Chapter 1: The Frugal Photographer's Quest

This narrative begins, as many do, with my penchant for thriftiness. As is often the case, my DIY projects yielded surprising results. Central to this story is the Fujifilm X100V digital camera, a device I've been enamored with since it arrived over a year ago. It features a fixed 35mm lens, ideal for about 90% of my photography needs.

However, no relationship is without its challenges. There were moments when I yearned for a slightly wider view; a 28mm lens would be perfect. Fujifilm had just the solution: the WCL-X100 II wide conversion lens, boasting a 0.8X magnification and glowing reviews that labeled it "an essential accessory."

Yet, the downside was its steep price of $350 plus tax. Adding a 50mm lens would push my total expenditure beyond $700. So, I reluctantly closed the tab and returned to my work.

A few days later, while rummaging through one of my photography accessory drawers (often dismissed as a junk drawer), I stumbled upon a hidden gem. Everything in this drawer holds potential value, even if it’s not immediately apparent.

For instance, I rediscovered my Canon wide converter WC-DC58 0.8X optic, which had been idle since 2001. Originally purchased for a Canon G1 with a 34mm lens, it was time for this stunning optic to see the light again.

Could it possibly work with my Fujifilm? I initially doubted it but decided to give it a shot. The WC-DC58 has 58mm threads, while my Fujifilm uses a 49mm adapter. I searched for a 49mm to 58mm step-up ring but found none. Instead, I discovered two rings that could be used together to create the connection. This fortuitous discovery would soon prove beneficial.

I connected everything, powered up the camera, and peered through the electronic viewfinder. “Not bad,” I thought. After capturing a few images and transferring them to my computer, I was pleasantly surprised by the results.

They were stunning—truly breathtaking.

Recalling that my X100V has lens conversion settings, I navigated to them and selected “wide.” This adjustment ensured that the metadata reflected the correct focal length, and the optical viewfinder was perfectly calibrated for framing.

I pushed my testing further, searching for any flaws. The only issue I found was a minor degradation in detail at f/2, which was only noticeable when magnified and cleared up by f/4. As I mentioned, no partner is without its imperfections.

A quick search on eBay revealed the WC-DC58 for about $30, while step-up rings could be acquired for under $10—ideal for anyone who also owns an X100V.

Interestingly, I decided to try a single 49mm to 58mm adapter for convenience. However, the images it produced were not as sharp or wide as those from my two-ring setup. This highlights how slight variations in distance between the original lens and adapter can significantly impact results. For now, I’m sticking with the two-ring configuration.

And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, I also discovered the Tele-Converter TC-DC58, which offers 1.5X magnification, hiding in the same drawer.

Sometimes, fortune truly smiles upon the prepared.

Chapter 2: Discovering Forgotten Treasures

The first video, titled "Forgotten Treasures! Cash hiding in your draft chaff," explores the unexpected finds that can emerge when you least expect them.

The second video, "Forgotten Treasure - Sovereign's Finery Chest," delves into the allure of uncovering hidden gems in your photography equipment.