Canon EOS 700D Canon EF S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM vs Fujifilm X-Pro2 Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f2 R WR: The Battle of the Cameras

The world of photography is filled with exciting options, and choosing the right camera can be a daunting task. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison of two popular camera systems: the Canon EOS 700D paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens against the Fujifilm X-Pro2 with the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f/2 R WR lens.
This battle of the titans pits a traditional DSLR against a mirrorless powerhouse, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking for an upgrade or a beginner eager to embark on a photographic journey, this comprehensive comparison will guide you towards the perfect camera for your needs.

The Contenders: A Closer Look

The Canon EOS 700D was a popular entry-level DSLR, known for its user-friendly interface, reliable performance, and impressive image quality. The accompanying Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens offers a versatile focal range, making it suitable for a wide range of subjects, from landscapes to portraits.
The Fujifilm X-Pro2 is a mirrorless camera renowned for its retro aesthetics, exceptional image quality, and advanced features like hybrid viewfinder and film simulation modes. The Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f/2 R WR lens, with its fast aperture and weather resistance, is a popular choice for street photography, portraits, and everyday shooting.

Image Quality: A Battle of Sensors and Lenses

Both cameras deliver impressive image quality, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Canon EOS 700D, with its APS-C CMOS sensor, excels in capturing detail and producing vibrant colors, particularly in well-lit conditions. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens, while versatile, isn’t the sharpest in the business, especially at the longer end of the zoom range.
The Fujifilm X-Pro2, on the other hand, boasts a smaller APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, known for its unique color rendition and excellent dynamic range. The Fujinon XF 35mm f/2 R WR lens is a prime lens, renowned for its sharpness and fast aperture, which allows for shallow depth of field and exceptional bokeh.

Performance: Speed and Autofocus

The Canon EOS 700D, while not a speed demon, offers decent performance for everyday shooting. Its continuous shooting rate of 4fps is sufficient for capturing action, and the autofocus system, while not the fastest, is reliable for most situations.
The Fujifilm X-Pro2, however, takes performance to another level. Its continuous shooting rate of 8fps with full autofocus is impressive, making it suitable for fast-paced action photography. The autofocus system is also highly accurate and fast, thanks to the hybrid viewfinder and advanced autofocus algorithms.

Features: A Symphony of Choices

The Canon EOS 700D comes with a standard set of features, including a built-in flash, a rotating LCD screen, and basic video recording capabilities. While it lacks advanced features like in-body image stabilization or 4K video, it offers a solid foundation for learning photography.
The Fujifilm X-Pro2, however, is packed with features that appeal to seasoned photographers. Its hybrid viewfinder, which blends optical and electronic views, offers a unique shooting experience. The camera also boasts film simulation modes that emulate classic film stocks, allowing you to create unique and artistic images.

Ergonomics and Design: A Matter of Preference

The Canon EOS 700D is a traditional DSLR with a comfortable grip and a well-laid-out button layout. Its design is familiar and easy to use, making it a good choice for beginners.
The Fujifilm X-Pro2, with its retro design and rangefinder-style hybrid viewfinder, offers a more unique and engaging shooting experience. Its compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable, while its weather-sealed body ensures durability.

Versatility: From Landscapes to Portraits

The Canon EOS 700D, with its versatile 18-135mm lens, is a good choice for everyday photography, covering a range of focal lengths suitable for landscapes, portraits, and general snapshots. However, the lens’s variable aperture and lack of sharpness at longer focal lengths might limit its potential for specific genres like wildlife photography.
The Fujifilm X-Pro2, paired with the prime Fujinon XF 35mm f/2 R WR lens, is a fantastic option for street photography, portraits, and low-light shooting. The fixed focal length forces you to think creatively about composition, while the fast aperture allows for shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for You

• Beginners: Its user-friendly interface and versatile lens make it easy to learn photography.
• Everyday shooting: The 18-135mm lens covers a wide range of focal lengths, making it suitable for various subjects.
• Budget-conscious photographers: It offers excellent value for money.

• Experienced photographers: Its advanced features and image quality appeal to seasoned users.
• Street photography and portraits: The prime lens and fast aperture provide exceptional sharpness and bokeh.
• Creative control: Film simulation modes and hybrid viewfinder allow for artistic exploration.

Choosing Your Photographic Path: Beyond the Specs

Ultimately, the best camera is the one that inspires you to create. Don’t get bogged down in technical specifications; consider your photographic interests, your budget, and your comfort level with different camera systems.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: What is the difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?
A: A DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) uses a mirror to reflect light through the viewfinder, while a mirrorless camera uses an electronic viewfinder or LCD screen. Mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and lighter, while DSLRs offer better battery life and viewfinder clarity.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Fujifilm X-Pro2, with its larger sensor and faster lens, generally performs better in low-light conditions. However, both cameras can produce decent results with appropriate settings.
Q: Can I upgrade the lens on the Canon EOS 700D?
A: Yes, the Canon EOS 700D is compatible with a wide range of Canon EF and EF-S lenses, offering flexibility in terms of focal length and aperture.
Q: What are the pros and cons of a prime lens vs a zoom lens?
A: Prime lenses offer sharper images and faster aperture, but they have a fixed focal length. Zoom lenses offer versatility but may compromise image quality and aperture.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Fujifilm X-Pro2 offers 4K video recording capabilities, while the Canon EOS 700D is limited to 1080p video. However, both cameras can produce decent video quality with proper settings.