Fast Primes

In the last 10 years, I have accumulated enough knowledge about Cameras and Lens.

I now know what works for me.

I figured this out simply because I HAD TO.

I would happily travel the world with the X-Pro1 and the XF18-55mm F2.8-F4. That set-up is perfect for everything except Lions and Tigers.

When it comes to Fast Primes Lens and I mean Lens with a Fast Aperture of 1.4, I see their real value for shooting in Low Light scenarios.

We all know the value of a 1.4 Lens when it comes to shallow depth of field. Sometimes, that is required, or is it?

For my shooting, an Aperture of 5.6 at say 250mm can give me a beautiful separation of a head and shoulder Portrait.

The images above and below were shot tonight on the wonderful XF35mm 1.4 paired with my X-Pro 1.

The Fuji Fast Primes are wonderful:

XF16mm 1.4

XF23mm 1.4

XF35mm 1.4

XF56mm 1.2

My goodness, that’s a fantastic set-up for any assignment, it doesn’t mean I would be shooting at those low Apertures, NO.

For me, those Apertures earn their money when the light levels start dropping.

To be fair, some subject come alive at Maximum Aperture.

I have had to learn when to use the right Aperture for Creative Exposure.

So, to bring closure to this conversation, I feel happy knowing that my 3.5-5.6mm Lens still features very strongly in my day to day shooting.

Fast Primes are specialised Tools that create magic.

Thanks for reading.