XF100-400mm would be categorized as super telephoto zoom. Most obvious subjects for such lens are sports, wildlife, airplanes and etc,. The lens has a distinctive character and therefore people tend to limit its use. So are these the only fields that the XF100-400mm can shine?
In the early stage of the product planning for the XF100-400mm, we often talked about “Enjoying hand-held photography” or “No need for tripod or monopod”. In essence, our intention was to diversify the field where the telephoto lens can shine.
We can say 100-400mm is a super telephoto zoom, but we can also say it is a 4x zoom. If you look at other X-mount lenses, you will notice that there are only two other lenses, XF18-135mm and XC50-230mm, that have more than 4x magnification zoom. XF100-400 covers third most range of focal length among all X-mount lenses. It’s like an athlete who happens to be not only good at hammer throw, but also at 100m sprint and long jump. Let’s get back to the theme for the day. XF100-400mm is a multi talented lens.
Let’s first look at landscape photography.
Super telephoto lens becomes versatile in its use when it comes with 4x magnification. Patterned subject creates abstract expression in the landscape photography. With the 4x magnification, you have far more option of what to include and not include in your composition. You will be surprised at the amount of information that 100mm has when your eye got used to the angle view of 400mm.
And around 100mm, it can be used for portrait photography. Macro photography is another. Unlike the moving subjects of Birds, animals, and planes you can think about your composition before pressing the shutter button. Macro lens has greater maximum magnification, but being able to shoot from a distance is a good plus.
How about street snap with the XF100-400mm? The angle of view is undeniably narrow. It will force you to find your own perspective to create a composition. What are you going to look at? What are you trying to tell?
It will be a big help that the lens is a telephoto. An experienced snap shooter know how to keep the right amount of distance with the subject. It can be the photographer’s personality, or an technique to give an relaxing atmosphere. But not everyone can do what veterans do. But with the telephoto, it should help you to photograph a little easier. But do not forget to talk to the subject after you’ve taken the shot.
