The Fujifilm XF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR is a versatile X Series super-telephoto lens for sports, nature and wildlife photographers. Its 500mm focal length corresponds to 762mm in 35mm-equivalent terms because of the APS-C crop factor, providing an exceptionally narrow angle of view.
For even more flexibility, the focal length can be extended to 700mm (1067mm equivalent) or 1000mm (1524mm equivalent) with the 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters respectively.
Those looking for slightly less reach but higher light intensity can also consider the Fujifilm XF400mm F4.5. It is lighter, has a wider angle of view, and lets in about two-thirds of a stop more light.
With a maximum aperture of F5.6, the lens performs excellently in low-light situations, for example during the 'golden hour'. This makes it possible to take images early in the morning or at dusk, times when animals often show up better and nature is at its most beautiful.
The design consists of 21 lens elements in 14 groups, including five ED and two Super ED elements. This construction minimizes chromatic aberrations and delivers high resolution. This makes it possible to bring every detail closer without concessions and in high quality.
Weighing just 1335 grams, this super-telephoto lens remains light and compact, increasing ease of use during long photo sessions. The weight distribution has been optimized in such a way that the lens remains well balanced, which contributes to a stable grip.
In addition, the lens is dust and weather resistant, with twenty seals and a fluoride coating on the front element. This allows the lens to continue to perform well in challenging conditions, such as cold down to -10°C, moisture, and dirt.
In terms of features, the lens offers powerful 5.5-stop image stabilization, allowing photographers to capture sharp images without a tripod, even at the long focal length. The autofocus is fast, quiet and accurate, partly thanks to a linear motor, and focuses within 0.33 seconds, useful for moving subjects.
Useful extras such as the Focus Preset and Focus Limiter make the lens very user-friendly.
The XF 500mm F5.6 offers a significantly longer fixed focal length than, for example, the Fujifilm XF 200mm F2 R LM OIS WR, another top lens within the XF series, which is ideal for situations where a large range is required. The XF200mmF2, on the other hand, excels in brightness thanks to an aperture of F2, which makes it better suited for situations with extremely low light or when a very shallow depth of field is desired.
Both lenses feature high-quality optical designs and rugged weather-resistant construction, but the XF 500mm F5.6's more compact size and flexibility make it better suited to photographers who need both mobility and reach.
The XF 500mm F5.6 can be used with the Fujifilm Teleconverter XF1.4X TC WR, extending the focal length to 700mm and providing an angle of view equivalent to 1067mm. Paired with the XF2.0X TC WR, the focal length extends to 1000mm, providing an angle of view equivalent to 1524mm.
The Fujifilm XF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR was introduced with a suggested retail price of €3,399.
