What’s New with the FUJINON XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II

The FUJINON XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR has been a mainstay in the kitbag of discerning X Series photographers since its release in 2015. Renowned for its ‘prime zoom’ performance – granting the visual quality of a prime with the functionality of a standard zoom – the lightweight and weather-resistant all-rounder has been a nailed-on first choice for creatives across a range of genres for almost a decade.

With the new FUJINON XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II comes a passing of the torch. By building on the brilliance of its predecessor, this pro-spec standard zoom promises to deliver imaging perfection across its range of commonly used focal lengths, while adding brand new video-focused functionality.

Photo 2024 © Fujifilm | FUJIFILM X-T5 and FUJINON XF56mmF1.2 R WR, 1/250 sec at F1.2, ISO 125

Lighter build

At just 655g and measuring only 83.3x106mm, the first edition of the XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR was at the perfect intersection of form and functionality, making it a worthy pick as an everyday carry and always worth bringing along when out on location.

The XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II takes this even further – at 410g, it’s over a third lighter than its predecessor, while its improved design measures only 78.3x95mm. The new model also retains the rugged weather-resistance of the previous iteration, cementing its position as a true go-anywhere lens.

Photo 2024 © Stefan Finger | FUJIFILM GFX100S II and FUJINON GF55mmF1.7 R WR, 1/125 sec at F4, ISO 200

Upgraded specs

The lens also comes with a general lift in its imaging ability, including improved macro capabilities, better autofocus and a refreshed iris design.

Now with a 30cm close focusing distance across all focal lengths – where the previous lens went to 40cm at the telephoto end – the XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II has a maximum magnification of 0.21x, giving the equivalent of approximately one-third life-size on a 35mm camera.

Where its predecessor had a nine-bladed iris, the new lens has 11, granting smoother and more rounded bokeh. This enables the creation of photos and videos with exquisite subject separation and a more cinematic look when working with a shallow depth-of-field.

The linear motor system that drives the focus element has also seen improvements in speed and accuracy, meaning the new lens is well-equipped to keep up with the blistering pace of the fastest X Series cameras – such as the FUJIFILM X-H2S. Precision focus landing has been improved and focus wobble reduced – both crucial improvements for creators in the video sphere.

Photo 2024 © Fujifilm | FUJIFILM X-T5 and FUJINON XF56mmF1.2 R WR, 1/500 sec at F1.2, ISO 125

New video setting

Brand new to the XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II is the de-clicked aperture setting, which allows f-stop adjustments to be made outside the usual third-stop increments. Accessed by a switch on the lens barrel, it enables incredibly precise and subtle shifts in exposure – even while recording video.

Accessing this expanded functionality requires a firmware upgrade and can only be used in Movie mode with manual exposure and a fixed ISO.

Photo 2024 © Ryan Tuttle | FUJIFILM GFX100S and FUJINON GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR, 1/500 sec at F4, ISO 400

A class-leading fixed-aperture standard zoom with all-new features that enable flawless integration into advanced video workflows, the XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II is sure to find its place in the toolkit of image makers across all genres – and will prove an absolute essential for hybrid creators.

Learn about loaning or purchasing the FUJINON XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II today, and read the full specifications here. For a face-to-face look at the latest Fujifilm camera equipment and expert advice on taking the next step on your photography journey, head to the FUJIFILM House of Photography in Covent Garden, Londo