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X-A1 vs. X-M1: Photo Ninja Edition

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Mastering the X-PRO1 and X-E1:

 BookKindle editionApple iBook

Fujifilm X-A1

USA: AmazonUS (black in stock)/ eBay / BHphoto (blue in stock)/ Adorama (black in stock)/ Pictureline / DigitalRev EUROPE: AmazonUK (via DR) DigitalRev / eBay

Fujifilm X-M1

USA: AmazonUS (save $72 on the silver version + kit lens) / BHphoto / Adorama / Pictureline / [shoplink 17242 ebay]eBay[/shoplink] ($70 price drop) / DigitalRev EUROPE: eBay / DigitalRev / AmazonDE (via DR) / wexcamerasDE / AmazonUK (via DR) / PCHstore

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by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)Rico’s Flickr sets – X-A1 sample images set – X-M1 sample images set –  X-M1 vs. X-A1 shooutout set (private Flickr set, MUST use this link!)Original X-A1 & X-M1 shootout RAW files for download – Mastering the Fujifilm X-Pro1 reading samples (65 free pages) – Pre-order my very soon to be released NEW book: Mastering the Fujifilm X-E1 and X-Pro1

As expected, my little X-A1/X-M1 shootout has created some controversy over the weekend, at least among the pixel peeping crowd. Since neither the built-in RAW converters nor Adobe Lightroom are perfect choices for extracting maximum detail from a RAW file, it may be interesting to run our samples through alternative converters. Unfortunately, there’s still little RAW support for the X-A1, but Jim Christian of PictureCode was kind enough to create a special version of his widely discussed Photo Ninja converter.

Photo Ninja is a very interesting multi-platform RAW converter with powerful (and very smart) adaptive lighting, great noise reduction and, in its latest incarnation, preliminary X-Trans sensor support. Unlike Lightroom, Photo Ninja allows you to completely turn off luminance noise reduction, which is great for comparing different cameras and their sensors.

Photo Ninja Shootout Samples

Here’s our first image, rendered with Photo Ninja:

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

X-A1 vs. X-M1: the Shootout

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Mastering the X-PRO1 and X-E1: book here and Kindle edition (AVAILABLE) here)

Fujifilm X-A1 in stock check

USA: AmazonUS (black in stock)/ eBay / BHphoto (blue in stock)/ Adorama (black in stock)/ Pictureline / DigitalRev EUROPE: AmazonUK (via DR) DigitalRev / eBay

Fujifilm X-M1

USA: AmazonUS (save $72 on the silver version + kit lens) / BHphoto / Adorama / Pictureline / [shoplink 17242 ebay]eBay[/shoplink] ($70 price drop) / DigitalRev EUROPE: eBay / DigitalRev / AmazonDE (via DR) / wexcamerasDE / AmazonUK (via DR) / PCHstore

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by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)Rico’s Flickr sets – X-A1 sample images set – X-M1 sample images set –  X-M1 vs. X-A1 shooutout set (private Flickr set, MUST use this link!)Original X-A1 & X-M1 shootout RAW files for download (incl. Lightroom XMP files) – Mastering the Fujifilm X-Pro1 reading samples (65 free pages) – Pre-order my very soon to be released NEW book: Mastering the Fujifilm X-E1 and X-Pro1

Edit: I have updated the shootout with Photo Ninja samples, please read this separate article.

Welcome to this weekend edition of X-Pert Corner! Comparing the X-A1 and X-M1 is pretty popular these days. Since the hardware of both cameras is pretty much identical, such comparisons usually boil down to an X-Trans vs. Bayer color filter array (CFA) pissing contest. Since we are on the Internet, it is a fact of life that much of what has been and will be written on this issue is inaccurate or just plain wrong, mostly due to flawed methodology. For example: Instead of comparing the output of different sensor CFAs, many “reviewers” are simply showing differences between the two cameras’ JPEG engine default settings.

DSCF2914 – Lightroom 5.2
X-M1

There are indeed visible differences between the X-A1’s and X-M1’s default JPEG processing: The X-A1 is targeting entry-level customers who prefer sharp, clean, brilliant, contrasty and noise-free JPEGs straight out of the box (at least that’s what Fuji thinks), and this preference is mirrored by the camera’s default JPEG engine calibration at its factory settings. In other words: With everything set to factory defaults, the X-A1 delivers sharper (aka more sharpened) results with a bit more contrast and stronger noise reduction than the X-M1. It is however possible (and advisable) to change the default JPEG settings in both cameras to achieve different results that are much harder to distinguish. This is where things become more interesting, but this is also where most “expert comparisons” come to a frustrating halt.

DSCF0991 – Lightroom 5.2
X-A1

In any real-world scenario, it is impossible to compare the performance of different sensor CFAs without processing the RAW images on which we want to base such a comparison. The processing can either be performed in-camera or with an external RAW converter. It is very difficult to remove this processing part from any sensor comparison equation, because different CFAs require different processing in order to achieve the same or at least similar results. Using identical RAW converter settings on comparable images from the X-A1 and X-M1 won’t do the job, quite to the contrary. In order to get comparable results, one has to apply different parameter settings that correspond to the unique qualities and properties if each sensor’s CFA.

DSCF0283 – Lightroom 5.2
X-A1

Please forget comparisons that are based on factory default settings of cameras and RAW converters. They are a waste of our time, because they won’t tell us how each camera performs with optimized real-world settings that most of us would choose to achieve specific precessing results, such as revealing “maximum detail”.

The Setup

In order to compare both cameras (and CFAs), I shot several different subjects in manual mode, each with exactly the same exposure settings and the same lens. This setup made sure that each camera’s sensor was exposed with the same amount of light, at least in theory. Practically, there may still be subtle brightness differences due to the fact that corresponding shots had to be taken in sequence (exchanging cameras and the lens on a tripod and reframing the shot could take a minute or two).

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

Lens reviews: XF 55-200 at DPreview (silver award) + Zeiss Touit 12 at lenstip + Touit 32 at optyczne

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Fuji XF 55-200mm: [shopcountry 12892]

You can now read the whole DPR review of the XF 55-200 here: “The XF 55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS is a relatively portable, well-made telephoto zoom that delivers consistently fine images. Focusing is essentially silent and reasonably fast, at least with static subjects, and the optical image stabilisation works very well. It’s a natural complement to the XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 R LM OIS zoom.”

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Zeiss Touit 2.8/12: [shopcountry 13645]

Touit 12mm review at lenstip.com: “The Zeiss Touit 2.8/12 is a well made lens and its parameters make it fill the gap in the Sony NEX and Fujifilm X systems. It would be difficult to have any real objections to a lens which provides an angle of view of almost 100 degrees and useful images across the frame already up from the maximum relative aperture. You can only hope Zeiss won’t stop after producing the 2.8/12 and 1.8/32 models; we do hope it will present other mirrorless instruments in the near future. We also count on the fact that, as a part of an offer-enlarging strategy, sooner or later Zeiss will produce lenses with Samsung NX and Canon M mounts so they will fit other APS-C sensor systems as well.”

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Zeiss Touit 32mm: [shopcountry 13646]

The Polish site optyczne posted its 32mm review here (translation)

Using the Fujifilm X-A1 [& X-M1]

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)Rico’s Flickr sets – X-A1 sample images set – Mastering the Fujifilm X-Pro1 reading samples (65 free pages) – Pre-order the new book: Mastering the Fujifilm X-E1 and X-Pro1

Update [17/9/13]: Added several Lightroom 5.2 RAW samples to the image set.

It took a while, but Fujifilm finally decided to officially announce the X-A1, the long-planned sister model of the X-M1. Let’s cut right to the chase: There’s little difference between these cameras. They look very much the same, they offer the same buttons and controls, the same processor, the same operating speed/performance, the same features, the same menus, the same build, material and size, even the same 16 MP Sony sensor. Of course, there’s one minor but important difference to mention in the sensor department: The X-M1 features an X-Trans color filter array (CFA) without an anti-aliasing (AA) filter, while the X-A1 uses a conventional Bayer CFA with an AA filter (to reduce/eliminate unwanted moiré). You can have a look at the full specs by clicking here.

So what’s the deal? Well, the X-A1 is by quite a margin more affordable than the X-M1, and it comes with a different set of color options: red/silver, black, blue, black/silver and brown/silver. However, not all color options will be available in all markets. For example, customers here in Germany can only expect to be offered the X-A1 in black, blue and red/silver.

It has also been mentioned that the X-A1 will be distributed mostly online and through large outlets like Walmart or MediaMarkt instead of specialized camera stores. With the X-A1, Fuji is targeting price-sensitive value customers who are interested in upgrading to a compact camera with a larger DSLR-quality sensor. But that’s just the marketing. For many real-world uses, the differences in image quality between the X-A1 and X-M1 will be perfectly acceptable. If they weren’t, Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus and the rest wouldn’t be able to sell any Bayer cameras to anybody. Let’s be smart: X-Trans is great, and it certainly has its advantages, but it’s not a requirement for taking great-looking images.

So if you aren’t married to X-Trans, the X-A1 is a viable and quite attractive option with an interesting value proposition. It’s also an affordable way to expand your existing X-series investment with a compact second generation option. It’s small and lightweight, it features a tiltable high-resolution LCD, it’s faster and more advanced (regarding both hardware and firmware) than the X-E1 or X-Pro1, and its Bayer sensor is comparable to current offerings from Nikon ([shoplink 13071 ebay]Nikon A[/shoplink]) and Ricoh ([shoplink 13349 ebay]Ricoh GR[/shoplink]). Please note that the pros and cons I mentioned in my X-M1 First Look article also apply to the X-A1, so instead of repeating myself all over again, I’d rather move along with new material.

I have been using an X-A1 pre-production sample with early pre-production firmware in the past six weeks along with an X-M1, and I have since silently updated the aforementioned X-M1 First Look article with additional findings regarding the pros and cons against the X-E1. So if you haven’t done so very recently, please consider checking out this article again.

Since both cameras share a common feature set and the same capabilities, I want to fill this column sharing my experiences with the X-A1 and X-M1. I have also prepared an X-A1 sample set with 75 images, and I have expanded my X-M1 sample set to more than 160 pictures, including several external RAW conversions. Unfortunately, there was no external RAW support for the X-A1 available at the time of this writing, but I’m confident this will change soon.

Once external RAW support and production samples of both the X-M1 and X-A1 become equally available, I will revisit the topic with a “shootout” between these sibling cameras, so there will eventually be a third part to this story.

Ready, Set, Go!

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

First Look: Fujinon XF23mmF1.4 R

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)Rico’s Flickr sets – XF23mmF1.4 samples set – Mastering the Fujifilm X-Pro1 reading samples (65 free pages) – Pre-order the new book: Mastering the Fujifilm X-E1 and X-Pro1

DSCF2157

Flickr bravely chose Friday the 13th for a major maintenance downtime, but they were back online with a delay of just one hour. Hoping for the best, I got things  started with this column, but then Flickr  was forced shut down again (well, what did they expect?), causing more delays. And yet, here we finally are, discussing Fuji’s latest XF prime, the fast and quite substantial XF23mmF1.4 R, a much sought-after “35mm equivalent” lens.

DSCF2285

If you are interested in this lens, you might also want to have a look at my previous article about using the XF14mmF2.8 R wide-angle lens. Conceptually, both lenses are quite similar:

  • they offer premium optics and build quality at a premium price
  • they feature a dedicated manual focus mode with analog (engraved) scales indicating distance and depth-of-field
  • distortion is fully optically corrected (no additional digital distortion correction necessary)

DSCF2256 – f/1.4

Size and Specifications

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

RAW Converter Shootout Results

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)Rico’s Flickr sets – RAW converter comparison Flickr set – Mastering the Fujifilm X-Pro1 reading samples (65 free pages) – Pre-order the new book: Mastering the Fujifilm X-E1 and X-Pro1

Hi there!
The jury is in, and the verdict isn’t clear at all.

Thank you everybody for reading and voting in last week’s little RAW Converter Shootout. About 7,000 readers looked at the comparison set on Flickr, and almost 1,000 made up their minds and cast their vote. In this X-Pert Corner special edition, I am going to present the results of our polling.

Let’s start with the first sample: And the winner is…

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

FR-reader zone: Jeff’s best X-PRO1 shots, 55-200 love story, a switch to the X and a speed booster review

Thanks X-shooters for sharing your stories, galleries and reviews with Fujirumors. Keep it up via fujirumor@gmail.com,  facebook or twitter.

Remember that until September 21 you can profit from hughe price drops on 5 XF lenses if you purchase them together with the X-E1 or X-PRO1 and save up to 1,150. You can find the deals here: AmazonUS: Fuji X-E1 / Fuji X-PRO1BHphoto: Fuji X-E1 / Fuji X-PRO1 Pictureline: Fuji X-E1 / Fuji X-PRO1 Adorama: Fuji X-E1 / Fuji X-PRO1

The brand new XF 23mm is not included in this offer. You can pre-order it here: USA: AmazonUS / BHphoto / Adorama / Pictureline EUROPE: PCHstore / wexcamerasDE / wexphotographicUK

have a great Sunday
Patrick

Jeff

Hi, there. Love that you are featuring Lawrence’s work [admin: I’ve shared Lawrence’s work here and here]…I’ve known him for a long time, and in fact was the one who urged him to ditch his old equipment and purchase the Fuji system! His work is fantastic. Anyway, I wanted to get on your radar. I’ve been using the X-Pro1 almost exclusively for a while and have blogged about some of my best images, all with X-Pro1. http://jeffseltzerphotography.com/blog/ . Thanks for taking the time to look. Best, Jeff (http://jeffseltzerphotography.com/  http://onlyapicture.tumblr.com/)

Jeff (onlyapicture.tumblr.com)

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Fuji XF 55-200mm: [shopcountry 12892]

Michael

Fujinon 55-200mm – A Love Story: Great site! My story from today – I didn’t believe in love at first sight, until I took out my X-E1 for my first shoot with the XF 55-200. I happened to have it with me when a storm suddenly broke and the sun sat perfectly between the cloud line and the horizon. This is a JPEG straight out of the camera w/ the Velvia film simulation – I absolutely love the colors that this lens can produce, and experienced very little lens flair unless pointed directly into the sun. I already loved the X system I’ve been building, but I might not take this lens off for quite some time.

More will be coming http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_lensman

Thanks for providing such relevant content!

Michael

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Fuji X-PRO1: [shopcountry 12882]

Carl

http://billfortney.com/

The above is a daily blog written by a 43 year professional photographer – the likes of 1) Washington Redskins Football Team Photographer, 2) photographed 6 standing Presidents of the USA, – well you get the picture.  He has been, for the last 10+ years, a Nikon representative but has retired in the last 2 months.  I think you will find his last two days of blogs very interesting.  In Thursday blog (click here) he tells of his life commitment to photography and primarily Nikon equipment – and then in the last 6 months his switch to Fuji equipment.  He got so many comments on Thursday blog that he wrote Friday’s blog (click here) about Fuji including many pictures.  I thought you needed to know this – and would enjoy reading it – and maybe your readers would too.  I am a friend of Bill’s and consequently switched to Fuji (X-E1) myself after much discussion with him personally.  Your blog (Fujirumor) is the first thing I read in the morning after my daily devotional.  Check it 2-3 times a day thereafter.  You REALLY do a good job!

Grace to you – and for all you do for the Fuji world!  Carl

“So many sad stories start with a visit to the doctors office.  My doctor said, “Would you like some more shoulder surgery?”  I responded, “would you like me to sock you in the jaw??!!”  ( My doctor is also a good friend and he’s use to my, sometimes, caustic manner!) He explained that if I wanted to preserve my remaining, good shoulder, I was going to have to stop carrying a 25 + pound camera bag! […] Then it happened ……. It was Nick’s fault […],  he introduced me to her!  She was much smaller and lighter, but really well built, and oh how sharp her lenses were.  Nick may have introduced me to her but I was the one who decided to take her for a spin, don’t blame Nick!  After a romantic afternoon of shooting the Fuji X-Pro 1, with my hands all over her, I went back and downloaded the files. There it was, starring me in the face, and as Judy Garland sang in the nineteen fifties, “You Made Me Love You!”

Carl (image courtesy: billfortney.com)

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Speed Booster [shopcountry 16275]

Tom

Patrick – I have done a review of the Metabones [shoplink 16275 ebay]Speed Booster[/shoplink] adapter that mounts Nikon G lenses onto Fuji X cameras. I have been excited by the potential of this device ever since it came out and wanted to give it a try. I performed a large number of practical tests some of Nikon’s best lenses mounted on a Fuji X-Pro1 with the Speed Booster. My results include many downloadable sample images that I think your readers will find interesting.

Here is a link to the post:

http://aboutphotography-tomgrill.blogspot.com/2013/08/metabones-speed-booster-nikon-g-lens-to.html

And here is a photo that shows an impressive hook-up of Nikon’s newest 70-400mm lens mounted on the X-Pro1:

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This was a really interesting test to perform. I think your readers will enjoy it.  – Tom

From the conclusions: “As already mentioned, optical quality will be degraded somewhat simply by inserting another optical element in the image path. Nonetheless, the center sharpness with almost all lenses I tested remained very high. It is only in the corners that things began to fall apart, as the image softened, vignetting increased, and color fringing crept in — all of which was more apparent with zoom lenses than with primes, and most of which was easily corrected in post-processing.

Tom

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miXed zone: switch to the X, what X-camera should you buy, X-Trans and reviews

XF 23mm pre-order

USA: AmazonUS / BHphoto / Adorama / Pictureline EUROPE: PCHstore / wexcamerasDE / wexphotographicUK

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Switch to the X

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image courtesy: rileyjoseph.com

Riley Joseph switched to the X. All his DSLR gear is gone, sold: “In my head I was making strange rationalizations for keeping my big dSLR: 1) I need it because of the full frame depth of field. 2) The Fujis are not weather sealed! I need it for shooting in bad weather! 3) With a crop factor I won’t be able to go super wide! I need full frame to go wide! 4) I need super fast auto focus. Or I might miss a shot!” Now read his answer to each of these points in his blog post here.

What X-Series Camera Should I Buy?

You’re struggling with the same question? Then read this fstoplounge post here… maybe he can help you.

The 2 Fujinon Lenses I use the most are...

View Results

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X-Trans

Some quick thoughts about Fujifim’s X-Trans Cameras and Software can be read at fujifilmxseries here: “Capture One is the best. Maybe Iridient Developer 2.2 gets more detail (important when you’re printing pixels), and maybe others do this or that, but for overall use as a RAW importer / converter / etc., I think Capture One comes out trumps. Overall, I find Capture One processed RAW files look best. […] I haven’t noticed anyone writing about the horrible smudged effect at the transitional edges of shadows. I first noticed it before I had bought my X100s, when I downloaded someone’s example X-Pro1 files (so, it’s not just me doing something odd on import). It looks like someone has taken some nugget (shoe polish) on a brush and dabbed it along the edges of shadows. I’ve never seen this before, so presumably it is an X-Trans thing. But it is also software compounded, as it is worse in jPegs, worse if soft-proofing and worse in Aperture than Lightroom […]”

X-M1

[shopcountry 13828]

digitalcamera-hq X-M1 review can be checked out here. From the conclusions: “With the Fujifilm X-M1, it’s easy to snap stunning, detailed images. The design, both on the exterior and on the sensor and processor inside, translates into an excellent camera. The X-M1 is really a great all-around shooter—beginners will love the simple automated modes while enthusiasts will have plenty to love about the large sensor and wide range of manual capabilities. But, the mirrorless category is quite competitive. How does the X-M1 compare? The Olympus E-P5 is similarly designed, but uses a micro four thirds sized sensor. […] With the sharp, detailed images and excellent design, the Fujifilm X-M1 is likely the best mirrorless option for under $800 this year.”

– The French site focus-numerique.com posted its X-M1 test here (translation). You can download the RAW files of the samples and look at the ISO performance.

photoxels assigned to the X-M1 with 16-50 the Gold Award. Read why in this review here: “The Fujifilm X-M1 is a camera that I can easily recommend to anyone who wants to start learning about photography. You can start with AUTO and scene modes, but at some time in your learning you will want to take control of the exposure settings, and this is where the X-M1 will make it easy to understand with its twin command dials. For many of you considering a purchase, its outstanding image quality will be the deciding factor for it stands right up there with that of top end DSLRs. All in a beautiful, solid and compact package. Highly recommended!”

– Fuji X-M1 | Lingerie Shoot at Dave Kai-Pipers blog post here.

image courtesy: Dave Kai-Piper

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X100S

[shopcountry 12883]

– Pro photographer Matt Ludtke posted his X100S review on his blog here: “The X100s image quality rivals that of DSLRs with APS-C size sensors and even at times that of the full frame cameras like my 5D Mk III.  It has a sharp 35mm full frame equivalent f/2 lens that is even sharp wide open.  Best of all it is small, light weight and you have real controls on the camera for shutter speed and aperture. Oh and the hybrid viewfinder kicks butt.  The camera is just a joy to work with.  And like many other pros who have one, I’ve recently started to use it on paid gigs.  Here are some of my favorite images I’ve shot with it so far.”

Matt Ludtke

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– X100S review at bestmat.ch here: “It’s hard to start concluding our review on the unique X100S. We enjoyed all time we had it in our hands which is something we don’t feel about many pieces of consumer electronics. The shooting experience is so enjoyable that we just forgot the various shortcomings of the camera. The fun part is that after we enjoyed taking the images, we’re left with an image of the highest quality.”

– An Entirely Subjective Look at the Fuji X100S at lightstalking here: “The real joy of this camera though is in the shooting. The way the controls fall to hand, and indeed the way the camera handles, make you wanting to take more and more. The fixed 35mm lens far from being an inconvenience is in fact a revelation. It makes you think about position and perspective. Its f2 aperture opening the doors to creative shallow depth of field shots or great low light images. In short, and in unison, with many other owners of this camera, this is the best digital camera I have ever owned, a camera that takes you back to the glory days of film not only in its looks and feel but also in its film-like image quality.”

– Zarek: “Hi. Just giving you the heads up on a detailed new Q&A style review I have prepared on the X100S. You featured my X-E1 review last year and I’ve had a lot of requests for a review of the new camera too. You can see it here.”

image courtesy: Zarek – 25daysoff.com

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X20

[shopcountry 12884]

– X20 review at photocomment.net: “The X20 is a little camera that packs a big punch and is hard to fault. It improves on the areas of the X10 that needed it most which means the Fujifilm X20 even closer to being an unbeatable, pro compact camera.”

X-E1

[shopcountry 12881]

– Some images taken with the X-E1 + 18-55 lens at onecameraonelens here: “Overall I can’t think of a single item of this camera that I would want  changed. It focuses fast enough for me, its sharp, has a very easy menu to use. The lens is superb (18-55mm/2.8-4) and an absolute joy to use. This setup just makes me want to get out more and shoot!”

– Tom Grill: “Patrick – I just finished a comprehensive review comparing the Fuji X-E1 to the Sony Nex-6. It was an eye-opener for me that I think would interest anyone deciding between these two cameras. It definitely convinced me. blog link here.”

“[…]  If compact size is a prime consideration, then the Nex-6 is clearly the winner, especially when outfitted with its smaller kit zoom lens. When it came down to actually using the cameras,  however, I found myself always preferring the handling quality of the X-E1. Its controls and menus are more extensive, more intuitive, and extremely well thought out, something an experienced photographer will appreciate. I would have no trouble taking along a Fuji X-E1 as my only camera on a travel shoot. Plus, as Fuji and other manufacturers expand the quality lens lineup, this camera system is going to get even better. In the end I found myself constantly gravitating towards using the X-E1. It was such a comfortable and impressive camera to use that I decided to add it to my already too large assortment of camera systems. I suppose that sums it up best.”

–  Fuji X-E1 plus 28 year old £35 Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 lens at soundimageplus here.

X-PRO1

[shopcountry 12882]

– Black and white photography with the X-PRO1 and the Zeiss Touit lenses at riflessifotografici.com.

image courtesy: riflessifotografici.com

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– There is a use for the in camera Multiple Exposure feature of the X-Pro1. Learn more about this and see some shots here at thedigitaltrekker. And be sure to check out also his beautiful shots in taken in Nepal here! You’ll read his comments regarding his frustrations with the current lens choices for the way he shoots.

image courtesy: thedigitaltrekker (Nepal)

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– One day Nathan decided to hike up to the summit of Mt. Yamnuska and packed his light X-PRO1 with 18mm lens in the backpack. Check out the picutres, read his story and see his wild descent from Mt. Yamnuska here.

– Fujifilm X-Pro1 and Fujinon 35mm f/1.4 at thewsreviews here: “More than some other manufacturers, I get the sense that Fujifilm is hungry to do better. Each round of cameras is exponentially better than their last. They’re getting better at high-end digital cameras faster than the competition is getting better at doing, well, anything interesting.”

– A bit of black and white photography by Jean-Michel Leclercq here.

– A little bit of Fuji X-Pro 1 love…despite some of its shortcomings… at lydiashawphotography here.

lenses

Fuji XF 55-200mm: [shopcountry 12892]

Fuji XF 27mm: [shopcountry 13829]

XF 55-200 test at roel here. From the conclusions: “The Fujifilm XF 55-200mm f/3.5~4.8 R LM OIS is a decent performer. It is sharp, the OIS is effective and it balances nicely on an X-Pro1 body (but not so much on the X-E1).  For stationary subjects, AF is good (but not great), and given the current state of continuous AF on the X-Pro1 and X-E1, I won’t be using it for any of my action work (wildlife and sports). I have been on the fence as to whether I would keep this lens – not because it is bad, in fact, it is quite good.  I initially purchased my X-Pro1 system because of the high quality, fast and small prime lenses – I am not a fan of variable aperture zoom lenses.  But for now, I will keep this lens as it is the only way to go beyond 60mm with the “X” system and still have auto focus – plus optically, it delivers the goods. So for now, I will be holding onto it.  For me, it is a compromise but if you don’t mind variable aperture zooms, then you will probably like this lens a lot.”

– DPR posted some 55-200 real world samples here.

– Some samples taken with the XF 27mm can be seen at dc.watch here (translation)

Ultimate RAW Converter Shootout

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)Rico’s Flickr sets – RAW converter comparison Flickr set (private set, must use this link) – Mastering the Fujifilm X-Pro1 reading samples (65 free pages)

Hello, again! Remember me?

It’s been a while, but to my defense, I have been busy finishing my new book Mastering the Fujifilm X-E1 and X-Pro1. It went to the printer yesterday (it will be printed in the U.S.A), and it’s expected to hit the stores by the end of October. You can preorder it by clicking here (currently with a 30% discount).

Of course, there’ll also be an eBook version for Kindle, iBooks and the likes. I’ll try to prepare a new set of reading samples for one of the next editions of this column. One will feature a first look at Fuji’s new X-A1 entry-level system camera (I have been testing a pre-production camera for several weeks), another one a look at the XF23mmF1.4 R lens that has just been officially announced (I am currently testing a pre-production sample).

As for this X-Pert Corner edition, it appears like I am promising you an “ultimate” RAW converter shootout, but of course, that’s just stupid marketing blah to lure you in. I was told that this kind of language attracts readers (hey, it worked on you, didn’t it?), and by the way, did I mention that the DSLR is dead and that Fuji is the new Leica?

Relax! Just kidding! ;)

What I am really going to do in this column is offering you a humble comparison of eight different X-Trans compatible RAW converters with respect to critical detail rendering at higher sharpening levels. My goal was to use AccuRaw 1.1.1, Aperture 3.4.5 with Apple Camera Raw 4.0.8, Capture One Pro 7.1.3, Iridient Developer 2.2, Lightroom 5.2RC, RPP 64 4.7.1, Silkypix 5.0.45 and the internal RAW converter of an X-Pro1 to extract as much detail as possible from two proven RAW sample files, then presenting the results without telling you which sample was made with which converter. This means that you’ll have to drop your preconceptions. Just look at the files without a safety net of hearsay! Spooky, huh?

Let flowers speak!

Enough introductory talk, let’s have a look at the first demo file:

By clicking here, you will get to a private Flickr set showing you eight different renderings of this image, labeled DSCF0544-1 to DSCF0544-8, displaying the results from RAW converters 1 to 8, respectively. I didn’t care about matching colors, contrast and the likes (you can change those anytime and anywhere to your personal taste). Instead, I focused on revealing as much sharp detail as possible, so for some of you, the results may look a tad too sharp. That’s intentional, as weaknesses tend to reveal themselves at critical sharpening levels (think “watercolor effect”).

Here’s how it goes: Look at the samples 1 to 8, then vote in the poll below for the one you like the most. I did my best to set each RAW converter to maximum effect with respect to revealing as much detail as possible, but hey, I’m only human (aka not Ken Rockwell). That’s why you’ll also find links to the original RAW files in Flickr’s image descriptions. Go ahead, knock yourselves out and do a better job with the RAW converter of your choosing!

Poll for DSCF0544-1 to DSCF0544-8:

Which two Fujinon Prime Lenses are the Most Sold ones until December 2015? (max. 2 selections)

View Results

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Personally, I think it’s interesting to not only see how differently the RAW converters are rendering the overall image, but also how different parts of the image reveal quite different levels of fine detail depending on which converter the file was processed with. If you click on the “original size” versions of the samples in Flickr, you will get 100% magnification views in lossless JPEG format, so prepare yourself for extended loading times. Many files are 20 MB+ in size. Yay!

Green is mean!

Our second sample is a particularly tough one, as it contains foliage and grass in all shapes and sizes. It’s a genuine X-Trans nightmare. I love it!

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

miXed zone: Apple RAW X-M1 support, admiringlight and phoblographer 27mm review, comparisons and more

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X-M1

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Apple RAW compatibility update adds support for X-M1 here.

– The Phoblographer published the X-M1 review here: “What happens when you take the best APS-C sensor in the business that just so happened to be in your flagship camera and put it in your entry level camera? Well, you get some damned good image quality that can rival that of a full frame camera’s performance. […] The camera’s JPEG conversion engine is also worthy of talking about–especially when converting an image to a black and white. pixel for pixel at higher ISOs, the engine crushes absolutely any noise issues and delivers a superbly sharp image with film grain that looks completely organic.”

digitalcamerainfo’s review of the X-M1 can be read here: “Putting an X-Trans sensor in a plastic body is a bit like putting a Ferrari engine in a Toyota Camry. Yeah it’s got a lot of get up and go, but at the end of the day, the beige paint and cloth seats diminish the overall experience. And the handling? Not so sporty. If you’re willing to spend $800 on a Fuji X-series camera, chances are you’re the kind of shopper who’s looking for ultimate quality, both in image quality and build. So do yourself a favor: Spend a little more and pick up an X-E1. For the extra coin, you’ll get improved controls, the confidence of an all-metal build, and the same great image quality.”

– The comprehensive optyczne X-M1 review is online here (translation).

– A little bit of street photography with the X-M1 at dslrmagazine.com (translation).

– A quick take of Mike Kobal’s favorite compacts: Fuji X-M1, Ricoh GR and Sony RX100II here.

X100S

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– Fuji X100s Long Term Report at photofocus.com: “I guess it goes to show you that no camera is perfect. And no tool can be expected to do EVERYTHING well. But the X100s comes close.”

neocamera X100S review here: “The Fuji X100S is an extremely capable premium compact camera. It features a unique 16 MP X-Trans II CMOS sensor without anti-alias filter that delivers image-quality which competes with the best APS-C DSLRs on the market.”

wired posted its X100S review here: “WIRED: Compact size. Amazing photo quality. You look cool using it. – TIRED: Controls take longer than usual to master. Battery life and meter can cut a planned long day shooting too short.

Three Guys With Cameras Part II of the comparison of the X100S with the GR and Coolpix A is now up. You can find it here.

– See Florence through the eye of the X100S at alessandromichelazzi.com.

– X100 vs X100S at thevisualexperience.

– focus-numerique’s review can be read in French here (translated version)

– The Fuji X100S makes an appearance at the James Beard Awards (click here)

– A short feedback with some samples checked out here at thelifeofm.com.

X-E1

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– X-E1 review at photoxels here. They posted some sample shots taken with the 27mm: “The Fujifilm X-E1 inherits the DNA of the X-PRO1 with image quality that rivals and even bests that obtained from some enthusiast and top-end DSLRs. It swaps the Hybrid optical/electronic Multi Viewfinder for a very high resolution OLED EVF and adds a built-in flash. It accepts all the XF and XC lenses and, with the M Mount Adapter, can also use LEICA M lenses. If you like the X-PRO1 but can’t afford it, the X-E1 may just be the one for you.”

– Fuji X-E1 and Sigma 12-24mm samples at soundimageplus here: “Its not pretty. In fact its ugly, heavy, huge and difficult to use, but the Sigma 12-24mm takes a great picture on the Fuji X-E1.”

Leica M9 vs Fuji X-E1 at frankdoorhof here. From the conclusions: “Now when we know that most people will use the Leica on the street and that you need some speed there I think that the Leica is a great/sexy/cool and awesome to shoot with camera BUT… due to the lack of focussing speed it’s not the camera I would advise, even if it was the same price…….. However seeing the fact I can buy 6x X-E1′s for one M9 (and I don’t even talk about glass)… well I will advise the X-E1 without a doubt in my mind. Also take into account the dynamic range in the X-E1 and the much better handling of noise I’m more and more convinced the Leica is not the better choice.”

– “photo shoot: take a rapper and the X-E1” here.

– Forbes X-E1 review here.

– Some testings with the X-E1 can be seen here at thomasfitzgeraldphotography.

lenses

Fuji XF 27mm: [shopcountry 13829] Fuji XF 55-200mm: [shopcountry 12892]

– thephoblographer’s XF 27mm review here: “PROS: Compact size – Sharp image quality – Low profile look – Fast to focus CONS: An aperture ring would have been preferred – Macro focusing doesn’t really work out so well

– Also admiringlight posted its XF 27mm review here: “Overall, the Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8 is a pleasant lens to use and a great option when you want the smallest possible package for your Fuji X camera. It pairs especially well with the tiny X-M1, creating a very portable package capable of very good image quality. The 27mm f/2.8 is sharp at most any aperture, and while the edges are a little softer than the center, they are plenty sharp enough for most any use. This little pancake controls chromatic aberrations and fringing extremely well, and I feel that overall image quality is quite good, though bokeh is rather unremarkable. Ultimately, if you want a very small lens with very good image quality in a nice all-purpose focal length, the XF 27mm f/2.8 will fit the bill quite nicely. I was left wanting for a few things, however. For the $450 asking price, I would have much rather seen a faster aperture, as an f/2.8 prime lens isn’t exactly a speed demon. I would have much preferred this to be an f/2.0 or even f/2.4 lens given the price.”

– The exhibition at the old hospital and the zeiss touit 12mm for x-pro1 at suspectphotography.com.

– Getting close with the 55-200 at byjansen.com here: “The building quality is solid with an all-metal barrel construction like all Fujinon lenses and although it’s a big lens it feels really good on the camera, […] The image sharpness overall is superb, stabilisation (4x) works fine, it has smooth bokeh (!!) […]. I love using it and the image quality is superb compared to the dslr zoom lenses I’ve owned before. I can’t wait to try the 55-200 out when my kids start playing hockey again.

– And here is World Superbikes race shot with the 55-200 and X-PRO1: “All in all, a superb combination of kit. Lightweight, compact and unbelievable quality.”

First day with the XF14mm at rolandlim: “[…] f2.8 aperture is good for indoor and night shots – Although it is certainly not a macro lens, but with a closest focusing distance of 18cm, the macro ability is not bad in emergency use […]”

The Spanish quesabesde tested the 14mm here (translated version)… looks good, and it is!

The Japanese camera.itmedia review (translated version) of the XF14mm.

Fujixfiles XF14mm review here.

X-PRO1

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rezaevol X-PRO1 first impressions here: “To be honest I would love to say everyone should buy this camera but that’s not true. The people who should buy this camera are camera enthusiasts, street photographers and or photographers who have a DSLR and want something smaller to carry around everyday with them. I would be brave enough to say that you can use this for fashion photography if you wanted. If your looking to capture fast moving action I suggest you stay away from this camera, unfortunately it’s not fast enough to capture those moments that need fast focusing.”

– X-PRO1 review at mirrorlessons here: “It still needs some improvement, but seeing how the camera has evolved in this year and a half, I really believe that the system can attain perfection and become something completely different from any other system. Not only am I waiting to become just that bit richer, but I am also awaiting a new model and new lenses, like the recently-announced 23mm f/1.4 and the 56mm f/1.2. At that point, I really won’t need a DSLR anymore.”

– Fuji X-Series Cameras For Astrophotography at Jonesblog here.

X-E1 +VSCO Film 4

Fuji X-E1 + VSCO Film 4: A Quick Review at thomasfitzgeraldphotography.com here: