My Fujifilm XF 100-400mm lens got a workout at “Friday Football with Futsal Tokyo.” Have I mixed up some sports here? No, I haven’t. They play both games.
This time, in February 2022, they played soccer. I went to Minami-Nagasaki Sports Center, which is not far from Shinjuku, to photograph them. It was another chance to use the big lens!
Fujifilm XF 100-400mm: Autofocus, sharpness, & handling
As the first 25-minute game started, I immediately put the lens to the test. After kickoff one of the players got the ball and made a break for the goal. I was impressed by how quickly the autofocus snapped onto him, tracking him across the field.
The resulting shots were very good, proving the image quality is definitely there. Even the bokeh was pleasing, soft and creamy.
In that first game I noticed two problems. The aperture ring felt a little stiff. One more problem was the weight.
At 1.426kg plus the camera weight, it was heavy, especially as you need to hold that long lens outstretched for the entire game. It started me thinking if I should start exercising to build some muscle.
Eventually, my worries faded away. After games over the next few months, my muscles adjusted, and I got used to the lens. Now that we’ve talked about the lens, let’s look at Friday Football.
Interested in playing? Friday Football rules
Friday football with Futsal Tokyo is a 2-hour social sports event. Depending on the numbers, teams consist of either eleven or eight-a-side. The session consists of four games, each lasting twenty-five minutes. For ¥1000, it is great value.
The group is a mix of locals and those from overseas. First-time players are requested to message organizer Matthew about their football background (so he can balance the teams in advance). It’s all straightforward to do. Here are the rules:
- Kick-offs are from the center at the start and after goals.
- Throw-ins from the side.
- 4 meters between the sideline ball and opposing players.
- There are no back-passes, but players can pass the ball to the keeper.
- Slide tackles are not allowed. But sliding is okay to block, collect the ball, or pass.
- As it is a social event, players referee their games.
- Sportsmanship – aggressive, threatening, or irresponsible players will be ejected from the game. This includes behavior on the sidelines.
- Take a smile!
Is this the lens for you?
All in all, it was a great day. The skill level of the players was a delight to watch. I’m sure many of them have played the game for a long time. See the Futsal Tokyo’s Meetup page if you want to join them. I’m sure you won’t regret playing with them. They are great people.
If you are into the Fujifilm X-series and looking for a long zoom, check out the XF 100-400. Just be prepared for two things. First is the cost; this isn’t a cheap lens. You’ll be looking at around USD2500 to purchase it.
Second, as I mentioned, the lens is heavy, so I’d recommend either hitting the gym or investing in a monopod.
What’s your favorite lens for sports photography? Tell us about it in the comments section. To see more Tokyo football, look at [Kanto Celts vs. Pumas FC at YC&AC in Photos].