If you haven't been following my recent adventures, I just wrapped up an incredible two-week trip to Japan. Most of my time was spent in Tokyo, where I immersed myself in photography and making new friends. Given the current economic situation, the Japanese Yen is very weak, which is beneficial for travellers like me but challenging for the locals. With this in mind, I had loosely planned to purchase a new lens or two during my stay.

Getting my hands on the Fujifilm 33mm f/1.4 lens in Japan!

During my visit to a gallery showcasing popular YouTube street photographers such as Roman Fox and Faizal Westcott, I connected with many fellow photographers, particularly those familiar with the local scene. They recommended Map Camera, a well-known camera store located in Shinjuku, as the go-to place for buying and trading photography gear.

On the next available day, I headed straight to Map Camera. I had been traveling with two lenses that I barely used and was eager to trade them in. After getting my lenses valued, I explored their selection of used Fuji lenses and found a 33mm f/1.4 in excellent condition. The price was right, and the tax-free benefit made it irresistible.

Now, after a week of using the Fujifilm 33mm f/1.4, here are my thoughts:

Build Quality

The build quality of the 33mm lens is exceptional. It features a completely metal build and is weather-sealed, making it ideal for travel and frequent use during photoshoots.

Autofocus

One of the most impressive aspects of this lens is its autofocus. The linear motor AF system is smooth, quiet, and reliable, a significant advantage when compared to the autofocus systems in SONY and CANON lenses.

Image Quality

The image quality produced by this lens is extraordinary. The sharpness and clarity of the photos give me goosebumps. Combined with Fujifilm's renowned colour science, this lens delivers stunning results.

Ergonomics

While the lens is larger than one might expect for an APS-C camera, it pairs comfortably with an X-H system. The aperture ring clicks nicely and focus ring is smooth, making it user-friendly for photographers with larger hands.

Focal Length

The 33mm focal length on an APS-C sensor is equivalent to 50mm, and with its wide f/1.4 aperture, it can be considered a "nifty fifty." However, its size might make it feel less compact than typical nifty-fifty lenses.

Conclusion

As a Fujifilm XH2s user, this lens integrates seamlessly with my setup. Its balanced weight and tactile design enhance my photography experience. I'm eager to continue exploring its capabilities, but my initial impressions from shooting in Tokyo are highly positive. This lens is undoubtedly an upgrade, but as always, gear is just one part of the equation, and I need more time to provide a comprehensive review.

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I Bought The Fujifilm 33mm f/1.4 - My First Impressions