My Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 Review
Why I love the original Fujifilm XF56mmF1.2 R for portraits, shallow depth of field and low light.
Current XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR
Check price at B&H →This original review is based on my Fujifilm XF56mmF1.2 R. It remains a lens I enjoy for portraits. I’ve owned this lens for 3 years and I can’t recommend it enough. The photos come out sharp, the image quality is excellent and the 1.2 aperture gives you a beautiful bokeh that works great in low-light situations.
The newer XF56mmF1.2 R WR adds weather resistance and focuses closer, at 50cm rather than 70cm. It weighs 445g; my original lens weighs 405g.
View the original 56mm on Amazon →
Pros
- The shallow depth of field.
- Speed.
- Sharpness.
Cons
- Price
- Autofocus can be slow for moving subjects
My experience here is with the original lens. The newer WR version is pictured above.
It’s a high-quality prime lens.
Video of my doing street portraits with the 56mm 1.2 portrait lens
Specs
- Original XF56mmF1.2 R weight: 405g.
- Original XF56mmF1.2 R minimum focus distance: 70cm.
Street Portrait
I’ve shot more than 1000 street portraits and most of them being with the Fuji 56mm 1.2.
Street Photography
When I do my street photography, I usually use the 33mm f/1.4 or the 56mm 1.2. I know the 84 equivalent focal length isn’t that common for street photos, but I really enjoy using this lens for street photography as well.
Low Light Performance
Because of the 1.2 aperture, this lens does really well in night photography.
Only you can decide whether this focal length fits your photography.
But it’s the most fun lens I’ve ever shot with and to me that matters a lot. The more fun you’re having taking pictures, the more pictures you’ll take.
For other focal lengths, compare my Fujifilm lens guide.