Let’s Talk Kaizen: about What Changed, What Didn’t, and The Choice Fujifilm Had to Make

Recently a Fujifilm manager said that they are committed to bring X-H2S autofocus features as much as possible to older models (X-T3/X-T4).

So what, is Kaizen coming back?

Well, Kaizen never left. It was just on semi-pause for a while, and for an excellent reason I might say.

Let me explain.

Fujifilm vs The Rest

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Fujifilm X-T5 First Rumors :: Tons of New Firmware :: Fujifilm X-H2S Beats Canon R6 Autofocus :: Top 10 June Articles

Here are the top 10 articles for June.

  1. Fujifilm Firmware Updates for X-T4, X-T3, X-S10, X-Pro3, X-T30II, X100V, GFX100S, GFX100, GFX50S and GFX50R
  2. Fujifilm X-T5 to Feature 40MP Non-Stacked Sensor (No 26MP Stacked Version Planed)
  3. Fujifilm Manager Talks X-H2S with “Slightly Improved Image Quality” and Says Fujifilm X-T Line (X-T5) will Maintain Classic Controls
  4. Fujifilm X-H2S vs Canon R6 vs Nikon Z9 Autofocus Comparison – Canon R6 is BEATEN and Nikon is CAUGHT
  5. 10 Things You Might Have Missed: Fujifilm X-H2 40MP X-Trans, September X Summit, Overheating Drama Ends, Crazy X-H2S Video Dynamic Range and More
  6. LEAKED: First Image of Fujifilm X-H2 Shows No Markings on Front of the Camera
  7. Fujifilm X-H2 HR 40MP will have Exactly Same Body of Fujifilm X-H2S
  8. Decrypting Fujifilm Manager Statement: “No other Camera Platform more Suitable to Have both 5th Gen Sensors than X-H Series”
  9. Fujifilm X-H2S Autofocus Tracking vs X-T4, for Wildlife and Performance on Older XF Lenses (XF56mmF1.2 Included)
  10. Fujifilm X-T5: Putting Puzzle Pieces Together (based on Fujifilm Manager Statements and Rumors)

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Fujinon XF150-600mmF5.6-8 and XF18-120mmF4 Compatible with All X Mount Cameras but Some Will Have Restricted Features

Earlier today Fujifilm released firmware updates for ten Fujifilm X and GFX cameras.

The firmware included XF150-600mm f/5.6-8 compatibility for three Fujifilm cameras, the X-T4, X-T3 and X-S10.

This lead to the misunderstanding that the Fujinon XF150-600mm f/5.6-8 will work only with four cameras: the Fujifilm X-H2S, the X-T4, X-T3 and the X-S10.

However, that’s not correct.

The Fujinon XF150-600mm f/5.6-8 will work with all Fujifilm X series cameras. However, except for the four cameras mentioned above, the other cameras will have restrictions on some features and functions. The same is valid also for the brand new Fujinon XF18-120mmF4.

Here is what Fujifilm writes on their compatibility page:

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Fujifilm X-H2S Look Up Table (LUT) for F-Log and F-Log 2 Now Available

This LUT file is to edit the movie data below when the data is edited by a movie editor on your PC or Mac

<LUT file for F-Log>
* F-Log movie data recorded with GFX100S, GFX100, X-E4, X-S10, X-T30 II, X-T30, X-T2, X-T3 , X-T4, X-Pro3, X-H1, X-H2S and X100V

<LUT file for F-Log2>
* F-Log2 movie data recorded with X-H2S.

Download

F-Log 3D-LUT file / F-Log Data sheet

Last updated: 6.16.2022
F-Log_LUT_E_Ver.1.22.zip [10.0MB]
*Decompress the “F-Log_LUT_E_Ver.1.22.zip” file and launch “.cube” file from a movie editor.
Last updated: 6.16.2022
F-Log_DataSheet_E_Ver.1.1.pdf [192KB]

F-Log2 3D-LUT file / F-Log2 Data sheet

Last updated: 6.16.2022
F-Log2_LUT_E_Ver.100.zip [908KB]
*Decompress the “F-Log_LUT２_E_Ver.1.00.zip” file and launch “.cube” file from a movie editor.
Last updated: 6.16.2022
F-Log2_DataSheet_E_Ver.1.0.pdf [120KB]

Pre-Orders

WHOOPS: DPReview Removes Their (Bad) XF150-600mmF5.6-8 Samples While Other Photographers Show Super Sharp Images at 600mm

Some guys were sure: it is simply impossible that the Fujinon XF150-600mmF5.6-8 is sharp at 600mm, due to mathematical calculations considering f/8 on APS-C combined with statistical elaborations on the effect of diffraction for a pixel pitch of ….

OK, I hear you, let’s keep it short: the XF150-600mmF5.6-8 it’s an unusable piece of junk at 600mmF8.

And looking at the sample gallery shared by DPReview (not to be mistaken with DPRTV) at launch day, which were the worst possible samples, one would agree with the above.

But now it looks as if somebody at DPR had the decency to pull off the sample gallery, as the original link to them is now broken, the sample gallery never loads and on the main page any reference to the sample gallery (still visible in cached version) is gone.

So what happened? I see two options:

  • the lens was used in hot condition with lots of hazy air that influenced IQ
  • the pre-production copy had an issue
  • UPDATE: suggested in the comments, the X-T4 used does not support the lens yet

UPDATE: According to information I have received, the prototype lens didn’t have firmware for X-T4 (which was the camera used for the samples).

Anyway, damage done: the sample were so bad, that some Fuji shooters looking forward to this lens were hugely disappointed and moved away from it.

But the questions remains open: how does the XF150-600 perform at 600mm?

Well, I put to together a series of links where you can see the samples by yourself. Some of them I already shared in the live blog, but others are new links that I did not share in the original live blog coverage.

Look for example at samples of Alan Hewitt below. They show the performance at 600mm with an additional crop to it.

If you ask me, that is actually an excellent performance!

But as usual, watch by yourself and make up your own mind.

Pre-Orders

Fujifilm launches mirrorless digital camera “FUJIFILM X-H2S”

Fujifilm launches mirrorless digital camera “FUJIFILM X-H2S”

-Featuring a newly-developed back-illuminated, stacked sensor and a high-speed image processing engine
-Flagship model that boasts the fastest continuous-shooting, AF and video performance in the history of the X Series
-A highly robust camera body featuring a powerful image stabilization mechanism and various interface options to cater to broad-based professional needs

TOKYO, May 31, 2022 – FUJIFILM Corporation (President and CEO, Representative Director: Teiichi Goto) announces the launch of the mirrorless digital camera “FUJIFILM X-H2S” (X-H2S) in July, 2022. The camera joins the lineup of the X Series of compact and lightweight mirrorless digital cameras renowned for their outstanding image quality, delivered with Fujifilm’s proprietary color reproduction technology.

The X-H2S is a new flagship model boasting the highest performance in both stills and videos in the history of the X Series. This has been made possible by the use of the new back-illuminated, stacked, 26.16MP “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HS”*1 sensor capable of reading signals four times faster than the current device*2, and the high-speed “X-Processor 5” boasting double the image processing speed of the current device*3. The camera also features blackout-free burst shooting of up to 40 frames per second*4 and high-performance AF system that uses AI to detect a subject. Furthermore, it can film 6.2K/30P and 4K/120P video and record high-definition footages. The highly-robust body packs other features including the five-axis in-body image stabilization that offers up to 7.0-stop advantage*5 and extensive interface options including the dual card slot supporting a CFexpress™ Type B card*6, catering to the shooting needs of professional photographers.

In 2012, Fujifilm released the mirrorless digital camera “FUJIFILM X-Pro1” featuring an image sensor and an image processing engine developed in-house. Since then, the company has evolved these devices over the last decade in pursuit of advanced image quality and portability. The launch of the latest model “X-H2S,” featuring the newly-developed X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HS sensor and the X-Processor 5 image processing engine, heralds the arrival of the fifth generation of the X Series.

Main features of the X-H2S

  • The camera delivers the highest performance in the history of the X Series thanks to the newly-developed sensor “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HS” (APS-C sensor) and the high-speed image processing engine “X-Processor 5.”

“X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HS” sensor
  • A 26.16MP image sensor that maintains the back-illuminated structure but adopts the stacked-layer design to quadruple the signal readout speed compared to the current device*2
High-speed image processing engine “X-Processor 5”
  • A newly-developed processor with double the processing speed compared to the current device*3.
  • The camera can achieve blackout-free continuous shooting of up to 40 frames per second and performs three times the number of calculations in phase detection information compared to the current model*7 to deliver AF/AE tracking in the burst mode, ensuring to capture a decisive photo opportunity.
  • The camera has improved image resolution at low ISO sensitivity compared to the current model*7, while suppressing noise at high ISO sensitivity to produce superior image quality.
  • The camera’s subject-detection AF function uses AI technology to identify animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes and trains, accurately tracking an intended subject.
  • The camera can record 6.2K/30P and 4K/120P video in 4:2:2 10-bit. The ability to record high-speed 4K/120P video means a split-second action of a fast-moving subject can be presented in smooth slow-motion with fine details. Furthermore, the sensor`s readout speed during video recording has been reduced to as fast as 1/180 seconds, mitigating the rolling-shutter effect and presenting a moving subject naturally.
  • The camera supports three Apple ProRes codecs*8, namely ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422 and ProRes 422 LT. When recording ProRes, the X-H2S also supports proxy recording such as ProRes 422 Proxy, streamlining the overall workflow from filming to post-production.
  • The camera supports a CFexpress™ Type B card, capable of writing data at high speed and thereby drawing out the X-H2S’s full potential in burst shooting and video recording.*9

Fujifilm will continue to enhance the appeal of the X Series including the X-H2S (carrying an APS-C sensor), GFX Series including the GFX100S (carrying a large format sensor) and extensive lineup of interchangeable lenses to promote photography / videography and the joy of shooting stills and videos.

  • *1 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.
  • *2 In comparison with the X-Trans™ CMOS4, carried in the current camera models.
  • *3 In comparison with the X-Professor 4, carried in the current camera models.
  • *4 High-speed continuous shooting free from the viewfinder blacking out, preventing users from seeing the subject; This is only available when using the electronic shutter.
  • *5 When mounted with the FUJINON Lens XF35mmF1.4 R.
  • *6 CFexpress is a trademark or registered trademark of the CompactFlash Association.
  • *7 Mirrorless digital camera “FUJIFILM X-T4.”
  • *8 Apple ProRes is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the United States and other countries.
  • *9 See the Fujifilm website for a list of memory cards that have been verified to work with this camera

1. Product features

(1) Best burst-mode performance in the history of the X Series to capture a decisive photo opportunity
  • This camera is equipped with the newly-developed “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HS sensor, which has a signal readout speed about four times faster than the current device to achieve blackout-free continuous shooting of up to 40 frames per second. It controls phase-detection pixels independently when displaying images in the Live View mode during burst shooting to triple the number of phase detection calculations from the current model. AF/AE tracking is maintained even during high-speed continuous shooting of 40 frames per second, ensuring to capture a decisive photo opportunity.
  • The X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HS and the X-Processor 5 are complimented with high-capacity buffer memory to significantly increase the number of frames that can be continuously recorded in the burst mode. When using the electronic shutter, the camera can shoot at up to 30fps in JPEG and 20fps in RAW, recording over 1,000 frames continuously in the burst mode.*10
  • The high-magnification and high-definition EVF boasts the magnification ratio of 0.8x and a resolution of 5.76 million dots. It offers improved visibility thanks to strong suppression of parallax and distortion that occur when an eye position becomes displaced while using the viewfinder. Its 120fps frame rate displays images smoothly, allowing users to accurately keep track of a fast-moving subject.
  • *10 At the time of a cold start in the operating environment at 25℃ (with the camera body starting at the temperature the same as or lower than the external atmospheric temperature). This is only possible when using the electronic shutter and in the JPEG mode. Note that the number of frames that can be recorded depends also on the remaining level of battery charge and the type / capacity of memory card used.
(2) Updating the algorithm to substantially improve AF performance
  • The use of the X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HS and the X-Processor 5, coupled with the update of AF prediction algorithm, have led to a major boost in the camera’s capability to track a moving subject and autofocus accurately in Zone AF or in low-contrast conditions. This means a subject that keeps on moving can be accurately tracked, such as athletes and wild animals.
  • The camera features a subject-detection AF function, developed with deep learning technology, while retaining the conventional Face / Eye AF. It uses AI to detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes and trains. The camera automatically tracks a targeted subject while keeping it in focus, allowing users to concentrate on shutter opportunities and framing.
  • The camera supports the AF+MF function, in which users can make a manual focus adjustment after AF during not only shooting stills but also recording video. This enables greater accuracy in tracking a fast-moving subject while shooting video.
(3) Enhanced video performance to cater to diverse videographic needs
  • The camera can shoot 6.2K/30P and 4K/120P video in 4:2:2 10-bit, recording high definition footage while retaining rich color information. The ability to record high-speed 4K/120P video means a split-second action of a fast-moving subject can be presented in smooth slow-motion with fine details.
  • The sensor’s readout speed during video recording has been boosted to as fast as 1/180 seconds. The rolling-shutter effect is well-controlled to present a moving subject naturally.
  • The camera supports three Apple ProRes codecs, namely ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422 and ProRes 422 LT. When recording ProRes, the X-H2S also supports proxy recording such as ProRes 422 Proxy, streamlining the overall workflow from filming to post-production.
  • Another new feature is F-Log2 capability with dynamic range expanded up to 14+ stops. This enhancement enables video recording with enriched tonality, thereby broadening post-production potential.
  • The camera has a new heat-dissipating structure to substantially increase the maximum video-recording time. 4K/60P video can be recorded for an impressive 240 minutes*11 to cater to the needs of professional video production. Attach the optional cooling fan “FAN-001” to enable extended video recording even in high-temperature conditions.
  • *11 At the time of a cold start in the operating environment at 25℃, with the Auto Power Off set for “High,” Bitrate setting at 100Mbps, the vertical battery grip “VG-XH” attached and three batteries used. The recording time depends on the remaining level of battery charge and the type / capacity of memory card used. Note that the camera may automatically stop recording video when the body temperature rises beyond threshold.
(4) Enhanced operability to assist users’ shooting experience in a variety of situations
  • The camera features an all-new in-body image stabilization mechanism, which offers a new sensing control function to detect and correct fine camera shakes, delivering five-axis stabilization that gives up to 7.0-stop advantage. Users can comfortably choose to hand-hold the camera to shoot sports with actively-moving subjects or in low light conditions such as nightscape.
  • The new camera inherits the popular design features of the FUJIFILM X-H1, such as an LCD display on the top panel for users to check settings any time, and a highly-robust camera body that withstands heavy professional use. Improvements include the shutter stroke when the shutter button is half-pressed, load adjustment to the AF ON button, and materials used for buttons for enhanced operability. The design of the large grip has been brushed up to make it even easier to hold for added comfort.
  • A standalone video-recording button has been added for enhanced video operability in combination with the 1.62-million-dot vari-angle LCD monitor on the rear panel, which can be positioned in a range of angles to enable filming exactly as intended.
  • The camera features dual memory card slots supporting CFexpress™ Type B and SD cards. Use the CFexpress™ Type B card to draw out the full potential of the X-H2S’s fast continuous shooting and video performance.

2. Optional accessories

(1) Vertical battery grip “VG-XH” (dedicated to the X-H2S)
  • The vertical battery grip can load two of the high capacity battery “NP-W235.” It is also dust and moisture resistant and operates at temperatures as low as -10℃ for advanced practical applications.
  • The grip features various buttons in convenient locations for vertical shooting to provide the same level of operability with horizontal shooting.
(2) File transmitter “FT-XH” *12 (dedicated to the X-H2S)
  • This file transmitter features wired LAN connectivity and high-speed wireless communications capability, essential for in-studio tethered shooting or sports / media shooting. It can be also used as a vertical grip and fits two of the high capacity battery “NP-W235.”
  • It can be combined with the X-H2S to enable the following:
    ① FTP transfer by wired LAN / wireless LAN / USB smartphone tethering
    ② Tethered shooting by wired LAN / wireless LAN
    ③ Remote Rec function by wired LAN / wireless LAN; Capable of controlling up to four X-H2S cameras simultaneously from a browser on a smartphone, tablet device or computer
  • *12 Due to be released in September 2022
(3) Cooling fan “FAN-001” (dedicated to the X-H2S)
  • This cooling fan can be attached to the rear panel of the camera body without a cable, supporting long hour shooting and video recording in a high-temperature condition. The power can be supplied to the fan from the camera body.
(4) Cover kit “CVR-XH” (dedicated to the X-H2S)
  • Items contained in the cover kit for protecting various terminals on the camera.
1 x Sync terminal cover
1 x Hot shoe cover
1 x File transmitter / vertical battery grip terminal cover
1 x Cooling fan terminal cover
1 x Memory card slot cover

Is Fujifilm Losing Its Soul? Let’s Talk PSAM Dials! An Error or a Necessity?

When I posted my article about the top 10 failed Fujifilm cameras (and errors Fujifilm should avoid in future), of course some of you had a legit and often also well argued opinion on which cameras I should have included.

And one particular comment encapsulated nicely a fear that is spreading among the Fujifilm community.

The biggest error ! Loosing who you are! Creating PSAM cameras!

And the disappointment for PSAM dials arose again just recently, when we informed you that the Fujifilm X-H2S will have a PSAM dial too.

So what, is Fujifilm spamming us with PSAM dials?

And looking at it more broadly, is Fujifilm losing its retro soul?

Well, I think there is way too much drama around this topic. Even the most hardcore retro lover (like me) should enjoy the fact that Fujifilm is releasing cameras with PSAM dials.

Here is why.

  • Fujifilm has sold its soul to the mainstream market. They are ditching their lovely vintage style and operation to spam the market with more PSAM dial cameras.
** CLICK HERE to Read the Rest of the Article **

Is Fujifilm Losing Its Soul? IBIS is EVIL and Destroys the Pure Photographic Experience (Say Some)

In the second episode of our mini-series about the fear of Fujifilm losing its soul, we will talk about IBIS.

Because, incredible but true, some people actually moan about Fujifilm cameras having IBIS. So let’s talk about it.

CLAIM: IBIS should be removed from Fujifilm cameras. Fujifilm should be about pure photography and testing our handheld shooting capabilities without any support of IBIS

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

Rumor Update: Fujifilm X-H2S with PSAM Dial

The leaked images did not show it, but many of you guys already suspected it: the Fujifilm X-H2S is going to bring the PSAM dial also to the X-H series.

And you guessed well, guys! The X-H2S will indeed have a PSAM dial.

You know what’s my take on it: nothing is more fun and more practical to use than having as many dedicated dials as possible.

However, I also own a Fujifilm camera with a PSAM dial, the Fujifilm GFX100S.

And you know what?

Also the GFX100S is stupidly easy and fast to operate… just not as fun.

The way I have set up my GFX100S is that I have it on M all the time and quickly control ISO with the rear command dial (often I just leave it at one of my three AUTO ISO settings) and shutter speed with the front command dial. For aperture I use of course the ring on the lens.

So, from a mere operational point of view, a PSAM dial is very far from being an ergonomic nightmare. On the contrary, many might find it even more convenient to use.

And I can’t blame Fujifilm for finally offering also in their high-end APS-C line a camera with PSAM dial. I am 100% sure that this will help Fujifilm to expand its customer base, as there is a huge chunk of photographers loving to work with PSAM dials.

Luckily Fujifilm has also other higher end APS-C camera lines, all with wonderful retro controls (X-Pro3, X-T3, X-T4, a future Fujifilm X-T5 or Fujifilm X-Pro4). So the X series is and will remain home for retro lovers like me and many of you.

But we all love Fujifilm and want it to succeed. So if a PSAM dial camera every now and then helps the system to grow and flourish, well, then I applaud such cameras.

Fujifilm X-H2 and X-H2S rumored specs list:

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