright outdoor ceremonies to dimly lit indoor receptions. The XF 18mm f/1.4's wide aperture of f/1.4 is a blessing in these situations. It lets in a copious amount of light, enabling me to shoot in challenging low-light conditions without compromising image quality.
Whether it's the soft glow of candlelit centrepieces or the romantic ambience of the first dance, this lens captures the mood and atmosphere of the moment. I feel this lens adds a touch of magic to each shot.
Conclusion:
Every choice you make in wedding photography, from camera bodies to lenses, can impact how you tell the couple's story. The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR lens has become an invaluable tool in my arsenal, offering minimal distortion, lightning-fast focusing, and a wide aperture for low-light shooting.
With this lens by my side, I feel equipped to capture the essence of each wedding - the love, laughter, and heartfelt moments - in a way that transports couples back to their special day every time they look at their photos.
