Announced with the new X-E1 camera body are two new Fujinon XF lenses, which were outlined in a roadmap of lens development that was published earlier this year.
The new Fujifilm lenses. (Source: Fujifilm.)
The compact Fujinon XF18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS lens is the first zoom lens for X mount camera bodies. Covering the same angles of view as a 27-84mm lens in 35mm format, it has a maximum aperture range of f/2.8 to f/4.
Fujifilm’s first zoom lens for the X mount system, the Fujinon XF18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS. (Source: Fujifilm.)
The all-glass lens structure consists of 14 elements in 10 groups and includes three aspherical elements and one extra low dispersion element. A seven-blade rounded diaphragm and a minimum focus distance of 18 mm enables close-up shots to be produced with attractively blurred backgrounds and the perspective that characterises ultra wide angle lenses.
A fast linear focusing motor takes advantage of the high-speed signal readout of the CMOS sensor and the newly developed EXR Processor Pro to enable contrast-detection focusing in as little as 0.1 seconds. autofocusing is also virtually silent, enabling the lens to be used for video recording.
The optical and mechanical designs of the lens are optimised to keep it compact at only 65.0 x 70.4 mm (in the wide position). The lens is equipped with an aperture ring and includes a built-in Optical Image Stabiliser (OIS) with a claimed advantage of up to four f-stops of shake reduction.
SPECS:
Picture angle: 79 degrees one minute to 28 degrees four minutes
Minimum aperture: f/22
Lens construction: 14 elements in 10 groups (includes one abnormal dispersion element and three aspherical elements)
Diaphragm Blades: 7 (rounded aperture)
Focus drive: STM stepping-motor
Stabilisation: Yes (4 stops compensation)
Minimum focus: 30 cm at 18mm, 45 cm at 55mm
Maximum magnification: 0.08-0.15x
Filter size: 58 mm
Dimensions (Diameter x L): 65 x 70.46 mm
Weight: 330 grams
The second lens announced with the X-E1 is the Fujinon XF 14mm f/2.8 R, the fourth prime lens for the X mount system. Providing an angle of view of 89 degrees (21mm in 35mm format), it is ideal for landscapes as well as architectural shots, interiors and even street photography.
The new Fujinon XF 14mm f/2.8 R lens. (Source: Fujifilm.)
This lens includes 10 elements in seven groups and includes two aspherical elements and three extra low dispersion elements plus a seven blade rounded diaphragm. The aperture diaphragm blades are curved and the edge of each blade is rounded rather than cut-off to ensure pleasing bokeh. The lens barrel features distance and depth-of-field scales making it suitable for a range of shooting techniques, including pre-focusing.
According to Fujifilm, this lens is noteworthy for excellent contrast and high resolution with little fall-off or distortion toward the edges. Although not stabilised, the f/2.8 maximum aperture and wide angle mean fast shutter speeds are possible in low light levels.
SPECS:
Picture angle: 89 degrees
Minimum aperture: f/22
Lens construction: 10 elements in 7 groups (includes two aspherical elements and three abnormal dispersion elements)
Diaphragm Blades: 7 (rounded aperture)
Stabilisation: No
Minimum focus: 18 cm
Maximum magnification: 0.13x
Filter size: 58 mm
Dimensions (Diameter x L): 65 x 58.5 mm
Weight: Not specified
Note: Photographers who plan to use these lenses on the X-Pro1 and X-E1 bodies will need to update the firmware in their cameras. The firmware will be supplied on an SD card that is bundled in lens box or can be downloaded from “Support” on the Fujifilm Global website at http://www.fujifilm.com/support/digital_cameras/.
Recommended retail pricing for the new lenses will be available later this month. The new lenses will be available for purchase at the same time as the X-E1 camera in October. Details of the new camera and lenses plus stockist information can be found at www.fujifilm.com.au.
