18-55mm zoom with X-Pro1

[mrmeadows]

In your experience ... How does the Fuji 18-55mm zoom operate together with the OVF on the X-Pro1? In particular, how do the frame lines and the viewfinder magnification change as one changes the focal length? Is the operation truly useful or is it a less-than-perfect work-around that just lets Fuji claim that the zoom lens works on that body?

--- Mike

 

[mrmeadows]

I've now found information regarding the questions that I originally posted. Since I've received no posted answers, this information is evidently not very well-known, so I am now posting the following link to it for others who may also be interested.

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/72...-x-pro1-and-denies-xf-lenses-allow-full-frame

According to the link, the 18-55mm zoom and the OVF will work well together once the X-Pro1 firmware is updated. Then zooming will produce a "continuous" tracking change of the frame lines, so that they show the proper OVF frame lines for all focal lengths in the range of the lens. The OVF magnification can be manually changed between its two values at the operator's convenience. If it works as well as shown in the demonstration video at the link above, then the zoom should operate rather successfully on the X-Pro1.

I'd still be interested in hearing first hand opinions from anyone who's actually used this combination.

--- Mike

 

[enero]

I have the zoom on the XPro1, the ovf works pretty well with it. The framelines shrink and parallax correction box moves as you zoom. I dont find the ovf as accurate for framing as the evf, so I dont use it much. Because of this, I havent been using it enough to comment about the experience one way or another. It is what it is. The lens is great, but Im not wowed by the experience. I like my MF lenses, so its just been sitting on my desk. I bought it for work related stuff when focus has to be spot on.

*Edit, I just looked through the ovf for the first time since the firmware update. Looks like they changed it so that the framelines move for parallax correct only when you half press the button. When you let go, it centers itself again. Which seems kinda weird to me. Why center it if center has nothing to do with anything?

 

[Johnhw]

I just picked up the 18-55 a week or so ago. the frame lines do move as you zoom. I have all the Fuji primes as well, but thought it would simplify a overall day lens. Now I am very glad I picked it up, and am looking forward to seeing how good the OIS system is....sure can't hurt. I shoot OVF 95% of the time.

 

[Buzz40]

I've now found information regarding the questions that I originally posted. Since I've received no posted answers, this information is evidently not very well-known, so I am now posting the following link to it for others who may also be interested.

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/7230565274/fujifilm-shows-off-zoom-lens-on-x-pro1-and-denies-xf-lenses-allow-full-frame

According to the link, the 18-55mm zoom and the OVF will work well together once the X-Pro1 firmware is updated. Then zooming will produce a "continuous" tracking change of the frame lines, so that they show the proper OVF frame lines for all focal lengths in the range of the lens. The OVF magnification can be manually changed between its two values at the operator's convenience. If it works as well as shown in the demonstration video at the link above, then the zoom should operate rather successfully on the X-Pro1.

I'd still be interested in hearing first hand opinions from anyone who's actually used this combination.

--- Mike

Thanks for this post! I received the zoom two days ago, updated the firmware for body and lenses, but could not figure out how to engage the OVF magnification change. Holding the VF lever for two seconds did the trick. I wish Fuji had mentioned this in the owner's manual for the 18-55, but I'm a happy camper now. I'm very happy with the lens and its operation on the X Pro 1. I have to admit, though, that I was a little bit disappointed with the construction and packaging of the zoom compared to the rest of the kit. Packaging on the XPro and 35 lens was really first rate, while the zoom is a bit more pedestrian. The zoom, itself, is a bit more plasticky than the primes. I would have liked if they had made it more high end, but it still has much nicer fit and finish than either a Nikon or Canon "kit" zoom. Overall, it's a nice addition to my kit, and now I'm just anxiously awaiting the release of the 56 1.4.