Every lens is a compromise (except maybe the XF 200mm f2). You can’t have it all, particularly when it comes to zooms and especially with super-telephoto zooms. But the Fuji 70-300 strikes an almost ideal balance of size, weight, reach and quality. If you travel with your equipment, need versatility or don’t need bright telephoto lenses, the Fuji 70-300 could be the lens you have been waiting for.
I was fortunate enough to borrow the lens for a few weeks from Fujifilm UK, through their loan program. I decided to take the Fuji 70-300 on a trip to Nova Scotia, Canada – to test it in the context I would consider buying it for...travel photography.
Without the hood and when contracted to minimum focal length, the Fuji 70-300 is quite small
The included hood is quite large, but snaps into place securely
The barrel of the lens extends when zooming
Size, weight, build and handling #
The Fuji 70-300 is a compact and lightweight lens (580g). Measuring just 132.5mm tall, this lens fits into even the smallest bags. The minimal weight meant I was happy to carry it everywhere, even hiking 20 mile days.
Despite its lightweight build, the lens is dust and moisture-resistant, and can operate in temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). The lens felt solid, didn't exhibit any zoom creep and instilled confidence in general use and handling. The supplied hood was large and attached firmly. Overall, it was on par with the high standard I've come to expect of other Fujifilm lenses.
The Fuji 70-300 is well balanced on an X-T4
Weighing only 580g, the Fuji 70-300 is light and very compact
With a huge focal range, state-of-the-art autofocus, advanced image stabilization and close focusing performance equivalent to half-macro, XF70-300mm ensures you’re always ready to make images, whether your subject’s in the undergrowth beneath your feet, or in a tree on the distant horizon.
The lens features a zoom lock, focus limiter and aperture switch.
Weather resistant Fuji travel kit #
Due to the relatively small size of the Fuji 70-300, I was able to put together a small weather-sealed kit with a large range of focal lengths to take on the trip. I used a Tenba BYOB 9 to carry the following gear:
- X-T4
- XF 16mm
- XF 27mm
- XF 50mm
- XF 70-300mm
- 3 x NP-W235
- Diffusion filter
- Variable ND filter
- Step up/down rings
- ExpoDisc
- RGBWW LED light
The Tenba could then either be inserted into my hiking bag or used as a standalone camera bag (using the Peak Design strap). The Peak Design Leash could also then be switched onto the camera body when the bag wasn't needed. Because the lens was so compact it could fit into the bag standing vertically or when attached to the X-T4 body.
The 70-300 fits standing up in the Tenba BYOB 09
The 70-300 also fits in the Tenba BYOB 09 when attached to the body
The entire weather resistant Fuji travel kit
Fuji 70-300 sample images #
The compact size and considerable reach of the Fuji 70-300 appealed to me specifically for travel. So that's how I tested it.
Stitched panorama
Just as versatile in the city
Fuji 70-300 vs 55-200 #
I was unable to get a copy of the 55-200 to compare with the Fuji 70-300, but would recommend watching the video below by the talented Andy Mumford.
Fuji 70-300 vs 55-200: compared by photographer Andy Mumford
Handheld video samples from the Fuji 70-300. All filmed in 4K 24fps Eterna
So would I buy it? #
In short, yes…I'm very tempted. The Fuji 70-300 was a joy to use, easy to travel with and was very versatile. The lens offers excellent value (check latest price) and creates pleasing images. I sometimes found myself wishing it was brighter at the long end, but then it would be bigger and less portable. As much as I would like to have the capabilities and quality of the XF 200mm f2 on hand at all times, it's not always practical to travel with a 2.25kg lens worth $6000.
Pre-pandemic I was on the road most of the year, so size and weight really mattered. With this trip potentially marking the return to travel, this lens once again makes a lot of sense.
Update #
I bought the it! My time with the Fuji 70-300mm convinced me it offered a great balance of weight, size and optical performance. With travel returning to normal I couldn't resist and have thoroughly enjoyed having such a versatile lens in my kit.