Fuji Fun Vs. Sony Specs…. a Story about my 3 days Flirt with the Sony A7rII and why I now Love Fujifilm even more!

I guess it’s my time to say something about the SonyA7rII. I was reluctant to write anything about it, even though I’ve tried the Sony A7rII for several days.

But today I could not resist for two reasons:

  1. I have a bit of spare time & and I’m slightly drunk at home after an X-T1 Vs. Canon M3 shootout with Steve of CanonWatch.
  2. I’ve read a very interesting article at Fujifilm X World.

You’ll read about the Canon M3 at CanonWatch later on, so let’s go directly to point 2, the Fuji X World post, which was the real trigger for this article.

“Image quality” over “Specs”

The article is about one of the most loved lenses amongst us X-shooters: the XF 35mmF1.4. It shows Fuji’s approach when they design a new lens, which can be summed up in this sentence:  “Image quality” over “Specs“

And it’s not just a good sounding slogan, it’s Fuji’s philosophy. Go and read it here… I’ll just quickly come to the point of the article:

When Fuji designed the XF 35mmF1.4 they had 2 choices: create the lens in a way that it will perfectly match the test criteria used for MTF charts, or don’t care about specs & charts and design the lens thinking at the real life use… and Fuji went for the latter one.

That’s why, today, looking at the MTF charts, the XF 35mm doesn’t seem much of a lens, but looking at the pictures X-shooters (including me) take with it every day, it’s pretty clear that Fuji has created a hell of a lens! Because, as Fujifilm said:

“There is something more than just the catalog spec.”

And that brings me to the Sony A7rII.

Fuji (X-T1) Vs. Sony (A7rII)

Prologue

These are just my very personal considerations. People with different ways of shooting, priorities & workflow will come to completely different conclusions… and that’s good so.

I don’t want to sound like a Sony hater, so let me say it clearly: the Sony A7rII has terrific specs, it’s a good camera, and overall I absolutely like the innovation Sony brings to the digital camera technology. They make the arguably best & most innovative sensors out there (sorry Canon)!

But today I won’t join the A7rII siren songs of the internet, and since I can’t cover every single spec (that would mean writing a book, not a blog post), I’ll focus on those aspects that I prefer on Fujifilm and try to explain why I’ve quickly lost my interest in the A7rII.

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

POLL: Should I share more rumors… and the risks related to it!

photo FR Rumors_zps680g5hx7.jpg

To Share or not to Share?

I’m caught in a dilemma… and maybe you can help me out with this.

As you know, recently Fujifilm announced the Infrared version of the Fuji X-T1 (specs & price here). For the first time in many years, I haven’t published anything about a new Fuji product ahead of its release. But this doesn’t mean I haven’t heard about the X-T1 IR camera. In fact I did got an anonymous hint.

But here is the thing: in all these years I’ve tried to become more and more accurate with the rumors I share, because I do feel the responsibility towards you of what I write. Some of you even make their buying decisions based on my rumors. My careful rumor approach allowed me to have a rumor hit rate of almost 90% in 2015 (and about 85% in 2014). I know the usual trolls will say the ranking is a fake. So I invite you to go through every single rumor, check them, and then tell me your results (and I’ll be happy to publish them on FujiRumors ;) ).

And because I’d like to keep (and maybe even raise) the high rumor hit rate, I was too careful with the X-T1 IR rumor, didn’t publish it and wanted to investigate further.

Before you answer the Poll, consider this:

FAKE RUMORS: In the last 2-3 years, the number of fake rumors send anonymously via rumor box has grown a lot. This made my work very complicated. My deepest gratitude goes to those sources, who shared correct rumors and helped me to sort out the fake ones.

However, the growing number of fake rumors forced me to risk less and be more careful. Plenty of fake rumors never went online in the last 3 years… it would be a fun list to publish one day… at least the Top 20 or 50 fake rumors.

About Anonymous/New sources

And just to be clear: let me express a big Thank You to those Anonymous/New sources, who shared amazing and correct rumors with FR in the past, driven by the genuine will to help me… and there are many of them (just check the rumor section). Luckily in almost all cases I’ve also shared their rumors on FR… almost all, except the few incorrect ones and the X-T1 IR.

I know not everyone is a FR hater and wants to undermine the credibility of this site.

I really appreciate your help and will continue to share your rumors. So keep up sharing them using the rumor box (it would be VERY useful if you’d use a nick-name) or via email at fujirumor@gmail.com.

The Poll

So, the question now is, should I risk more and share more rumors coming from anonymous sources?

This would NOT mean that I’d share every anonymous rumor, since I’m aware that many fakes are send in to try to attack FujiRumors. I’d still keep a certain “rumor-filter”. But after the missed X-T1 IR rumor I’m somehow wondering if I should take more risks.

There is a part in me that says “Hey, you are FujiRumors and not FujiFacts! Risk more!”. But there is a still much stronger part in me that desires to be as accurate as possible.

I’ll think about it and make my decision soon… but I’d love to hear what you guys recommend me to do. So here is the Poll.

My Top 2 Desert Island Lenses

View Results

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thanks for your time,
Fuji X Forum, Facebook, Google+, RSS-feed and Twitter

Fujifilm will launch the first X series camera with 1” sensor in about 3 months (Anonymous Source)

photo SUPERZOOM_zpsaaivggdu.jpg

According to an anonymous source, Fuji will announce a X series camera with an 1” sensor in the next few months (around September / October). It could have a fixed zoom lens with a range similar to the one of the Fujifilm X-S1, which has a 24-624mm zoom lens.

Sounds a lot like the Fujifilm X-S2, but this is not part of the rumor.

Anyway, will we soon have the first X-series camera featuring a 1” sensor?

To be clear, the grain of salt is mandatory with every rumor I share (especially anonymous rumors). Don’t take everything as a fact, just because my rumor hit rate is of almost 90% in 2015 – btw, many of them shared by anonymous sources.

I hope I will be able to confirm it via trusted source as soon as possible, and that I can say once again: “Hey, I told you” ;) .

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

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POLL: No In Body Image Stabilization, do you bother? :: Old Lenses For Dummies + more Top FXF threads!

shared by dontblameureyes: Indonesia

TOP FXF THREADS TOC

– Episode 1: Why do (some) People Hate Fuji? * Mock-Up X-T10 Vs. Real X-T10 (with XF 35mmF2 WR) * X Lens wishlist & more *
– Episode 2: CLASH of the FUJIS: X-PRO2 Vs. X-T2 :: X-T1 Vs. X-T10 :: 14mm Vs. 10-24 :: 16mm Vs. 23mm :: 90mm Vs. 56 APD & more
– Episode 3: Which 3 primes combo is your ideal setup? :: X-PRO2 wishlist :: Be careful with thumb grips :: Sensor dust & more
– Episode 4: POLL: No In Body Image Stabilization, do you bother? :: Old Lenses For Dummies + more

Follow Topics: Just one of the advantages for registered Forum Members
Feel Free to Join Us here

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General Discussion

– started by Newsphoto: “Me and my Fuji (post a photo with your Fuji)”… it’s Selfie Time… join the Party :)

– started by Patrick FR: “XF33mmF1.0 … should Fuji make it?” Yes or No?

– started by tedorland: “Image Stabilization… Does it bother anyone besides me that so many Fuji lenses lack OIS, and that NONE of the Fuji X-bodies have in-camera stabilization?” Read the answers here.

Which Tripod Would You Buy?

View Results

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Does the "Serial Number Trick" Work with your camera?

View Results

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Fuji X System

X-T1 / X-T10

– started by methodphoto: “X-T1 and Multiple Exposure” Read why this is a hot topic here.

– started by rjmvandermeulen: “Wireless TTL flash with Fuji X-T1“. Is it possible? Discover more here.

X-E1/X-E2

– started by abjurina: “X-E2 NEEDS a new update and here’s why“… so here is why !

Fuji X Lenses

– started by eagle_friends: “Bokeh Club: A remanent of my days at the Pentax Forum Website. This thread is dedicated to posting examples of beautiful bokeh using Fuji lenses and/or cameras.” A Must See for Bokeh Friends.

– started by benjaminthomson: “Not a lot of love for the 14mm“. If you love this lens, then say it here!

Adapting lenses to Fuji X

started by IKO: “Old lenses for dummies […] Feel free to recommend some lens you love or that has a strange special effect you like“. The rest of the story here.

– started by andrewlee: “Best m42 50ish mm lens?” You have the answer? Then share it here.

X100S/T

-started by yosemirza: “Are we going to have Firmware update for X100T just like XT1, at least the AF system?” Who knows? Discussion here.

ACCESSORIES

– started by photog: “My favorite travel photo backpack” Recommendations here.

– started by MildManneredMarc: “Fujifilm Strap ?” Help here.

IMAGES

shared by JuergenK :: Samyang 12mm F2.0 NCS CS X Mount

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shared by DerBielefelder :: Fuji Flowers

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shared by harry-angel :: Streetphotography (open thread)

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shared by Don Pino: Landscapes with Fuji X

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shared by MatusKicka – Streetphotography (open thread)

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shared by Vanquished :: landscapes with Fuji X

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shared by joergs :: modern architecture

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shared by Russ – First time astro photography

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shared by mbart ::  Landscape With Fuji X

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shared by bigbadwolf – landscapes with fuji x

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shared by Casa :: Old Lenses for Dummies

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shared by dv. – Fuji Flowers (Open Thread)

First Look: Fujifilm TCL-X100 Teleconverter for X100(S) Cameras

Fujifilm TCL-X100 Teleconverter for X100(S) Cameras

by Rico Pfirstinger

Talk to Rico (open forum for questions & feedback)

TCL-X100 Sample Images Set – Fuji X Secrets Workshops – Rico’s Flickr sets

Mastering the Fujifilm X-Pro1 Reading Samples (65 free pages)
Mastering the Fujifilm X-E1 and X-Pro1 – The Fujifilm X-E2 – Beyond the Manual (coming soon)

—

Hello Again!

It’s been a while, as I have been busy wrapping up my new eBook The Fujifilm X-E2 – Beyond the Manual. The German version of the manuscript will enter conversion later this week, and I am currently working on the English version.

When a member of the German Fuji X Forum inquired about workshops covering Fujifilm X-series cameras, one user suggested me to offer one, though I honestly didn’t expect much interest, given how small the Fuji universe still is. Turns out I was wrong: The first three Fuji X Secrets workshops each sold-out within just a few hours.

Bildschirmfoto 2014-04-22 um 02.22.44

We kick-off the series with a Beginners Workshop on 31MAY, followed by two “standard” workshops in Nuremberg on 7JUN and 14JUN, then two more in Heidelberg on 28/29JUN. Here’s a list for those of you who might be interested and are based in Germany or nearby countries (even though we have participants that come from as far as Australia). There’s a fair chance that we’ll tour other cities (such as Berlin) after summer break. As I am going to spend a few weeks in Santa Barbara, CA in late November and December, I’d like to offer one or two workshops there, as well. Stay tuned.

X100(S) Turns Into a Mini System

When Fuji displayed a telephoto conversion lens for their X100 and X100S cameras at CP+, it was a dream come true for many X-Philes who had kept asking for such an option since this camera’s inception. Adding 19mm (wide-angle conversion lens WCL-X100) and 33mm (telephoto conversion lens TCL-X100) options to the fixed 23mm lens of the X100(S) turns the camera into a three lens mini system with silent leaf shutter operation and fast flash synchronization speeds.

X100S with standard 23mmF2 lens

X100S with 19mmF2 WCL-X100

X100S with 33mmF2 TCL-X100

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

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

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

Accessories press release

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

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

Key product features:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Image] FUJIFILM CVR-XT

TCL-X100 Press Release

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

[Image]
Superb optical quality and maximum versatility

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

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

Image processing optimizes picture quality

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

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

The perfect match for the FUJIFILM X100/X100S

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

Available in two colors: silver and black

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

X-E2 initial impressions and thoughts by Randall Cipriano

After his EVF comaparison X-E1 vs X-E2 here (where Randall shows us the amazing, lag-free performance of the X-E2’s EVF), now he also shared his initial impressions and thoughts about the X-E2 on his blog here.

“I will reserve any comments about image quality till after I run it through a proper shoot but all-in-all, I’m happy and welcome all the improvements implemented on the X-E2. Physically, it looks like the same camera, but only after using it will you realize the differences and improvements are significant.”

Pre-order (and Support Fujirumors)

If you think the X-E2 is the camera that meets your needs and you want to pre-order it, feel free to use one of the links below. FR will get a small commission and it won’t cost you one single penny extra. Thanks in advance for every FR-reader who places his pre-order via Fujirumors. It’s a great help to keep the site ticking over.

X-E2 – USA: AmazonUS / BHphoto / Adorama / DigitalRev / Pictureline / EUROPE: wexphotographicUK / DigitalRev / Fotomundus24 GER / PCHstore /

XQ1 – USA: AmazonUS / BHphoto / Adorama / DigitalRev / EUROPE: wexphotographicUK / DigitalRev / PCHstore /

 

 

Updated X-Photographers websites (with X100s and X20 samples)

To be frank: the X100s and X20 sample shots at Fuji’s website are not that good. I agree with MJR, who said in the comments: “I’m sorry Fuji but these are the worst samples ever. (at photographers fault) :( I’m heading back to http://fujifilm-x.com/photographers/en/ to feel better.”

So, take a look at the dedicated X-Photographers pages (with X100s and X20 samples) here. Just look worldwide for them!

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X100s: AmazonUS / BHphoto / Adorama / AmazonUK / AmazonDE /

X20: AmazonUS (black – silver) / BHphoto (black – silver) / Adorama (black – silver) / AmazonUK (black – silver) / ebayITA /  / AmazonDE / AmazonITA /