On my final day in Tokyo, I made one last visit to Map Camera in Shinjuku. If you haven’t read my latest blog post, this is the store where I recently purchased the Fuji 33mm f/1.4. Known for its extensive collection of camera gear, Map Camera is a go-to spot for buying, selling, and trading.

During my first visit, I asked about the Fuji 18mm f/1.4, only to be told it wasn't available and might not be in stock for another two months. So, imagine my surprise when I inquired again on this visit and found the lens available, albeit second-hand. This was actually preferable for me, as I often prefer buying second-hand lenses and felt confident in the reliability of this store.

After purchasing the Fuji 18mm f/1.4 and using it for over two weeks, here are my initial impressions:

Build Quality With an all-metal build similar to the 33mm, the Fuji 18mm feels robust and durable, perfect for travel and everyday use. Its weather resistance is a significant plus, and although it’s a bit large, the toughness of the build compensates for the size.

Ergonomics The most controversial aspect of this lens is its ergonomics. The aperture ring is notably loose, and the focus ring isn't much better. This isn't unique to my second-hand lens; many new lenses also report this issue. For a premium lens, better consistency and a firmer feel would be expected. While some users report no problems, Fujifilm should definitely address this inconsistency.

Autofocus Similar to the 33mm, the autofocus on the 18mm has significantly improved. Fujifilm's advancements in this area are commendable, even if they still lag slightly behind Sony and Canon. The linear motors are smooth and reliable, making autofocus performance one of the lens's strong points.

Image Quality Touted by some Fuji enthusiasts as “Fujifilm’s Best Lens,” the image quality truly stands out. Contrary to some opinions labeling it as sterile, I find the images to be sharp and full of character. If you’re looking for more vintage or unique qualities, other lenses might be better suited, but for sheer quality, this lens excels.

Focal Length Equivalent to 27mm on a full-frame camera, this focal length is familiar to many, akin to that of an iPhone. It’s versatile for landscape and street photography, making the 18mm on an APS-C sensor a great choice for various shooting scenarios.

Conclusion My first impressions are overwhelmingly positive. In my latest YouTube video, I might have seemed a bit unimpressed initially, focusing too much on the loose aperture ring. However, the exceptional image quality makes this lens a top contender in my collection. Its durability and performance have me excited to take it on future trips, including an upcoming journey to Kerry, Ireland, where I hope to test its weather resistance in the rain.

Overall, the Fuji 18mm f/1.4 is a fantastic addition to my gear, and I look forward to exploring its full potential.

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