The Fujifilm 200mm F2 in 2024
In my latest video, I revisited one of my favorite lenses, the Fujifilm 200mm F2, which I’ve owned for nearly five years. Originally designed for sports photography, this lens offers incredible subject magnification and background compression, making it surprisingly effective for portrait work. I took it out for some portrait sessions, and the results were stunning. The 200mm F2, especially when paired with a 1.4x teleconverter, transforms everyday scenes into dramatic, high-impact images that are usually reserved for professional sports photography.
Despite its weight and size, this lens is a joy to use, delivering crisp, detailed photos even in challenging lighting conditions. If you're interested in seeing how this lens performs outside of its usual sports environment, check out the video for a detailed look at its capabilities in portrait photography. As always, feel free to leave your thoughts and suggestions in the comments.
Fujifilm X-T5 and 50mm F1 Natural Light Photoshoot
In my latest video, I dive into a portrait photoshoot using the Fujifilm X-T5 paired with the 50mm F1 lens—one of my all-time favorite setups. I’ve always appreciated the versatility of this lens, especially its ability to create stunning portraits with a slightly wider view than the typical 85mm.
During the shoot, I experimented with both natural and off-camera flash lighting, highlighting the importance of understanding your gear and the environment. This session reminded me that while modern technology is fantastic, sometimes it's refreshing to return to the basics, relying more on ambient light and less on additional equipment.
I also touched on the importance of adaptability during a shoot, especially when dealing with challenging lighting conditions. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this video showcases how a well-chosen lens can elevate your photography, making every shot count.
If you're interested in seeing the results and learning more about my process, check out the video linked above. And as always, feel free to leave your thoughts and suggestions in the comments.
My Favorite Fujifilm Portrait Combo
The Fujifilm X-T5 and 50mm F1 are my favorite camera/lens combo to date. In this video I do a Cherry Blossom photoshoot using this combo and go over its strengths, weaknesses, and compare it to other setups.
Fujifilm’s Best Portrait Lens
Fujifilm has lenses that are staples in every shooter’s camera bag. Some are so popular that even Non-Fujifilm shooters know about them. One lens whose superiority goes unsung is the Fujifilm 50mm F1. Ridiculed by reviewers since day one, the reality is that it stands on its own in both Fuji’s lens lineup and across all camera brands as one of the lightest and fastest portrait lenses on the market today.
Fujifilm X-T5 Long-Term Review
The Fujifilm X-T5 is the true successor to my all-time favorite camera, the Fujifilm X-T3. In this video we see how the classic ergonomics and dial mesh with the new 40 megapixel sensor and autofocus algorithms to make what may very well be the last photo camera I ever buy. Join me and my friend Babs in the Baltimore Harbor for this video as we put the X-T5 through its paces with the newer linear motor lenses along with the legacy 16mm F1.4 lens.
Pro Photoshoot With a Sony ZV-1 and Off-Camera Flash
Can a Sony ZV-1 handle a real portrait shoot? Off-camera flash in the Philly cold with Babs Butcher, Godox AD400 and AD200, high-speed sync, why Sony previews look so dark with a flash trigger, and how well the files edit.