Please save me from insanity 23mm f2 vs F1.4r

[crazyfields]

First post here but long time fuji shorter.

I use the XT2 with the 23mm f2 / 35mm 1.4 / 16-80mm f4

I'm considering the 23mm f1.4 r (Non-WR)

About me:

- I shoot black and white only.

- I like macro details to wide open landscapes and everything in-between.

- I shoot mostly for art, intrigue and creativity of the image.

My question - is the 23mm f1.4 going to offer me any meaningful difference over the f2 for the above scenarios

Thanks and sorry for bringing it up again...

Edited 4 hours ago by crazyfields

[George_P]

I don’t have the 23 f2 but I have read several times that it is considered a little soft at close distance, compared to the 23 f1.4 lenses. These will also focus at shorter distance from the subject, esp. the new one. So that might make a difference.

The new 23 f1.4 LM WR  has better resolution, esp. in regard to the 40Mpix sensors, which you don’t have on the X-T2. What practical difference that makes for the value of the pictures one makes is disputable and subjective. 

f1.4 will gather more light but with a smaller DOF, which may be desirable in some situations but not so in others, depends. If you like to shoot close ups, you will probably use higher f numbers to get a bigger DOF. Same for landscapes. If you are a bokeh fan, yes the f1.4 lens are better. 

The older 23 f1.4 lens that you are considering is a very good and respected lens. The f1.4 vs f2 aperture per se is perhaps not so important. The 23 f2 is very small, light and practical and a great lens for travel and landscapes. So, go figure. I am afraid I just sent you further down the road to insanity !