First Look: Fujifilm X30

PRE-ORDERS (and support FR)

Today you can support my work here on Fujirumors. If you choose to pre-order it using one of the shoplinks in this post, FR will get a small commission on it. It won’t cost you a single penny extra on your X30. Thanks in advance to those who decide to support this FR… because it’s your support that keeps this blog running.

Fujifilm X30: USA: BHphoto / Adorama / AmazonUS / BestBuy /   EUROPE: wexUK / wexDE / PCHstore /

LIVE BLOGGING HERE

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First Look: Fujifilm X30

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)

Fuji X Secrets Workshops – Rico’s Flickr Sets

The Fujifilm X-E2: Beyond the Manual – Rico’s X30 Sample Images – X30 Specs

[UPDATE: if you want to read this first look in German, click here]

With the release of my new ebook in the X-E2 finally out of the way, I’m happy to preview Fuji’s first “third generation” X camera: the Fujifilm X30. This is a weirdly interesting device: When it comes to features and usability, it is Fuji’s most advanced camera to date, easily leaving the X-E2 and even X-T1 behind. So even if you aren’t interested in buying or using a compact camera with a 2/3″ sensor, this camera is worth a look, as its new features will also appear in future X-series models with larger sensors.

SOOC JPEG

Click here to access my album of 100 sample images taken with prototype and pre-productions cameras using beta firmware. These samples also include several sets comparing all eleven film simulations.

With the exception of a missing built-in ND filter, this little camera isn’t holding back with features that will please many X enthusiasts.

Here we go: The X30 features the same “real-time”, 2.36 M-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) as the X-E2 (with only 0.005 seconds display lag), a 920 K-dot tilting LCD (twice the resolution of the X20), a multi-purpose lens control ring that can serve as a focus, aperture or shutter speed ring, a much improved user interface, better WYSIWYG capabilities (what you see is what you get) that include DR200%/DR400% previews, a dedicated RAW shooting mode, fast hybrid tracking AF, improved Instant-AF, multi-point Single-AF, six user-configurable Fn buttons, a fully configurable Quick menu, vastly improved movie/video options with full manual control, a critically improved JPEG engine with a new “Kodak-like” film simulation called Classic Chrome, wireless remote control and Instax printing, interval shooting for time-lapse photography, optional AF frame and spot metering frame coupling, ± 3 EV exposure compensation in manual mode when Auto-ISO is active (“misomatic”), and several more small but welcome improvements that make our life much easier. Phew!

Of course, the X30 is still using the same Fuji-engineered and Toshiba-built 2/3″ X-Trans sensor as its X20 predecessor, so if cameras with a sensor size below 1″ are beneath you, don’t bother reading any further. Or maybe do bother, because everything new that’s described in this preview will also be featured in Fuji’s upcoming APS-C camera models. So on second thought, this may just be the preview you’ve been looking for.

** CLICK HERE to Read the Rest of the Article **

Fujifilm X30 LIVE BLOGGING: pre-orders, press release, samples, first looks and more! (refresh this page for updates)

refresh this page for the latest updates

PRE-ORDERS (and support FR)

Today you can support my work here on Fujirumors. If you choose to pre-order it using one of the shoplinks in this post, FR will get a small commission on it. It won’t cost you a single penny extra on your X30. Thanks in advance to those who decide to support this FR… because it’s your support that keeps this blog running.

PRE-ORDERS

Fujifilm X30: USA: BHphoto / Adorama / AmazonUS / BestBuy /   EUROPE: wexUK / wexDE / PCHstore /

 FIRST LOOKS and SAMPLES

RICO’s Fujfilm X30 FIRST LOOK is online here

RiflessiFotografici with many “Classic Chorme” Sample images / ephotozine hands on preview / dslrmagazine (Spanish) / dpreview First Impressions / photographybay hands-on photo /

FUJIFILM: Click here for X30 press release / Click here for the Classic Chrome film simulation press release / Official full-size Fujifilm Sample Gallery at Fujifilm.com

VIDEOS

Fuji Guys / Downtown Camera / Promotional Video / Jessops First Look /

Press-release

Click here for X30 Fuji’s official press release / Click here for the Classic Chrome film simulation official press release /

FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES CLASSICALLY DESIGNED PREMIUM COMPACT X30 WITH NEW CONTROLS AND FASTER PERFORMANCE

X30 features Real Time Viewfinder, dual control rings, and new ‘Classic Chrome’ Film Simulation for dramatically colored photos

Valhalla, N.Y., August 26, 2014 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the new FUJIFILM X30, a premium compact, fixed lens camera aimed at enthusiast and professional photographers. The FUJIFILM X30 has an all new Real Time Viewfinder and innovative dual manual control rings for composing and taking pictures quickly and easily.

The FUJIFILM X30 gives enthusiast and professional photographers a vast array of new features, and delivers the same award-winning image quality and design that the FUJIFILM X-Series is known for around the world. The new X30 features a Real Time Viewfinder – which is the largest, brightest, fastest and highest resolving viewfinder in its class*1 – a large 12MP 2/3” X-Trans CMOS II sensor, EXR Processor II and a new ‘Classic Chrome’ film simulation mode that delivers muted tones and deep color reproduction for beautifully dramatic images.

The X30 also includes a large tilting 3.0” 920K-dot premium clear LCD monitor, increased battery performance, and a strong, yet lightweight, die-cast magnesium alloy body that is superbly designed to add a real sense of style and elegance to the camera.

Vision and speed

The new FUJIFILM X30 uses an innovative Real Time Viewfinder with a large magnification of 0.65x*2 and a display lag time of just 0.005*3 seconds that is the largest and fastest viewfinder in its class. It offers a clear, high-definition Live View with a new 2.36M-dot organic EL viewfinder and dedicated lens that improves visibility by automatically controlling the viewfinder’s brightness according to the ambient light levels. The Live View display can also be set to reflect shooting conditions, or offer a natural view close to what is seen with the naked eye, while the viewfinder’s eye sensor automatically switches the visible information when the camera is positioned vertically or horizontally.

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Left: real time viewfinder with five glass elements, right: X30’s expanded viewfinder size

The FUJIFILM X30 uses the award-winning X-Trans CMOS II sensor with phase-detection AF and the EXR Processor II to give photographers high-speed performance, amazing resolution and low noise for extraordinary images. The X30’s phase-detection system focuses in just 0.06*4 seconds, has a startup time of 0.5 seconds*5, shutter time lag of 0.015 seconds, and shooting interval of 0.5 seconds.

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Left: X-Trans CMOS II sensor layers, Right: X-Trans CMOS II sensor size comparison

High precision F2.0-2.8 4x manual barrel zoom lens

The FUJIFILM X30’s lens is made up of 11 glass elements in nine groups, including three aspherical lens elements and two ED lens elements. The result is an ultra-bright lens with a wide-angle maximum aperture of f/2.0 and telephoto maximum aperture of f/2.8 for beautiful, high resolution images. Additionally, the X30’s lens incorporates seven diaphragm blades for stunningly soft ‘bokeh’ to make your subject stand out from the background.
The X30 has an optical 4x manual zoom lens that allows quick and precise control over composition. The X30 also has a unique image stabilization mechanism that shifts five lens elements to compensate for camera shake by up to four stops*6. The innovative image stabilization system also effectively prevents motion blur while stopping vignetting and loss of image resolution that usually results from shake compensation.

The new FUJIFILM X30 now includes two rings on the lens: a manual zoom ring and control ring. The control ring is positioned behind the manual zoom control and allows the immediate change of aperture and shutter speed settings while fine-tuning image composition. Functions such as ISO sensitivity, film simulation, white balance and continuous shooting can be assigned by pushing the control ring setting button at the front. Two top-plate dials and six function buttons positioned on the back of the body also offer faster access to regularly-used features for a more instinctive operation.

Left, Middle: X30 Dual Ring controls, right: X30 large tilting 3.0” 920K-dot premium clear LCD monitor

Left, Middle: X30 Dual Ring controls, right: X30 large tilting 3.0” 920K-dot premium clear LCD monitor

New “Classic Chrome” film simulation

Fujifilm’s unprecedented image quality has been cultivated through the development of photographic films over the past 80 years and helps to reproduce warm skin tones, bright blue skies and rich green trees, just as photographers remember the scene. The X30 features the new ‘Classic Chrome’ film simulation mode, which delivers muted tones and deep color reproduction. Users can also choose from eleven different modes that simulate the effects of traditional Fujifilm films. These include color reversal film effects (Velvia / PROVIA / ASTIA/CLASSIC CHROME), professional color negative film (PRO Neg.Std / PRO Neg.Hi), monochrome filters (MONOCHROME, Ye filter, R filter and G filter) and SEPIA.

FUJIFILM X30 key features:

  • 12MP 2/3” X-Trans CMOS II sensor
  • EXR Processor II
  • NEW Real Time Viewfinder with 0.005 second lag time, 0.65 magnification and 2.36M dot OLED
  • Intelligent Hybrid AF in 0.06 seconds
  • Fast start-up time of 0.5 seconds
  • Shutter time lag of 0.01 seconds
  • High speed continuous shooting of 12fps (11 frames continuously in JPEG at full resolution)
  • FUJINON F2.0-2.8 lens 4x manual zoom lens with HT-EBC coating
  • NEW Tilting 3.0” Premium Clear LCD (920k dots)
  • NEW ‘Classic Chrome’ and other film simulation modes
  • NEW Long lasting battery with approximately 470 photos per charge. Charges using supplied micro USB cable
  • Pop-up Super Intelligent Flash
  • Super Macro mode to .039”
  • Focus Peaking function
  • Motion Panorama 360
  • Advanced Filters
  • “Q” button for frequently used menu items
  • Multiple Exposure
  • Full HD video 1080p at 60fps; bit rate of 36Mbps for clear capture of delicate movements
  • Manual focus available during video recording*7
  • Free FUJIFILM Camera Remote application and Wireless Communication function allows users to remotely shoot images from smartphones and tablets
  • Output for Stereo Microphone
  • Electronic level
  • Live histogram
  • Interval timer shooting (1 second to 24 hours up to 999 frames)

FUJIFILM X30 Accessories:

  • Leather case LC-X30 – made of premium genuine leather.
  • Lens Hood and Protector Filter LHF-X30 – protective filter with Super EBC multi-layer coating technology. Available in black or silver. The dedicated lens hood features slits to ensure a full angle of view for the viewfinder.
  • Shoe Mount Flash – three types of FUJIFILM external flash, capable of high-precision TTL auto flash control: EF-20 and EF-X30 with the guide number 20, and EF-42 with the guide number 42.
  • External stereo microphone MIC-ST1 – for recording real sound with impact to go with premium-quality images and Full HD movie.

The FUJIFILM X30 will be available in late September 2014 for $599.95.

*1: Fujifilm research as of August 2014. Compared with other compact zoom digital cameras, being 500g or lighter in weight.
*2: Market leading viewfinder magnification ratio. Approx. 0.65x magnification 50mm (35mm format equivalent) at infinity and diopter set to -1.0 m-1.
*3: Fujifilm research as of August 2014.
*4: Fujifilm research as of August 2014. Compared with other digital cameras equipped with 2/3” sensor or larger, based on CIPA standards, and conducted in High Performance mode.
*5: Quick Start and High Performance mode.
*6: CIPA standard.
*7: Aperture and shutter speed can be changed during shooting. Only shutter speeds faster than the set frame rate can be set

press release layout by photorumors

INTO THE WIDE: IBELUX 40mm f/0.85 hands on review and samples to download at Fujirumors (PART 2 – with cat shot ;-) )

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Hi again

As you know from the first part of this hands on review, I’m shooting with the IBELUX 40mm f/0.85. The company HandeVision was so kind to lend me one for testing.

Now, I remind you that I’m neither a professional reviewer, nor a PRO photographer (I’m a teacher).

Therefore I’d like to clear this up: don’t expect charts and massive pixel peeping. I also don’t have studio light equipment and models for a professional shootout. If you’re looking for statistics, then I recommend you to read the lensrentals review (btw, they say “It’s built better than I expected. It’s optically better than I expected. It has far less variation than I expected… it’s an excellent lens!” And, according to the lensrental tests, it’s better than the Canon EF 50mm f/1.2, in the center).

I’ll simply share some of my shots, and then send this über-fast lens back to HandeVision. However, as many reviewers out there, I can finally take images of cats and bricks in the wall… I won’t miss this exceptional chance ;-) !

So judge the IQ by your own. Download the high-resolution JPEG’s, all SOOC, no post-processing, film simulations or sharpening added, all handheld, unless it’s written in the image description. You can download also the RAW-file of some images.

IBELUX 40mm f/0.85 at: BHphoto / Adorama / AmazonUS

That said, let’s start:

** CLICK HERE to Read the Rest of the Article **

miXed zone: X-T1 best mirrorless camera (thewirecutter), RAW-processing with DarkTable (Linux), 18-135 reviews and more

Fujifilm X-T1

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image courtesy: riflessifotografici (X-T1 + Zeiss 32mm). See more shots at riflessifotografici

– the X-T1 was rated best mirrorless camera at thewirecutter.com: “We researched 13 different mirrorless cameras and spent several days shooting with the top contenders to find the Fujifilm X-T1 is the best mirrorless camera you can buy right now. It has the best manual focus of any camera you can buy right now, plus an impressive 16MP APS-C sensor that produces clean, detailed images (even at high ISOs) that truly set it apart from the competition.”

– Jonas Jacobsson: “I would like to share with you (and the Fuji community) an amazing trip to Norway and Lofoten in particular. We bought an “Explore Norway” ticket with the airline Wideroe so we could travel within Norway for two weeks. Our main attraction was Lofoten, and it did certainly not disappoint. I went there with my Fuji X-T1, 14mm, 18-55mm, 35mm and 55-200mm and did my best to capture as much as I possibly could! It turned out quite well I must say and even good enough to impress official Fujifilm Sweden, who decided to feature my story as well! Very honored by this of course. You can see the story + photos over here https://jonasjacobsson.exposure.co/explore-norway-parttwo. If you just want to enjoy the photos you can do that over att my portfolio site right here http://www.jonasjacobsson.co/portfolio/travels/lofotennorway/.”

– Does your camera have a soul? That’s the question at justinnystrom and his article “Rediscovering Something Old in Something New: Thoughts About My New Fuji X-T1 and Life.” From the article: “”It looks like it is from the ’80s.” That was the first thing my wife said about my Fuji X-T1 as I excitedly handed it to her. She didn’t mean it as a compliment. The blow to my enthusiasm, coming as it did right after my post-unboxing high, was a little like deflating one of those hotdog shaped air packs with a pocket knife. “No, this is completely awesome,” I protested. But she was right. We were both right. The Fuji did look like a camera from the 1980s, and it was precisely one of the reasons I bought it.”

– Arlindo Namour Filho: “I shot this Bridal Editorial with my little Fuji X cameras (X-T1 and X-E2) and Fujinon lenses (23mm, 35mm, 56mm and 55-200mm) and would like to share with our Fuji Lovers. All in native BW, all the power of the X Trans sensor. Hope you like it.” www.ehnamour.com.

– Joe Ng Photography: “I am back from my vacation and just covered the Vancouver Tennis Open on last weekend with X-T1.  I was quite dispapointed with the AF-C but I managed to find a way out with AF-S.  Please find below the blog I shared my experience.” Read and see more here at joengphotography. From the article: “With the 55-200mm lens mounted on, acquiring its initial focus was slow even on a bright sunny day. Yes, I know this camera isn’t designed for professional sport photography but I presumed that it would be able to pick up some sporting shots like tennis since it isn’t as fast paced of a sport as something like hockey. The focus had an accuracy of around 40-50% using the AF-C mode. The challenge was that you wouldn’t know which 4 or 5 frames out of the 10 were in focus, so you just might miss a peak moment.”

– Chris: “I’ve just posted a new article on F-Sunny, showing 4 months of model portrait shooting with the X-T1 and X-Series Lenses.” Read and see  more at f-sunny: “Clients and models have been blown-away by the results from this ‘little camera’. They have plenty of other images to compare with, from every camera manufacturer you can imagine. But time and time again, they return to the Fuji X-Series images, and smile, and ask for more of the same please.”

– Life without a Mirror (continued) at joshmcleodphotography: ““I honestly believe Mirrorless Cameras are the future and I wouldn’t be surprised to see the DSLR become all but extinct in the not too distant future. As mirrorless cameras get better and better I can see no logical reason why DLSR’s will continue to exist. I earn my living and shoot 99% of my work with a mirrorless camera. The quality of the product that I deliver to my clients is as good, if not better, as its ever been. For me, there is no looking back, and life will, for the foreseeable, continue without a mirror!!!”

– The streets of Tokyo with the X-T1 and X100S at gaborimages: “I haven’t blogged for a while now, but loads of things happened in the last couple of months. Couple of photo shoots, weddings, holiday, new website and a new camera… What, new camera? Oh, yeah. I finally said good bye to my Canon kit and got an X-T1 with a 56mm lens to accompany my X-Pro1 and X100s. Wasn’t an easy decision, but time will tell. So far I’m loving it, but because I have plenty of editing to do, I haven’t spent huge amount of time with it.”

– Things I wish I would have known- Part 7 at vicsfujixblog: “I had already set up both my Fujifilm X-T1‘s with a minimum shutter speed of 1/160 sec and a high ISO of 3200. To tell you the truth I was so frustrated, hot and tired that I didn’t care. I set them both to auto and kept checking the viewfinder and it seemed to be working. This simple adjustment, which is made even more simple by the dial on the X-T1, really helped the rest of the time I was shooting. Now, I can really see the value of using Auto ISO at certain times.”

– The Fujifilm X-T1 in Iceland at photomadd: “I saw some fantastic photographs posted into my Facebook Fuji group along with a nice write-up of using his Fujifilm X-T1 on his trip to Iceland.  I asked Belfast based amateur photographer Mark Allen if he wouldn’t mind me sharing his thoughts on here and he was good enough to agree.  Mark is yet another photographer who would normally have been using his Full-Frame Nikon gear on a trip like this, but has made the switch to the lighter mirrorless system from Fuji.”

– Pleasures & Rewards of Using Fujifilm’s XT-1 for Stills Footage at planet5d: “I recommend the XT-1 and these two lenses [admin: 10-25 and 56] very highly indeed and look forward to trying out more Fujifilm and Fujinon X-series lenses and X-Trans-equipped cameras. I look forward to the day when Fujifilm will improve its X-series cameras’ moviemaking features too. Imagine shooting HD footage with Provia, Velvia or one of the other film simulations applied!

– X-T1 In-Progress review – conclusions at giannigalassi: “As for image quality, the Fuji X-T1 delivers awesome color files, rich in detail and resolution (even richer when using prime lenses), perfectly white-balanced (it’s definitely the best camera I have ever used in this regard), with the most natural and pleasant skin tones. Out-of-camera JPGs are so finely tuned that obtaining the same results from RAWs is a very difficult (if not impossible) task.”

–  Controlling a Fuji X-T1 with the Fujifilm Camera Remote WIFi APP at aboutphotography.

– Sony a7S Astrophotography Review (vs X-T1) at petapixel.

– Shaping The Light with Karl Bratby at richardhurstphotography.

– Fuji X-T1 Photographer Experience at neocamera: “This superb camera handles nearly all photographic opportunities well. It keeps managing to produce a high-ratio of keepers compared to other advanced digital cameras, proving that this mirrorless than can hold its own against modern DSLRs. The fact that the EVF is so large lets.”

– Sebastien Egger: “I’am a Swiss Photographer and a big fan of the Fuji’s XF system. I have a X100, X100’s, XPro1 and one XT1 with the 14mm, 21mm,56mm,fisheye Samyang 8mm and many more ;-) … I share my photographic work in this tumblr website: http://fujixpro.tumblr.com/

– Seam Marc Lee: “A simple cinemagraph test I made using the XT1 + 23mm – vimeo

– Why the Fuji X-T1 is NOT my Photoshop camera at glyndewis: “I totally LOVE the Fuji X-T1 and I know this will sound weird but I can think of no other way to explain it but … I feel it delivers 100% as a camera for Photography but not for Photoshop.”

– A Month in Italy with the Fuji X-T1 – What Worked and What Didn’t at daveburnsphoto.

– My work with the X-Pro1 & the X-T1 at fujixpro.

– “Back in the Spring I visited Italy with the family. It was my first big trip DSLR-free, traveling just with the Fuji X-T1 and X100s. It was so pleasant not lugging around heavy gear all trip.” Read and see more at rodneyboles.

– Review | 20 Countries with Fujifilm X-Series Cameras at blamethemonkey: “I’m very happy to be working with, not only the Fujifilm X-Series Cameras and XF lenses, but also the bright minded people who develop the technology. While I can’t share any specific details about the future product rollout, I can say for certain that I’m extremely excited about the future of Fujifilm cameras. With all the awesome advancements in camera technology on the horizon, it’s truly a wonderful time to be a photographer!”

– Fujifilm X-T1 Mirrorless Camera Review: Fast Shooter at tomsguide: “The Fujifilm X-T1 is a capable camera that, thanks to its weatherproofing, easily matches an outdoor lifestyle. Plus, this shooter is fast enough to capture at least moderate action for those who want a speedy but relatively compact camera with interchangeable lenses. However, you should look elsewhere if you want to shoot a lot of video, as quality is sub-par. Overall, though, we’re really taken with the X-T1’s still image quality, speed and low-light capabilities. For a broad range of shooting, in fair weather and foul, the X-T1 will serve you well.

– Josh McLeod: “Here is a link to the blog post/results from shooting with the Fuji X-T1 and various lenses:” Read it at joshmcleodphotography: “I mentioned in Part 1 that the MFT lens line up is one of the most mature and comprehensive of the mirrorless segment. The Fuji lens line up, although not as mature is still remarkably good. It has lenses for pretty much all shooting situations and Fuji are also continually developing new lenses. In terms of optics, the Fuji lenses would have be some of the best in the business. My favourite lens is the Fuji 1,2/56mm (85mm equivalent) which is perfect for my portrait work. With a max aperture of F/1,2 I am able to get pretty much the same DOF control as I would on a full frame DSLR. I regularly shoot wide open the images are spectacular. Its sharp wide open and the out of focus areas (or Bokeh) are smooth and creamy. This is one of my favourite lenses of all time.”

– Kaushik Parmar: “Hi! I did Time Lapse video with my X-T1” Watch it here. […] And also see new pictures which I clicked by my X-T1, this is my exclusive page wherin almost all photos are taken by Fujifilm X series cameras like X100, X100S and now newer pictures are with X-T1.”

– Enrique Meza: “Just wanted to share a recent personal project I worked on. It involved my office life it was shot on the XT1 using a C stand and the wifi feature of the camera.” See more here at mezafilms.

– Taking the X-T1 into the deep blue at fujifilmblog: “Overall, the X-T1 and 10-24mm set up exceeded my expectations. I knew it would follow subjects well but I thought that shooting through water would probably lower the hit rate. However, the only factor that affected this was human error. With a specifically designed underwater housing, this camera and lens set up would be a brilliant choice for any underwater photographer, with its small size, clear controls and superb image quality.”

– Wedding with the X-T1, X100S, 56 and 35 at jonasraskphotography. For his X-T1 review click here: “THE EVF IS SO AMAZINGLY GOOD IT MAKES MY WANT TO SHED A TEAR SOMETIMES!”

– Fuji X-T1 vs Fuji X-E1 at jwctp: “When I first turned on my X-T1, my mouth dropped when I experienced how fast the AF was. Then I realized I didn’t even have High Performance mode on. I didn’t even get the latest lens firmware to take advantage of the Phase Detection pixels! Once I did that, the AF became even faster. So if you have an older Fuji model, like the X-E1 or X-Pro 1, and are wondering if it’s worth it to upgrade to the X-T1, yes it is. It is absolutely worth it.”

XF 18-135mm

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– Review at admiringlight: “The Fuji 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR is the first super-zoom lens for the Fuji X-Mount, and the first Fuji lens to feature weather sealing.  When combined with the excellent close-focus ability, the lens has the versatility to serve as an all-in-one take anywhere sort of optic, and for the most part it succeeds here.  Fuji has put in an incredible image stabilizer that will get you close to 5 stops of extra handholdability, the range is incredibly useful, and it makes a perfect companion for the times you just don’t want to bother changing lenses.  The lens is also optically quite good, though it falls short of outstanding.  Color and contrast are fantastic, and even the bokeh is quite nice. The 18-135mm is capable of producing images with very good central sharpness as well, even wide open.  Where it falters is at the edges, especially near 18 and 135mm, where there’s softness that remains even after stopping down.

–  Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f3.5-5.6 Fujinon lens test (PART 2) at bjornmoerman: “As always is the case for a lens with a broad focal range like the 18-135, it is all about compromises; it does a lot of things OK, but nothing 100% perfect… No criticism but pure photography physics!  Is the 900,-USD price tag too high? Well one obviously is paying for the weather sealing, but a 600 to 700,-USD range would have put it more in line with the exciting zooms like the great 18-55 and 55-200. The fact that unlike other XF lenses, it is manufactured in China instead of Japan, doesn’t help to defend its somewhat higher price point neither…”

– The Japanese site mobile01 posted its review here (translation).

– A nostalgic trip to the Abbotsford Airshow with the Fujifilm X-T1 and the XF 18-135mm lens at kalejf: “The XF18-135mm lens worked wonderfully with the X-T1, and as you can see the image stabilization worked wonders in very low light situations.”

– Field Test Images at outbackphoto.

TCL-X100 / WCL-X100
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 – Okinawa with the Fuji TCL-X100 at thomasalanphoto: “Besides the slower focusing, the only negative for me is the way the camera feels in my hand now. The TCL does throw off the balance of the camera, so I’m not sure I would enjoy shooting with it for extended periods of time. This may just be me, however your mileage may vary. Is the Fuji TCL-X100 perfect? No. Focusing is sometimes slower depending on the environment. Does it deliver exceptional quality? Yes. I could not tell the difference in color or clarity compared to the built-in lens.”

 Rokinon (Samyang) 8mm Fisheye Version II / Samyang 12mm
pre-order: BHphoto

 – The Old Forge ~ Fuji X & Samyang 12mm F2.0 at surroundinglight: “I’ve got quite a few of these images to go through. I might add a few more to this post later. To finish with I have to re-iterate that the Samyang 12mm NCS CS F2.0 has worked tremendously well with my X-E1. The lens is a keeper and I would go as far as to say it’s better than some of the far more expensive wide angle lenses I’ve owned in the past. Sure it’s manual, and so there’s no autofocus, but on a 12mm I don’t think it’s an issue at all. The Nano-Crystal coating is helping to produce wonderful shots. It has been a revelation and I can’t wait to get out with it again!”

–  User Review: Samyang 12mm f/2.0 (Fuji X mount) at fotozones: “My verdict is that this is a keeper. I will take some interesting images over the next few days and add them to my impressions.”

 XF 56mm f/1.2
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 – Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 R review at amateurphotographer: “Lenses with this sort of specification are usually very costly, including the Canon example for full-frame sensors, and Panasonic’s Nocticron for micro four thirds, and, at around £900, this X-series unit is too. It is, however, slightly less well endowed with specialist glasses, in possession of a less rounded iris and less rounded out-of-focus highlights – things that are important to photographers who like wide-aperture lenses. It is, though, a good portrait performer, decent value for money, and will keep X-Pro1 and X-T1 customers very happy for a long time. Now Fuji needs to introduce shorter top shutter speeds and lower ISO settings to cope with the amount of light this 56mm f/1.2 gathers, so we can use it wide open outside too!”

– Fuji 56mm f/1.2 at prometheus.med.utah: “Even if image quality were absolutely equal between the Canon 85mm f/1.2 and the Fuji 56mm f/1.2, this size and volume (Fuji lens is ~55% of the volume of the Canon) argument alone is a compelling reason to pick the Fuji lens.  For any traveling photographer, weight and volume are your enemy and the smaller your gear, the fewer hard decisions you have to make regarding gear to take with you, particularly when flying

– Fujifilm XF 56mm F1.2 R – Little Review in German at gambajo (translation).

XF 10-24
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 – Review | The Fujifilm XF10-24mmF4 R OIS at leighmiller: “For stills there is some barrel distortion at the wide end but nothing severe. Most of that is easily handled in post processing, just leave a little room on framing if needed. This shot of my living room (impromtu photoshoot for a model, hence the mess) required very little work in Adobe Lightroom 5.5 to get things straight.”

– A visit to a Jacobean gem at paulmellingphotography: “So any niggles from my day out with the 10-24mm?  Only one and that relates to the lens hood which I find to be a bit loose. If it is not quite fitted right you get vignetting in the corner of the picture and I found it moved too easily.”

 X-E2
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 – Fuji X-E2 at ISO 25600 at stanleyleary: “If you even find yourself in situations where the room is so dark that you need to shoot at a high ISO, be sure your camera can go as high as the Fuji X-E2 which at ISO 25600 really made these photos possible.”

– ON to 2014 — relocation & my new Fuji XE-2 Mirrorless camera at jackgrahamphoto: “Listen, there are still needs for Nikon D800’s, Canon 5DMKIII etc. — don’t get me wrong. And for some events and locations, I’ll still shoot my Nikon. But the Fuji XE-2 mirrorless will (for me) be more than I need for about 80% of my work … and now my camera bag is almost the same weight as my tripod and ball head!”

X100S
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image courtesy: jeremeytheronkirby

– Fuji X100S samples at jeremeytheronkirby.

– Fuji X100s Proves Jimi Hendrix Wrong (more ramblings from the street) at streetshooter.

. Fuji x100s How I love to hate thee at sebimagery: “If you think you’re in the market for an x100s…I say don’t hesitate.  But understand what you’re getting into.  Don’t expect it to be a 1DX, or D800E.  Regardless of what you read online….it won’t make you a better photographer.  It’s not the DSLR killer some say it is.  It’s not a Leica.  It is what it is, it has many flaws, and it might not be for you.  For me it’s still the only camera I’ve truly lo

– Shooting on 6th Street: Comparing the Fujifilm X100S to the Leica M at atmtxphoto: “The Fuji is now my primary camera, until, inevitably, I get another. For now it’s working great and as you can see, more than capable of creating late night urban photographs.

– Magnum Photographer David Alan Harvey in the streets of Korea with the Fuji X100 (not the “S”) at iso1200.

X-E1
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 – Iceland with the Fuji XE1 / Fuji Travel Photography at colinnichollsphotography: “All the photos here were shot on 2 Fuji XE-1’s the size and weight of these cameras make them great for travel and the image quality is just incredible, at no point did I feel the need for anything more that the gear I had and would be happy to travel anywhere in the world with just this small bag of gear.” For his article “Geek Night” / Fuji X-E1 & X100 Event Photography in Manchester click here.

– Street Photography Pairs with the Fuji X-E1 at thomasfitzgeraldphotography.

– Streetphotography with the X-E1 in China at am-fotografie: “This year I had the great pleasure of spending 3 weeks in China. Not sticking to one place, but travelling through this vast and beautiful country. As I wanted to travel light I opted for the Fuji X-E1 with the 18-55mm, backed-up by the Fuji X100s. Anyhow, I took a lot of pictures of the locals and here is a brief B&W selection. Some of them are shy, others are happy, some are young and some are old. Others are painfully poor…but does it mean it should not be recorded?

– Fuji X System Hands-on : The Fuji X-E1 at antonionunes: “I must say that Fuji has an incredible implementation for an APS-C sensor camera. Noise is on par with my full frame cameras; and much, much better than the APS-C DSLRs I’ve used.”

X-PRO1
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– X-PRO1 vs. D800E vs. DP2M at vkphotoblog: “After reviewing hundreds of files all I can say that image quality is less dependant on the modern sensor size but rather on a good lens, shooting discipline (tripod!) and post processing skills. Another observation was that Sigma DP2M is yes, a “one trick pony”, but if you know what you are doing you will be rewarded with mind blowing IQ.”

– Fuji X-Pro 1 with Helios 44M 58mm f2 M42 Lens at damianbrownphotography: “Well check the shots out… look for the out of focus areas in particular, the bokeh. That’s the point of this lens!”

–  X Pro1 in Chettinad – a liftstyle lost in time at pbase.

– The Streets of London with the Fuji X-Pro1 at timdobbsphotography.

IBELUX 40mm f/0.85

BHphoto / Adorama / AmazonUS

IBELUX review at lensrentals: “This is a unique bit of glass. Okay, it’s not a “bit,” it’s a huge chunk of glass. My negative expectations have been completely discounted by a little objective testing. It’s built better than I expected. It’s optically better than I expected. It has far less variation than I expected. My hat is off to the designers at IB/E Optics and the manufacturers at Shanghai Transvision. Very nicely played, gentleman. Very nicely played, indeed.”

lenses

– Review of the 55-200 at photozone: “The Fujinon XF 55-200mm f/3.5-4.8 R LM OIS is a very harmonious offering. It may not excel in quality but it has only few weaknesses. The Fujinon is pretty sharp across the zoom range and entire image field – even at max. aperture. The low amount of lateral CAs also contribute to the subjective quality perception. Due to the system’s image auto-correction, neither distortion nor vignetting are relevant to the average user. Under the (RAW-)hood these two characteristics are not as quite as perfect though. The quality of the bokeh is just average for a lens in this class.”

– Fujinon XC 50-230mm f/4.5-6.7 OIS – Review / Lens Test Report at photozone: “The Fujinon XC 50-230mm f/4.5-6-7 OIS is a good performer in relation to its price level. The results are mostly sharp in the image center. The corners aren’t quite as snappy in the upper range but let’s be fair – you don’t tend to place the main subject of your scene into the extreme corners anyway. The level of CAs is pretty good at the extreme ends with a weak spot (135mm) in between. Distortions and vignetting are taken care of by the automatic image correction. However, the original characteristics are quite a bit worse though – especially in terms of light falloff.”

– Vancouver and the Fujinon XF 27mm at stephenip: “In all honesty, I didn’t really miss the X100S (which my wife was using) during our trip. On a few occasions, I would’ve liked to have the built in ND filter on the X100S or to be able to shoot at f/2. But in general, the X-T1 and XF 27mm worked out very well as my light, general purpose, walkaround kit.

– Fuji XF 27mm a great little guy at ledesmaphotography: “A few days ago, I scooped up an XF 27mm 2.8 (silver) to pair of with the XE2 and I couldn’t be more delighted. Initially, I had wondered if it would give me the same experience as I had with my previous X100/s and I most say, it does. The XF 27mm transform your Fuji XE2/1/XT1/XPRO1 into an X100/s like experience.”

– Review | Fuji’s XF 23mm f/1.4. With A 35mm Full Frame FOV, Is It A Rival For The X100S? at slrlounge: “It [X100S] has the same focal length, sure, at f/2 it’s a stop slower, and by all accounts the lens performance isn’t as spectacular as the dedicated 23mm 1.4, but then again this lens is around 75% of the price of an X100s. And with the X100s, it’s an entire camera, with a significantly smaller profile, that’s ideal for the streets. It also has a leaf shutter, built-in ND filter, and given how close the lens elements are to the sensor, is likely to give far greater macro capabilities. I suspect, however, you wouldn’t go wrong either way

– Fuji XC 50-230mm lens at paulsamolukphotography: “The Fuji XC 55-230 mm lens is really a thing of beauty when you consider the value for the money. This is especially true if you can pick one up on sale like I did. The image quality is great, build quality is ok (definitely not cheap feeling) and it is a great addition to your Fuji X system. One of the biggest benefits for me was the weight of this lens. It makes it a breeze to carry with you on longer hikes and you will not sacrifice the image quality. So should you buy one? If you are looking for a long lens for your fuji x system camera, i can’t help but to recommend this lens as a great choice.”

RAW-processing

 – Steve Gahm: “I do a fair amount of my image processing on Linux and my favorite application for this has been DarkTable.  Unfortunately, Darktable does not support X-Trans images and has stated for that they will not be adding X-Trans support given they are a small team and do not have the resources to dedicate to it.  Therefore I purchased Photo Ninja to process my X-Trans files.  I still use Darktable for an old Nikon E5400. But, now DarkTable has just recently added an experimental branch to support X-Trans.  Here is the link.
http://www.darktable.org/2014/08/using-x-trans-cameras-with-darktable/. Darktable runs on most Linux/Unix system and Apple OS-X.  Chyeck the “Install” page to see what systems they support.”

– “Hello, I’m Alexander Svet – professional photographer and Phase One Certified Professional. I and my team have created Film Styles Set for Capture One. This is a set of 100 color and b&w styles for Capture One. We had worked on this styles more than two years, it was “long run”, but we have very good reviews from our customers. You can find all the details and sample images at http://captureonestyles.com.”

– Adobe has released a guide for moving from Aperture to Lightroom here.

– Processing Fuji X-Trans RAW files with Adobe Lightroom 5.4 video at youtube. (spotted by lepidi-photo)

 Acessories

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– New soft-release buttons for Fuji X-T1 at lolumina.

– New compagnon-bag for mirrorless cameras here.

– All Thumbs: The Lensmate Thumbrest for Fujifilm X100s at thepalinode.

– Review: Handgriff MHG-XE für Fujifilm X-E2/X-E1 at oz50 (translation): “The MHG-XE handle Fujifilm for the X-E2 is very well done and for me one of the most useful accessories to the camera. The camera is significantly more stringent and is thus better for longer shootings. The feel is greatly enhanced by the metal and the handle adjusts to the rest of the design, without attracting unpleasant. The handle is approximately 100 euros not a bargain, but the investment is worthwhile in my opinion.”

Switch to the X

– New system in my bag at fotografiainc: “So what I did, I traded one medium priced (I said ONE) Leica tele lens that was not selling fast enough for Fuji X-pro1 and two prime lenses (14mm/2.8 and 35mm/1.4) and some essential accessories… Basically got the core of my new system for a great deal. Two lenses are equivalent of my usual focal lengths (21mm and 50mm). Getting used to field of view with new Fuji X glass was no brainier. Quality is there and then some! I have to say, I don’t miss Leica glass…”

– Johnny shot an entire wedding with Fuji gear… “and it was an amazing experience“. See the shots at johnbogannam.

– Paul Schlemmer is a very young and talented photographer that earns his money from photography. He chose the Fuji X system. Read why at inmybag.net: “So why Fuji you ask? Don McCullin said “I only use a camrea like I use a tootbrush. It does the job” and I like the analogy very much. For me, Fujifilm cameras are like a Curaprox of the camera industry: (editors note: curaprox is a company making superb quality swiss toothbrushes & aren’t as well known as Paul thinks, so the analogy doesn’t work that well ;-) ) Sexy and playful. It’s easy to have relationship with them on both sides. They are made be people who really gives a sh*t about industry and about us. That’s why I love them as much as a man can love his, ehm, tool.” You can also read Paul’s other article there: “25 amazing photographs and how they were lit

– One year after switching to Fuji at nguyn: “Working with Fuji has totally changed my vision of how I see things and how I shoot them. It’s not only about specs, neither its image quality nor its design, Fuji cameras have something more, « un je ne sais quoi ». There’s a kind of magic in it, a real soul. You’re not only taking a picture, you feel it, and also, you’re not only a witness of the moment, you’re part of.

– 22 photographers explain why they went mirrorless at mirrorlessons. Many chose the X-system for their switch.

– Reasons to Stick to Your DSLR Over Mirrorless Camera at thephoblographer.

a little bit of everything

– “Hello. I just wanted to share with your readers a new facebook group I started. The group is called “Mirroless Portrait and Wedding Photographers”. I know there are a number of working professional photographers who have made the switch completely to mirrorless. This is a place where working mirrorless pro’s can share information about their work and the challenges associated with being an early adopter of mirrorless camera systems. The group is new and I would love if you would be able to share it with your readers. Thanks Eric Williams” facebook group mirrorlessportraitwedding.

Fujifilm HS50 EXR

 Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review at photographic-central:Without hesitation my opinion is that the Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR is the best superzoom in its category that is on the current market. Other cameras in this class may offer you unique advantages (especially Panasonic’s’ FZ200 w/constant aperture), and, perhaps those are wholly worthwhile to you alone to purchase them. But when you’re objectively looking at an all in one package, I don’t think this one can be beat today.”

Instax Share SP-1 Printer
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Sharing The Joy of Photography at fstoplounge: “No matter how many times I’ve printed with this device, I’m still very excited about seeing the print developing by itself. It’s an even more magical experience for the people you are giving it to, who are most probably going to see this for the first time.”

INTO THE WIDE: IBELUX 40mm f/0.85 hands on review (and RAW-samples to download) at Fujirumors (PART 1)

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PART 2 of the review is online here.

Hi all

A few of days ago I’ve received world’s fastest lens for mirrorless cameras; the IBELUX 40mm f/0.85. The company, HandeVision, kindly sent me the X-mount version of this lens, and I was pretty happy to test it on the field.

Now, I’m neither a professional reviewer, nor a PRO photographer. As you might know, I’m “just” a teacher, with the passion for photography (and the X-series).

Therefore don’t expect a comprehensive in depth review a la dpreview or the amazing first looks of Rico Pfirstinger. With a full time day job and Fujirumors as a side project, I walk often enough on the thin line that separates passion from burn-out ;-). So I do not aspire to become a reviewer, too. Let me focus on the Fuji news, rumors and deals.

But for world’s fastest lens for mirrorless cameras, well, I had to make an exception!

And yes, I know Rico would have done a much better job, but I also  know he is super-busy with his book “X-E2, Beyond the Manual” (coming very soon) and with his fujixsecrets workshops (probably available also in California later this year), that he’d for sure not have time to test also the IBELUX.

In this first part I’ll just quickly tell you about the handling and build quality.

I have this weekend to make some more shots and will probably share them next week, so you can look at how this lens performs at f/0.85 ;-).

IBELUX 40mm f/0.85 at: BHphoto / Adorama / AmazonUS

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Handling, build quality and features

BUILD QUALITY: “This is heavy!” That’s the first thing I’ve thought when I unboxed the IBELUX and hold it in my hands. This lens, designed in Germany and manufactured in China, is very well build. It weights about 1.170g (2.58 lb), so the lens alone is heavier than the X-E2 + 55-200. There is a lot of metal (even the lens cap is of metal) and glass in the IBELUX. HandeVision says that: “With 10 elements in 8 groups higher weight had to be accepted to avoid aspherical surfaces for cost reasons.”

Heavy and big? Reminiscences of my times with a DSLR arise. To add a bit of lightness, I ordered a pint of beer ;-)

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MANUAL FOCUS RING: Forget the autofocus: it’s a manual focus lens only. The MF-ring rotates 250°… and it is very smooth and easy to turn! You can easily and precisely adjust the focus. I really liked it. Combined with the accurate focus peaking or digital split image, it makes manual focussing easy and fun.

APERTURE RING: The aperture ring feels good too and gives you a nice “clicking” with each f/stop…. unless you’re stopping down from 0.85 to 1. In fact, when I wanted to turn the ring from 0.85 to 1, I often accidentally stopped at 1.4. For all the other stops, no problem.

THE LENS HOOD: The lens hood is integrated! So you simply have to pull it out. That looks cool but I don’t think it’s the best solution, as a lens hood not only has to reduce lens flair and ghosting, but also to protect your front element. And, well, it’s pretty easy to push the lens hood back accidentally on the IBELUX. This means that your lens is exposed and not protected anymore. I’d rather like to have a mechanism that allows me to block the lens hood once it’s pulled out. The moral of the story? I prefer the classic, reversible, XF lens hoods. They protect my lenses better. Just a short video to show you how easy it is to push back the lens hood on the IBELUX.

It was my “less internet, more Cabernet” day ;-)

DISTANCE SCALE: On the lens itself there is the Focusing and Depth of Field Scale. Marked in green the 5.6 aperture and the 8 feet (2.5 meters)… that’s where this lens is supposed to give the best results.

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CONCLUSIONS

Overall, this glass feels really well made, very solid, nice aperture and focus rings. You’ll hardly find something to complain about.

Consider that the IBELUX and your X-camera can’t “communicate”. This means you have to set your X-series camera to “shoot without a lens” and select the focal lenght to “40mm” manually. Also the aperture and the distance & depth of field indicators in the EVF/LCD won’t work. This isn’t really an issue most of the time (you have them on the lens). But, for example, I was on a concert 2 days ago, it was very dark in the hall, and I couldn’t see which f/stop I was using. In this case, an electronic aperture and distance scale would have been very useful.

IBELUX 40mm f/0.85 at: BHphoto / Adorama / AmazonUS

shot at f/whatever (not wide open)… not written in the EXIF data

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samples to download

IBELUX 40mm at  f/0.85 – 1/80 – ISO 3200

download RAF here

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the “Holy Grail” of super-shallow DOF

download RAF

(the images displayed here is a SOOC. Click on it and get the RAF)

IBELUX 40mm  f/0.85 – 1/1700 – ISO 400

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