primelens

Video & Photo Interview with Hiroko Kodaira

I'm working on a NEW series where I video / photo interview all types of Artist. I want the viewer to relate and feel inspired to create, that's the goal.

This EP. I interview NYC Ballet Teacher Hiroko Kodaira

*Shot and Recorded on the Fujifilm X-H2 + Fujifilm 18mm WR F1.4 Lens*

Images Shot with Fujifilm X-Pro 2 + Fujifilm 33mm WR F1.4 Lens

Follow Me : DIGITAL.NYC

The Viltrox 56 F1.4 Len

The Viltrox 56mm F1.4 is priced similarly to the Fujifilm 50mm F2, but in my opinion, it easily outperforms it in several key aspects. This lens is impressively sharp even when shot wide open at f1.4, delivering exceptional clarity and detail. Its overall build and optical quality make it a standout choice for portrait photography, especially for those looking to get the most value without compromising on performance.

3D2C8AA6-0592-453A-8106-A42BB994367D.JPG

The Viltrox 56mm F1.4 is priced similarly to the Fujifilm 50mm F2, but in my opinion, it easily outperforms it by a significant margin. This lens delivers incredible sharpness even when used wide open at f1.4, making it a fantastic choice for those who want excellent image quality without breaking the bank.

1CF6BBBF-2872-42D6-8237-33B94294BB02.JPG

I’ve tried the Fujifilm 56mm F1.2, and the focus was all over the place during my experience. I’m not sure if it was just the specific copy I tested, but it definitely didn’t perform as reliably as I expected. Overall, I find myself preferring the Viltrox focusing system over the 56mm F1.2 for its consistency and accuracy.

8106A2FC-5B80-41F3-BBB5-20B8EE0DFEEC.JPG
74B92403-4B67-419E-8EBB-8D24F9951602.JPG

The bokeh produced by this lens is beautifully creamy and smooth, creating pleasing background blur. Its size falls comfortably between the Fujifilm 56mm and the 50mm F2, making it neither too bulky nor too compact. I also really appreciate the lens hood, which is made of metal—something I prefer much more compared to the typical plastic ones found on Fujifilm lenses. Overall, it feels incredibly solid and balanced on my X-Pro 3, enhancing the shooting experience.

987A783D-E160-41B5-8362-C9006FA9285F.JPG
BF228AE6-6AD2-40F7-846A-5257068E26CF.JPG

Viltrox definitely changed my mind because I usually only use native lenses specific to whatever system or brand I’m working with. I’ve always been cautious about sticking to original equipment to avoid any risks, such as potential equipment malfunctioning during important jobs or projects. However, after trying Viltrox, I realized their quality and reliability can truly stand up to native options, which has made me more open to exploring alternative lenses in the future.

CE28CFAF-66CD-4E57-AA87-98C76C90219E.JPG

After testing this lens extensively over the past couple of days, I can honestly say it truly did not disappoint in any way. It performs at a level that is undoubtedly Prograde quality, meeting the high standards expected by professionals. 💪🏽 If you’re interested in purchasing this excellent piece of equipment, here’s the link below:

Viltrox 56mm F1.4

The Fujifilm 35 mm F1.4 Lens

The 35mm F1.4 is by far my all-time favorite Fujifilm lens. Over the years, I’ve created some of my most memorable and cherished shots using this exceptional piece of glass. I’ll be sharing a few of those standout images in this post. Every time I pick up this lens, I feel like I’m able to create a little bit of magic through my photography.

836148C9-8F9A-46F2-989B-5A0CB096E0B8.JPG

I know that many people tend to complain about the lens being loud and the autofocus being somewhat slow, but honestly, I have never encountered these issues myself. This is actually my third copy of the same lens, and each time I’ve found it to perform reliably without any problems.

E6CA9F9F-577C-41A6-ADE6-21404912EF8B.JPG

I really love using the 50mm focal length because it perfectly balances versatility and image quality. Since I shoot tons of portraits, having the f1.4 aperture with its shallow depth of field is a beautiful addition that helps create stunningly sharp subjects with wonderfully blurred backgrounds. This combination allows me to capture intimate and compelling portraits every time.

8CDF0652-BD61-4596-9623-3799C0276E6D.JPG

I’ve shot everything from editorials to dynamic dance shoots. There’s something about the bokeh that truly speaks poetry to my eyes, creating a beautiful, almost magical atmosphere in every frame.

ED8D226B-C176-4D99-9A6B-1D64AF886E35.JPG

Funny story—this was actually the very first lens I bought when I started shooting with Fujifilm, but to be honest, I ended up selling it almost immediately afterward because it just didn’t quite meet my needs at the time 😂.

71865A1E-4803-444C-8955-651205749E7D.JPG
91657515-1163-4F02-BF30-F829205DC509.JPG

Trust that I’ll never make that mistake again. If you’re interested in purchasing this item, please find the link provided below for your convenience:

Fujifilm 35mm F1.4