Hi Matt, yes, (as dopamining said), you repeatedly slammed the zoom from end to end, that will, if the behaviour is sustained over time, cause the images to soften. I used to work for Minolta / Ricoh, Soligor, Tamron, UK importer. The Camera Mechs were constantly re-collimating abused Zooms. It's time to break the habit, before you break a lens! Just saying!
If you have concerns about the image getting darker when you zoom, I find that having OIS more than makes up for that. The 16-55 does not have that, so when you zoom in, your image may stay bright but then you have to worry about camera shake. Thats my 2c :)
+Kelvin Ng Yeah it's a good point. I don't know why the more expensive lens doesn't have OIS, but as it doesn't it is something to bear in mind when deciding between the two. Having the wider aperture is more useful for shooting moving subjects in low light - something where the OIS won't help you. But on the flip side I really like the additional zoom range out to 135mm. I find that a more useful feature for most of what I do. Like most things some people will value one more than the other. In either case Fuji don't make any bad lenses so you can't go far wrong :)
Just picked this up used in the US for 525.00. Currently, it's mounted on My XH-1. Putting it through its paces now, so far so good. My other lenses XF-18-55 kit, 35 f2. 23 1.4. Thank you for your reviews. Very informative. My use for this is for good all arounder, daily traveler keeping my kit to a minimum.
@@jaynw2398 Very Good! Versitile and reliable... I love it... If I want to travel and just bring 1 Lens... This is what I take... Sometimes even for street work locally....I live in NYC.. flic.kr/p/2hCfSDS
Managed to get a deal where I purchased the XT-I with the 18-135, and thrown in is the battery grip - won't publicise the company but they are a well know high street store. Camera is easier to hold in portrait and battery wise the spec rates up to 700 shots but have taken 480 and the original battery is still live - so no complaints. Finding going from optical view finder to evf strange but getting use to it and results - especially black & white jpegs are really pleasing - thanks for the video.
I'm a long time user of Fuji stated over a decade ago digitally withe S1pro Dslr and has continued since.I only moved to the Fuji X system at the tail end of 2015 with that ridiculous offer of The Fuji Xpro 1 with XF 18mm & XF 27mm and leather case for £499 a no brainier tbh having watched and read reviews on the XF18-135mm it was my first additional lens I added got it in the UK new £329 delivered and it's my go to lens to be honest. I find the quality to be top drawer TBH but I have now expanded both my prime and zoom collection of XF lens along with a few ad apters to fit legacy Nikon M42 39mm and Tamron adapt all lenses that I own.But I always have the XF 18-135mm mounted on one of my X bodies as a go to pick up and go camera.So pleased I have this GR8 lens in my kit thanks for your reviews keep them coming Matt 👍
Hi Matt. My door bows out as well and being in sunny Newcastle, I've had no weather issues. The seal seems fine and short of dropping it in the tune, I'm still confident in its weather resistance.
Adam Bowes Ok that's interesting, thanks for that Adam. On mine the bowed out bit is enough to be able to see inside to the connectors so I think I'll get it changed, but interesting to know it's not unique to me. Much appreciated dude.
+Tomislav Miletić Yep, I'd go along with that. It's the most versatile lens Fuji make in my opinion. Throw a couple of faster primes in your bag for low light, or even a flash and you can tackle most things :)
It didn't make sense to me comparing the amount of light captured by a 35mm f/1.4 prime and 135mm f/5.6 zoom end of this lens. Obviously, the prime will capture more light. I don't see the "the shock" mentioned in the video. As far as I know, Canon and Nikon 18-135mm lenses also have f5.6. Is there any lens which captures as much light as a 35mm f/1.4 prime lens at 7.5x zoom? I would like to know how much would that be :) And, why would you shoot one-handed with a 7.5x zoom lens attached to your camera? Even if the weight is perfectly balanced, you cannot stand steady with one hand with that zoom anyway. Such matters would be covered in a video explaining the basics of the photography not while reviewing "a particular lens". Finally, trying to shoot while it's dangling on your neck via phone with a 7.5x zoom lens? What is the point? Even though these points are true I don't believe they are relevant or noteworthy. I would expect the video to focus on what would someone expect from such a zoom lens. That would be IS, WR etc. which the video did but unfortunately focus was mostly on the matters which were not relevant. Therefore, I lost interest before reaching half way in the video.
Repeatedly racking the zoom in and out with the kind of force you keep using will potentially lead to soft images eventually; you`re really slamming it in and out.. . .
Hi Matt, thanks so much for the very interesting review. You mentioned a "desert workshop" and I was wondering about your experience, mainly concerning sand/dust weather-proofing of the lens. So here's my Q: I was in a similar situation recently (Dubai GPP2015, with Dave Nightingale), using my XT-1 with the 16-55 f/2.8, like the 18-135, a "Weather-Resistant" lens. We were shooting in the desert with quite strong wind, and there was sand and dust all over. I never removed the lens from the camera during the whole trip. My XT-1 came out all right, but sand got inside the lens focus ring and you could hear the terrible grinding sound every time the focus ring turned. Now this does not disqualify the lens as WR, because no sand got actually inside the camera, or inside the lens, but it did get inside the outer barrel of the lens (between the outer barrel and the focus ring). I had it cleaned by Fuji, but the focus ring was actually completely damaged and stopped working. Since last April the lens is still on service with Fuji (now it's July...imagine my frustration), waiting for a "replacement outer barrel". Disastrous, really... My point is, there are things that can easily happen even to the best quality weather-resistant equipment out there, and it seems to me that sand/dust (so shooting in any desert environment really) is much more dangerous that water/humidity/rain. Also, if the focus rings (not the zoom rings, so primes may be theoretically similarly affected) on these otherwise WR lenses are so easily damaged (even without compromising the rest of the camera), no lens is really safe, even in mildly adverse conditions (this was no war zone, no long trip in the wilderness, and no real "sandstorm" - just your average afternoon in the dunes of Dubai :-)). Any similar issues with the 18-135, or any other Fujinons? Thanks very much!
I've only had my XT-1 since December and YES the 'door' on the left hand side covering the miniHDMI, USB and Mic ports has done exactly the same thing... 'bowing' out away from the body ... as well as the rubber body covering has lost adhesion and has fallen off on the right hand (grip) side. Admittedly I have the camera 'in hand' about 6 hours a day 5 days a week, but this being their flagship 'pro' body I'd have hoped for better. The rubber zoom ring on my 10-24/4 has likewise lost shape and fallen off. It's all under warranty but I don't want to have to be without it while it gets fixed. I may try to find some decent 3M adhesive to fix it myself. I LOVE this camera in all other respects...I suppose I could use this as an excuse to get a Titanium body as a 'backup' to be able to send them in in turn for 'fixing.' :)
good points, but as a contrast, the 56/35 etc. primes have a look that just about approximates the same setting on the 16-50, and the other zooms which is quite a surprise to me!! also I tried the 14 mm today and even that, when paired with an x t-10 body the high ISO options that body has (3200- the setting i tested under) leave quite a clean image (no grain ) so that low light problem could be cured by ISO 800 or 1250. ( i have been testing various Fuji lenses indoors with fluro lights at 1250 ISO, no problems!! ).
Hello Matt, I'm from Canada and just recently purchased an X-T1. Love it by the way. As I was doing my research, I noticed that the camera at the Henry's store had the same issue with the USB cover on the left side of the camera. It too has been bulging out and I'm sure it would undermine the weather seal on the body like you said. So it seems like it would do that after extensive use. Thanks for your video. Cheers!
pavel0900 Hi Pavel, I'm getting reports coming in from users all over the world experiencing this same issue now. Hope Fuji work their usual magic and fix it for us. Then again this one isn't exactly something they can send out a firmware update for! Glad you enjoyed the vid :)
Lets face it, if this is the only issue they have with this model, I'm sure I can find a way to live with it. Look forward to more of your great video reviews. Thanks!
Hi Matt, Thanks for your sage advice regarding all things photographic and specifically Nikon and Fuji. I enjoy your thoughts quite a lot. I have the X-Pro1 and use it with pretty much only primes and thanks to the wonderful work of Johnny Patience have recently obtained the 35mm f/1.4. I love it. I watched with interest your X-T1 review and I learned some useful information there. And like everyone I hope the X-Pro2 is going to be a very big deal for all of the Fuji-ites? I am not a pro, although I have completed a 2 year photography course - with diploma - I am a seriously obsessed hobbyist (my wife would disagree stating totally and completely obsessed 24/7- whew! - possibly true. o.k. it is true.) Anyway, for me the X-Pro1 is absolutely perfect. I shoot the photo and the screen says 'next' and I hit the o.k. button and I am off to the next photo. Now for someone making a living this must be extremely painful, but for the hobbyist it works fine. I am a slow coach anyway so actually for me it is blistering fast. I can hardly keep up... Anyway just a note of thanks and keep up the good work. I am happy to see you kept the X-Pro1 as a backup because I love this camera. I do harbour a secret desire for a Leica M9P or M-E though, but having said that I am firmly in the Fuji camp and hope to never leave. Did I mention I love the X-Pro1. All the best
Thanks for the kind words Paul Bingham and it's always nice to hear from a fellow enthusiast. You can turn off image review if you don't want it to pop up on screen after every shot - you're right it would be a PITA if you couldn't. I love my X Pro 1. It is a beautiful camera and produces beautiful images. Roll on X Pro 2! :)
Matt Widgery Photography Hey Matt, Just watching a few of your videos. Yes, I am a big Fuji fan, my goodness firmware updates galore changing the camera ongoing for the better. Who else does that? Great folks, I just hope they continue making film - another part of my ongoing obsession .... Although I hope to obtain the Leica (probably the M-E) I would not get rid of my Fuji gear. It would work alongside the Leica very well. So many people jump from one system to another without seemingly a great amount of thought and have sellers and buyers remorse at the same time - too painful! I like that you put lot of thought into your purchases and that you have analogue gear to compliment your system and in this way I believe you are helping folks to consider what they already have and/or can obtain without spending huge sums of cash. I see it that way anyway. Cheers
Thanks Paul Bingham I appreciate that mate. Absolutely 100% with you on that. If you're going to spend a cake ton of money on a new system, spend a bit of time working out what it is you want and why you want it :) Oh and an M-E would be an AWESOME addition to the Fuji set up. Very nice!
Excellent review. Thank you! But how does it compare to the Canon 18-135? or Nikon. How would this lens go on the X-T20? Or would it better suit the X-T2?
My cover start to be lose, Iv taped the HDMI door and some corners on the backside.... no bigger problems but would love to dress it in a new suit, any one know were to do that?
Yeah I felt really annoyed trying to watch this review. I kept thinking "Get on with it and stop waffling and physically abusing the lens" !! In the end it turned out to be acceptable and weather resistant. Almost no example pics to see for out selves.
hi i appreciate for your tutorial videos, all are perfect. i am new fuji owner xt1 (pro-other dslr cameras) and i need to plan for my professional gear in order to cover full range of DOF and concentration on crispy sharpness, dynamic range, and pixel high quality. pls correct and commend me for: plan 1: 10-24 as wide + 50-140 as tele zoom 60mm as macro and portrait (General and daily indoor and outdoor usage 18-135mm) plan 2: 14mm as wide + 50-140 as tele zoom + 60mm as macro and portrait (General and daily indoor and outdoor usage 18-55mm ) plan 3: 16-55 mm as wide + 50-140 as tele zoom + 56 as portrait + 60mm as macro and portrait (General and daily indoor and outdoor usage 35mm ) OR else? P.S. according to this video, shall i count of 35mm as my daily out and in shooting rather than 18-55 or 18-135 for better quality (beside its portability)? kind regards
+mrz 1342 Hi Mrz, If you want more DoF control and ultimate sharpness then you should be using primes as much as possible. But any Fuji lens can give you professional results and it's not a job for someone else to decide for you what lenses you should be using. My style will be different to yours and your style will be different to the photographer who works down the street from you. First you need to figure out what focal lengths and settings you use most often on your favourite shots. If you use Lightroom select all your 5 star rated images, then using the metadata tab at the top see how many of them were used with each focal length. That will give you a goos starting point.
+Matt Widgery Photography thank you for yr advice. shall i ask for general and daily purposes including indoor and out, which one u prefer between 18-135 vs 18-55? although i like very much the range of 27-207, 35 eql but i feel is not sharp as much as 18-55 and i don't know if i am right or not?! of course prime lens can give me the best pixel quality rather than zoom lens, but definitely for general shooting when i am walking in street, malls, people, etc i need a sharp lens, fast AF and high quality which i can count of it, not needing to change lenses all the time! what do u think?
mrz 1342 From my personal experience of shooting the 18-135 as a daily lens I have been very impressed with it. For me the very tiny loss in sharpness (that no-one will ever notice looking at the photos anyway) is worth it for the flexibility of that zoom range. I prefer the look, size, price and weight of the 18-55 and it is a bit faster which is also a big plus in low light, but when it gets really dark I tend to shoot primes anyway.
+Matt Widgery Photography i like yr opinion...however let me ask you i this way: "what lens do u mount on your xt1 for tomorrow IF u go to sunny day street with lots of people for shooting, then to the restaurant for lunch, then office and to shopping mall at afternoon, eventually visiting your friends at night in their apartment?" :)
mrz 1342 If I could only use one lens for all of that? I'd choose this one. If I was allowed one extra I'd throw in a fast prime just in case it got stupid dark, but given how good the Fuji files look at ISO 6400 I rarely find this lens isn't bright enough. That was my biggest concern coming from DSLR lenses with a constant 2.8 aperture but it's actually less of a big deal than I thought it would be. I still like having the primes for shallow DoF of course, bur rarely do I break them out because light is an issue.
hello Matt. I have a Fuji x100s & although I like using it & will keep it I was thinking of buying either the x pro 1 or an xt1. (can't afford xpro 2 or xt2) X pro 1 prices are pretty good but xt1 prices are still holding up. Are the results from the xpro1 exactly the same as the xt1 given they share many features inc sensor & processor. I want to stay with Fuji because their menu system is easier to navigate than other cameras. I'd appreciate your advice.
I'd be hard pressed to find a better choice for bad weather, since you won't really be changing lenses in the open while it's raining or snowing (I hope) and you get a quite a focal range to work with. However, this only applies to X-T1 and X-Pro2. For all other bodies, this weather flexible zooming advantage irrelevant, since they aren't WR. Also, like Clanki said, WR is not the same as Weather Sealed. The gear will cope better while taking a beating from light to medium rain, dust or snow, but don't expect it won't fail and it's hard to say what's the critical point beyond which usage wouldn't be recommended. It's also the least good optical quality from the Fuji line-up (if you don't count 16-50, which might still be better here and there and is certainly less bulky), the bokeh is quite unpleasant, busy, and, owing to the longer range, from wide to medium tele, there's a lot of software correction to be applied, which, again, makes IQ suffer. I can hardly imagine why someone would haul the larger Fuji lenses around (why not use a Full Frame DSLR instead, if bulk is a non-issue?), when you've got excellent compact primes to use for this camera system, for anything other than professional usage - and then I'd be willing to bet the constant F2.8 zoom will be the good choice. As an average Joe, you can travel lighter with the XC zoom duo as far as zooms go and not that much encumbered if going for 18-55 f/2.8-4 + 50-200 couple, both of which offer better overall results, which is kind of the whole point of a mirrorless system. So at least for me, it's by far the least attractive option Fuji has on plate nowadays. If I wanted resilient gear, I'd take a Pentax K setup over Fuji any day (think K30/50/5/3 with their excellent 16-85, for instance). I'm pretty sure I'd be more prone to venture into bad weather with an X-T1 + this lens, but then, I'm rather turned off by the faux-slr concept and dig into the rangefinder mimicry quite a lot.
Thanks for this review 😊. Always if you speak of the 16-55 F2.8 WR, you accidentally mention the 16-50 (non WR), what is definitely the cheapest and worst of all Fujinon lenses (ok for beginners with a X-T10 or T20, both also not weather resistant). The 18-55 is MUCH better than the 16-50. I wished, there would a kit X-T2 plus 16-55 2.8 WR 😜 be available 😁
Hi Dale I don't think anyone is saying it's horrible. It is average for a mirrorless camera - around 350 shots. I always keep a few spare batts on me but I always did when shooting dslr too :)
I ended up buying a used X-T1 and the grip. Only have the 18-55 kit, but I can't see using this camera without the grip. More space for hand/fingers. Where have you gotten to? Need some of your videos! :)
David Abrahamsson fair play. The 35 will be better in low light, sharper and lighter weight. I love the versatility of the 18-135 for traveling though. Definitely a handy lens!
Kimberly Norton ah fair enough. Responding on a phone so not always clear what's aimed at me or someone in the comments! Apologies. I get your point, it's not as sharp or fast as the primes or the constant aperture zooms but I've personally had some great success shooting travel, weddings and portraits with this thing. While I mostly use primes these days, I still keep this in my bag on most shoots :)
HI Mat would you recommend this lens for weddings? . I have used top quality lenses for cannon now switched to fugi, don't want to make a mistake or would yo stick to prime lenses . i have 2 fugi x pro 1 camara bodies. i might higher a few lenses to try ?
+Debbie Whitley Depends what you're used to. Some people like to only shoot primes at a wedding. I like the versatility of a zoom, but with a few primes for low light and blurry background shots when I need them. I have used the 18-135 at a number of weddings now and I find it brilliant. It's not the brightest lens in the world but I'm usually using off camera flash at weddings and the ISO performance of the Fujis is great. That being said the next lens I get will be the 16-55 2.8 just because the extra light gathering will be worth having, and I like the 24mm equiv of the 16mm wide end.
What a let down. I saw the exact door bowing at the Fuji shop in Hong Kong on their demo model. I don't think that can be changed coz it is like "memory" rubber and bends with time as you use it. That's an aweful design. Say goodbye to weather sealing...unless they make a whole new door and send it to you guys.
wetracy Yeah you'll never get the image quality of a prime in a zoom with this kind of range, but on the other hand it's very useful sometimes to have the flexibility of a super zoom. It is more expensive than super zooms from other manufacturers but it is better built and sharper too. You can also get some good deals used now :)
You need to take a breath when you do these videos dude, you are rushing giving so much information - a measured approach like how Tony Northrup conducts his video reviews are I think more effective wrt getting your points of interest across.
+Jon Rees Everyone's go their own delivery style mate. You just have to watch the videos you like the presentational style of, or make some of your own. If I slow down for you, I'll get someone else saying I speak too slowly. It's the internet dude, you can't please everyone so I'm just gonna do my own thing :)
+jusanord Not really no. In terms of DoF then kind of, if you want the same framing then you'll need to move further from your subject so changing the subject/camera to subject/background relationship so more will be in focus but light gathering is the same so it's really not like f/9 at all.
+Matt Widgery Photography Yes, really! You need to take into account the crop factor here. Multiply the aperture by the crop factor! How else do you account for the dimness when you zoom in?
+Matt Widgery Photography Well, you got the physics wrong but there you go. A FF sensor collects more light! A bigger saucepan collects more water in the rain. Happy shooting!
+Matt Widgery Photography Well, you got the physics wrong but there you go. A FF sensor collects more light! A bigger saucepan collects more water in the rain. Happy shooting!
Hi Matt, yes, (as dopamining said), you repeatedly slammed the zoom from end to end, that will, if the behaviour is sustained over time, cause the images to soften. I used to work for Minolta / Ricoh, Soligor, Tamron, UK importer. The Camera Mechs were constantly re-collimating abused Zooms. It's time to break the habit, before you break a lens! Just saying!
He looks like he is on speed. Bet he breaks things a lot.
With his fine motor skills he should better repair trucks.
If you have concerns about the image getting darker when you zoom, I find that having OIS more than makes up for that. The 16-55 does not have that, so when you zoom in, your image may stay bright but then you have to worry about camera shake. Thats my 2c :)
+Kelvin Ng Yeah it's a good point. I don't know why the more expensive lens doesn't have OIS, but as it doesn't it is something to bear in mind when deciding between the two. Having the wider aperture is more useful for shooting moving subjects in low light - something where the OIS won't help you. But on the flip side I really like the additional zoom range out to 135mm. I find that a more useful feature for most of what I do. Like most things some people will value one more than the other. In either case Fuji don't make any bad lenses so you can't go far wrong :)
Have you tried 55-200? Im still thinking between the two which is sharper all around, faster focus & better in low light
Maybe I pamper my gear too much but if I ever see you, I will NEVER let you handle my lenses and/or bodies.
One of Fuji's best lenses !! Jpegs are amazing. Used with my xt1 a match made in heaven 😍
Just picked this up used in the US for 525.00. Currently, it's mounted on My XH-1. Putting it through its paces now, so far so good. My other lenses XF-18-55 kit, 35 f2. 23 1.4. Thank you for your reviews. Very informative. My use for this is for good all arounder, daily traveler keeping my kit to a minimum.
How’s the lens since you have it ?
@@jaynw2398 Very Good! Versitile and reliable... I love it... If I want to travel and just bring 1 Lens... This is what I take... Sometimes even for street work locally....I live in NYC..
flic.kr/p/2hCfSDS
Managed to get a deal where I purchased the XT-I with the 18-135, and thrown in is the battery grip - won't publicise the company but they are a well know high street store. Camera is easier to hold in portrait and battery wise the spec rates up to 700 shots but have taken 480 and the original battery is still live - so no complaints. Finding going from optical view finder to evf strange but getting use to it and results - especially black & white jpegs are really pleasing - thanks for the video.
I'm a long time user of Fuji stated over a decade ago digitally withe S1pro Dslr and has continued since.I only moved to the Fuji X system at the tail end of 2015 with that ridiculous offer of The Fuji Xpro 1 with XF 18mm & XF 27mm and leather case for £499 a no brainier tbh having watched and read reviews on the XF18-135mm it was my first additional lens I added got it in the UK new £329 delivered and it's my go to lens to be honest. I find the quality to be top drawer TBH but I have now expanded both my prime and zoom collection of XF lens along with a few ad apters to fit legacy Nikon M42 39mm and Tamron adapt all lenses that I own.But I always have the XF 18-135mm mounted on one of my X bodies as a go to pick up and go camera.So pleased I have this GR8 lens in my kit thanks for your reviews keep them coming Matt 👍
Hi Matt. My door bows out as well and being in sunny Newcastle, I've had no weather issues. The seal seems fine and short of dropping it in the tune, I'm still confident in its weather resistance.
Adam Bowes Ok that's interesting, thanks for that Adam. On mine the bowed out bit is enough to be able to see inside to the connectors so I think I'll get it changed, but interesting to know it's not unique to me. Much appreciated dude.
The best travel, all-in-one zoom i ever had... given you have enough light to shoot.
+Tomislav Miletić Yep, I'd go along with that. It's the most versatile lens Fuji make in my opinion. Throw a couple of faster primes in your bag for low light, or even a flash and you can tackle most things :)
Tomislav Miletić better 77
It didn't make sense to me comparing the amount of light captured by a 35mm f/1.4 prime and 135mm f/5.6 zoom end of this lens. Obviously, the prime will capture more light. I don't see the "the shock" mentioned in the video. As far as I know, Canon and Nikon 18-135mm lenses also have f5.6. Is there any lens which captures as much light as a 35mm f/1.4 prime lens at 7.5x zoom? I would like to know how much would that be :) And, why would you shoot one-handed with a 7.5x zoom lens attached to your camera? Even if the weight is perfectly balanced, you cannot stand steady with one hand with that zoom anyway. Such matters would be covered in a video explaining the basics of the photography not while reviewing "a particular lens". Finally, trying to shoot while it's dangling on your neck via phone with a 7.5x zoom lens? What is the point? Even though these points are true I don't believe they are relevant or noteworthy. I would expect the video to focus on what would someone expect from such a zoom lens. That would be IS, WR etc. which the video did but unfortunately focus was mostly on the matters which were not relevant. Therefore, I lost interest before reaching half way in the video.
Repeatedly racking the zoom in and out with the kind of force you keep using will potentially lead to soft images eventually; you`re really slamming it in and out.. . .
dopamining not really. You can't tell the force I'm using on the video.
.......... you can hear it "clack" at both ends !!
Lens abuse!!
Hi Matt, thanks so much for the very interesting review. You mentioned a "desert workshop" and I was wondering about your experience, mainly concerning sand/dust weather-proofing of the lens.
So here's my Q: I was in a similar situation recently (Dubai GPP2015, with Dave Nightingale), using my XT-1 with the 16-55 f/2.8, like the 18-135, a "Weather-Resistant" lens. We were shooting in the desert with quite strong wind, and there was sand and dust all over. I never removed the lens from the camera during the whole trip. My XT-1 came out all right, but sand got inside the lens focus ring and you could hear the terrible grinding sound every time the focus ring turned. Now this does not disqualify the lens as WR, because no sand got actually inside the camera, or inside the lens, but it did get inside the outer barrel of the lens (between the outer barrel and the focus ring). I had it cleaned by Fuji, but the focus ring was actually completely damaged and stopped working. Since last April the lens is still on service with Fuji (now it's July...imagine my frustration), waiting for a "replacement outer barrel". Disastrous, really...
My point is, there are things that can easily happen even to the best quality weather-resistant equipment out there, and it seems to me that sand/dust (so shooting in any desert environment really) is much more dangerous that water/humidity/rain.
Also, if the focus rings (not the zoom rings, so primes may be theoretically similarly affected) on these otherwise WR lenses are so easily damaged (even without compromising the rest of the camera), no lens is really safe, even in mildly adverse conditions (this was no war zone, no long trip in the wilderness, and no real "sandstorm" - just your average afternoon in the dunes of Dubai :-)). Any similar issues with the 18-135, or any other Fujinons?
Thanks very much!
I've only had my XT-1 since December and YES the 'door' on the left hand side covering the miniHDMI, USB and Mic ports has done exactly the same thing... 'bowing' out away from the body ... as well as the rubber body covering has lost adhesion and has fallen off on the right hand (grip) side. Admittedly I have the camera 'in hand' about 6 hours a day 5 days a week, but this being their flagship 'pro' body I'd have hoped for better. The rubber zoom ring on my 10-24/4 has likewise lost shape and fallen off.
It's all under warranty but I don't want to have to be without it while it gets fixed. I may try to find some decent 3M adhesive to fix it myself. I LOVE this camera in all other respects...I suppose I could use this as an excuse to get a Titanium body as a 'backup' to be able to send them in in turn for 'fixing.' :)
How about compare 55-200 which is better in sharpness, faster focus & better in low light including video? Thank u 🙏🏻
good points, but as a contrast, the 56/35 etc. primes have a look that just about approximates the same setting on the 16-50, and the other zooms which is quite a surprise to me!! also I tried the 14 mm today and even that, when paired with an x t-10 body the high ISO options that body has (3200- the setting i tested under) leave quite a clean image (no grain ) so that low light problem could be cured by ISO 800 or 1250. ( i have been testing various Fuji lenses indoors with fluro lights at 1250 ISO, no problems!! ).
andy van k
Hello Matt,
I'm from Canada and just recently purchased an X-T1. Love it by the way. As I was doing my research, I noticed that the camera at the Henry's store had the same issue with the USB cover on the left side of the camera. It too has been bulging out and I'm sure it would undermine the weather seal on the body like you said. So it seems like it would do that after extensive use. Thanks for your video. Cheers!
pavel0900 Hi Pavel, I'm getting reports coming in from users all over the world experiencing this same issue now. Hope Fuji work their usual magic and fix it for us. Then again this one isn't exactly something they can send out a firmware update for! Glad you enjoyed the vid :)
Lets face it, if this is the only issue they have with this model, I'm sure I can find a way to live with it. Look forward to more of your great video reviews. Thanks!
+pavel0900 Thanks Pavel :)
it could have been a 5minutes review
Hi Matt,
Thanks for your sage advice regarding all things photographic and specifically Nikon and Fuji. I enjoy your thoughts quite a lot. I have the X-Pro1 and use it with pretty much only primes and thanks to the wonderful work of Johnny Patience have recently obtained the 35mm f/1.4. I love it. I watched with interest your X-T1 review and I learned some useful information there. And like everyone I hope the X-Pro2 is going to be a very big deal for all of the Fuji-ites? I am not a pro, although I have completed a 2 year photography course - with diploma - I am a seriously obsessed hobbyist (my wife would disagree stating totally and completely obsessed 24/7- whew! - possibly true. o.k. it is true.) Anyway, for me the X-Pro1 is absolutely perfect. I shoot the photo and the screen says 'next' and I hit the o.k. button and I am off to the next photo. Now for someone making a living this must be extremely painful, but for the hobbyist it works fine. I am a slow coach anyway so actually for me it is blistering fast. I can hardly keep up... Anyway just a note of thanks and keep up the good work. I am happy to see you kept the X-Pro1 as a backup because I love this camera. I do harbour a secret desire for a Leica M9P or M-E though, but having said that I am firmly in the Fuji camp and hope to never leave. Did I mention I love the X-Pro1.
All the best
Thanks for the kind words Paul Bingham and it's always nice to hear from a fellow enthusiast. You can turn off image review if you don't want it to pop up on screen after every shot - you're right it would be a PITA if you couldn't. I love my X Pro 1. It is a beautiful camera and produces beautiful images. Roll on X Pro 2! :)
Matt Widgery Photography
Hey Matt,
Just watching a few of your videos. Yes, I am a big Fuji fan, my goodness firmware updates galore changing the camera ongoing for the better. Who else does that? Great folks, I just hope they continue making film - another part of my ongoing obsession .... Although I hope to obtain the Leica (probably the M-E) I would not get rid of my Fuji gear. It would work alongside the Leica very well. So many people jump from one system to another without seemingly a great amount of thought and have sellers and buyers remorse at the same time - too painful! I like that you put lot of thought into your purchases and that you have analogue gear to compliment your system and in this way I believe you are helping folks to consider what they already have and/or can obtain without spending huge sums of cash.
I see it that way anyway.
Cheers
Thanks Paul Bingham I appreciate that mate. Absolutely 100% with you on that. If you're going to spend a cake ton of money on a new system, spend a bit of time working out what it is you want and why you want it :) Oh and an M-E would be an AWESOME addition to the Fuji set up. Very nice!
Excellent review. Thank you! But how does it compare to the Canon 18-135? or Nikon. How would this lens go on the X-T20? Or would it better suit the X-T2?
16-80mm is a better choice for quality. But can’t be too difficult with a zoom lens.
Same problem here... I can't fully close that little door on the side of the body because it's bent... Came out of nowhere really
My cover start to be lose, Iv taped the HDMI door and some corners on the backside.... no bigger problems but would love to dress it in a new suit, any one know were to do that?
Yes the door is a problem I was looking at a used camera xt1 in Gilford camera shop and their cameras door was also buckled!?
If I want a lens that can shoot moon, bird, wildlife, concert, or spying, which should I get?
My only problem with this lens is when I walk around with it on my strap, the lens extends due to the weight of the lens itself
16 minutes video of a fast talking guy gesticulating nervously, a brand new lens in his hand, with the front cap on... Great Review!
Franc Peret at least he tried, no need to be an ass fuck
You perfectly have the right to disagree, but no need to be that impolite Ryan Thomas.
Yeah I felt really annoyed trying to watch this review. I kept thinking "Get on with it and stop waffling and physically abusing the lens" !! In the end it turned out to be acceptable and weather resistant. Almost no example pics to see for out selves.
I was told by the salesman that, the OIS only work with auto aperture, but not manual aperture. I would like to ask if this is true?
Alec Luk no I have this combo
Alec Lu
Rampage Zorro Why would that be the case? Salesman didn’t know what he was talking about
@@owRekssjfjxjxuurrpqpqss salesmen very seldom do.
hi i appreciate for your tutorial videos, all are perfect. i am new fuji owner xt1 (pro-other dslr cameras) and i need to plan for my professional gear in order to cover full range of DOF and concentration on crispy sharpness, dynamic range, and pixel high quality.
pls correct and commend me for:
plan 1:
10-24 as wide + 50-140 as tele zoom 60mm as macro and portrait (General and daily indoor and outdoor usage 18-135mm)
plan 2:
14mm as wide + 50-140 as tele zoom + 60mm as macro and portrait (General and daily indoor and outdoor usage 18-55mm )
plan 3:
16-55 mm as wide + 50-140 as tele zoom + 56 as portrait + 60mm as macro and portrait (General and daily indoor and outdoor usage 35mm )
OR else?
P.S. according to this video, shall i count of 35mm as my daily out and in shooting rather than 18-55 or 18-135 for better quality (beside its portability)?
kind regards
+mrz 1342 Hi Mrz, If you want more DoF control and ultimate sharpness then you should be using primes as much as possible. But any Fuji lens can give you professional results and it's not a job for someone else to decide for you what lenses you should be using. My style will be different to yours and your style will be different to the photographer who works down the street from you. First you need to figure out what focal lengths and settings you use most often on your favourite shots. If you use Lightroom select all your 5 star rated images, then using the metadata tab at the top see how many of them were used with each focal length. That will give you a goos starting point.
+Matt Widgery Photography thank you for yr advice. shall i ask for general and daily purposes including indoor and out, which one u prefer between 18-135 vs 18-55? although i like very much the range of 27-207, 35 eql but i feel is not sharp as much as 18-55 and i don't know if i am right or not?! of course prime lens can give me the best pixel quality rather than zoom lens, but definitely for general shooting when i am walking in street, malls, people, etc i need a sharp lens, fast AF and high quality which i can count of it, not needing to change lenses all the time! what do u think?
mrz 1342 From my personal experience of shooting the 18-135 as a daily lens I have been very impressed with it. For me the very tiny loss in sharpness (that no-one will ever notice looking at the photos anyway) is worth it for the flexibility of that zoom range. I prefer the look, size, price and weight of the 18-55 and it is a bit faster which is also a big plus in low light, but when it gets really dark I tend to shoot primes anyway.
+Matt Widgery Photography i like yr opinion...however let me ask you i this way: "what lens do u mount on your xt1 for tomorrow IF u go to sunny day street with lots of people for shooting, then to the restaurant for lunch, then office and to shopping mall at afternoon, eventually visiting your friends at night in their apartment?" :)
mrz 1342 If I could only use one lens for all of that? I'd choose this one. If I was allowed one extra I'd throw in a fast prime just in case it got stupid dark, but given how good the Fuji files look at ISO 6400 I rarely find this lens isn't bright enough. That was my biggest concern coming from DSLR lenses with a constant 2.8 aperture but it's actually less of a big deal than I thought it would be. I still like having the primes for shallow DoF of course, bur rarely do I break them out because light is an issue.
would this fit on the Fuji XA2 camera?
Yes it does as will all Fujinon XF & XC lens even my Samyang 8mm f2.8 fisheye fits 😊
hello Matt. I have a Fuji x100s & although I like using it & will keep it I was thinking of buying either the x pro 1 or an xt1. (can't afford xpro 2 or xt2) X pro 1 prices are pretty good but xt1 prices are still holding up. Are the results from the xpro1 exactly the same as the xt1 given they share many features inc sensor & processor. I want to stay with Fuji because their menu system is easier to navigate than other cameras. I'd appreciate your advice.
I should have put a question mark in there somewhere :)
Hi Matt,
So strange... I first noticed the door Bowing today too... So apparently we aren't the only ones...
I'd be hard pressed to find a better choice for bad weather, since you won't really be changing lenses in the open while it's raining or snowing (I hope) and you get a quite a focal range to work with. However, this only applies to X-T1 and X-Pro2. For all other bodies, this weather flexible zooming advantage irrelevant, since they aren't WR. Also, like Clanki said, WR is not the same as Weather Sealed. The gear will cope better while taking a beating from light to medium rain, dust or snow, but don't expect it won't fail and it's hard to say what's the critical point beyond which usage wouldn't be recommended.
It's also the least good optical quality from the Fuji line-up (if you don't count 16-50, which might still be better here and there and is certainly less bulky), the bokeh is quite unpleasant, busy, and, owing to the longer range, from wide to medium tele, there's a lot of software correction to be applied, which, again, makes IQ suffer.
I can hardly imagine why someone would haul the larger Fuji lenses around (why not use a Full Frame DSLR instead, if bulk is a non-issue?), when you've got excellent compact primes to use for this camera system, for anything other than professional usage - and then I'd be willing to bet the constant F2.8 zoom will be the good choice. As an average Joe, you can travel lighter with the XC zoom duo as far as zooms go and not that much encumbered if going for 18-55 f/2.8-4 + 50-200 couple, both of which offer better overall results, which is kind of the whole point of a mirrorless system.
So at least for me, it's by far the least attractive option Fuji has on plate nowadays. If I wanted resilient gear, I'd take a Pentax K setup over Fuji any day (think K30/50/5/3 with their excellent 16-85, for instance). I'm pretty sure I'd be more prone to venture into bad weather with an X-T1 + this lens, but then, I'm rather turned off by the faux-slr concept and dig into the rangefinder mimicry quite a lot.
My x-t1 has the same problem with the door
Thanks for this review 😊. Always if you speak of the 16-55 F2.8 WR, you accidentally mention the 16-50 (non WR), what is definitely the cheapest and worst of all Fujinon lenses (ok for beginners with a X-T10 or T20, both also not weather resistant). The 18-55 is MUCH better than the 16-50. I wished, there would a kit X-T2 plus 16-55 2.8 WR 😜 be available 😁
18-55mm is made in japan :-D
how do you find the battery life of he Xt1?
is it truly horibble as they say?
Hi Dale I don't think anyone is saying it's horrible. It is average for a mirrorless camera - around 350 shots. I always keep a few spare batts on me but I always did when shooting dslr too :)
so, this one recommended for street hunt or not??
Erick Kamaruddin you could do, but I prefer primes for street photography personally. There's no right or wrong lens to shoot street though :)
Would this fit on the fujifilm x-t10 camera
+Afonso Gutemberg Yes it will mate :)
Does someone make a 18-200 for Fuji?
Did you get the vertical grip?
+AndrewTGreen No not yet. I'm not sure I will now. I like the light weight. I keep playing with the idea though. Maybe one day :)
I ended up buying a used X-T1 and the grip. Only have the 18-55 kit, but I can't see using this camera without the grip. More space for hand/fingers. Where have you gotten to? Need some of your videos! :)
I got this with my XT-1 and never liked it. It's OK in almost any situation but not great in any so I ended up trading it for a WR 35 and money.
David Abrahamsson fair play. The 35 will be better in low light, sharper and lighter weight. I love the versatility of the 18-135 for traveling though. Definitely a handy lens!
it is called being the *Jack of all trades yet master of none.*
Kimberly Norton I disagree. It has it's place and is capable of making some great images.
Ok, I was responding to something someone else wrote
Kimberly Norton ah fair enough. Responding on a phone so not always clear what's aimed at me or someone in the comments! Apologies. I get your point, it's not as sharp or fast as the primes or the constant aperture zooms but I've personally had some great success shooting travel, weddings and portraits with this thing. While I mostly use primes these days, I still keep this in my bag on most shoots :)
is it compatible with the X-M1? thanks!
+Fernando Nubla Durango Hi Fernando yes you can use it with any of the Fuji X bodies :)
+Matt Widgery Photography THANKS!! I've just bought it in amazon! thanks again for your quick answer!
Fernando Nubla Durango You're welcome mate :)
Why its a lens review, but so badass quality?
My door does the same + rubber starts getting off. What did Fuji say about this?
Did you shoot that video on a potato?
how long is the zoom please tell me can this lents defeat the p900 and if it can do vids
HI Mat would you recommend this lens for weddings? . I have used top quality lenses for cannon now switched to fugi, don't want to make a mistake or would yo stick to prime lenses . i have 2 fugi x pro 1 camara bodies. i might higher a few lenses to try ?
+Debbie Whitley Depends what you're used to. Some people like to only shoot primes at a wedding. I like the versatility of a zoom, but with a few primes for low light and blurry background shots when I need them. I have used the 18-135 at a number of weddings now and I find it brilliant. It's not the brightest lens in the world but I'm usually using off camera flash at weddings and the ISO performance of the Fujis is great. That being said the next lens I get will be the 16-55 2.8 just because the extra light gathering will be worth having, and I like the 24mm equiv of the 16mm wide end.
For some reason just got this message .Thank you for your advise Matt
Debbie Whitley :)
'It goes dark when you zoom all the way in' ???
+cheesescone I think because variable aperture... when at 16mm f2.8 but when you zoom in will automatically change to f5.6
It's a variable aperture zoom so if you're at f/3.5 at 18mm you'll be at f/5.6 by the time you're at 135mm
Good review
What a let down. I saw the exact door bowing at the Fuji shop in Hong Kong on their demo model. I don't think that can be changed coz it is like "memory" rubber and bends with time as you use it. That's an aweful design. Say goodbye to weather sealing...unless they make a whole new door and send it to you guys.
DaDonFather Will see what Fuji says and report back.
30-hot! Delhi 45. Here it is hot
XT2's are weather resistant bud.
And have been announced a year and five days after the video was uploaded.
Its so big it loses the point of a mirrorless
Funny. $900 for "more than acceptable" image quality. Seems steep to me.
wetracy Yeah you'll never get the image quality of a prime in a zoom with this kind of range, but on the other hand it's very useful sometimes to have the flexibility of a super zoom. It is more expensive than super zooms from other manufacturers but it is better built and sharper too. You can also get some good deals used now :)
You need to take a breath when you do these videos dude, you are rushing giving so much information - a measured approach like how Tony Northrup conducts his video reviews are I think more effective wrt getting your points of interest across.
+Jon Rees Everyone's go their own delivery style mate. You just have to watch the videos you like the presentational style of, or make some of your own. If I slow down for you, I'll get someone else saying I speak too slowly. It's the internet dude, you can't please everyone so I'm just gonna do my own thing :)
Jon Rees Now that's funny, I like the quality of the information Tony Northrup provides, but I always fall asleep halfway, no kidding!
And too much off-point waffling. Kept losing me.
This Video is Not Hot lol!
stop cocaïne
Don't do drugs mate
On that body you won't get 5.6 zoomed in - it'll be more like f/9.0 (approx)
+jusanord Not really no. In terms of DoF then kind of, if you want the same framing then you'll need to move further from your subject so changing the subject/camera to subject/background relationship so more will be in focus but light gathering is the same so it's really not like f/9 at all.
+Matt Widgery Photography Yes, really! You need to take into account the crop factor here. Multiply the aperture by the crop factor! How else do you account for the dimness when you zoom in?
It gets dimmer because the aperture tightens as it zooms in. It's a variable aperture lens. You'd get the same effect on full frame mate.
+Matt Widgery Photography Well, you got the physics wrong but there you go. A FF sensor collects more light! A bigger saucepan collects more water in the rain. Happy shooting!
+Matt Widgery Photography Well, you got the physics wrong but there you go. A FF sensor collects more light! A bigger saucepan collects more water in the rain. Happy shooting!