In A League Of Its Own

K Madhavan Pillai tests the Fujinon XF90mm f/2 R LM WR, the largest prime in the X-series line-up, to see if it lives up to Fujinon’s reputation.

 

- K Madhavan Pillai

Fujifilm’s primes have adhered well to the underlying philosophy of the smaller, retro styled, street photography inspired X-series cameras, and has seen a lot of appreciation since its launch in 2012. The Fujinon XF90mm f/2 R LM WR, released in late 2015, conforms to a more classical definition of a longer portrait lens. It offers a more comfortable reach over standard portrait primes (XF50mm f/2 R WR, XF56mm f/1.2 R, and the XF56mm f/1.2 R APD), and combined with a maximum aperture of f/2, the XF90mm promises good control over out-offocus areas (akin to 135mm f/2.8 on a full frame sensor). In a sense, this lens is unique. No other manufacturer offers a prime lens of its nature, built specifically for APS-C sensors.

Features

Optically, 11 element in 8 groups include 3 ED elements, and Fujinon’s proprietary Super EBC coating on each surface reduces aberrations and controls flare. A 7-blade rounded aperture provides more circular bokeh. AF is enabled by a quiet Quad Linear Motor, stated to be faster and specially beneficial to video applications. A good minimum focusing distance of 0.6m allows a max. magnification of 0.2x and allows working with closer subjects. The XF90mm shares a convenient filter diameter of 62mm with both XF56mm lenses. It lacks IS.