56mm or 90mm ?

RogueOne wrote:

I've always eyed the 56mm f/1.2 and have expected to get it for my collection. However, recently I have been comparing the 90mm f/2 as well. I currently own the XF 50mm f/2. So my debate was if the 56mm would really benefit me, since I have a very similar focal length. Yes I know the rendering of the 56mm is different than the 50, but I'm not sure if it will be a big enough difference.

I really want a outstanding portrait lens. I don't expect to use it in inclement weather, so lack of WR on the 56mm isn't a big deal. And I'm not expecting to use it for fast moving subjects, so lesser focus speed on the 56 and my X-T2 also isn't a big issue.

I don't have a studio, so I don't expect to be doing many indoor/studio shots. I expect to be outdoors mostly when using it, so that would allow for the length of the 90mm.

So can anyone provide thoughts that have used, or own both lenses? I really enjoy the rendering on both of them. I am looking at used prices on MPB for the lenses, so they are really both in the same range.

I plan to pair either lens with my XF 35 f/1.4 if I need an 'environmental' portrait.

I was in the same situation; had the 50mm f2 and was looking to add either the 56mm (as I really liked the 50mm focal length) or get the 90mm to compliment it.

I rented the 90mm for a day as that made the most sense if I was to pair them but I just found the focal length too challenging and the lens too big to be practical. However, it did produce great results, I suspect it's one of the sharpest Fuji lenses and loved the fast and silent AF. I mostly shoot travel and street so it just didn't make sense, but if I was doing studio or portrait work it would be an obvious choice.

So I ended up with the 56mm, the first day I took it out I was surprised by how nicely it rendered at f1.2. It's now one of my most used lenses alongside the 18mm f1.4.

I really don't think you can go wrong with either, it really depends what focal length makes the most sense for what you shoot and if you need fast and silent AF or better low light capability.

FWIW I've still got the 50mm f2 as love that lens for it's sharpness and size but I haven't used it since getting the 56mm. I'm holding on to it in case I want to travel light (and pair it with the 27mm) or need the WR.