Fujifilm XF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR

Fujifilm X

Review

The Fujifilm XF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR is an impressive super-telephoto lens designed specifically for the Fujifilm X mount system. This lens caters to wildlife and sports photographers who require a long focal length to capture distant subjects with clarity and detail. With its weather-resistant construction and advanced optical design, the XF 500mm aims to deliver exceptional performance in a wide range of shooting conditions.

Build and Design

At first glance, the XF 500mm F5.6 is a beautifully constructed lens that exudes professionalism. It features a robust, weather-sealed design that provides protection against dust and moisture, making it well-suited for outdoor shooting. The lens is relatively lightweight for its class, making it easier to handhold for extended periods, which is a significant advantage for field photographers who need mobility. The focus and zoom rings are nicely damped, offering smooth operation while also feeling solid and reliable.

Optical Performance

Optically, the XF 500mm does not disappoint. It employs advanced lens elements, including ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements that help minimize chromatic aberrations and maintain sharpness throughout the frame. The overall image quality is impressive, characterized by excellent resolution and contrast. At its maximum aperture of F5.6, the lens provides good sharpness even wide open, which is particularly beneficial when shooting fast-moving subjects in varying light conditions.

The OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) is another standout feature, allowing for a remarkable reduction in camera shake, which is essential when using such a long focal length. This feature enables photographers to shoot at slower shutter speeds without compromising image sharpness, making it easier to capture stunning images under challenging circumstances.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system on the XF 500mm is fast and accurate, benefiting from Fujifilm's Linear Motor technology. This is particularly advantageous for sports and wildlife photography where subjects can be unpredictable. The lens quickly locks onto targets and tracks them effectively, ensuring you won't miss those crucial shots. However, in low light or very contrasted scenes, there can be minor hesitations in focus acquisition, but this is not a significant issue overall.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with weather-sealing.
• Outstanding optical performance with sharp images.
• Effective OIS for image stabilization.
• Fast and accurate autofocus system.
• Relatively lightweight and portable for a super-telephoto lens.

Cons

• Maximum aperture of F5.6 may be limiting in extremely low-light conditions.
• Price point may be higher for novice photographers or those on a budget.

Verdict

The Fujifilm XF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR is an exceptional lens that meets the needs of serious photographers looking for a telephoto option within the Fujifilm X system. Its combination of build quality, optical performance, and autofocus capabilities makes it a solid choice for wildlife and sports photography. Although it has its limitations in low light due to the F5.6 maximum aperture and comes at a premium price, the advantages it offers are substantial. For those who require a long reach and are willing to invest in a high-quality lens, the XF 500mm is certainly worth considering.