Mark Ellington
Fujifilm XF 100-400mm Telephoto Zoom Lens
Introduction
The Fujifilm XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR Lens is a high-performance telephoto zoom lens designed for Fujifilm’s X-mount mirrorless cameras. Released on February 18, 2016, this lens is engineered to cater to photographers and videographers who require versatility and exceptional image quality in their long-range shots. With its impressive focal length range equivalent to 152-609mm in 35mm terms, it is ideal for wildlife, sports, and landscape photography.
Appearance and Design
The Fujifilm XF 100-400mm lens exhibits a robust and professional aesthetic, characterized by its sleek black finish and solid build quality. Constructed from high-quality materials, this lens feels durable yet manageable, weighing approximately 1.4 kg (3.1 lbs). Its overall design includes a textured rubberized grip that enhances handling, particularly when shooting at longer focal lengths. Unique design features include a dedicated aperture ring, a lockable zoom mechanism, and a weather-resistant (WR) construction that allows for shooting in challenging weather conditions.
Key Features and Specifications
- Type: X-Mount Lens / APS-C Format
- Focal Length: 100-400mm (35mm Equivalent: 152-609mm)
- Aperture Range: f/4.5 to f/22
- Optical Construction: Five ED Elements & One Super ED Element
- Coating: Fluorine Coating on Front Element
- Image Stabilization: OIS (Optical Image Stabilization)
- Part Number: Fujinon XF100-400mm F4.5-5.6
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Price: $2249
Experience Using the Product
During testing, the Fujifilm XF 100-400mm lens performed admirably in various scenarios. In wildlife photography, the lens’s impressive reach allowed for capturing detailed images of birds and other animals from a distance. The autofocus system was quick and accurate, making it easy to track moving subjects. The image stabilization technology proved effective, allowing for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds, which is crucial for longer focal lengths.
In landscape photography, the lens delivered stunning detail and clarity, especially when stopped down to f/8 or f/11. The color rendition was rich and vibrant, showcasing Fujifilm’s renowned film simulation profiles beautifully. However, in low light conditions, the maximum aperture of f/4.5 to f/5.6 may limit performance, requiring higher ISO settings or careful consideration of lighting.
Moreover, the weather-resistant feature was a significant advantage during outdoor shoots in less-than-ideal conditions, providing peace of mind against moisture and dust.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional image quality with sharpness across the zoom range.
- Well-constructed with weather-resistant design.
- Fast and accurate autofocus performance.
- Effective image stabilization for handheld shooting.
- Versatile focal length range for various photography styles.
Cons
- Relatively heavy, which may be burdensome for extended use.
- Maximum aperture of f/4.5-5.6 may limit low-light performance.
- Higher price point compared to similar lenses on the market.
Conclusion
Overall, the Fujifilm XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR Lens is a commendable addition to any Fujifilm photographer’s kit. It excels in producing high-quality images and offers remarkable versatility for wildlife and sports photography. While its weight and maximum aperture could be drawbacks for some, the strengths of this lens, including its build quality, weather resistance, and optical performance, make it a worthwhile investment for serious photographers. If you’re looking for a reliable telephoto zoom lens to elevate your photography, the Fujifilm XF 100-400mm is certainly worth considering.
