My Favourite BUDGET Lens For Fujifilm
I’ve talked about this lens extensively on my YouTube channel, and it seems only fitting to write about it as well. For those of you following my travels, I’m currently in Japan. Before embarking on this journey across Asia, I faced the tough decision of selecting the gear to bring along. Any photographer or filmmaker knows the anxiety of potentially leaving behind a crucial piece of equipment. The thought of “I wish I had that lens” while being thousands of miles from home is a nightmare. However, choosing this budget lens was an easy decision.
The TTArtisans 27mm f/2.8 with the Fujifilm X Pro 3
The lens I’m referring to is the TTArtisans 27mm f/2.8—a remarkably affordable pancake lens. Last summer, TTArtisans reached out to me to review their lens on my YouTube channel. After some deliberation, I agreed. (I want to clarify that this blog post is not sponsored; these are my genuine thoughts on this lens.) Here are five reasons why I love this lens and why you might want to consider it.
Affordability
First and foremost, let’s talk about the price. This lens, compared to its Fuji equivalent, is significantly cheaper at just 149 USD, whereas the Fuji lens costs around 325 USD. You might even find both lenses at lower prices if you buy used, so it’s worth shopping around.
Autofocus
This is TTArtisans’ first autofocus lens, and when paired with the XH2s or the X Pro 3—both of which I use—the autofocus performs admirably. It’s not perfect, but considering the price, it’s impressive.
Size & Build
I’m a big fan of pancake lenses, and this one is ideal for travel. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your bag or pocket. While it’s not a premium build, it feels sturdy and reliable. A unique feature is the back lens cap with a type-C interface for firmware updates—a convenient touch.
Clicked Aperture Ring
The clicked aperture ring is another great feature. It’s tactile and makes adjustments on the go easy. I’ve used lenses without aperture rings, and having one greatly enhances the shooting experience.
Character
This lens has a lot of character. One of the reasons I appreciate it so much is its imperfections, which give it a vintage lens feel. In an era where lenses are becoming increasingly flawless, these quirks are a refreshing change.
Conclusion
Overall, the TTArtisans 27mm f/2.8 is a surprisingly interesting lens. I didn’t expect to like it as much as I do, let alone take it on a significant trip. It has some drawbacks, such as the lack of weather resistance and noticeable vignetting when shot wide open. However, these can add to its character. If you don’t expect too much and take it for what it is, you’ll likely be pleasantly charmed.
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