The long-awaited Fujifilm XF 50mm f/1 R WR is finally announced

Well, the rumors were true: the Fujifilm XF 50mm f/1 R WR has just been officially announced. It’s the fastest Fujifilm’s lens, and it’s been rumored and announced for quite a while now. So, let’s dive in and finally see in more detail what it has to offer.

The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/1 R WR is designed for APS-C X-mount mirrorless cameras, giving you 76mm equivalent focal length. Apparently, its most prominent feature is the super-wide maximum aperture of f/1. Combined with the focal length, I think this makes it a great portrait lens. But of course, it’s also great for use in low light conditions.

When it comes to the build, the lens features one aspherical element to limit distortion and spherical aberration. There are two extra-low dispersion elements that reduce color fringing and chromatic aberrations. Finally, there’s Super EBC on each element that reduces lens flare and ghosting. The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/1 R WR features a nine-blade diaphragm, which should give you a nice, round bokeh.

The lens is also weather-resistant, preventing dust and moisture from entering it. You can work with it in less than ideal conditions, and it will withstand temperatures down to 14°F (-10°C).

Take a look at the specs and more photos:

Fuji advertises its new lens as “the world’s first f/1.0 autofocus lens.” I researched it a bit (as I’m not much of a gearhead) and learned that this isn’t quite true. Canon f/1.0 AF lenses were made before, as I learned from News Shooter. Although, it’s been a while. If nothing else, XF 50mm f/1 is the world’s first f/1.0 autofocus lens in the past 20 years or so (at least that I know).

The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/1 R WR is ready for preorders, it costs $1,500, and it should start shipping soon.