Announced: Tele-conversion lens for the Fujifilm X100/X100S + New Accessories for the FUJIFILM X-T1

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Long rumored and finally announced: the Tele-conversion lens for the Fujifilm X100/100S. Read the official announcement of the TCL-X100 at Fuji’s website here. It’s listed at BHphoto (Click here). They also announced the MHG-XT Metal Hand Grip for X-T1 which is also on preorder at BHphoto (Click here). TheGB-001 Grip strap, the X-T1 Extended eyecup EC-XT and the X-T1 Cover kit CVR-XT (all not on preorder yet). Read more about the new accessories here.

Accessories press release

Fujifilm is pleased to announce the launch of a series of new accessories for its premium mirrorless X-T1 camera; two handgrips, a grip strap, an extended eyecup, and a coverkit for its sync terminal, hot shoe and vertical battery grip terminal.

1) X-T1 Handgrips: MHG-XT Large and MHG-XT Small

Key product features:

  • Integral design and reliable components
    The handgrip consists of a base-plate milled from aluminum block and a grip which is designed to integrate perfectly with the camera body. Its precision design shows in its stylish silhouette which provides a firm hold, and additional robustness.

    • * The MHG-XT Large sports a larger grip than the existing MHG-XT, while the MHG-XT Small is a base-only model, to be coupled with one of four grips available, including the vertical battery grip VG-XT1, according to usage and preference.
  • Optimum balance with sufficient clearance from the base of the camera body when using a large-diameter lens
    The handgrip offers an additional 8mm clearance from the base of the camera body so as to prevent large-diameter lenses such as XF23mm or XF55-200mm from interfering with a tripod head.
  • Access to the battery / memory card slot when the handgrip is attatched.
    There is no need to remove the MHG-XT Large or MHG-XT Small handgrip to open the camera’s battery cover, providing speedy access to the battery or memory card even while the handgrip is mounted on a tripod.
[Image] Access to the battery / memory card slot when the handgrip is attatched.
  • Enhanced operability while using a tripod
    The handgrip has a tripod socket, carefully positioned so that the rotation axis of the tripod is aligned with the optical axis of the lens to ensure panning and framing free of rotation displacement. The base also features a 38mm-wide protrusion that acts as a quick-release dovetail plate for use with a dovetail tripod mount.
[Image] Enhanced operability while using a tripod
[Image] FUJIFILM MHG-XT Large, MHG-XT Large with X-T1
[Image] FUJIFILM MHG-XT Small, MHG-XT Small with X-T1
2) X series Grip strap: GB-001

The grip strap enhances the camera’s hold, allowing users to carry the camera firmly with just one hand. The camera can be also fitted with a shoulder strap at the same time.

Compatible products:
X-T1
X-T1 with MHG-XT / MHG-XT Large / MHG-XT Small / VG-XT1
X-E2
X-E2 with MHG-XE / HG-XE1
X-Pro1
X-Pro1 with HG-XPro1 / MHG-XPro1
X-E1
X-E1 with MHG-XE / HG-XE1
X-M1
X-M1 with HG-XM1
X-A1
X-A1 with HG-XM1
X-S1
HS50
X100
X100S
[Image] FUJIFILM GB-001, GB-001 with X-T1
3) X-T1 Extended eyecup: EC-XT L

The dome-shaped eyecup effectively shields light, making it easier to see the viewfinder.
The soft material also improves the fit for users shooting with the naked eye or with glasses.

[Image] FUJIFILM EC-XT L, EC-XT L with X-T1
4) X-T1 Cover kit: CVR-XT

The replacement cover kit contains three covers – one for the sync terminal, another for the hot shoe and another for the vertical battery grip terminal ensuring users can easily replace any of these covers if lost.

[Image] FUJIFILM CVR-XT

TCL-X100 Press Release

Fujifilm is proud to announce the launch of the TCL-X100, a tele-conversion lens designed specifically for the FUJIFILM X100 and X100S cameras. The lens attaches directly onto the camera and increases picture taking versatility by multiplying the fixed focal length by approx. 1.4×, converting it from 23mm (35mm in 35mm equivalent) to a 33mm fixed focal length (50mm in 35mm equivalent).

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Superb optical quality and maximum versatility

This is Fujifilm’s second conversion lens for the X100 and X100S cameras and follows on from the WCL-X100 wide-conversion lens. Both conversion lenses offer Fujifilm’s supreme optical quality and are created by the same experts who designed the X100/X100S’s lens. The TCL-X100 delivers high image quality even at the F2.0 wide aperture setting, retaining the original optical characteristics.

This optical excellence is underlined by the fact that the TCL-X100 is manufactured in Japan, allowing Fujifilm engineers to guarantee precision and quality in every component. The optical construction uses four premium glass elements in four groups to keep aberrations to a minimum and also employs Fujinon’s unique Super EBC coating for outstanding results.

Image processing optimizes picture quality

Achieving the very best results from the TCL-X100 is simple; just select the ‘Tele- Conversion Lens’ option in the FUJIFILM X100/X100S’s shooting menu. To enable this extra functionality, the camera must update the firmware(X100:ver2.10 or later /X100S:ver1.20 or later) which also allows the option to be selected via the function (Fn) button.

If you select ‘Tele’ in the “Conversion Lens” option, the FUJIFILM X100 and X100S cameras automatically apply image processing to shots taken using the TCL-X100, reducing image distortion, ensuring balanced illumination across the frame and reducing chromatic aberration commonly found in tele-conversion lenses. In practice, the TCL-X100 enhances the functionality of the FUJIFILM X100/X100S. Its 14cm of minimum focusing distance enables you powerful macro photography and it is also compatible with the FUJIFILM X100/X100S’s hybrid viewfinder. With the optical viewfinder (OVF) selected, icons showing the edge of the frame are displayed, while selecting the electronic viewfinder (EVF) gives users a 100% field of view.

The perfect match for the FUJIFILM X100/X100S

The design of the TCL-X100 has been carefully considered to ensure it blends seamlessly with the look and feel of the cameras. It is manufactured using the same materials, textures, colors and finishes as the X100 and X100S.

Available in two colors: silver and black

[Image]
Fujifilm wide conversion lens TCL-X100: key features
  • Approx. 1.4× magnification factor to convert X100/X100S lens to 50mm normal angle (35mm equivalent)
  • All glass optical construction using four elements in 4 groups
  • Fujinon Super EBC coating
  • “Made in Japan” for optimum quality
  • Available in silver and black

Leaving the DSLR world behind: “Working with the X100S has totally changed my vision of how I see things and shoot them”

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Stockografie (Zeiss Touit 50mm + X-T1)

FR-reader Daniel shared some images taken with his brand new Zeiss Touit 50mm 1:1 macro lens (mounted on a Fuji X-T1) on the Fujirumors facebook wall here. (The lens should be available in late April and is can be pre-ordered at BHphoto and Adorama.)

If you also have some favorite X-shots to share, feel free to use the facebook wall. Or just check it out and push the like button on the images you like most. The most liked pics will be featured in the next X-shooter facebook zone.

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Thierry Nguyen

Hello Patrick.

I followed Fuji rumors for awhile and I have to admit that your feed have mostly helped me in my decision to totally switch. And thank you for that!

I was a DSLR shooter I’ve been Canon (7D, 5D) then switched to Nikon (D7000, D700). I switched to Fuji since 6 months with the X100S. I still kept my D700 in case of this little bad boy wouldn’t make it, and guess what :  My D700 stayed in his bag since all these times, and I think I won’t use it anymore. I use my X100S all the time, even for all my commissioned works.

To me the X100S equal the D700 and even, it performs better.

It’s not only about specs or image quality or design etc, but Fuji cameras have « un je ne sais quoi ».  I remember that there was some testimonies saying that the X100 had a soul, and I confirm that. Working with the X100S has totally changed my vision of how I see things and shoot them.

Here’s a sample of my works done with this little bad guy :-  www.nguyn.fr

–  for the Exif : http://500px.com/ThierryNguyen
Thank you again Patrick for keeping us updated about all Fuji news, you do a great job.
Cheers.

Thierry Nguyen

X-T1 – 23mm – 1/4000 secs – f/2.2- ISO200

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Çağlar Çakan

Hello Pat.

You like to feature Fuji X photographers so I thought I’d share my experiences and show off my street photography work.

I worked my way up on the Fuji X ladder. Our relationship started with the X10, I wanted to have a quality point and shoot for in addition to my DSLR. I figured that the OVF and the low profile was excellent for the kind of work I was beginning to explore, namely working on the streets. The long and slow walks I regularly do to explore the urban atmosphere in order to collect images where much easier due to the practically non-existing weight of this little camera. But I needed more as I figured that the X10 was getting my new tool of choice on the streets.

I got a X100 and that was a revelation. This camera is probably the most important camera I’ve ever had – it changed the way I shoot and ultimately the way I function on the street. No need to point out the excellent IQ – but with all my love for this camera it also has been a very frustrating relationship from time to time. IF the AF locks on, you will get the one-in-a-million chance to shoot this moment. IF the camera turns on in 2 seconds. IF the camera decides to wake up from sleep by a half button press. Although I believe the 23mm lens is the perfect focal length for street photography there have been times where a shot was impossible to get, mostly because the lens is not wide enough for some scenes.

I love the lens of the X100. It is a perfect street photographers tool (I bet the X100s even more so, I never used it). It is wide enough to give the viewer of a good photograph the impression to be right there in the middle of the scene and it is close enough to be able to photograph scenes from a reasonable, still small, distance to the subjects (which is always an issue, not only of courage, in street photography). I used one single focal length for almost a year. Exclusively.

Now that I didn’t touch my DSLR for a decade or so, I decided to replace it completely with a Fuji X-E1. I figured the X-E1 and the Kit zoom are the perfect companions for traveling where you have to adapt to many different situations, may it be street, forest, indoor or public spaces. You get outstanding IQ on the wide end with reasonable aperture of 2.8. For the first time I will leave my X100 at home and bring with me the X-E1 instead. I will have to carry a little bit more weight and size, I will miss the OVF and I won’t enjoy the absolute silence of the X100’s ninja-style shutter noise. But I hope I will bring good photos home. If you are interested in the stuff I do with the Fuji X system – most of which is shot on the streets of Berlin and Istanbul

visit my tumblr at http://ccakan.tumblr.com/

Çağlar Çakan

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Matt Russell

I just wanted to write to say I’ve enjoyed your work on the fujirumors website.  I find myself checking it once a day usually.

I am a long time DSLR user ([shoplink 16850 ebay]Canon 5D Mark II[/shoplink]) and shot medium format before that.  Fuji was my favorite film at that time.

With the addition of more kids I found it difficult lugging my DSLR kit with lenses around and having the time and free hands to take the shots I wanted.

I started hearing about the [shoplink 12883]X100S[/shoplink] earlier this year.  I finally bought one this month and took it on a family vacation and I can say I was extremely impressed with the sharpness, image quality, and size.  I barely noticed it hanging on my neck and images I got were on par with my DSLR.   I’m hooked on this little camera and look forward to taking it on more trips.  I was hesitant to leave my DSLR kit at home, but I feel really comfortable after seeing the shots I got with the X100s.

All of the shots on my website with the exception of the top gallery (Washington DC, December 2013) were taken with a Canon 5D Mark II with L lenses.  I found it hard to see a quality drop off for the majority of the shots I liked.

Check out the Washington DC gallery and the detail I’m getting.  All shots in this gallery (except the last one) were taken with the X100s.

www.mattrussellphoto.com

Great camera

Matt Russell
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Devin

Hi, just like to share a set of images i took with the x100s when i was in China in May 2013. Places include Shenzhen & Jiangxi Nanchang. (website)

Thanks

Devin

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Daniel Korzeniewski

Hey Patrick,

I am back from Myanmar, took along the [shoplink 19911]Nikon D4[/shoplink] and the [shoplink 17992]Fuji X-E2[/shoplink], I really had a wonderful time and moving forward I am just going to travel with the X system, this is my second Fuji, just upgraded from the X-E1. Although used both cameras during the trip it really doesn’t make sense to carry big gear and lenses anymore, the IQ of the Fuji is superb, ended up using the Kit lens most of the time, and I am very excited with the new lenses coming up.

Here is a link from a post from the Street Market, that I shoot entirely with the X-E2, and also attached 2 photos you can use for X-Shooter Section if you like. http://danielkorzeniewskiphoto.com/street-market-yangon-myanmar/

If you have any question, please don’t hesitate to contact me, and thank you for running the site, I keep an eye on it every day.

Daniel Korzeniewski

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miXed zone: switch to the Fuji X-T1, self made bamboo hand grip for the X-T1 and more

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image courtesy: www.street-photography-workshops.com

1) X-shooter and Pro-photographer Craig Litten is holding a workshops that could help you to “Take Your Work to the Next Level” (New Orleans from May 1 to 4). Read the details here.

2) FR-reader Justin Balog asked me over at the Fujirumors facebook wall to link to a the “10 years Flickr photo walk”: “Patrick, we will be hosting a #flick10 photo walk here in Denver and there will be plenty of Fuji cameras to check out. Could you please share it with your community. The more the merrier!” Check it out here.

Fuji X-T1
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– Johan Stephan:

Hello Patrick

I´m a freelance photographer from Sweden. I have been following fujirumors for quite some time now and i have to say thank you for all the good work that you do.

A friend of mine went from [shoplink 14518]Nikon D800[/shoplink] and a bunch of good lenses for the X-PRO1 and all Fuji glass 20 months ago.

I know how much he loves that camera (and the X-T1 that he also got in his bag now.)
I have always loved the photos that he produces with his Fuji, but i found the X-PRO1 a bit slow for my taste.

A couple of months ago i tried the X-E2 with the XF-23, this was much faster but still not quite the camera i would replace my [shoplink 13457]5D Mark III[/shoplink] with.
But the size of the camera and the files from it got in to my head…

Then the X-T1 was revealed and i was hooked! Long before i could test it in any store i decided that this was the camera that would replace my Canon gear.
So i sold all Canon equipment and placed a pre order for the X-T1, XF-14, XF-23 and the lovely XF-56, then i just had to wait for it to arrive..

And when it did it just blow my mind, whats not to love with this set-up?
It still not as fast as the 5D Mark III but fast enough for me, the weight and the way it makes me photograph easily makes up for the loss of speed.

The only thing i wish for now is a prime lens equivalent to 135mm

Thought i´d share the first two series from my trip to Japan, this was the real first test for me and the X-T1.
Looking forward for upcoming family photo shoot later this month and then some weddings.

My site is in Swedish but i can tell you that i live in Gothenburg and prefer to shoot Family, Kids, weddings and Crossfit
But after this trip to Japan i have to add travel to that list, thanks to Fuji?

http://www.johanstephan.com/kyoto/ – http://www.johanstephan.com/tokyo-fiskmarknad/ – third part from Tokyo

– X-T1 with 56mm and 23mm – shooting with a model and pro wireless flash at the beach in California at f-sunny.

– Hans: “Not a rumor, but a fact. A quite favorable test of the X-T1 at http://www.akam.no issued today. Unfortunately in Norwegian.” Read the google translated version here.

– A wedding with the Fuji X-T1 + 14mm 2.8 + 23mm 1.4 + 35mm 1.4 + 56mm 1.2 at k-pture.

– The X-T1 is a “Photographer’s Camera” at thewanderinglensman: “I envy those who are using now it to create the types of images that don’t have the issues I saw.  I will wait patiently for the siren song of the X-T1 to call to me again in the future when the demosaicing issues are fully resolved.  And when she does, I will be sending in my hard earned money for another one.”

– Fuji X-T1 shoots Lingerie editorial… at karlbratbyphotographer.

– Fuji X-T1 and wireless triggers (for off-camera flash) at danielkcheung. For his article From Canon to Fujifilm : a wedding photographer’s deliberation click here:There is still much improvement to be had with Fujifilm. The X-T1 is most certainly promising. Fuji have invested into a pretty strong lens line up so my previous reservation with typical crop body systems is no longer valid. The AF is good but not great. The ergonomics of the X-T1 is probably not the best for wedding photography; but it works. I can use my Phottix Strato II wireless triggers for off-camera flash. With a hack, I can use my existing Yongnuo YN560-II speedlights as on-camera flashes. With 95mb/s Sandisk Extreme Pro cards, I don’t run into buffer problems too often (I tend to shoot in CH on wedding assignments). And the lenses are fantastic.”

– Fuji X-T1 in the hands of a woman and a Boudoir Photographer at fabyandcarlo: “I have recently met the magic of the new Fuji X-T1 and the Fuji completely new way of connecting with photographers onto a level that no camera company had done before and I fell in love. The Fuji X-T1 is the result of a concerted effort to produce true magic and give total freedom to professional photographers to be creative without hassle. Effortlessly. Efficiently. Easily. The new Fuji X-T1 is a beautiful tool that can create nothing less than pure love. I used to be a Canon shooter, but I am officially not anymore. Now I am a totally Fuji lover and supporter.”

– Fujifilm X-T1 Review: The X Series Taken to The Next Level at findingrange: “The Fuji X-T1 retains the magic, the great qualities, and the excellent performance, especially in image quality that have made past X Series models successful.  On top of this foundation, it also adds many features that include but are not limited to weather sealing, a technically advanced viewfinder, enhanced AF capabilities, and better manual focusing aids.  All of this adds up to a camera that is exceptionally capable, hugely fun to use, highly involving, and best of all, makes you want to go out and shoot.  As the culmination of a series of cumulative improvements, as of now, I feel that the Fuji X-T1 occupies a well-deserved place at the head of the series.”

– X-T1 tested in a variety of situations at mikecroshaw: “Overall I love this camera.  I’ve owned and used a 5d mk3 and a D800.  While I appreciated their power, I didn’t really enjoy using them the same way I do this camera.  The DSLR gear has now gone, with the XT-1 I was finally able to totally make the switch to the Fuji system with confidence.”

– Wesley Leung: “Would like to share some news related to X-T1.  I’m the webmaster for cam-er-a.com and the site currently has the X-T1 as camera of the month.” See more here.”

– No hand grip in stock? Then make it by yourself. See more at Patrick Pecoraro’s google+ account. (The original Fuji metal hand grips can be pre-ordered at AmazonUS, BHphoto and Adorama).

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– TheFashionPages (street looks a go go / moda bambini kids photography / moda bambini): “Actor/Director Jason Priestly and daughter Ava (age 6) photographed with a Fujifilm X-T1 (+ 18-55) at the Palm Beach International Film Festival Wrap Party at Cinemark 20 in Boca Raton, Florida yesterday for Moda Bambini Magazine.

Jason Priestly

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XF 56mm f/1.2
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 – One month shooting with the Fuji 1,2/56mm Lens at joshmcleodphotography: “I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending this lens (and the X-T1) to anyone. If I had to pick just one lens out of all the Camera and Lens combos I currently own the Fuji 1,2/56mm lens (and the X-T1) would be it. I know it’s not the cheapest lens on the market but it is far from the most expensive (the comparable Panasonic Noctitron 1,2/42.5 for m43 Cameras is about $600 more) and in terms of value for money I would say it is one of the best value fast primes on the market.”

– 56mm f/1.2 Lens real world review by Fashion/Portrait photographer, Brian McNamara here: “It took what seemed like an eternity for Fujifilm to finally deliver this lens (I think it was originally announced as a f/1.4 almost two years ago). But now that it’s here, it definitely does not disappoint. It delivers where it counts. Quick, accurate AF and sharp. Really sharp! I would rank this lens above my Canon 50mm f/1.2 L, and it’s significantly cheaper.”

– 56mm and a wedding at k-pture (translation from French).

X-E2
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 – Landscape & Long exposure with the X-E2 at daniellevitarbophotography: “Over the years, I have honed in on my skills and style of photography. I enjoy long exposure work, landscape work, and adventure photography. All things you wouldn’t expect from the Fujifilm line up with their rangefinder looks and stellar street performance. Ever since the X cameras came along, I have been obsessed with mirror-less cameras. It is the future people! Who doesn’t love not having to carry DSLR’s and big heavy lenses? This gal! Whether I’m climbing up the side of a mountain, walking along the beach, or setting up the perfect shot, the Fujifilm X-E2 always gets the job done for me.”

– Kiawah Island, Fuji XE2, and the iRay at tonysweet: “Those who use digital IR are most likely aware of the infamous “hot spot” using some lenses. As I’m still learning using the Fuji lenses and how they react with the iRay filter, the image series above illustrates that the kit lens (which is outstanding, BTW) 18-55mm creates a huge, dense hot spot with flare. I managed to get it to work to a point, but it was prevalent. Needless to say, I’ll be moving on to test other lenses in the Fuji series for Infrared

– Fujifilm X-E2 Australian Review: Photography, Back To Basics at gizmodo: “There was a time back in the mid-1970s — around about the era of the Canon AE-1 — when photography was simple. Automatic exposure made taking good pictures easier than ever before, and cameras were getting cheaper by the day without sacrificing design or build quality. Some time in the new millenium, with the birth of mirrorless, things got complicated, and cheap cameras felt cheap. The Fujifilm X-E2 is a breath of fresh air — it’s easy to use, and built very sturdily, but doesn’t skimp on cutting-edge features.”

X-PRO1
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Luke Bhothipiti: “Hey Patrick, Long time reader and Fuji shooter.  I just wanted to share a couple of documentary and street projects I’ve recently been working on that fully utilize the X-Pro1, 23mm and 35mm lenses. The first is a photodocumentary series that depicts Floridian firearms owners.  The second is a selection from a very long running series I’ve been shooting about Daytona Beach Bike Week. Links to both galleries on my site are listed below.” Gallery 1 / Gallery 2

– April 6th, 2014 … Fuji X-Pro 1 … Andre’ & Garry hit the Streets at streetshooter.

lenses

[shoplink 23472 ebay] photo marius_zps645e46e8.jpg[/shoplink]

XF 14mm for $699 at [shoplink 23472 ebay]ebay here[/shoplink].

– REVIEW: Fujinon XF 18mm f2R – The best all round X Series lens? at macleancomms: “The Fujinon XF18mm f2R is a superb lens and my favourite of the five lenses I own for the X-Series system. Why it gets overlooked in favour of the wider or faster lenses that are available is frankly a shame. I was of the same opinion when I got my X-Pro1 system and thought the 14mm f2.8 would be my wide angle lens of choice but the reality when I started to use the system in the real world was not as I expected. I consider the 18mm f2 an essential part of my Fuji system and I wont leave home without it in the camera bag or in my pocket.”

RAW-conversion

– Cherry Blossoms with the Fuji X-E1 and the New Fuji Colour Profiles in Lightroom 5.4 at thomasfitzgeraldphotography: “Adobe have finally added colour profiles for all the standard picture modes that come on Fuji’s cameras, including Provia, Astia and of course Velvia. For these shots, there could be no other choice – I had to go with the Velvia!”

– Image Comparisons from the X-T1 and E-M1 with Adobe’s Final Version of ACR and Lightroom at thewanderinglensman.

Lightzone (click here) project improving support for Fuji cameras in new beta build, including X-T1.