Fujifilm X-H1 Studio Test

There was quite some buzz in the last days, after…

• imaging-resource posted its X-H1 lab tests showing better high ISO performance for X-H1 over X-T2
• ePHOTOzine said in their review that high ISO is better on X-H1 over X-T2

My own theory was (and still is), that Fujifilm fine tuned the image processing in JPEG files, and hence we see a difference on the X-H1 over the X-T2.

What is sure, is that at very high ISO there are some differences, mostly in favor of the X-H1, but not always.

Now also DPReivew has uploaded their studio lab test, where you can pixel peep again, and also compare the RAW images, as you can see below.

In RAW, the Fujifilm X-H1 does not show, IMO, any improvement over the X-T2. Actually in some cases at highest ISO values, I prefer a the results of the X-T2.

So it’s safe to assume that behind the improvement at high ISO in JPEG there is a fine tuned image processing.

Keep in mind that DPReview uses Adobe Photoshop to demosaic RAW files, which, out of the box with standard settings, is notoriously not the best option for X-Trans files.

I wish they would either adapt the import settings to X-Trans files (as we reported in our debunking X-Trans myths article), or add Iridient & other RAW converters to their lab tests, which do make a better job with X-Trans files out of the box.

By sticking to Adobe default settings, every X-Trans file will always be a bit less sharp than it is when using the default settings of other converters. The ultimate “fair” comparison would be to offer the option to select also the RAW converter along with the camera model. Something like the image below.

Fujifilm X-H1: BHphoto, AmazonUS, Adorama, Focuscamera
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Fujifilm X-H1 Coverage: X-H1 facebook group + X-H1 facebook Page

Laowa

There is definitely grabbing the attention of the Fujifilm world lately, not only thanks to the launch of the Laowa 9mmF2.8 Zero-D (hands on report here).

Also Fujifilm GFX can look forward to the Laowa Magic Format Converter, which allows you to adapte your Canon and Nikon full frame lenses onto the Fujifilm GFX without any vignetting.

Laowa Magic Format Conveter for Canon / Nikon: BHphoto, AmazonUS, Adorama

& More

Now only Laowa. There are other emerging brands that add lenses and accessories to the Fujifilm X and GFX system. The Japanese site dc.watch visted Kipon, Mitakon, Fringer and more at CP+, and shared some images that you can see down below.

Kipon for Fujifilm

Kipon Canon EF to Fujifilm X Smart adapter

Not only Steelsring and Fringer… also Kipon will be offering its own Canon EF to Fujifilm X smart adapter soon.

We already reported about them here, and there will be several options:

• EF-FX AF – 298USD (optically improved. New production from better optic supplier)
• Baveyes EF-FX AF 0.7x – 428USD (focal reducer, or “speedbooster”)
• EF-GFX AF – 298USD

Now Cinema5D met the Kipon guys at the CP+, and they present the new smart adapters by Kipon. You can see the video here. They say the Canon EF to Fuji X smart adapters will start shipping at the end of March/beginning of April

Especially the “speedbooster” version sounds very interesting.

Here is an overview of the current or soon to be available smart adapters for Fujifilm

• Techart (Canon EF-GFX)
• Steelsring (Canon EF-Fuji X, Canon EF-GFX, Nikon F-GFX, Nikon F-Fuji X)
• Fringer (Contax 645-GFX, Canon EF-Fuji X)
• Kipon (Canon EF-GFX, Baveyes EF-FX AF 0.7x, Canon EF-Fuji X, Contax 645-GFX)

Fujifilm X-H1 Auto ISO Bug?

The Fujifilm X-H1 has just been released, and our hyperactive Fujifilm X-H1 facebook community found a possible bug. Auto ISO settings keep reset to factory settings if you use the Q Menu. Also FR-reader contacted me via email to report me this (thanks).

Here are three reports:

JASON: Hi all. So I’m wondering if this is a new setting or user error or a bug but I’m finding that the three auto iso settings keep defaulting back to their factory settings and don’t keep my settings? This happens only when I switch between my custom settings in the Q menu. Doesn’t happen with my X-T2’s. Anyone else found this?

JOSH: Is anyone else having a bug where their Auto ISO presets reset after the camera is turned off and on?

TORSTEN: I found a bug! I customized my Auto-ISO settings, but after changing / switching to another C-Setting (C1-C7) the Auto-ISO is resetting to the default values

Fujifilm X-H1 Lock-Ups

There are some reports at our group about lock-ups.

So far it seems lock ups happen mostly to people, who use different SD-cards to those recommended by Fujifilm. Using Fujifilm recommended SD-cards fixed the issue for them. So make sure you use SD-cards appoved by Fujifilm for the X-H1. You can see the list here.

Additionally, FR-readers could expand this list by posting their working (exact) SD-Card Model in the comments. Thanks Frank.

However, some X-H members, like Peter here, say “I have approved cards and faster than approved cards and still experience the lockups however I’ve noticed a correlation to what shutter mode I’m using and since the shutter mechanism is a new element in the technology it makes sense that it may be the cause. At least from my findings. Trying to see if others are experiencing the same thing“.

Besides the Fujifilm recommended SD-Cards, make sure to use the correct NP-W126S batteries (and not NP-W126 – orginal or third party).

And of course, comment and give feedback… you know Fujifilm manager read (and even love) us.

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3 Observations I Made When I Took My Medium Format On the Road That Will Have Me Taking It Out Again

guest post by Greg Pai – You can follow Greg on his photographingGOD Photography webSIGHT and Instagram

Fujifilm GFX 50S + GF lens (save $1,000): BHphoto, Adorama, AmazonUS
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The goal posts of camera technology are being moved every day. When I say portraiture, you say higher resolution. When I say sports; you say faster, more accurate autofocus performance. When I say weddings and events, you say increased ISO sensitivity. And, when I say journalistic or street photography, you say medium format? Not really…

Most pros relegate medium format to studio, landscape, or tripod-mounted applications and more ergonomic formats for journalistic style photography. So, it was typical that I would pack my Leica gear for a recent one month assignment through the Mekong (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam).

However, at the last minute, I was somehow compelled to swap it out for my medium format Fuji GFX 50s system taking up nearly 3 times the space. What was I thinking? Well, I wasn’t thinking straight for sure. But that is how some of the most remarkable things happen in life (Like when my wife said “Yes”)!

My last minute decision was partially influenced by the fact that image technology across sensor types (e.g., Crop, Full-Frame, and Medium) is converging rapidly and the features are blurring between such systems. So, at some point in the near future, I suspect these choices will be made for me anyway by process of elimination. I suppose I also wanted to test my patience and persistence. But, there was also an element of surprise I was seeking. I really wanted to see what this thing could do in the field under varied conditions and over a lengthy assignment.

Suffice to say, I was exceptionally pleased by the potential of the Fuji GFX 50S medium format in the field and hope that the following observations are an inspiration to all who are (i) facing decisions about upsizing or downsizing formats, (ii) interested in my approach to journalistic photography, or (iii) wanting to simply experience the beauty of the people and colors of the Mekong.

1. Medium format is too heavy and bulky for journalism and street photography; Or is it?