XF27mm f/2.8 WR – The everyday hero

Hey dear Fuji X Love family,
I never thought the Fujifilm 27mm f/2.8 WR would become my everyday lens, but here we are! Over the last few months, I started searching for a compact, fast lens to fit into my city commuting routine. My daily “route” often involves a lot of commuting and cycling, so portability was key.

I love my 23mm f/1.4 OG, but it’s a bit heavy for long walks. I also own the 35mm f/1.4, but its focal length (50mm equivalent in full-frame) is too tight for my shooting style. Sure, it offers unique character and gorgeous bokeh, but I can’t rely on it as my primary lens—it’s more of a “second” lens, waiting for the perfect opportunity.

Then there’s the 23mm f/2, which I plan to sell eventually. While it’s compact and weather-sealed, it’s not sharp enough at f/2 for my taste. The bokeh on the 23mm f/1.4 is so good that I almost always pick it instead.

Fujifilm XF27mm f/2.8 WR – The beginning
So, I finally bought the 27mm. Coming from larger lenses like the 23mm f/1.4, its compact size and simplicity were a breath of fresh air. This little pancake lens has become my go-to for spontaneous street shots. It’s lightweight, sharp across the frame, and helps me focus on the moment rather than obsessing over my gear—a truly liberating shift!

The Focal Length: My Love-Hate Relationship with 40mm
I’m a 35mm guy, so the 23mm f/1.4 is my natural favorite. However, over time, I’ve adapted to the 27mm’s 40mm equivalent focal length. It feels tighter than I prefer for some shots, but for many, it works just fine.

Is f/2.8 Enough?
For quick street photography and everyday life, f/2.8 is absolutely enough. If I’m shooting portraits or need more background separation, I switch to the 23mm f/1.4, but for daily snapshots, the 27mm delivers.

The Pancake Advantage
The compact size and design of the 27mm are game-changers. I even added a JJC hood, which not only makes the lens easier to hold but also gives it a sleek, “sexy” look. Plus, the weather resistance is perfect for shooting at the beach or in challenging conditions where dust and water are concerns.

Cons
● Clunkiness: Autofocus can be a bit clunky and slower compared to the 23mm f/1.4 or 23mm f/2, especially on my X-T2. But it’s still manageable for my use.
● Focus Ring: While I rarely use manual focus, the focus ring feels a bit awkward. The JJC hood helps with handling, though, and I occasionally enjoy using the ring to pre-focus and visualize the frame.
● Night Photography: At f/2.8, it’s not the best for low-light cityscapes. That said, if you’re okay with a bit of grain or looking for poetic, blurry images, it’s still a viable option.

Final Thoughts
The Fujifilm 27mm f/2.8 WR is an excellent everyday lens. Its compact size, sharpness, and versatility make it a joy to carry and shoot with. While it has a few quirks, they’re easy to work around, and the lens has proven to be an invaluable companion for my city adventures.