Fujifilm 23mm f2 Review

Let’s talk about the 23mm f/2, my gateway drug into Fuji’s prime lenses. This little guy has a special spot in my photography journey, it’s the lens that helped me nail some of my favourite shots on the Fuji system.

Before jumping into the Fuji world, I was all about the 50mm. It was my go-to, my comfort zone. But when it came time to pick a lens that could tag along on all my travel adventures, I realised 50mm was just too tight. So, I started looking at the 35mm focal length.

Why choose 23mm or 35mm Full-Frame equivalent?

In full-frame terms, 23mm gives you that sweet 35mm perspective, a true workhorse in any photographer’s bag. Just about every photographer has shot with a 35mm at some point, and for good reason. It’s wide enough to capture a scene without getting too wide and distorted but still tight enough to capture a subject in the scene. For me, it’s the perfect focal length when I want to capture what’s around me without overthinking it. A lot of images you get with it will make the viewer feel like they are part of the scene. Plus, it’s a dream for anyone who likes to travel light with just one prime lens.

f/2 Aperture

Now, let’s get into the f/2. The Fujifilm 23mm f/2 is part of the ‘Fujicron’ trio—nicknamed for their similarity to Leica’s Summicron lenses. It’s got a couple of buddies in the 35mm f/2 and 50mm f/2, but the 23mm is where it’s at for me.

The f/2 aperture keeps this lens small and light, making it perfect for travel. Sure, it’s not the best in low light, but with the X-T5’s IBIS, you can still get some pretty solid shots at higher ISOs. During the day, though, you might notice it’s a bit soft when you’re shooting wide open at f/2, especially with close-up subjects. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind. Personally I enjoy rough around the edges shots, gives them ‘character’

Image Quality

If we’re being nitpicky, the 23mm f/2 doesn’t stack up to the newer f/1.4 lenses when it comes to sharpness, especially wide open. But in reality, unless you’re zooming in to inspect every pixel, you’re going to be happy with the results. And honestly, I haven’t had anyone point out any flaws in my images because of these so-called ‘shortcomings.’ For me, sticking with the 23mm f/2 is all about the balance, image quality, size, and the fact that it’s weather-sealed and focuses quickly. It just makes sense.

Build and Handling

This lens is built to last. It’s got an all-metal construction with weather sealing, so it can handle pretty much anything you throw at it. I’ve used it in the rain, in the cold, and in hot, humid conditions without a problem. Sure, it picks up some scratches over time, but that’s just battle scars, right? In terms of handling, it feels great on my Fuji XT5. I’ve also tried it with other Fuji bodies like the XT30II and XS20, and it fits right in with those too. The focus and aperture rings are smooth, with just the right amount of resistance. Also the lens hood that comes with it, is awesome, rounded, small, and because of how well it protects the front I never use a lens cap on it.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus on this lens is solid. It’s quick and reliable for stills, and unless you’re trying to catch a cheetah in full sprint, it’s not going to let you down. For everyday shooting, it’s more than capable. In video mode, it’s not as buttery smooth as some of the more expensive lenses, but if you’re using a newer Fuji camera with the latest AF systems, like the XT5 or XH2S, you’ll be more than satisfied with how it performs.

Final Thoughts

The Fujifilm 23mm f/2 is a gem of a lens that I can wholeheartedly recommend. If you’re not shooting in crazy low-light situations or need the absolute sharpest image quality for commercial work, this lens will do the job and then some. Sure, there are cheaper other 3rd party options out there, but this one hits the sweet spot for performance, size, and versatility. I’d honestly recommend this lens to any Fuji shooter, no matter what camera you’re using.

I’ve been using my Fujifilm 23mm f/2 for documentary-style travel photography ever since I switched to the Fuji system, and I’ve got to say, it’s hard to take this lens off my camera. It’s just that good. If a lens could get a standing ovation, this one would.