Smaller (X20 alike), cheaper, WiFi, better and tiltableLCD screen and a faster processor (EXR Processor II of the X100S). If all this is enough for you to justify the missing viewfinder, then here is where you can buy the brand new X-M1!
[UDPATE] MJr carefully read the official FujiUSA page about the X-M1 and noted this: ” ISO100 – 25600 Sensitivity setting range Select from the broad sensitivity range of ISO100 – 25600 for shooting at a full 16-megapixel resolution. The FUJIFILM X-M1 also lets you set the AUTO ISO range (up to ISO 400 – 6400) and the shutter speed limit. For quick access to ISO settings, you can assign this function to the Fn or Q Button.” Is that what we all waited for? Read it here.
On 25th June and on 23rd July Fuji will upgrades the firmware. They will provide improved AF performance for all Fujinon XF lenses and add a ‘Focus Peak Highlight’ function for manual focusing. Check the firmware update site here. More details at dpreview here. Read Fuji’s announcement here.
dpreview conclusions: “it looks very much as though it might be one of the most usable, photographer-friendly small mirrorless cameras on the market. Other companies have generally made their small models as externally-simple as possible, for fear of driving away beginners, but Fujifilm has instead gone ahead and covered the X-M1 with more controls than you’ll find on some entry-level SLRs. We’re not sure if it’s the smallest twin-dial interchangeable lens camera ever made, but it has to be close. […] Overall, then, the X-M1 combines a compact form factor with proper twin-dial controls, Fujifilm’s lovely JPEG colour rendition, and a full range of exposure modes which means it can be used by a novice while still offering enough manual control to keep enthusiasts happy. The new XC 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 kit zoom offers a usefully wider-angle view than typical 18-55mm kit zooms, and impressively fast focusing. This makes for a pretty mouth-watering package that looks very close to the Olympus PEN E-P5 at a distinctly lower price point”
VIDEOS
FIRMWARE press release
FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Shigehiro Nakajima) today announces the release of two new firmware updates for the FUJIFILM X-Pro1 and X-E1 compact system cameras, one on 25thJune and a further one on 23rd July.
25th June firmware update:
FUJIFILM X-Pro1 Ver.2.05, FUJIFILM X-E1 Ver.1.06
1. Additional functionality to improve “one-handed” camera operation
A ‘Focus Frame Selection’ option has been added to the ‘Fn’ (function) button.
This offers easier/quicker operation when setting the Focus Frame Selection using only your right hand.
A second ‘Fn’ button can be allocated.
This enables you to allocate a function to the selector “down” button. The default setting is ‘Focus Frame Selection’ but this can be changed to whatever suits your shooting style.
2. Enable aperture control for lenses without aperture rings (XF27mmF2.8 / XC16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OIS)
If you are using either of these lenses which do not feature aperture ring, this firmware update allows you to adjust the aperture setting by using the command dial.
23rd July firmware update:
FUJIFILM X-Pro1 Ver.3.00, FUJIFILM X-E1 Ver.2.00
1. Improvement of AF speed. Improves AF speed on all existing XF lenses, thanks to the updated algorithm throughout the full range of focal length. Lenses covered:
XF14mm F2.8 R
XF18mmF2 R
XF35mmF1.4 R
XF60mmF2.4 R Macro
XF18-55mmF2.8-4 R LM OIS
NOTES:
The AF Speed on the XF55-200mmF3.5-4.8 R MS OIS lens has been already optimised.
For all lenses other than the XF55-200mmF3.5-4.8 R MS OIS, the firmware for each lens must be also updated.
2. ‘Focus Peak Highlight’ function for manual focusing
A ‘Focus Peak Highlight’ function, which features on the X100S and X20 cameras, can be added via this firmware update. It assists accurate and sensitive manual focusing by enhancing the outline of your subject in high contrast.
3. Improvement in ‘Checking Focus’ operation: how to change magnification ratio in manual focusing
The process to check focus by selecting manual focus magnification has improved. Just press and rotate the dial right or left and the camera will alternate magnification between 3x and then 10x , whichever way you continue to turn it.
To download the new firmware files & instructions on upgrading your cameras:
Please visit Fujifilm’s global website: http://www.fujifilm.com/support/digital_cameras/software/
– FR-reader Sabino just started his travel to Morocco. He will try to update his blog daily. Check out his first post, “Morocco on the road, with my Fuji X-E1, here’s what I carry…” here. You can see images of other travels here.
“All pictures taken with Fujifilm X-E1 and 35mm f/1.4 lens. This set proved to be a very handy travel companion. Lightweight, simple, yet powerful. Having only one prime lens allowed me to pay attention to what I was seeing instead of what I was carrying with me. I could embrace the rich and colorful Balinese Hindu culture without getting distracted.” Check out jakubpuchalski’s shots in Bali here.
“[X100S] I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed this camera on this trip. Here in America, everyone thinks bigger is better. Everyone and their mothers have that mentality. They think big black DSLR’s are the only things that produce great images. It was cool being in Japan surrounded by people using a variety of cameras. I saw a lot of mirror-less users while i was there and for some reason, I liked that. Not saying there’s anything wrong with DSLR’s, I love my nikon camera, but when it comes to traveling, I don’t want my equipment slowing me down. With such great mirror-less options now, I don’t see how anyone travels with big heavy cameras anymore. But that’s just me.“
“I left my job as an advertising Creative Director in August 2012 to travel Africa and South America for a year with my wife, documenting these beautiful places with my Fuji X-Pro1.” Follow this blog here.
Dealsrunner notified me: the XF 55-200 is now in stock at ebayUS. There are just 7 available at the top rated reseller cameraland. If you waited for it, just click here and get it!
And here is the anti-deal. Do you want a Fuji X100S but pay it like a Leica? Then consider to purchase it via sunset-electronics at ebayUS here. There is only one available.
1) Well, normally promotional videos aren’t the most exciting thing to watch. But this time Fujifilm has chosen Max Angeloni (riflessifotografici) for the promotional video of the 55-200. Just one sentence to present himself, another one for his city Rome, and then you will see Max working with the XF 55-200 in real life and many different conditions: interior shots, on the street, in the studio, in low light, you’ll see crops and hear about the strengths of this lens etc (Max really knows his job!)… and it’s all packed in a 2 minutes and 44 seconds snappy video and soundtrack appositely composed for this promo by Andrea Camilletti! Really not bad for a promotional video. But check it out by yourself by clicking here.
2) Jim Siano hands on the 55-200 here: “It is very sharp […] Much has been made of Fuji’s focus speed with the X-series of cameras… DSLRs are light speeds ahead. At least on a positive note, the accuracy of the autofocus is great. […] I can wholeheartedly recommend this lens for anyone with the X bodies that needs a zoom. As long as you are not anticipating shooting sports, this is a superb piece of engineering. And at US$ 699, it is incredible value.”
