Mark Ellington
Fujifilm XF200mm F2 Lens with Teleconverter
Introduction
The Fujifilm XF200mmF2 R LM OIS WR Lens with XF1.4X TC F2 Teleconverter Kit is a premium telephoto lens designed for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. Manufactured by Fujifilm, a well-respected name in the photography industry, this lens is part of the X-series lineup. It is specifically intended for wildlife, sports, and portrait photography, where capturing distant subjects with clarity and detail is paramount.
Product Overview
This lens features an equivalent focal length of 300mm in 35mm terms, making it a versatile choice for those looking to bring distant subjects closer. The lens is constructed with 19 elements in 14 groups, including advanced glass types such as Super ED and ED elements that minimize chromatic aberrations, ensuring sharp, vibrant images. The kit also includes the XF1.4X TC F2 Teleconverter, which enhances versatility by increasing the focal length while maintaining image quality.
Appearance and Build Quality
The Fujifilm XF200mmF2 lens boasts a sleek, black design that exudes professionalism. The build quality is exceptional, featuring a robust and weather-sealed body that can withstand challenging environmental conditions. The lens is designed to be both dust-resistant and capable of operating in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). The ergonomic design includes a focus preset function that allows for quick adjustments, making it user-friendly during fast-paced shooting situations.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 200mm (Equivalent to 300mm in 35mm)
- Aperture: f/2
- Elements/Groups: 19 elements in 14 groups
- ED Elements: One Super ED and two ED elements
- Focus Mechanism: Linear motors for fast and silent autofocus
- Image Stabilization: 5-stop OIS
- Weather Sealing: 17 points
- Weight: Not specified but relatively lightweight for a telephoto lens
- Price: $5999.95
Experience Using the Product
During my time using the Fujifilm XF200mmF2 lens, I had the opportunity to test it in various scenarios, including wildlife photography in a local park and sports events at a nearby stadium. The autofocus system is incredibly fast, allowing me to capture moving subjects with precision. The image stabilization feature proved invaluable, enabling sharp shots even at slower shutter speeds. The lens performed exceptionally well in low light conditions, producing images with beautiful bokeh and minimal noise.
The teleconverter also added versatility, extending the focal length without a significant loss in image quality. However, I did notice that using the teleconverter slightly affected the autofocus speed, but it was still manageable for most situations. The focus preset function was particularly useful, allowing me to switch quickly between different focal points, making it a fantastic tool for capturing fleeting moments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with minimal chromatic aberration
- Fast and silent autofocus performance
- Excellent build quality and weather sealing
- Versatile focal length with the teleconverter
- 5-stop image stabilization enhances low-light performance
Cons:
- High price point may not be suitable for all photographers
- Using the teleconverter can slightly slow down autofocus
- Weight may be challenging for prolonged handheld shooting
Conclusion
Overall, the Fujifilm XF200mmF2 R LM OIS WR Lens with XF1.4X TC F2 Teleconverter Kit is an outstanding choice for serious photographers looking for a high-performance telephoto lens. Its combination of exceptional optics, robust build, and advanced features makes it a worthy investment for capturing detailed images of distant subjects. While the price may be steep, the quality and versatility provided by this lens justify the cost for those who demand the best in their photography. Whether you are shooting wildlife, sports, or portraits, this lens is certain to elevate your photographic experience.
