21/04/2026 5:25 pm
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I finally did it and bought the Fujifilm XT5 because I saw some amazing photos on Instagram and I am so excited to start shooting! But honestly I have no idea what I'm doing and all these lens numbers like 35mm or f2 are just super confusing to me right now. Im going on a trip to Tokyo next month and I just want one lens that can do a bit of everything like street food and buildings without being too heavy to carry all day. My budget is kind of tight now though maybe around 600 bucks since the camera was so much. What should I get for a first lens that isnt too complicated to use?
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21/04/2026 5:25 pm
Over the years I've tested many, but the Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f2.8-4 R LM OIS remains king.
- 27-84mm effective focal length
- OIS stabilization Its technically perfect for street and within budget.
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21/04/2026 6:00 pm
Re: "Over the years I've tested many, but the..." - that 18-55 is a classic, but for a first trip to Tokyo, I think we can do even better. Just saw this thread and honestly both sides have points... zooms are way easier for beginners but primes are light. If you want the best of both worlds, I've been super satisfied with the Sigma lens lately. Heres my take for your $600 budget:
- Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN Contemporary Fujifilm X Mount - its tiny, super light, and that f2.8 aperture is perfect for dim food stalls.
- SanDisk Extreme Pro 128GB SDXC UHS-I - grab a fast card too so you arent waiting on the camera to save shots. I really think the Sigma is the winner tho. Its simple to use and wont weigh you down while you're walking 15 miles a day. Just stick to reputable sellers for safety so you dont end up with a lemon right before your flight!
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21/04/2026 5:40 pm
@Reply #1 - good point! But in my experience, walking 20k steps a day in Tokyo makes you hate heavy gear. I used to lug around big zooms but honestly, a small prime makes the X-T5 feel way better. Grab the Fujifilm XF 23mm f2 R WR. Its about 35mm in real terms, perfect for street food and buildings. TLDR: Get the Fujifilm XF 23mm f2 R WR for portability and price.
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21/04/2026 5:50 pm
@Reply #2 - good point! But unfortunately, I had issues with that minimalist approach. It wasnt as good as I expected for a city with so much height and detail. IIRC, a lot of people find fixed lenses really limiting when they are first starting out. Not sure but maybe look for a cheaper zoom? Youll want the range for food and far-off buildings without feeling stuck...
