Fujifilm has released new firmware updates for the Fujifilm X-H2, Fujifilm X-H2s and the Vertical File Transmitter Grip FT-XH.
You can find all details and download links down below.
DPReview has published its full review of the Fujifilm X-H2, where the camera gets the silver award with an overall score of 89%.
What we like
What we don’t
You can read the full review at DPReview here.
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FR-readers asked me if I know if Rico Pfirstinger is going to publish a book about the Fujifilm X-T5. Well, the answer is definitely yes, and in fact it is available for pre-order already at Amazon US here. According to Amazon, it will be released on July 11. RockNook also says it will come in July 2023.
He is also working on the equivalent Fujifilm X-H2 and X-H2s book. That one will come in August.
In the lastest Fujicast episode, Kevin and Neale have, among the others, a talk with Fujifilm UK manager Andreas Georghiades and they also go to the Fujifilm headquarter in Japan and talk to product planers.
Needless to say, the talk mostly gravitates around the Fujifilm X-T5. Down below is a summary as well as the podcast to listen.
Here is a little roundup to catch up with the latest first look reviewers about Fuji’s newest gear trinity.
It includes a Nikon Z9 shooter going hands on with the Fujifilm X-H2S and explaining us why 40fps do matter. It’s the first video in the “video section” down below, and it is also summarized for you in case you don’t have time to watch it right now.
And of course we got also the XF18-120mmF4 and XF150-600mF5.6-8 covered.
So, I guess you have now something to read and watch… I’ll jump in the Mediterranean water while you get through this all ;).
Overshadowed by the Fujifilm X-H2S…
smashed by the Fujinon XF150-600mmF5.6-8…
obscured by the latest Fujinon X mount roadmap…
the Fujinon XF18-120mmF4 entered the Fuji world with little fanfare.
But here on FujiRumors we treat all lenses with the same dignity, so we will start the roundup with this lens. More precisely, the with the coverage of Taylor Jackson, who says:
The Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 is on the official Viltrox roadmap since April 2020 and yes, I know that based on hints I got I said that it should be announced in November. Well, that evidently did not happen and I apologize to all of my readers.
I guess also Viltrox struggles with the worldwide parts shortage and in fact in today’s video, Damian, who is testing the lens right now, confirms that Viltrox had to postpone the release for this lens once again. Viltrox now told him they pushed it back to 2022.
The good news: the review samples are now out, so I guess it can’t be that long of a wait anymore.
Speaking of review samples, Damian is the first to publish his first look on the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 AF XF.
It’s a nice video which includes lots of samples and autofocus demos (for stills and video). So definitely check it out.
Personally I am happy to hear that Damian considers the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 XF the sharpest (and best) Viltrox XF lens so far with excellent autofocus (also face detection) and very usable in the center even at f/1.4 (a bit less usable in the corners wide open). The clicked aperture ring is a bonus for me although I’d have hoped for a bit of lighter lens (it weights 420g).
It’s not free imperfections, like a noticeable vignetting wide open and some distortion and chromatic aberration, but considering that many will mostly use it for landscape photography (and hence stop down anyway) and especially considering the price of $469, to me it looks like a good value for money lens.
Now let me say this.
I generally prefer Fujinon X (or GFX) mount lenses, and not because they are better in terms image quality (if a lens is more affordable, then I can accept to give up a bit of IQ), but if there is one thing that I love about the X/GFX system, then it’s the colors I get from it (with Astia being my favorite all-rounder film simulation).
And in my experience, whenever I use third party lenses on my Fujifilm cameras, the colors simply don’t come out the way I am used to (and love it) from the Fujinon lenses. In fact, this is one of the main reason why my Fujinon XF10-24mm has basically replaced my Samyang 12mm f/2 in my camera bag. Not because the Samyang is bad, not at all (look, I have taken some of my most loved images with it). But sometimes I can be terribly lazy with post processing my images, and I know the XF10-24mm will nail the colors the way I love it more than my Samyang 12mmF2 would, and hence spare me some time in post.
In short: if you love film simulations, like I do, native Fujinon lenses will deliver better results, or let’s say results that more faithfully reproduce the vibe and tone Fujifilm intended to give us with the various film simulations.
Ah, speaking of colors, Damian says that the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 XF colors are on the cooler side.
With all that said, I think Viltrox made a very smart move with this lens, as Fujifilm itself is not offering anything that can closely match the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 in terms of focal length and aperture. The closest competitor at this point is the Samyang 12mm f/2, which is smaller than the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 and also weather sealed (the Viltrox is well built, but not weather resistant). However, the Samyang is also slower and more expensive.
So overall a great addition for the X mount system and a lens that I am hugely interested in if it performs decently also for astrophotography.
We Got You Covered!
Now that the Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO is available for pre-order, I’ve looked around for reviews.
The only review worth to be mentioned at this point is the one of Bernie Shore. You can see his video below as well as a summary. In case you missed it, I will also share the Fuji Guys video we’ve already posted in the past.
There are some unboxing videos and first impressions from Japan and other Asian countries, where the Instax Mini EVO started shipping already. But to get our hands on the Instax Evo here in Europe also in North America, we will have to wait February 1st according to BHphoto and also according to AmazonUS.
Nokishita has leaked the specs and details for the Fujifilm GFX50SII and the Fujinon GF35-70mm F4.5-5.6 as well as for the XF23mm F1.4 R LM WR and XF 33mm f!.4 R LM WR leaked.
“GF35-70mm F4.5-5.6 WR”
11 elements in 9 groups (1 aspherical lens, 2 ED lenses)
minimum 35cm,
maximum 0.28x
filter 62mm, size φ84.9mm x 73.9mm (Collapsed) / 96.4 It seems to be mm (Wide) /95.7mm (Telephoto)
weigh 390g
Fujifilm “XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR”
15 elements in 10 groups (2 aspherical lenses, 3 ED lenses)
minimum 19cm,
maximum 0.2x,
filter 58mm
size φ67×77.8mm
380g
FYI: Specs of original XF23mmF1.4 R
11 Elements in 8 Groups
minimum focus 28 cm
maximum magnificaion: 0.1x
filter size 62mm
size 63 x 72 mm
weight 300 g
“XF33mmF1.4 R LM WR”
15 elements in 10 groups (2 aspherical lenses, 3 ED lenses)
minimum 30cm
maximum 0.15x
filter 58mm
size φ67×73.5mm
360g
FYI: Specs of XF35mmF1.4 R
8 Elements in 6 Groups
minimum focus 28 cm
maximum magnificaion: 0.17x
filter size 52mm
size 54.9 x 65 mm
weight 187 g
GFX50S II offers the perfect mix of accessibility and flexibility. Pair it with the new GF35-70mmF4.5-5.6 WR lens and you’ II find a wonderfully affordable combination that delivers images from a 51.4-megapixel sensor, which makes it the perfect gateway to !arge format photography. Get outstanding results w ith professional features that include 19 Film Simulations, advanced autofocusing, and a vast range of exposure controls providing limitless opportunities for creativity.
The Freedom to Create
GFX50S II features a redesigned in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system that is 20% smaller, and 10% lighter, than the version found in GFX 100. Despite this reduction in size and weight, it provides up to an impressive 6.5 stops of five-axis stabilization (based on CIPA standards), providing dramatically broad possibilities for image makers wanting to work more freely with slow shutter speeds. Even when light levels are low, and a tripod isn’ t available, steady images are on the horizon.
GFX50S II weighs just 900g and is similar in size to many to full-frame camera s, which makes the ergonomically contoured handgrip and PASM dial – used to access the camera’ s main exposure functions
– feel wonderfully familiar and accessible. A gorgeous blend of curves and edges, the camera body is finished with a top-plate LCD to display key settings, a redesigned focus lever, and a feather-touch shutter release to turn that familiar feeling into an intuitive image-making experience.
Responsive Autofocus for Ultimate Creativity
Fast, reliable autofocus comes to GFX50S II, thanks to a combination of advanced technologies and Fujifilm’ s powerful X-Processor 4 imaging engine. Sensor readout speeds have been boosted from 130fps to 250fps compared to GFX 50S, enabl ing razor-sharp responses – whether subject tracking or picking out a face in a crowd. An improved autofocusing algorithm, taken from the latest FUJIFILM X Series and GFX System camera s, boosts focusing performance in all modes, including face and eye detection. The AF system also brilliantly works in tandem with in-body image stabilization (IBIS) to provide up to 6.5 stops of handheld stability. This simply means the camera’ s autofocusing performance will be up to the task when the creative senses are flowing.
Proven Technologies Deliver Outstanding Results
Fujifilm has been perfecting its color science know-how for more than 85 years – and all the knowledge from this impressive heritage has been poured into GFX50S II. The 51.4MP !arge format sensor uses a specially designed CMOS Bayer array that delivers images with minimal noise and an incredibly wide dynamic range, while 19 Film Simulation modes allow creatives to produce images with colors that stir emotion and memories. Coupled with the ever-growing family of G Mount lenses that can resolve sensors of 1OOMP or more, this is a camera – and system – that meets the demands of exacting creators seeking the ultimate image quality.
Perfect for Today, Ready for Tomorrow
When making images is a passion, image quality can be all-consuming, especially as technology evolves and image resolutions increase. Capable of resolving up to 40 megapixels. XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR is an incredible combination of portability and performance that will continue to provide stunning detail and vibrant colors with minimal imperfections long into the future.
For those Unpredictable Moments
The best images happen when we least expect them to, which is why XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR features a redesigned internalfocusing mechanism, driven by a fast, near-silent linear motor,for immediate response and precise results. With good timing,fast reflexes,and a little help from XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR.those unpredictable moments will turn into a lifetime of memories.
Total Control Over Every Element
XF23mmF1 .4 R LM WR provides incredible optical performance. This is thanks to two aspherical and three ED elements used in its construction . plus its F1.4 maximum aperture – created by nine rounded iris blades -that allow for pinpoint focus and smooth background bokeh. A large manual focusing ring provides further assurance that every element of the image-making process is under complete and total control.
A Continued Standard of Excellence
At a weight of 380g and length of 77.8mm XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR underscores Fujifilm’ s continuing mission to create compact and lightweight X Series cameras and lenses. Beautifully engineered to withstand the demands of day-to-day use, XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR blends a durable,all-metal construction with practical touches, like a 58mm filter and a close focusing distance of 19cm, to bring a versati le solution for street, documentary , and wedding photographers alike.
Make Any Moment a Masterpiece
Making the most of moments is the hallmark of any great image-maker. Regardless of whether the sun is shining, or whether the heavens are starting to open up when used with our weather -resistant X Series cameras . XF23mmF1 .4 R LM WR is ready to turn any inclement situation into a potential masterpiece. Weather-resistant seals throughout the lens’ construction repeldust and moisture,allowing itto perform effortlessly down to -10° C Simply put,the elements should not get in the way of your next great image.
Simply the Best
Passionate image makers are constant ly looking for ways to make the most of the best light and the perfect subject . With its unmatched opticalquality and ability to resolve details up to 40 megapixels, XF33mmF1.4 R LM WR is poised to deliver vibrant, true-to-life colors, minimal optical aberrations, and outstanding detail in those rare moments where passion meets perfection.
Focused on Performance
XF33mmF1.4RLMWR may be the first X Mount lens to have exactly the same equivalent field of view as a50mm lens, but it certainly won’ t be the last one to perfectly blend optical engineering with cutting edge technology. Ready to document events and scenes as they unfold, XF33mmF1.4 R LM WR is equipped with a powerfully accurate linear motor to ensure that images are always in focus and creativity is never suppressed. Fast, near silent, and unerringly accurate, this lens effortlessly performs to keep any image maker in the moment, no matter how brief it is.
Precision When lt’s Needed
Minimal focus breathing, precise manual focus , and wonderfully blurred backgrounds make X F33mmF1.4 R LM W R a perfect choice for videographers who need wide apertures for low-light situations or to create separation between subject and background. Manual focusing is easily controlled, thanks to a mechanism that delivers near-perfect precision down to a minimum object distance of 30cm.
Unmatched Quality Featuring
15 elements in 10 groups -including two aspherical and three ED elements -XF33mmF1.4 R LMWR is engineered to provide optimum quality and unparalleled color accuracy,with minimal coma and chromatic aberration.This ensures unmatched resolution and fresh, vibrant color.
Engineered for Every Eventuality
Weighing just 360g and measuring 73.5mm in length, XF33mmF1.4 R LM WR is easy to handle,simple to use,and beautifully balanced for any X Series camera.Its gorgeously constructe’d from its aperture and manual focusing rings to its all-metal construction and is built to withstand dust, moisture,and temperatures as low as-10°C when used with a weather-resistant X Series camera, to keep creative doors open when nature tries to keep them closed.
Fujifilm has launched a series of promo videos called “more than full frame“.
But unlike the title might suggest, the promo videos talk less about specs, but are more on the inspirational side… and I like that for sure!
I will share all videos below, but let me add a little note first.
After the Fujifilm GFX100S was announced, I saw a few videos of big youtubers, who consistently stood behind full frame as the only real professional format (ignoring that Fuji APS-C cameras creamed off the most prestigious awards), saying basically the following things about the GFX100S.
Sure, I can understand that some influencers, who have strong connections with brands that don’t produce medium format cameras (and are not committed to APS-C), are arguing a bit contradictory and confusing these days.
If they say sensor size does not matter, then people will ask them “so why not go with cheaper and smaller APS-C systems“, and if they say sensor size matters, then people will ask “then why not go GFX?”.
In this regard, I respect youtubers like Tony Northrup, who just consistently said that he does care about megapixel and the more megapixel he gets, the better it is for him. Or also Jared Polin, who in a video asked Fujifilm to send him a GFX100S for testing (but Jared, maybe we can schedule a call first to organize a Fuji crash course, so that you avoid flaming again that you can’t move the focus point while face detection is enabled ;)).
And what does FujiRumors say about the sensor size debate?
Simple and true: every system has its strengths.
As for hybrid cameras, I consider APS-C the ultimate sweet spot (and so do these industry insiders like Richard Butler from DPReview and Co).
There are APS-C specific advantages and also GFX specific advantages. And of course, full frame has its strengths too.
It’s just great we have all this choice and whatever people pick, it’s surely the best system for their needs.
Personally, I am very happy with my Fujifilm X system. It’s so flexible. Small lens, big lens, fast lens, compact lens, bulky camera, super compact camera, affordable, expensive, hyperbolic specs, simplicity, retro, modern… there is so much to pick from depending on needs and taste in the Fujifilm X system, that I personally do not see any need to go full frame. I’d lose more than I’d gain (for my personal needs and preferences).
If I’d add a system to my camera bag, at this point I’d just go for the very best image quality I can get (for a reasonable price), hence with a sensor that is 70% “fuller” than full frame. Especially now, where the Fujifilm GFX100S dropped for a price cheaper than the Sony A1 and a body smaller than the Panasonic S1R.
But that’s just me, my needs, my taste, and totally personal.
If you shoot full frame and say it’s the best of the best, then it surely is like this for you, and you are blessed with lots of mirrorless options, too.
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The Fuji Guys have now published a short video, where they go over the improvements and new features introduced to the Fujifilm X-T3 via the latest 4.00 firmware update.
You can see the video above (and more videos below).
Luckily they do mention briefly the Sony alike “real time tracking”, which nobody talked about until I shared my own X-T4 report here on FujiRumors.
And yet, they do not really cover it comprehensively.
The AF system of the X-T4 (and now also of the X-T3) can do much more, such as automatically switch between face and subject tracking. You can also chose to ignore faces even when face detection is enabled and switch from face to subject tracking to your taste very simply.
If you want to know how it goes and how you should set up your camera for that, make sure to read our dedicated X-T4 AF options article here.
Now, FujiRumors is not a professional review site (I am a professional primary school teacher ;)). I simply have no time to write reviews. But it’s weird that none of those, who established themselves as pro-reviewers and make a living out of it, ever mentioned this feature, which is basically close to Sony real time tracking, which the very same reviewers praised endlessly.
I am not saying Fuji’s real time tracking works as good as Sony’s. That’s something reviewers should compare and figure out. But at least a mention to Fuji’s new AF system would be a nice thing.
Anyway, I did report about it and you can learn more about it here and see my mom, my wife and my good old trust dog playing the model for me (with my mom being clearly not amused by that :))
With all that said, down below you can find the Fuji Guys above and more videos below.
→ Top X-T Community: Fujifilm X-T facebook group
→ Top X-T Page: Fujifilm X-T Page
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