What lens should I pick up for street photography on my Fuji that isnt gonna break the bank? Ive been shooting with an X-T3 for like four years now and usually I stick to landscapes or my kids sports games but lately Ive been really getting into street stuff since I started taking the train into the city for work every day. The problem is my current setup is just too noticeable. I usually carry the 18-55mm kit lens which is fine for versatility I guess but it feels clunky when Im trying to be discreet and the 56mm f1.2 I have is just way too tight for the crowded sidewalks here in Chicago plus the autofocus is kind of a snail on that older version so I keep missing the moment when people are moving fast.
I really need something small like a pancake lens or a tiny prime that doesnt make people look at me like Im some professional paparazzi. I was looking at the XF 27mm f2.8 but even used those are getting pricey lately for some reason and the version without the aperture ring is kinda annoying to use from what I hear. My budget is strictly under $300 right now because every extra cent is going toward my Japan trip next spring and I really want to have this lens figured out and mastered before I hit the streets in Tokyo.
Should I look at the XC 35mm f2? I know its plastic and lacks the weather sealing but the glass is supposed to be the same as the XF version right? Or maybe one of those third party brands like TTArtisan or Meike? Im a bit worried about the manual focus aspect for fast moving street scenes though even with focus peaking being pretty good on the X-T3 it still feels like a gamble when youre trying to be quick. I also saw some people mention the Viltrox 23mm f1.4 but that might be getting too big again. I just want something that wont make my wrist ache after walking around for six hours but still gives me that Fuji look without spending a fortune...
Honestly, I was in the exact same spot before a trip last year. I ended up snagging the Fujifilm XC 35mm f2 and I've been super satisfied with it on my X-T3.
> Should I look at the XC 35mm f2? ^ This. Also, consensus says skip manual. I'd suggest the Fujifilm XC 35mm f2 for reliability, or TTArtisan 27mm f2.8 AF Fuji X for size, just make sure to test your copy first.
stumbled upon this and honestly, I had high hopes for those ultra-cheap manual lenses like the Meike 25mm f1.8 for street stuff, but unfortunately, it was a bit of a letdown. Trying to manual focus while people are dodging you on a Chicago sidewalk is just not as good as I expected. Missed so many shots because the peaking just isnt fast enough for crowds. It gets frustrating fast. If youre firm on that $300 limit, check out the TTArtisan 27mm f2.8 AF. It actually has autofocus and it is tiny, though the image quality isnt quite as sharp as the Fuji version and the vignetting is pretty heavy. Another thought is searching for a used Fujifilm XF 18mm f2 R. It is an older lens so the motor is kind of loud and hunt-y, which is disappointing for stealth, but the size is perfect for Tokyo. Let me know if you need more help narrowing it down!