I'm excited about the latest addition to my photo kit, adding the Fuji XF-60mm f/2.4 lens into the camera bag along with the 35mm f/1.4 and 18-55mm zoom. While the world of FujiFilm is a buzz about the 56mm f/1.2, I decided to pick up a used copy of it's older cousin.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/250.
I have previously shot a project with the 56mm f/1.2, it is an amazing piece of glass. But, taking a step back I realized many of my favorites from that project were lensed at around f/2.8. That had me looking further back to a previous project where I rented the 60mm, I really like the look of those shots. The 60mm may not have the technical bokeh of the 56mm, but what it does have is smooth and creamy. It renders the background into something special, dreamy and silky, while keeping the focus point tack sharp.
Other systems have their "Nifty Fifty", this is Fuji's "Silky Sixty."
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 800, f/2.4, 1/250.
The 60mm pairs nicely with the 35mm f/1.4, both sharing very similar qualities. This lens is small and light, easy to pack on bike rides and hikes, not staying home in a "pro" kit. A used copy of the 60mm is a fraction the cost of the 56mm. Did I mention it is also a macro lens?
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/125.
I've been out scouting locations around the local area with my daughters, on our bicycles with only the 60mm lens mounted to my trusty X-E1. No lights, no reflectors, just candid shots in natural light. I'm impressed, glad I have this lens in the kit for both the everyday moments and professional portraits.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/250.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/250.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/1000.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/500.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/60.
(A bit soft from being handheld at 1/30) Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/30.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 800, f/2.4, 1/250.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/250.
Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 200, f/2.4, 1/250.
...and a kitten for the internet. Fujifilm XE-1, XF60mm, ISO 400, f/2.8, 1/40.
Note: Check out Damien Lovegrove's excellent comparison of the Fuji X Series portrait lenses for a side by side shootout of the 56mm, 60mm and more.