XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR x Nikola Krstic in Morocco

05.23.2024

Reflections under the Desert Sun while testing the New FUJINON XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR

In an endless journey through the enchanted deserts and labyrinthine cities of Morocco, I find myself reflecting on my path as a travel filmmaker and the equipment that accompanies me in this dance with the world.

My name is Nikola Krstic, and since 2017, I’ve been dedicated to creating travel content. I traverse the globe, always on the hunt for moments worth capturing. In this visual quest, every detail matters.

 The choice of Morocco as the backdrop for my visual narrative is not random. It’s a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend with modernity, and the golden light of the desert kisses the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains. Here, under the vast and endless sky, I decided to test the new FUJINON lens, drawn by the promise of capturing the magic of this country with unparalleled clarity and versatility.

The XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 focal length has proven to be an indispensable ally in my journey through Morocco. Compared to the previous standard XF18-55mm F2.8-4 lens, I found that this focal range offers extraordinary flexibility in capturing both intimate details and breathtaking landscapes.

At 16mm, I can embrace the entire panorama of the golden desert, while at 50mm, I can focus on the faces and stories of the people I encounter along the way.

The XF16-50mm F2.8-4.8 has exceeded all expectations when it comes to resolving the 40 megapixels of my camera. In the bustling markets of Marrakech, I captured vibrant details and vivid colors that leaped out of the image with crystalline clarity. In the narrow and winding alleys of ancient cities, every ancient stone and intricate carving was rendered with extraordinary precision.

The weather sealing of the lens proved to be a blessing during my adventures in the desert. Amidst the swirling sand dunes under the scorching sun, and in the chaotic markets filled with spices and fragrances, I could continue shooting without worrying about the elements threatening my equipment. It was a relief to know that my lens could withstand the most extreme conditions and continue to function without issues.

The edge quality at 16mm was surprisingly good, even in the most challenging situations like fiery sunsets over the sand dunes.

The XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 proved to be a reliable companion in every situation, offering impeccable sharpness across the entire frame. In terms of versatility, compactness, and weight, the XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 stands out for its excellence. Compared to the XF18-55mm F2.8-4, I consider it a significant upgrade, offering higher optical quality and a more robust construction.

Without a doubt, it’s the lens I would recommend to anyone in my profession, ensuring superior performance in every situation. As I prepare to leave Morocco, I carry with me not only extraordinary images captured through the lens of this wonderful optic but also a newfound understanding of the beauty and diversity of this remarkable country. Every shot is a fragment of an endless journey, a tribute to the magic of Morocco and the power of human creativity.