The Lens I Can’t Live Without (But Barely Use)

3 Mar

There’s one lens in my kit that’s incredibly important—but truthfully, I barely use it. It’s not in my everyday camera bag, it’s not great for vlogging, and I rarely take it on personal trips. So why do I keep it? Let me explain.

The Fujinon 50-140mm f/2.8 – Specs & Price

The lens in question is the Fujinon XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR, which on a Fujifilm APS-C sensor provides a full-frame equivalent focal length of 73-200mm. Essentially, this is Fujifilm’s version of the classic 70-200mm f/2.8—a must-have for many professionals.

Here’s what makes this lens special:

Constant f/2.8 Aperture – Ideal for low-light shooting and subject separation.
Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) – Helps reduce shake, especially when handheld.
Weather Resistance (WR) – Built to withstand tough conditions.
Triple Linear Motor (LM) Autofocus – Fast, silent, and reliable focusing.
Solid Metal Build – A professional-grade construction, but it does add to the weight.

If you’re buying new, expect to pay around £1,500. However, I bought mine used for around £700-£800, and you can find second-hand deals if you're patient.

Why I Own It (And Won’t Sell It)

Despite not using it every day, this lens plays a crucial role in my kit. It’s my go-to for corporate, commercial, and documentary work, where its range and quality shine. Wedding videographers, filmmakers, and photographers who need telephoto reach often swear by lenses like this.

Think of it like a drone—you might not use it all the time, but when you do, it’s indispensable.

Should You Get It?

If you shoot video, commercial work, or events, this is a must-have lens. The sharpness, stabilisation, and fast aperture make it perfect for professional use. However, if you’re primarily shooting casual content or vlogs, it might be overkill.

I’m keeping mine, and if I ever switch systems, I’d replace it with something similar. Check it out if you need a top-tier telephoto zoom in your arsenal!