Fujifilm Announces XF400mm f/4.5 Super-Telephoto Lens

Fujifilm has announced the Fujinon XF400mm f/4.5 R LM OIS WR, a new super-telephoto prime lens for its X-series cameras. The lens provides a 35mm full-frame equivalent focal length of 609mm and is positioned as offering some of the highest optical performance in the XF lineup. The 609mm equivalent looks to have been derived from a crop factor between 1.52x and 1.53x, a minor difference from the assumed 1.5x for APS-C sensors.

According to the company, the lens is ideal for photographing wildlife and motorsports, specifically capturing distant, fast-moving subjects like birds, vehicles, and aircraft. It is compatible with Fujifilm's 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, extending its maximum focal length to 560mm and 800mm, which is a full-frame equivalent of 853mm and 1,219mm, respectively.

Optical Design and Build

The lens construction uses 21 elements in 14 groups, including two Super ED and four ED (extra-low dispersion) elements. Fujifilm states this design effectively minimizes chromatic aberration and contributes to exceptional resolution. The aperture range is f/4.5 to f/22, controlled by a nine-bladed diaphragm.

It measures 104.5mm in diameter and 239mm in length, weighing 1,245 grams (approximately 2.74 pounds). Fujifilm notes the optical design prevents the lens from being front-heavy, with a center of gravity closer to the middle, aiding extended handheld use.

The lens is sealed at 20 points for dust and weather resistance, although it does not have an official IP rating. It is also rated to operate in temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit).

Autofocus and Stabilization

A high-speed linear motor drives the autofocus system, which Fujifilm characterizes as fast, accurate, and nearly silent. The lens is equipped with a focus preset function that allows users to shift focus to a preset position using a "SET"button, a focus control button near the front, and a focus limiter function."When you're making images outdoors, reach matters," Ha said. "You need a lens that gets you close to the action without disturbing the scene or wearing you down over a long day. XF400mm lets photographers stay mobile and react to what's in front of them, and they don't have to trade image quality to do it. With super telephoto lenses, the balance of size and performance is the creative advantage, and XF400mm is exactly that. Lightweight, compact, powerful."

Price and Availability

The Fujinon XF400mm f/4.5 R LM OIS WR will be available in mid-September for $3,199.95.