In praise of the all-rounder

Fujinon XF18-55mm F/2.8-4 R LM OIS

WARRANTED PURE
Fujifilm X-E2.Fujinon XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS

All three of the pictures this week were taken with the amazingly versatile Fujinon XF18-55mm F/2.8-4 R LM OIS zoom. Called sometimes a “kit” lens because of its versatility, in my opinion, this is one of the best lenses you can get for your Fuji camera. It’s an excellent all-rounder of a lens.

HIGH LIGHT
Fujifilm X-E2.Fujinon XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS

It has a maximum aperture of 2.8 when used wide open and the focal length takes it from a 27mm wide angle to an 84mm telephoto in 35mm format terms. The zoom operation is smooth and the focusing with all my Fuji cameras is quick and accurate. It is smaller and cheaper than its older brother the XF16-55mm F/2.8 R LM WR. But then the XF16-55 is F/2.8 across all zoom ranges and it is water resistant.

DISREPAIR
Fujifilm X-E2.Fujinon XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS

The XF18-55 has the addition of OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) which can give up to four stops of extra functionality at low shutter speeds, operated by a switch on the lens barrel.
The lens is superb as a walk around optic and when you don’t want to carry too much equipment around with you on holiday, it can be a blessing. It’s pretty tough too, I had an accident with my X-E2 which caused it to fall on the ground on to the front of the lens. Luckily the lens hood (one reason to always have one on your lenses) took the brunt of it and smashed, but the lens was fine. A tough, good all-rounder.