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GFX Technologies #6 – The New Color Chrome Effect: Both a Goal, and a Beginning :: GFX Vs. Sony A7rII & More

Color Chrome Effect

The 6th episode of the GFX technologies series is now online. This time it’s about the new color chrome effect:

  • The development of Color Chrome Effect is derived from a reversal film: fortia. The film was introduced to the market in 2004 with the catchphrase “Higher contrast and more vivid color than Velvia
  • no matter what you do in Velvia mode, it will never turn into fortia
  • When expressing colors such as red, orange, yellow, or yellow green in high contrast, high brightness tends to exist. If contrast and brightness both reach their peaks, there is no room for tonality. As a result, the image becomes very flat. But by analyzing the light and information received on the sensor surface, one can detect slight gradation. Color Chrome Effect uses this to create tonality while maintaining high contrast. As a result, an image is achieved without losing its depth.
  • Side effect: processing power is required. Even the X-Processor Pro needs about 1.0 sec. to process the Color Chrome Effect. If you are single shot user, then this is not a problem. But you cannot shoot continuously or set it to AF-C mode.

Read the whole story at fujifilm-x

All GFX Technologies episodes:

GFX Roundup

Mike Leung share at the GFX group here
Sim City 2017 #GFX #GF32_64 @49mm
full size image here on Flickr

100% crop

Fujifilm GFX Technologies #4 (The Story of GFX Shutter Design) and #5 (Profound Tonality and Deeper Color)

EPISODE 4 – SHUTTER DESIGN

Fujifilm published episode 4 and 5 of their GFX technologies series (epsiode 1 – Sensor / episode 2 – G-mount / epsiode 3 – lenses).

Episode 4 is all about the shutter. Some excerpts:

  • The mirror shock is a huge factor that affects image quality. If the camera was created with a mirror, we estimate as much as 30% deterioration in resolution would be inevitable. Mirror shock leaves that much of an impact, especially for a medium format system.
  • Although it does not leave as big of an impact as the mirror shock, there is another element that causes shock inside a camera body: a focal plane shutter.
  • Our shutter design is actually all about shock absorption.
  • shutter unit pieces are not mass-produced during the development phase, so some parts are handmade one by one. This leads to a cost that is 30 times higher than the final product.
  • As much as 30 units were broken before we landed on the final shutter design,” said one designer. “In order to any make claims of 150,000 actuations or weather-resistance to -10°C, we actually needed to put it all to the test and confirm our claims.”
  • There are two generations X Series shutter units. The GFX shutter blades are four times bigger than that of the X Series. It also needs to move as fast as 1/4000 sec. The spring tension and shock impact is 10 times bigger as a result.
  • Firstly, rigid and tough metal parts are used [because] plastic is [lightweight but] not tough enough for a medium format. Carbon [is light but] is vulnerable to shock and is easy to break.
  • There is cushioning material within the shutter unit so that shock will not be transmitted

Read it all at fujifilm-x

EPSIODE 5 – COLOR AND TONALITY

Episode 5 is all about Tonality and Color. Some excerpts:

  • The shadow tone is softer for the GFX’s PROVIA and ASTIA than for X Series cameras. A medium format camera is often used in studio with perfect lighting setups. So we had to come up with a way to reflect the subtle changes in the lighting expression.
  • The development of ACROS was not easy, but looking back now, it was an easier task than PROVIA and ASTIA, as we started designing from scratch. But just as ACROS proved to be popular among photographers, we knew that the new PROVIA and ASTIA would be welcomed. We had to do this.
  • Although we’ve made adjustments to some film simulations, the original idea behind them does not change. We believe these changes would be beneficial for photographers, rather than leaving them confused.
  • Images are more robust, so not only photographers benefit from these tweaks, but their editors and printers will also find them beneficial

Read it all at fujifilm-x

Discover what the GFX can really do, by enjoying tons of samples and discussions at out GFX facebook group here. To get GFX tailored news, follow our GFX facebook page.

Fujifilm GFX: USA BHphoto, Adorama, AmazonUS EU: AmazonDE, AmazonUK, WexUKParkCamerasUKPCHstore AUS: CameraPro

The Big Fujifilm GFX Recap :: Everything We Know is Here… RGB Color Histogram, Base ISO 100, AF-Points + Much More!

Here is a big GFX Overview, based on information Fujifilm shared at the Photokina 2016 and later, and also based on Rumors you could find here on FujiRumors. I’ll mark with “R” the rumors and with “F” the facts, although keep in mind that even the facts revealed earlier by Fujifilm could have changed in the meantime.

Everything you can read below has already been published on FR starting from September 2016, but I thought a Recap could be useful, since I keep getting emails with questions, that have already been answered in the past, but given the huge amount of information are easy to miss.

I strongly recommend you to allow push notifications and follow us on Facebook, RSS-feed and Twitter in order not to miss anything.

FUJIFILM GFX CAMERA

  1. Fujifilm GFX 50S – F
  2. Announcement Janaury 19 – R
  3. Release February 23 – R
  4. Body Price €6999/$6499 – R
  5. G-Mount – F
  6. Mirrorless – F
  7. Weather Sealed body/lenses – F
  8. X-Processor Pro (used in X-T2/X-Pro2) – F
  9. No Low-Pass Filter – F
  10. Contrast Detection AF only with 117 AF points – F
  11. RGB color histograms in the live view – F
  12. 51.4MP 44 x 33mm Medium Format Bayer Sensor (No X-Trans, because not needed with this huge 50MP sensor) – F
  13. Aspect Ratio: 4:3 (default), 3:2, 1:1, 4:5, 6:7 and 6:17 – F
  14. MF Sensor made by Sony but customized by Fujifilm. The challenge is how to get the light hit the sensor evenly – in the center and also at the corners. In order to achieve that, Fujifilm customized the microlenses in front of the sensor and optimized the silicon process. – F
  15. MF sensor is 1.7 (70%) times bigger than Full Frame. Crop factor 0.79x. – F
  16. Weight about 800g – F
  17. 12 pins on the lens mount (useful when it comes to adapting third-party lenses) – F
  18. Flange Distance of only 26.7 to shorten the back focus distance as much as possible. This prevents vignetting to achieve edge-to-edge sharpness of the world’s highest level – source Fujifilm Press release via dpreview. – F
  19. ISO: base-ISO 100 :: Max ISO 51200 – F
  20. minimum back focus 16.7mm – F
  21. Focal Plane shutter max 1/4000 – F
  22. Flash Sync Speed 1/125 – F
  23. EF-X500 with HSS Supported – F
  24. Bigger Battery compared to X-T2/X-Pro2 – F
  25. Electronic shutter – F
  26. Full-HD with 30 fps – F
  27. Dual SD Cards UHS-II – F
  28. EVF: 3.69 megadots with a magnification of 0.85x (X-T1/2: 0.77x) with frame rate of around 60 fps – F
  29. EVF: Detachable and fully tiltable if used with an adapter – F
  30. EVF has a hot shoe on the top – F
  31. All Film Simulations of X-T2/X-Pro2 available (including ACROS) – F
  32. Adapter for Leaf Shutter Lenses in the works – F
  33. Tethering support at launch – F
  34. Joystick – F
  35. E-ink LCD display on the top of the camera (always visible, even if camera is switched off) – F
  36. WiFi – F
  37. dynamic range settings of DR800% and maybe even DR1600%. – Source fujixsecrets
  38. USB 3 data transfer and charging – F
  39. HDMI – F
  40. Mic, headphone and remote control outputs – F
  41. Tilt LCD like X-T2 (3 way tilting) – F
  42. Touch LCD screen – F
  43.  diopter adjustment – F
  44. 11 Fn buttons – Source fujixsecrets
  45. shooting intervals of 700 ms – F
  46. quick start up time – F
  47. Fujifilm Will Launch Professional Support Service Along with the GFX Camera – R

FUJIFILM GF LENSES

  1. GF63mmF2.8 R WR (50mm equiv.) available at launch. Price €1,599/$1,499 – R
  2. GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR (25-51mm equiv.) available at launch. Price $2,299 – R
  3. GF120mmF4 Macro R LM OIS WR (95mm equiv.). Magnification of 1:0.5. available at launch. $2,599  – R minimum focus distance 45cm – max. magnification of 0.5x, 1:2 Macro – F
  4. GF110mmF2 R LM WR (87mm equiv.) available mid 2017 – F
  5. GF23mmF4 R LM WR (18mm equiv.) available mid 2017 – F
  6. GF45mmF2.8 R WR (35mm equiv.) available late 2017 – F
  7. Dedicated C positions on the aperture ring (The C position can be locked to avoid accidental changes) – F
  8. The lenses are ready for sensors with a resolution of 100MP – F
  9. Only the GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR zoom lens has inner focussing – F
  10. The prime lenses are optically corrected for distortion – F

Fujifilm GFX Facebook Group ** Join 4,400 GFX Fans

stay tuned…
Fuji X Forum, Facebook, RSS-feed
and Twitter

Sony’s Fast & Furious Hardware Updates Vs. Fuji’s Kaizen Philosophy :: What’s the Better Strategy to Win the Mirrorless Battle? – POLL

fuji-sony

INITIAL NOTE: In all these years of blogging, I’ve learned that every time you compare brands/cameras, the shitstorm is just around the corner. So I’ll say it clearly now: I like the innovation Sony is bringing in the mirrorless market. This article is not to bash on Sony, but just to ask you if you would like Fuji to adopt the same strategy of Sony. If you find something I wrote not accurate, please let me know… you know I’m open for critics and willing to correct statements that are wrong.

Rico’s Fuji X-workshop in Thailand
only 1 space left for English / only 2 spaces left for German

The Fast and The Furious Sony Strategy!

Holy Moly!

Sony just announced the Sony A6500 (BHphoto, Adorama, AmazonUS), and it comes just a few months after the launch of the Sony A6300. The sensor in both cameras is the same, but Sony build in IBIS, touch screen and improved the AF-performance on the A6500 (reports say the X-T2 AF is superior to the A6300. The A6500 might catch up again). It remains to see, if Sony managed to control overheating better.

Sony shooters might already got used to such a fast camera release rate. Take for example at the Sony A7 series:

Sony A7 + Sony A7r (October 2013)
Sony A7s (April 2014)
Sony A7II (November 2014)
Sony A7rII (August 2015)
Sony A7SII (September 2015)
Sony A9 (planed for 2016, but the April earthquake that hit their sensor factory created a major sensor shortage. Sony even had problems to ship the A7rII)

It’s just crazy how many hardware changes Sony has launched to the original A7/A7r in just 3 years! Basically 2 new Full Frame Mirrorless cameras a year (except 2016 – due to the earthquake): more Megapixel, less Megapixel, Ibis, no Ibis, Phase Detection Pixels, no Phase Detections Pixel… you name it!

This strategy must be quite successful for Sony, because they now adapted it also for the A6000 series. Just 8 months after the release of the Sony A6300, Sony launched the A6500, with hardware and firmware improvements. The question remains open, if the firmware improvements will make it also into the Sony A6300, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Sony would decide to leave the A6300 firmware untouched and “force” customers to buy the A6500 for even faster AF.

Fuji’s Kaizen Strategy… “ for longer camera lifespan

Back in December 2013, the godfather of the X-series, Manager Mr. Kawahara (now retired), said in an interview that Fujifilm will focus on Firmware updates, because “we want you to use our camera longer and longer in your life.” And the press release to the X-T1 Firmware 4.20 reinforced this strategy, since Fuji wrote here: “New X-T1 firmware V.4.20 delivers updated Auto Focus system features, along with several other key upgrades for longer camera lifespan.” I also remember Toshihisa Iida and Fuji Guy Billy confirming the Kaizen Strategy in two video interviews, but I can’t remember where (I’ll update the article if I find the videos).

However, I found another statement by Top Fuji Manager Toshihisa Iida regarding Fuji’s Firmware policy here:

Of course there’s an argument whenever we introduce a new firmware upgrade that it’s damaging the existing product. So there are pros and cons, but we decided that we really needed to take care of the existing customer first before thinking of the new customer. […] So I think that’s right, to show our customer loyalty for their purchase. […] Because now the camera is costing somewhere around several hundred to a thousand dollars. So it’s ridiculous for us to ask customers to upgrade every two years or so.”

So let’s take a look at Fujifilm’s flagship cameras lifespan, the X-Pro and the X-T line

Fuji X-T1  Fuji X-T2 = 2½ years
Fuji X-Pro1  Fuji X-Pro2 = 4 years

However, the X-T1 has actually changed a lot in these years, thanks to many (free!!!) Firmware updates. I’ll mention the 3 major ones, that gave us electronic shutter, new AF-system, new film Simulations, Customizable Q menu… and much more!

18 December 2014 – FW 3.00
29 June 2015 – FW 4.00 + 11 Tips to make the most out of it
17 December 2015 – FW 4.20

Also the X-Pro1 and X-E1/2 got several major Firmware updates. And the X-Pro2 just received a huge update yesterday.

But is this really the right strategy? The development of Firmware updates is expensive and Fujifilm doesn’t make a dime out of it. Actually they hurt sales of newer X-series cameras by upgrading older ones. Sure, it might be good for us customers (longer camera lifespan), but it’s definitely not good for Fujifilms’ finances!

That said, as a customer, I’m obviously a Kaizen-fan and hope Fujifilm will keep this philosophy. But I also hope this won’t affect their business too negatively, because I want them to survive the mirrorless battle… and that brings me to today’s Poll

The Poll

The mirrorless battle has just begun, and it’s clear to me that some companies will perish, regardless how amazing their products are (Samsung died despite having a terrific camera, the Samsung NX1).

Only those companies with the best strategy will survive the mirrorless battle.

That’s why I’d like to know from you, what do you think would be better for Fujifilm: keep focussing on Firmware updates or do it like Sony?

The best strategy for Fuji is to...

View Results

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Top Sony Manager Confirms The Fast Focussing Fuji X-T2 is a Threat for Sony A7 series Customers. “We Don’t Have This Weapon Right Now”

Fujifilm X-T2 Sells Better on Amazon than Canon 5D MK IV :: Fuji Guys X-T2 Flash Options + Additional X-T2 Coverage!

Fujifilm X-T2 USA: BHphoto / AmazonUS / Adorama / CANADA: AmazonCA / EUROPE: AmazonDE / Calumentphoto DE / AmazonUK / AmazonITA / AmazonFR / AmazonESP / PCHstore / WexUK / AUSTRALIA: CameraPro

Fuji X-T2 Coverage

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

First Look Review: Fujifilm X-T2

Fujifilm X-T2USA: BHphoto / AmazonUS / Adorama / CANADA: AmazonCA / EUROPE: AmazonDE / Calumentphoto DE / AmazonUK / AmazonITA / AmazonFR / AmazonESP / PCHstore / WexUK / AUSTRALIA: CameraPro

Vertical Booster Grip: USA: BHphoto / AmazonUS / Adorama / CANADA: AmazonCA / EUROPE: AmazonDE / AmazonUK / AmazonITA / AmazonFR / AmazonESP / PCHstore / WexUK / AUSTRALIA: CameraPro

New NP-W126S Batteries: BHphoto / Adorama /

The Complete Camera

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)

Rico’s Books at Rocky Nook * Fuji X Secrets Workshops * Rico’s Flickr Sets

The Fujifilm X-T1: 111 X-Pert Tips * The Fujifilm X-T10: 115 X-Pert Tips
*** NEW *** The Fujifilm X-Pro2: 115 X-Pert Tips *** NEW ***
(use coupon XPERT40 for a 40% discount)

The X-T2 may be Fujifilm’s most important product launch since the introduction of the X-Series. Building on the best features of the X-T1 and X-Pro2, can this richly featured workhorse convince enthusiasts and pros to consider the X-Mount as a universal go-to system for all their photographic needs? Let’s find out in this first impressions review.

Getting serious: The X-T2 is Fujifilm’s high-powered successor to the X-T1.

Please note: This carefully researched and ridiculously comprehensive First Look Review of the Fujifilm X-T2 and Vertical Power Booster Grip is based on three different X-T2 pre-production models and more than ten different (and continuously evolving) beta firmware generations. The final hardware and firmware are expected to ship in the first half of September 2016.

***

Fuji X Secrets Ultimate workshops in Phuket, Thailand
From Nov. 12 – Nov. 19 and from Nov. 19 – Nov. 26, I am going to entertain a unique Fuji X Secrets workshop experience in Phuket, Thailand. We have rented one of Thailand’s most stunning villas as our base for an exclusive group of X-afficionadoes. The first week on offer will be for English speaking participants, and the second week for German speaking delegates. This exclusive event is designed for only seven participants per workshop week. However, each delegate is invited bring along a non-participating friend or loved one to share this wonderful experience and location. With daily photo excursions and the full curriculum of our popular multi-day Fuji X Secrets Weekend and Fuji X Secrets RAW workshops, this will be an unforgettable week of living and breathing the Fujifilm X spirit in a collaborative group of like-minded enthusiasts. Once you get there, everything will be taken care of—welcome to X-Paradise! The information and registration site is now open. Click here for the English and here for the German workshop weeks.

The Fujifilm X-Pro2: 115 X-Pert Tips is available
Please click here to order the printed edition or your ebook copy in three different DRM-free formats (all for the price of one), including a 40% discount if you use coupon code XPERT40. German readers can click here to order the German edition.

***

In  September 2016, the X-T2 will be available in black (and eventually perhaps also in silver).
In any case, a matching camera-powered EF-X8 mini flashgun is included.

About two and a half years after the introduction of the successful X-T1, Fujifilm is getting serious with taking the X-series into “we can do everything” territory. At first glance, the X-T2 looks very much like its predecessor—why change a concept that stood behind Fujifilm’s (so far) most successful X-series camera? However, it’s a different story on the inside. At several global launch events, Fujifilm has made it very clear that the X-T2 is supposed to address all photographic needs, including sports and action shooting. It’s supposed to be a “complete mirrorless camera”.

Ready for business

Compared to the X-T1, the X-T2 features dozens of changes and improvements. Here’s an overview in 40 bullet points:

  • 24.3 MP X-Trans CMOS III sensor (Sony-built with 14 bit readout) with no anti-aliasing filter
  • X-Processor Pro is four times as fast as the EXR II processor used in the X-T1 and offers improved image quality, better noise response and higher dynamic range
  • improved ISO performance (about 1 stop better than the previous generation) with native ISO covering 200 to 12800, and extended ISO settings of 100, 25600 and 51200 (all with full RAW support)
  • 100% faster sensor readout, resulting in improved AF tracking performance, a dramatically reduced minimum blackout time of only 114 ms, and a high 100 fps EVF refresh rate
  • 0.005s display lag, 0.06s max. AF speed, 0.17s shooting interval, 0.045s shutter lag
  • configurable AF-C modes to adapt the AF system to different sports and action shooting scenarios
  • up to 11 fps burst speed in boost mode (14 fps when using the electronic shutter) with AF tracking
  • 3, 4 or 5 fps slow burst mode (CL) with full live-view and CDAF support
  • improved user interface and a new menu structure, including a custom My Menu with up to 16 entries
  • DSLR-style “AF-ON” option and new settings to individually engage/disengage focus and exposure lock when the shutter button is half-pressed
  • more tactile dials and buttons and a new push-button lock mechanism for top-plate dials
  • better grip and improved standard eyecup
  • convenient focus stick to quickly move the autofocus frame or zone (with up to 325 AF frames to choose from)
  • articulated rear screen works in landscape and portrait orientation
  • new Vertical Power Booster Grip with two additional battery slots for extended shooting (1000+ images) and duplicate controls
  • weather sealing with protection against rain, dust and freezing
  • improved 0.77x electronic viewfinder with better image quality and twice the brightness of the previous model, now also featuring an auto brightness mode
  • low-vibration 1/8000s mechanical shutter with 1/250s flash sync (supplemented by an electronic shutter with 1/32000s), rated for 150,000 shots
  • new flash system offers high-speed sync, wireless TTL and multi-frame shooting (in concert with compatible flash units such as the new EF-X500)
  • dual SD card slots (both support the ultra-fast UHS-II standard)
  • improved hybrid autofocus system with pro-level subject tracking, a larger phase-detection area and more focus points (7 x 13 or 13 x 25 focus points, including either 7 x 7 or 13 x 13 phase detection points)
  • automatic pixel mapping (to map out dead pixels)
  • improved JPEG quality and new ACROS film simulation with ISO-controlled film grain and noise shaping
  • expanded JPEG settings with additional options for contrast, noise reduction, sharpness, color saturation and film grain simulation
  • broader ±2 EV bracketing and ±5 EV exposure compensation (along with expanded Push/Pull options in the camera’s built-in RAW converter)
  • lossless RAW compression cuts RAW file size in half
  • improved battery life indicator for up to three batteries at once (including a 1% accuracy display)
  • enhanced electronic depth-of-field and distance scale with either pixel-based or film-based precision
  • new center-weighted metering option
  • WYSIWYG simulation of fixed dynamic range settings (DR200%, DR400%) in the live view and live histogram of the EVF and LCD, and enhanced highlight DR in Natural Live View mode
  • dedicated video mode on DRIVE dial replaces video record button
  • high-quality 4K video and HD video with 100 Mbit/s and oversampling (to minimize moiré and artifacts)
  • vastly improved video focussing
  • HDMI output to mirror EVF and LCD displays on monitors and HD beamers, or to record the live view with an HD frame grabber
  • uncompressed 4:2:2 HD and 4K HDMI output to external recording devices, including “F-Log” flat gamma 4K recording with expanded dynamic range
  • threaded cable release option, fast USB 3.0 interface, 3.5mm mic input, 2.5mm remote control input, 3.5mm sound/headphone output (in the Vertical Power Booster Grip)
  • USB charging for the in-body battery
  • Vertical Power Booster Grip includes an external power input to power the camera and charge batteries inside the grip (2 hours charging time for two batteries)
  • new NP-W126S battery with reduced heat dissemination (old batteries remain fully compatible)
  • USB and wireless tethering options (after a future firmware update) with new and improved plug-ins for Adobe Lightroom
** CLICK HERE to Read the Rest of the Article **

RUMOR: Fujifilm plans a Super Fast F/1.0 lens! (New Source)

 photo 30 10_zpsiyoyxi2e.jpg

First take the Grain of Salt… and then you can start dreaming ;)

According to a New Source, Fujifilm is working on a Super Fast XF lens, that will have a widest opening of F1.0. The source says that the specs are not final until now, but the focal length planed at the moment is around 30mm.

Consider that it looks like we are in the early stages of development of this lens, so there might be some changes in the specs (if this rumor is true at all… remember, grain of salt)

The fastest XF lens available until now is the 56mmF1.2 (now $150 off!), which delivers sharp results all over the frame even at its maximum aperture. So Fujifilm has definitely the know-how and potential to design a lens that delivers astonishing results even at F/1.0.

What would be your ideal focal length for such an über-fast F1.0 lens?

stay tuned for more rumors,
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XF 16mmF1.4 WR PRE-ORDER: USA: BHphoto / AmazonUS / Adorama / EUROPE: WexUK / PCHstore
Rico’s FIRST LOOK at the XF 16mmF1.4 (German Version)

FUJI X-SHIRTS available here in USA and here in Europe & CO.
Learn more about the 100% Fair Trade Charity X-shirts here.

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First Look: XF16mmF1.4 R WR

PRE-ORDERS (and support FR)

PRE-ORDER XF 16mmF1.4 WR ($999): USA: BHphoto / AmazonUS / Adorama / EUROPE: WexUK / PCHstore /

_ _ _

First Impressions Review: XF16mmF1.4 R WR

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)

Rico’s Books at Rocky Nook – Fuji X Secrets Workshops – Rico’s Flickr Sets

The Fujifilm X-E2: Beyond the Manual (use coupon XPERT40 for a 40% discount)

NEW: The Fujifilm X-T1: 111 X-Pert Tipps (use coupon XPERT40 for a 40% discount)

Specs – Rico’s XF16mmF1.4 R WR Sample Images – Deutsche Version

^ X-T1 with XF16mmF1.4 R WR

As you might already know, my new book featuring 111 tipps for X-T1 users is now available as an eBook and as a conventionally printed edition. Please use this link and enter coupon code XPERT40 to get a PDF version and an ePub (Apple iBooks) file and the Kindle version all DRM-free for just $11.99. If you are still undecided, click here to download 47 free sample pages. If you like my book and can afford the time, please leave a review at Amazon.

^ X-T1, XF16mmF1.4 R WR, f/1.4, Capture One Pro

Fuji’s latest lens addition has “high-end” written all over it. The XF16mmF1.4 R WR is a fast, weather- and dust-sealed wide-angle prime lens with Nano-GI coating (to eliminate flare and ghosting), a 0.21x magnification close-up capability with a minimum focus distance of only 15 cm (thanks to two floating focus groups) and nine aperture blades for a smooth bokeh with circular blur discs.

^ X-T1, XF16mmF1.4 R WR, f/2.0, SOOC JPEG (Pro Neg. Std)

The lens also features two aspherical elements and two ED (extra low-dispersion) elements that minimize spherical and chromatic aberrations to surprisingly low levels and deliver corner-sharp images even at the widest aperture setting of f/1.4:

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

Using the Fujifilm X100T

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Fujifilm X100T: USA: BHphoto / AmazonUS / Adorama / EUROPE: WexUK / WexDE / PCHstore / AUSTRALIA: CameraPro

_ _ _

Using the Fujifilm X100T

first impressions / practical review / shooting experience / tutorial

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)

Fuji X Secrets WorkshopsRico’s Flickr Sets

The Fujifilm X-E2: Beyond the Manual (use coupon XPERT40 for a 40% discount)

Rico’s X100T Sample ImagesX100T Specs

As the Fujifilm X100T is about to become available all over the world, I think this is a good time to share my first impressions with this classic, modern camera. I was able to evaluate a pre-production model for several weeks, going through a few revisions of beta firmware in the process.

 

 

Same, Same, But Different

The X100T uses the same 16.3 MP X-Trans II sensor and 23mm (35mm full-frame equivalent) lens as its predecessor, the X100S. Despite that, it often feels like a different camera—in a good sense. How’s that even possible? It appears that Fujifilm kept what made the X100 and X100S popular (and also quite unique), so the DNA remains intact. On the other hand, there is a plethora of enhancements affecting both hardware and firmware. They all seem to share one common goal: to make the camera more accessible and user-friendly, to make sure that the camera doesn’t get in the way between you and your photography, and to be a genuine pleasure to work with.

X100T – Lightroom 5.6.
Click on the image for larger sizes.

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

miXed zone: Why does the X-T1 get more use than my 5d3, X-E2 with firmware 2.00, Zeiss 50mm review and more!

TCL-X100
AmazonUS (Japan import) / wexUK. The silver lens here and the black lens here.

– Antoine B: “And for whoever is interested in buying the TCL-X100, I would definitely recommend it! it is a wonderful addition to the X100s and brings the same IQ as in the two other available focal lengths (23mm and 19mm). Here are a series of test shots in various conditions.”

Fujifilm X-E2 with firmware 2.00

Fuijifilm X-E2 firmware upgrade 2.00 is major for me at stanleyleary: “The firmware update Ver. 2.00 from Ver. 1.20 has made a huge difference for my experience when it comes to focusing. While no where in the information about the changes is the focusing improvement mentioned—I noticed a quite considerable better performance. […]  Now the camera was no longer hunting and the moments were much easier to obtain. […] Fuji is doing what other manufacturers are afraid to do because the other manufacturers fear loss in sales. For the most part the firmware upgrade makes the differences between the X-T1 and X-E2 minor and makes me want another X-E2.”

Fuji X-T1 – Why does it get more use than my Canon 5d3?

– Paul Richards: “Hello Patrick. I am a professional wedding photographer in the UK and I have just posted an article on my site regarding my use of the Fuji X system in my work and personal life.  Hopefully it interests you enough to feature it on your excellent site. Here it is! Thanks for all the work that you put into Fujirumors, it is a brilliant resource.” From the article:

I’m using Fuji X cameras more and more for both personal and professional use, here’s a few reasons why the [shoplink 13457]Canon DSLR’s[/shoplink] are spending more time on the shelf than ever before: Lens quality […] Gorgeous Images […] Form Factor […] I love EVF’s […] Form Factor Again […]” Read more here!

Fujifilm X-T1
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– In the Footsteps of Gold Prospectors with the Fuji X-T1 and X100S at olafphotoblog: “Fuji X-T1 and X100S worked wonders during the trip. We were glad that the Fuji X-T1 is a sealed camera, given the dust we had to operate in during this trip. This trip reminded us how good the XF 14mm F2.8 lens is. Many of you ask us about the choice between the latest XF 10-24mm and XF 14mm. Both are very capable lenses. It is a matter of preference. If you are a hard-core landscape photographer you need to go as wide as possible, therefore, XF 10-24. We shoot with the XF 14mm and we love its smaller size and prime qualities.”

– Kartal Kendirci: “I just wanted to share; how X-T1 well performanced on continious autofocus. X-T1 + XF 35mm, f/1.4, shutter 1/1000, Auto ISO 400 to 1600, D-Range 100, Color STD, Sharpness STD.” See the shots here on Kartal’s facebook page.

– REVIEW: Nearly Two Weeks With the Fujifilm X-T1 at macleancomms: “Will I regret selling my Nikon gear after 18 years a Nikon user? Only time will tell and I will be commenting on this is the coming months. But for now I am finding that the launch hype surrounding the X-T1 is well deserved and I for one am not regretting my decision to add one to my camera bag.”

– Fujifilm Remote App. with Fuji X-T1 56mm f/1.2 lens and iPad at soundimageplus: “Knowing Fuji, this app. will probably be state of the art in about a years time when they sort it out, but it isn’t yet. If Fuji is your only option and you want to explore the possibilities of wireless remote control on a tablet or phone, then I have to issue a warning that you need to be prepared to experience some frustration, particularly if like me this is all pretty new to you. However, when I’ve got the time to cope with the less than optimum interface of the app. I will try it again, because as I think you have seen, there are some rather good results to be obtained. And the thought of shooting some tethered stills and video with those gorgeous Fuji lenses is something that even the clunky Fuji software can’t stop me anticipating.”

– Ian Norman: “Hey Patrick,  Again, thanks for Fuji Rumors, I visit daily and enjoy every post. I’ve been using the X-T1 extensively for the past couple months (got it on release day) and I’ve posted all my thoughts about this great little camera on my website: http://www.lonelyspeck.com/fujifilm-x-t1-review/ I don’t really see myself returning to DSLRs ever again and it’s because of the X-T1.  I thought the other Fuji shooters on Fuji Rumors would enjoy so feel feel to re-share the review. It’s been in my hands from California to Norway to Germany and has taken some amazing photos. Check out some of the astrophotos in the review and check out the attached.  Also, check out my lens recommendations for Fuji X shooters for astrophotography: http://www.lonelyspeck.com/best-lenses-for-milky-way-photography-fujifilm/ Hope all is well!”

– Not really a surprise: the X-T1 is better at high ISO than the [shoplink 17516]OM-D E-M1[/shoplink]. In case you need a further proof, see the comparison shots at photographylife.

– Accessorizing the Fuji X-T1 and other X cameras at aboutphotography: “A major appeal of mirrorless cameras has always been their small size. Adding accessories that bulk the camera up could be considered as going against the grain. On the other hand, a camera like the X-T1 has moved the X system into a serious professional usage category, and certain accompanying accessories are going to be necessary in order to extend its usefulness.”

tbray first impression of the X-T1 here: “The X-cameras in gen­er­al have great lens­es and the X-T1 in par­tic­u­lar has about-as-good-as-it-gets aut­o­fo­cus and maybe the best viewfind­er in the world at any price.

– X-T1 in the studio at f-sunny: “The final results from the studio test confirmed that the X-T1 was more than up to the task, and in fact provided a preferable image output to my previous standard (Canon 5DII). The 56mm f/1.2 is a class leading portrait optic – beautiful bokeh wide open, and true and sharp stopped down.”

– Cinematic/Film Noir at Clifton House with the Fuji X-T1, 23mm, 35mm and 56mm Lenses at richardhurstphotography.

– Romancing my FujiFilm XT1 – Kai Iwi Lakes at bokeh-monster: “The isolated, clean, untouched and hollywood picture perfect surrounds are nothing short of romantic.  The perfect place to grow and mature my relationship and trust in the FujiFilm XT1. Side by side, hand in hand, we waited, watching the light dance over the coarse sand and spill through the reeds producing some very dramatic imagery.”

– Fujifilm X-t1 in London and Paris – a review at jeffseltzerphotography: “While the experience with the X-T1 was overwhelmingly positive, there are a few negatives worth mentioning…the first is potentially a big deal to some photographers.”

– Chris Knight: “I’ve just come back from a trip to Cambodia and Thailand, I’ve done a follow up piece and have included a fair amount of pictures taken with various lenses and setups.” Read and see more at fstoppers: “Inside the bag were the ND filters and their case, lenses (a Fuji 23mm, 56mm, 55-200mm and Fuji’s new 10-24mm), cards and batteries.”

– The perfect formula at joshmcleodphotography: “There is not a whole lot to say except this was a dream shoot. The more I shoot with the Fuji X-T1 and the 1,2/56mm lens the more it WOWS me…. amazing Image Quality, fantastic ergonomics, fast and accurate auto-focus and lightweight.”

– Aleksei Isachenko: “Hi, Patrick! I’ve got my X-T1 at March, 19-th and is using it for more than a month in my everyday job. So I’m impressed with this camera and wrote a review (in Russian, but I’m sending you the link to Google Translator page)”

– Or wedding photography for a non-wedding photographer at doncraigphoto: “The entire wedding was captured with Fujifilm cameras and lenses. Portraits were shot with the X100s and X-T1 fronted with the XF56mm lens. Group shots, the ceremony and reception were captured with the X-T1 and X-E2 and XF prime lenses. I used off-camera flash and the X100s (yay, fast sync speed) for one portrait and I shot with on-camera flash on the X-T1 and X-E2 for all of the indoor shots.”

 Zeiss Touit 50mm
Pre-order at Adorama and BHphoto

– German review at stockografie. Daniel also provides the link to the google translated English version. His Flickr sample set can be seen here.

– Review about the new Touit 50 mm 2.8 mm in Macro distances with fujifilm flash and comparing with Canon 100 mm 2.8 Macro with two different flashes at hoseito in Spanish here (translation).

 XF 56mm f/1.2
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image courtesy: sabinoparente

– Fujinon XF 56mm f1.2, my first impressions and samples from Japan at sabinoparente: “At the end of the day, this is now my favourite fuji lens, the state of the art of the entire X system!” If you want to read which places he visited in Japan, the impressions and feelings he had during this 3 weeks travel, check out his post here.

– Marvin Kleinemeier: “Hey Patrick, you once posted some of my stuff in the readers section. Since then I had about 30 Portrait Shootings with my X-Cameras. I updated my portfolio today, which now completely features X-Camera-Photos: http://rum-diary.net/ausgewaehlte-arbeiten Mostly shot with the 35mm some with the new 56mm lens.

– Laurent Bourlier : “Hi Patrick, finaly received my 56 mm 1.2. Really happy with it. You can read  first impressions here ( in french) at laurentbourlier (translation).”

– Quick Review of the Fujinon XF56mm F1.2R at macleancomms: “I only had this lens for a couple of hours but once again Fuji is threatening to empty my bank account because the 56mm f1.2 has now been moved from my ‘would like’ list to my ‘I must have’ list!”

– Mighty Men of Valor | Fuji XF56mm 1.2 R at leighmiller: “I’m sharing some recent work shot with the Fuji X Cameras and the new XF 56mm 1.2 R lens. If you shoot portraiture and have an ILC Fuji camera body, you must have this lens in your bag. These were shot with 100% natural light

image courtesy: Marvin Kleinemeier

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XF 10-24
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 – Three days walking through the Cinque Terre with the Fuji X-T1 & XF 10-24mm f/4 at mirrorlessons: “To me, the EVF is certainly one of the major selling points of the X-T1, especially for someone coming from DSLRs and optical viewfinders. […] The quality of the [shoplink 20414]XF 10-24mm[/shoplink] was certainly the most positive surprise of our three-day trip with this Fuji combo.

X100S
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– More Streets of Dublin at gaborimages: “So, back to the streets of Dublin with my little friend the Fuji X100s. Dublin is an amazing city, there is always something happening and it’s full with interesting places and people. There is no bad time to go for a photo walk, you just have to grab a camera and do it. The more I do street photography the more I love it.”

– Guillaume de Conihout: “Hello, thanks a lot for your website. If it’s of interest, please have a look to my selction of Fuji x100s for 2013. Hope you’ll like it. Best https://www.facebook.com/conihout“.

– The Cliffs of Moher by kollinodannel.

X-PRO1
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 – Sebastian: “Hi Patrick, Every day I follow your updates and quite frankly, FujiRumors is my place to get the fresh news. I am a proud X-Pro1 user and I’ve added 2 legacy Manual Focus lenses to by photo-bag. I have a Pentacon 135mm F2.8 M42 mount and a Helios 58mm F2.0 M42 mount. The Helios uses the same optical formula found in the Carl Zeiss Biotar 58mm F2.0. I just wanted to share with you and your readers/followers some of my photographs that were made with my MF lenses, especially the Helios 58mm F2.0 – which is a keeper. The colors and the sharpness are incredible, for a lens of such age. Thank you for your great job!” Flickr / Facebook /500px /

– Vivid Sydney 2013 – Street Fashion Reportage-Style with the Fuji X-Pro1 at streetfashionsydney.

X100
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– Fuji X100: Into darkness with the B+W 093 filter at themachineplanet: “We have been in dark places with an infrared-converted X100. Sometimes these dark places have been in bright sunlight; it’s just that what the camera sees is another world, defined by light humans can’t see.”

lenses

Fuji 55-200mm – a few thoughts and pictures at paulmellingphotography: “Sure it’s quite a large lens when compared to the compact nature of the cameras but it’s still a lot smaller than the Nikon or Canon alternatives.  The only area I’ve really struggled is with moving subjects when the focus just doesn’t latch on quick enough and you get a higher than expected number of missed shots.”

Joshua Khoo: “Hi Patrick, I’ve just invested in yet another Fuji lens, and this is one lens (the XC 50-230) that most people don’t seem to talk about. So I’ve set out to write a personal review of it and to give some confidence to potential buyers of the strengths and weaknesses of the lens. Here’s my article.” From the article: “As mentioned in the beginning of the post, this lens is probably the most under-rated lens from Fujifilm, but it has every quality of it’s more expensive siblings inherent to Fujifilm. If you are on a budget and looking for a high quality telephoto lens, the Fujifilm XC 50-230mm f4.5-6.7 is something you should not snub because of the aperture range.”

RAW-conversion

– Impressive X-Trans Highlight Recovery in latest version of PhotoNinja at thomasfitzgeraldphotography: “I have to say that I’m using PhotoNinja more and more now. It may soon be my default go to converter for X-Trans images soon instead of my current favourite Iridient Developer. Incidentally, I’ve been using PhotoNinja with some non X-Trans images too recently and some of the results are really impressive, especially with Sony raw files. I’m really impressed with the development team, and it makes you wonder about how the big guys are starting to fall behind when it comes to cutting edge image processing.”

Fuji Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic
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ephotozine review here: “Overall, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 is a good looking instant camera which despite its quirky proportions and awkward shutter button placing is really easy to use.  It produces vibrant prints which are just the right size for a wallet or purse, and these develop quickly. This camera is unique in the features it has, you won’t find many instant cameras that have bulb and double exposure modes. The only drawbacks are the tiny viewfinder which at certain angles can be difficult to see through, and the chunkiness of the model, meaning it’s best to stow it in a rucksack or handbag as it will prove difficult to fit into a pocket. It’s trendy and well made so should make a great companion to those who love instant photography and will make use of the extra features this model provides.”

Instax Share SP-1 Printer

Instax Share SP-1 Printer at kammah: “So do I recommend the SP-1? Absolutely. Whether you are a street photographer, an event photographer, or even a wedding photographer (as Kevin points out very well in his review of the SP-1), this little printer is a joy to use.
I really don’t want to send this back to Fuji as it means that I’ll have to buy my own… “