Fujifilm is set to release a new zoom for its X-Pro1 and X-E1 interchangeable-lens cameras. The new Fujinon XF55-200mm f/3.5-4.8 R LM OIS lens is expected to start shipping in May 2013 and will become the sixth lens in Fujifilm's XF lineup, joining the XF 14mm f2.8, XF18mm f2, XF35mm f1.4, XF60mm f2.4 Macro and the XF18-55mm f2.8-4 OIS.
The new lens produces an equivalent focal length of 84-305mm and includes optical stabilisation which, according to Fujifilm, allows the use of shutter speeds 4.5 stops slower than normal without introducing camera shake. Like other XF lenses in the range, the XF55-200mm includes a metal aperture ring, which is adjustable in 1/3 stops over the aperture range. Maximum aperture is f/3.5 closing down to f/4.8 at the telephoto setting.
Two ED lens elements, including one Super ED lens element, are included to control chromatic aberrations, which are typically more common in lenses with long focal lengths. Fujifilm claims a top autofocus speed of 0.28 seconds and a minimum working distance of 1.1m across the entire zoom range.
At the launch of the new lens, Fujifilm plans to release a new firmware upgrade for X-Pro1 and X-E1 cameras which it says will improve autofocus performance. The firmware will be available from www.fujifilm.com
Australian pricing for the Fujinon XF55-200mm f/3.5-4.8 R LM OIS was unavailable at the time of writing.
Fujinon XF55-200mm f/3.5-4.8 R LM OIS lens.
