When people ask why we shoot Fujifilm, the answer is simple: it just feels right. Ed switched in 2015, selling off his heavy DSLRs soon after buying his first Fuji body. What won us over was the balance—lightweight cameras that still deliver beautiful results. But more than that, Fuji cameras make photography fun. The dials, the ergonomics, the character of the lenses—it all invites you to slow down, notice more, and enjoy the process.
Over the years, we’ve built a kit that suits both of us perfectly. Some gear is Ed’s standard kit, some is Laurie’s everyday favorite, and some we share depending on the situation. Here’s a peek into the tools we use and love.
Camera Bodies
Fujifilm X-T5 - Ed’s main camera since its release in November 2022. Having started photography back in the film era, he loves the dials, the manual controls, and the tactile feel of the X-T line—it’s like being back with those old film cameras, only with modern power. The X-T5 has been his go-to, following years with the X-T1, X-T2, and X-T3. Simply put, this camera makes shooting a joy.
Fujifilm X-S20 - Laurie’s choice since mid-2023. Small, light, and easy to carry everywhere, it has the more traditional PASM controls and doubles as a surprisingly capable video camera. Laurie moved to this after years with her trusty X-T20.
Fujifilm X-E5 - Our newest addition, fresh from its release in August 2025. It’s a rangefinder-style body, inspired by classic Leica design. Shooting with it is different—slower, more deliberate, and perfect for candids or street photography with primes.
Prime Lenses
Fujifilm XF 8mm f/3.5 - Ed has always loved shooting wide angle field of view. This lens is spectacular for dramatic landscapes and sweeping interiors.
Viltrox 15mm f/1.7 - A tiny, inexpensive wide-angle that punches well above its weight. The build feels excellent; the only thing missing is Fuji’s classic aperture ring.
Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2.8 - Brand new alongside the X-E5. A tiny pancake that transforms the body into something reminiscent of Fuji’s beloved X100VI. Small, discreet, and sharp—perfect for everyday walks.
Fujifilm XF 30mm f/2.8 Macro - One of Fuji’s hidden gems. It doesn’t get much attention, but the results are beautiful. Laurie took it to the Netherlands during tulip season and came home with amazing images.
Fujifilm XC 35mm f/2 - From Fuji’s budget-friendly line, but don’t let that fool you. It’s fast, sharp, and light—just without the aperture ring.
Zoom Lenses
Fujifilm XF 8–16mm f/2.8 - Heavy, a bit unwieldy, and not filter-friendly—if you’re willing to carry it, it delivers. An amazing lens which Ed carries a lot.
Fujifilm XF 16–50mm f/2.8–4.8 - Fuji’s follow-up to their legendary 18–55mm kit lens, which was praised for nearly a decade. This new version meets the challenge, and it’s Laurie’s everyday lens on the X-S20.
Fujifilm XF 16–55mm f/2.8 II - Ed’s workhorse. He loved the first version of this lens for years, the updated model is about one-third smaller and lighter, yet even sharper in many ways. It’s glued to his X-T5 most of the time.
Fujifilm XF 70–300mm f/4–5.6 - A sleeper in Fuji’s lineup. It takes teleconverters beautifully and always surprises with the quality it delivers. Not the fastest lens, but one that constantly exceeds expectations.
At the end of the day, gear is just a set of tools—but the right tools make you want to pick them up again and again. For us, Fujifilm strikes the perfect balance between craft and convenience. These cameras and lenses fit the way we see the world, and they make photography fun, personal, and rewarding.