My Switch: Nikon Z50 to Fujifilm X-T5 and a Prime Lens Journey
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Every photographer eventually faces the question: do I stick with my current system, or is it time for a change? For years, my trusted companion was the fantastic Nikon Z50. It was my gateway into the mirrorless world and served me incredibly well. But as my professional work evolved and my creative eye began to demand more, I found myself on a new path—one that led me to a complete system overhaul. This is the story of my journey from the Nikon Z50 to Fujifilm X-T5, and why I ultimately decided to embrace a new philosophy with 100% prime lenses.
The Fujifilm X-T5: Why the Leap?
The Nikon Z50 is a powerful and compact APS-C camera, but I craved something more. I was drawn to the Fujifilm system for its unique features and the legendary "Fujifilm color science." The vintage, tactile feel of the X-T5, with its dedicated dials for shutter speed and ISO, promised to reconnect me with the art of photography in a way my previous camera couldn't. I was looking for a tool that not only captured images but also inspired me to create. The X-T5, with its 40MP sensor and robust build, felt like the perfect next step in my professional journey.
The Prime Lens Philosophy: A Different Way to See
Along with my camera switch, I made another significant decision: to abandon zoom lenses entirely in favor of primes. For a working professional, this might seem counterintuitive. But for me, the choice was about quality, price, and a deeper appreciation for composition. Zooms offer convenience, but primes force you to be intentional. They make you "zoom with your feet" and think more critically about your shot before you even raise the camera. This process has made me a much better photographer, forcing me to grow and learn how to get the best out of each specific focal length.
Why Prime Lenses Are Better Than Zooms
My Viltrox Arsenal: The Workhorse Lenses
For my professional work, I needed lenses that could deliver top-tier performance without a top-tier price tag. My research led me to Viltrox, a brand that offers an incredible quality-to-price ratio. I settled on two powerhouse lenses from their lineup:
- Viltrox 75mm f/1.2: This lens is a dream for portraits. The ultra-wide aperture creates a buttery-smooth bokeh that makes subjects pop with stunning three-dimensional depth. It’s a magical lens that, when it nails the focus, produces breathtaking images.
- Viltrox 27mm f/1.2: The equivalent of a 40mm on a full-frame, this lens has become my new favorite. It's incredibly versatile, perfect for street photography, environmental portraits, and general-purpose shooting. Some of my best work, including my Symphony of Fire and Last Light on the Pier series, was captured with this lens.
- Viltrox 13mm f/1.4: For those wide, expansive shots, this lens is a must-have. It’s perfect for landscapes, astrophotography, and creative compositions that demand a broad perspective.
Lenses for Adventure: The Viltrox AF 25mm & 35mm f/1.7
For travel and everyday comfort, I wanted something lighter. The Viltrox Air series was the perfect solution. I picked up the Viltrox AF 25mm and the Viltrox 35mm f/1.7. These lenses are incredibly compact and make the Fujifilm X-T5 feel feather-light and easy to carry. The 35mm, in particular, is a joy to use—its focal length feels natural for capturing the world as I see it, and it's always on my camera when I'm out exploring. The Fujifilm system also has a fantastic "digital teleconverter" option that makes these lenses even more versatile, giving you a bit more reach without needing to change lenses.
The Autofocus Question: Nikon vs. Fujifilm
One aspect I've had to adapt to is the autofocus performance. While my Nikon Z50's autofocus was exceptionally reliable, the X-T5, particularly with the Viltrox 75mm, can sometimes feel less confident. I’ve noticed more back focus than I would like in my images, which can be frustrating. That said, when the autofocus locks on, the results are nothing short of spectacular. The images are sharp, detailed, and truly come to life. The filmic vibes of the Fujifilm system more than make up for this occasional hiccup.
If you're interested in a deeper dive, let me know in the comments if you would like a direct comparison between the two cameras' autofocus performance!
The Future: Could a Zoom Lens Return?
As much as I love my primes, I'm not ruling out the possibility of adding a zoom lens to my collection in the future. The convenience of not needing to change a lens in the field is undeniable. I’m especially intrigued by some of the superzoom lenses that can reach up to 300mm. I'll never forget the "sniper feeling" I had during a safari trip, and a superzoom would be perfect for capturing those distant moments again.
Final Thoughts on the Switch
The transition from a Nikon Z50 to a Fujifilm X-T5 was a significant step for me, and committing to a prime lens-only system has completely transformed my photographic process. It's a journey of learning and adaptation, from mastering the manual dials of the Fuji to getting the most out of each of my new Viltrox lenses. The challenges son small compared to the reward of seeing a final image with that unmistakable Fujifilm color and prime lens quality.
This new system is not just a tool—it's a creative partner that inspires me to think differently and push the boundaries of my art.
