Tag: Fujifil

FUJIFILM Australia announces NEW Fujifilm X-H2

by davidhague178181403, posted in News: Camera Hardware, Press Releases General, Today

FUJIFILM Australia is pleased to announce the launch of the mirrorless digital camera Fujifilm X-H2 (X-H2) in September, 2022. The camera joins the lineup of X Series of mirrorless digital cameras, that are renowned for their outstanding image quality in both stills and video, delivered with Fujifilm’s outstanding, proprietary colour reproduction technology.

The X-H2 features the new back-illuminated 40.2MP X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR*1 sensor and the high-speed X-Processor 5. This new flagship model, delivers high-resolution stills as well as being the world’s first*2 APS-C camera to enable 8K/30P Apple ProRes*3 internal recording.

With the release of the X-H2, the “X-H series” now has two flagship models. The high-speed flagship model X-H2S excels in shooting fast moving subjects, whereas the high-resolution flagship X-H2 delivers exceptional image quality that transcends the normal quality limit for the format. With the twin flagship models, Fujifilm can cater for all the shooting needs of professional photographers and videographers.

“We are very pleased to launch the highest resolution camera in the history of X Series, and we are highly confident that this new model will be a success in Australia” says Mr Ryuichi Matoba, the new CEO of FUJFILM Australia. “Fujifilm are continuously challenging Full Frame. With the release of the twin flagship models, X-H2S and X-H2, Photographers and videographers can now choose the best solution to meet their content creation need”, adds Shaun Mah, General Manager of Electronic Imaging and Optical Devices of FUJIFILM Australia. 

The unprecedented image quality delivered by the X-H2’s new sensor compared to its predecessors in the X-Series is complemented with advanced features including minimum standard ISO125, maximum shutter speed of 1/180,000 sec with electronic shutter, and the PIXEL SHIFT MULTI SHOT mode to enhance visual expressions. The X-H2 also offers functions and interfaces that assist shooting, such as the subject-detection AF based on Deep Learning technology that automatically detects and tracks a broader range of subjects like animals and birds. The new features also include five-axis and up to seven stops of in-body image stabilisation*4, 0.8x magnification and 5.76 million dot EVF as well as a card slot compatible with CFexpressTM Type B cards*5.

*1 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.

*2 As of September 9, 2022, according to Fujifilm data

*3 Apple ProRes is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions

*4 When coupled with the FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R 

*5 CFexpress™ is a trademark or registered trademark of the CompactFlash Association

  1. Main product features
  2. Featuring the new X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR sensor and the high-speed X-Processor 5 to produce the highest image resolution in the history of the X Series

(1) The high-resolution 40.2MP sensor has an improved image-processing algorithm to enhance image resolution without compromising the S/N ratio, producing astonishing image quality. It also has an improved pixel structure to efficiently bring in a greater amount of light, enabling ISO125 as a new native base ISO. This is particularly beneficial during day-time outdoor shooting or to take advantage of the large aperture to produce bokeh.

(2) The use of the new sensor and resulting ability to control exposure time at a greater precision have improved the fastest shutter speed for the electronic shutter by 2.5 stops from the previous 1/32,000 sec to 1/180,000 sec. This allows users to leave the aperture wide open in glary conditions such as a sunny beach or a ski slope, or to capture a split-second motion.

(3) This is the first X Series camera featuring the Pixel Shift Multi-Shot function. The camera uses the IBIS mechanism to shift the image sensor with high precision to carry out automatic shooting, recording 20 images, that are combined into a single frame using the dedicated software, “Pixel Shift Combiner”. This free software processes the captured frame to generate an image containing about 160 Million Pixels, which is perfect for commercial photography and digital archiving.

(4) The X-H2 supports the HEIF image format, which delivers 10-bit image quality in files up to 30% smaller than standard JPEG files, continuing to expand Fujifilm’s reputation of delivering high-quality images straight out of camera. 

  1. Excellent video performance that caters to professional video production needs

(1) With the incorporation of the new sensor, 8K movies can be recorded internally at 30P in 4:2:2 10-bit colour.　The X-H2 has a heat-dissipating design, the same as X-H2S, to enable recording 8K/30P movies for approximately 160 minutes*6, making 8K a practical option. Furthermore, it supports 8K over-sampling to produce high-quality 4K video, making maximum use of the high-resolution sensor to record movies in superior image resolution.

(2) X-H2 supports three Apple ProRes codecs; ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422, and ProRes 422 LT. When recording ProRes, X-H2 also supports proxy recording such as ProRes 422 Proxy.”*7. 

(3) X-H2 features a digital zoom function*8 that uses the camera’s 40.2MP sensor to deliver up to 2x of digital zoom with little to no loss in resolution, when recording video in 4K. Using zoom lenses, get twice the reach and seamlessly transition to the digital zoom function when the lens reaches its maximum focal length.

(4) Combined with a compatible HDMI device from Atomos or Blackmagic Design, 12-bit RAW video output from X-H2 can be recorded as Apple ProRes or Blackmagic RAW at resolutions and frame rates of up to 8K and 29.97 frames per second.

(5) In addition to F-Log, X-H2 also supports F-Log2, which records an expanded dynamic range of 13+ stops*9. This range is wider than current F-Log, broadening post-production potential.

*6 When recording video at 25℃ from a cool start, with the auto power-off temperature set on High, H.265 4:2:0, a bitrate of 200Mbps, and vertical battery grip VG-XH using three batteries attached. The recording duration depends on remaining battery charge and the type and capacity of the memory card used. When the main unit heats up, filming may automatically stop.

*7 Proxy not available for 8K/30P and 8K/25P recording.

*8 Available in three modes: 4K HQ, 4K DCI HQ, and FHD

*9 When recording F-Log2, based on Fujifilm internal testing.

  1. Evolved AF performance that captures details accurately

(1) X-Processor 5 features subject-detection AF based on Deep Learning technology that automatically detects and tracks a broader range of subjects, including animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, planes, and trains – as well as human faces and eyes, so image-makers can concentrate on composition and creativity, confident that X-H2 will track focus accurately.

(2) The new high-resolution sensor has a greater number of phase detection pixels than current models, resulting in an improved ability to attain AF-S focus on various subject matter, such as landscape and portrait photography. Furthermore, X-H2 also incorporates the improved AF prediction algorithm, which was newly developed for the X-H2S, enabling stable focusing even when using AF-C.

(3) The X-H2 is newly equipped with a focus meter as a Manual Focus assist during movie recording, allowing for more precise focus adjustment. It may also be used in combination with the focus peaking feature.

(4) The movie AF algorithm has been optimised to improve autofocus accuracy, giving users a sense of confidence when using AF while filming 8K movies.

  1. Hardware and workflow that support the content creation experience

(1) A 5-axis in-body image stabilisation system, made possible by X-Processor 5 and a sensing control function, provides up to seven stops of compensation. This powerful feature gives users the freedom to handhold the camera in conditions that previously would have required support, even in low light. 

(2) The X-H2 is equipped with a high-definition 5.76-million-dot EVF with 0.8x magnification. It boasts smooth refresh frame rate of approx. 120fps and significant improvement in controlling parallax and distortion which typically occur when an eye position becomes displaced while using the viewfinder for stellar visibility.

(3) The body design is the same as that of the X-H2S, with 79 weather-sealed points offering high levels of dust and moisture resistance. X-H2 is built to withstand the rigors of daily professional use and operate as normal in temperatures as low as  -10°C. The top panel LCD screen, adjustable AF ON button, 1.62 million-dot vari-angle LCD monitor, and independent movie recording button support comfortable operation.

(4) The X-H2 has one CFexpress™ Type B memory card slot and one UHS-II SD memory card slot. Draw out the full potential of the X-H2 video performance using CFexpress™ Type B cards*10.

*10 See the Fujifilm website for a list of verified compatible cards: https://fujifilm-x.com/global/support/compatibility/cameras/list-of-supported-memory-cards

(5) The X-H2S/ X-H2 can be combined with the file transmitter “FT-XH” to enable wired and wireless LAN tethered video recording*11. Up to four X-H2S/ X-H2 cameras can be connected simultaneously to enable the following operations from a computer browser:

  • Check and adjust camera settings for each camera
  • Simultaneously start and stop video recording for all cameras
  • Save, load, and copy camera settings*12

*11 Update to the latest firmware is required for X-H2S when using this function.

*12 Camera settings can be saved/ loaded to/ from a computer or tablet device.

３．Optional accessories

(1) Vertical battery grip “VG-XH” (for the X-H2S / X-H2)

This vertical battery grip is dust and moisture resistant and is designed to operate at temperatures as low as -10°C. It fits two of Fujifilm’s NP-W235 high-capacity batteries. The grip’s button layout is designed to provide equal operability whether holding the camera vertically or horizontally.

(2) File transmitter “FT-XH” (for the X-H2S / X-H2)

  This file transmitter features wired LAN connectivity and high-speed wireless communications capability, essential for in-studio tethered content creation or for creating sports/ media content. It can also be used as a vertical grip fitting two of Fujifilm’s NP-W235 high-capacity batteries. It can be combined with the X-H2S/ X-H2 to support the following communication specifications:

  • FTP data transfer by wired LAN / wireless LAN / USB Smartphone tethering
  • Tethered shooting by wired LAN / wireless LAN
  • Remote recording function by wired LAN / wireless LAN; capable of controlling up to four X-H2S/ X-H2 cameras from a browser at the same time

(3) Cooling fan “FAN-001” (for the X-H2S/ X-H2)

    Specifically designed for the X-H2S/ X-H2 to facilitate extended video recording in high temperatures.

The fan may be fitted to the rear of the camera body without a cable, supplying power, extending continuous video recording time at high temperature, and eliminating concerns of heat-related camera shutdown.

(4) Cover kit “CVR-XH” (for the X-H2S/ X-H2)

This cover kit for the X-H2S/ X-H2 protects various terminals on the camera. 

Items included in the kit:

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

  1. Product names, release date and prices

Product name

Release date

RRP (including GST)

Fujifilm X-H2

September, 2022

$3,399

Fujifilm X-H2 and XF16-80mmF4 R OIS WR kit

September, 2022

$4,249

 

Mini Review: Fujifilm X-S10 Compact Mirrorless

by davidhague178181403, posted in Reviews, Today

I have managed to have a bit of a play with the Fujifilm X-S10 over the last few weeks which has been fun. I was originally sent the camera as I works with the DJI Ronin RS3 and of course my Canon 5DS does not.

There have been some issues there we are trying to address (which are not either of Fujifilm or DJI’s fault, just some logistical things we are trying to iron out) hence the field review of the RS3 has happened yet, so in the interim, I thought I’d just do a quick review of the X-S10.

I suspect Fujifilm are aiming this particular model fairly and squarely at the mid-priced cameras from the likes of Canon, Sony, Nikon etc who have held a strangle hold on this lucrative compact mirrorless market.

So, if you are looking at a new camera in that spectrum, should you also have a look at the X-S10?

Absolutely as there are some very nice features giving good reason to go down the Fujifilm path. Not the least of course is the simply brilliant Fujifilm lenses.

Even though this is classified as medium level camera, the body is full magnesium alloy and not plastic which is very welcome and something you usually only really get in higher end cameras. This will add to its durability for sure but bear in mind there is no weather sealing.

A major selling point is that this camera gets full In-Body Image Stabilisation (called IBIS by the boffins) and allegedly, those same boffins at Fujifilm developed this version especially for this model to miniaturise the full standard version to make it fit.

The IBIS will work with all the available lenses and gives up to 6 stops of stabilisation which is not too shabby indeed.

For framing up and playback, you get a fully articulated 3” touchscreen LED and an OLED viewfinder, and if you use the LCD, Fujifilm says you’ll get over 300 shots per battery charge. You can charge the battery via USB meaning if you carry a Powerbank and a spare battery, you should be able to shoot for quite extended periods of time.

One thing I don’t like (and not just here, in ANY camera) is that the single SD card slot is in the battery compartment on the base of the camera.

When shooting, you’ll get 30fps burst shooting with crop and 20fps without crop, and you can shoot 4K video at 30p complete with F-Log support.

Both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are supported and there are headphone and external mic ports as well as a micro-HDMI and of course, USB-C port. A dongle comes supplied so that you use that for headphone monitoring if needed.

Ergonomically, I do like the extended grip area, it makes holding the camera feel more secure (Canon has done the same thing on the R10) and the majority of controls fall nicely to the fingers of the right hand. The exceptions are the drive, delete and playback buttons which are in the top left corner on the rear of the X-S10.

The top of the camera has the usual mode and Fn (function) dials and on the front of the hand grip thumbwheel command dial. All in all pretty straightforward fare meaning you don’t have to learn a whole new ergonomic control system to get up and running.

Sadly though, unlike on many Fujifilm cameras there is no front mounted Manual / Single Shot / Continuous button. This has to be selected from a menu on X-S10. As this was a fast way of clicking between Auto and Manual focus, this is a bit of a pain and I have no idea why Fujifilm took this route with this camera.

This is not intended to be an in-depth review as I have only been using this camera to date for a specific purpose as mentioned. If time permits, I will expand on this, however.

Suffice to say, if you are looking at a mirrorless camera in this range, the Fujifilm X-S10 more than holds it own again the more fancied competition and is definitely worth a look and a play in the shop if you can.

I suspect you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

The body alone sells for approx. AUD$1600 and it can be bought with a variety of lenses included from AUD$1700 (prices taken from this website)

If you want all the technical specs for the Fujifilm X-S10 you can get them here.

Review: Fujifilm X-S10 Mirrorless

by davidhague178181403, posted in News: Camera Hardware, Today

Back in October last year, Fujifilm announced the X-S10, a compact mirrorless camera with a whole bunch of features.

I have had one here for a little while to play with, and I have decided I like it A Lot.

Inside its compact body, the X-S10 sports a 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 Sensor, Fujifilm’s own high speed image processing system called X-Processor and a image stabilisation system lifted from the X-H1 model, but miniaturised to fit the smaller body.

The rest of the internals are from the X-T30 model.

If you know your Fujifilm models, then you know what you have is a lightweight camera with pro features. And suitable for photographers and videographers alike as the X-S10 also shoots 4K video (among other frame sizes of course).

Bigger Grip

As mentioned, this is a smaller form factor than many similar cameras, but a big selling point is the large grip, designed say Fujifilm, specifically to give more stability when using larger lenses. My test unit camera with an 18-55mm lens, so that didn’t really apply in this case, nonetheless I did appreciate the bigger grip to aid in stability.

The rest of the body and controls are pretty stock standard, meaning that the first time user to this camera should have no issue graduating from another make / model. Perhaps Fujifilm may look at a couple of extra Fn buttons though?

If you are jumping from another Fujifilm model, you may find some differences.

For example, there’s a traditional mode dial and customizable command dials for exposure parameters instead of dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation as on say the X-T30. This, Fujifilm says, is to assist those coming from DSLRS and prefer a similar setup.

Simulation Modes

A nice feature is the Film Simulation modes, where Fujifilm has included 18 different analogue “looks” based on Provia, Velvia and Astia film stock, letting you choose from vivid to soft and standard “looks”. These can also shoot in RAW mode for those that like to tinker with images after the fact, as against simply using JPG.

Another excellent feature is the autofocus tracking system. This shows a green box on the subject being tracked by the camera. Additionally, an eye and face detection system is available and uses the X-S10’s joystick to choose a face to focus on.

Of course this can be turned off and standard AF used to focus on something other than a face in a scene where there are people.

I can see this feature especially good for sports photographers eg track and field.

Video

Of course our main interest is video, and here the X-S10 shines.

As mentioned earlier, you can shoot 4K in either 24p or 30p, and up to 30 minutes. This limitation is due to heat, but Fujifilm says it has built a new heat dispersion system into the X-S10. I had no issues in my tests, so I wonder if ambient temperature is a factor in this.

In HD up to 240fps is available by the way for the slo-mo pundits. Again, excellent for sport video. Face and eye tracking is also available for video shooting, but bummer – you cannot track inanimate objects.

As we have come to expect from Fujifilm cameras, in video mode the image stabilisation is fantastic. The subsequent image quality is up there – and better in many cases – than any of the opposition can throw at it I think.

The X-S10 supports flat F-Log recording letting you colour grade later, although only capturing 8-bit 4:2:0 video internally. The View Assist feature, which gives you a feel for what the footage will look like when graded can be used when using F-Log.  And a bonus is that the X-S10 features the popular Eterna profile.

Conclusion

In short then, whilst there are a couple of niggles, primarily a smaller than ideal viewfinder in our opinion and needing USB-C to charge (there is no dedicated charger), the positives far outweigh any negatives.

On the positive side, although the USB-C is used to charge to X-S10, it also doubles as a headphone port.

Add to that the excellent image quality and stabilisation and beautiful ergonomics, especially the bigger grip, and this is a winner.

As I said, we like it A Lot and are sad it has to go back.

Pricing

The Fujifilm X-S10 body retails in Australia for AUD$1749 inc GST.  If you opt for the body + lens kit, this retails at AUD$1899 inc GST and includes the FUJINON Lens XC15-45mm F3.5-5.6 OIS PZ. Another option is the X-S10 body and FUJINON Lens XF16－80mm F4 R OIS WR for AUD$2649 inc  GST.

For more information, visit https://fujifilm-x.com/global/products/cameras/x-s10/

 

 

 

 

 

 

Review: Fujifilm X-A7 Mirrorless

by davidhague178181403, posted in News: Camera Hardware, Today

Back in September last year Fujifilm announced the X-A7.

Now released, it comes with a newly developed image sensor in addition to being equipped with an auto focus system said to be capable of tracking fast moving objects including faces and eyes. Importantly for video makers, it also supports 4K video with, and I quote, “a large bright LCD monitor for excellent operability”.

The X-A7 is a mirrorless digital camera that weighs in at 320g and gets its imagery via a 24.2MP APS-C sensor. The company says the utilisation of copper wiring enables high speed data which gives all sorts of clever technical advantages to enable the high speed AF capabilities and make best use of the proprietary colour reproduction system.

For lovers of Vlogging (which my step daughter tells me is pronounced “Vlogging” as in “flogging” not “Vee-logging” as I used in a recent video), the X-A7 supports 4K / 30 fps video

Fujifilm suggests the X-A7 is the perfect choice for those who want to up the ante from their current smartphone usage for photography and video as it offers a “broad range of applications from casual snapshots of everyday scenes to travel photography and fully fledged photographic creations”.

And now we have had one for a few weeks here is what we think.

Physically

The physical controls on the X-A7 are minimal, with a single rotary on the top of the camera looking after many of the settings as you can see from the photo .

This is allied with a pop up flash on the left and on the right a, shutter release (surrounded by a ring for the front command dial) and a Fn1 button also surrounded by a ring, this time for the rear command dial. There is also an on/off button nestled between all three dials / rings.

 There is a top centrally located hot shoe.

On the rear of the body are buttons for Drive that doubles up as a Delete button and a Playback button. On the top bottom right is a tiny focus stick, a Menu button (doubling as an OK button and a Display button (doubling as a Back button).

On the right hand side under a flap are a USB-C port and min-HDMI ports and on the left, a switch to pop up the flash plus a mic input port.

The 3.5” LCD touch-aware screen angles and rotates and is rated at approximately 1000 candelas – 1 candela is 1 NIT over a square meter if you were wondering. There are a number of smartphones rated this highly, but in the real world, I don’t consider this high enough for outdoor use. By way of example, the OSEE field monitor we reviewed a few months back, and designed for outdoor use is 3000 NITS.

Taking the X-A7 outside on a 32 degree bright and sunny day I could discern an image, but to see any detail to apply a focus say was well-nigh impossible. Ditto using the on-screen command structure to make any changes. So, I am sorry Mr Fuji, despite your web site description stating “Users can clearly check the subject on the screen even on a bright sunny day outside.” I did not find that to be the case. Perhaps the sun is brighter in Australia than the location the unit was tested on for that statement?

This proved to me yet again that a viewfinder is a necessity.

Except the X-A7 doesn’t have one.

Of course, it is unfair to single Fujifilm out on this; it is a recurring issue across many camera / camcorder manufacturers and why we suggest time and again, when buying one, test it under as many conditions as you can before laying down the hard earned shekels, even if it means just taking it outside the shop door – over-hovering and anxious shop assistant besides. It’s also a damn good reason to buy from a, you know, REAL shop and not some dodgy online entity who grey markets from overseas. Cough.

So, let’s imagine it is NOT a bright sunny day, and we can see the LCD screen.

The menu icons displayed on the ouch screen are more than comprehensive. In fact, there are 47 indicators, mode switches and on screen buttons to keep even the most ardent gadget controller happy. Some of the display items are quite tiny having said that and if shooting bright subjects a little hard to see.

There is also a Menu structure system which is very easy to follow and again very comprehensive.

Imagery

Fujifilm lenses are second to none, that is a given. We were sent an 18-55mm and it was a ripper. Not my personal best choice for video due to the nature of things I shoot (I’d prefer a 200m zoom say), but the footage I did shoot was clean and with a lovely saturation and luminance. But again, with Fujifilm lenses and the company’s proven colour technology I would expect nothing less.

Especially good was the new “Bright” mode which automatically selects the optimum shooting settings using HDR. I also liked the “Light Trails” setting (mainly as I have always been jealous of my good friend and V8 Supercar shooter extraordinaire Ross Gibb’s talent in this area!)

Audio Drift and APP Issues

We did notice some drift between video and audio in 4K shooting, a fact that was collaborated by our colleague Chris Oaten, so this might be something to watch for.

There is an APP available for transferring images etc and to operate the camera remotely, but looking at the reviews in the Google Play store, it suggests some work may be needed on this. A number of users are Not Happy to say the least.

Conclusion

Concentrating on the X-A7 as a whole, it is a good camera there is absolutely no question. It comes as a kit swith a 15-45mm lens at between $800 – $900 depending where you shop.

The main drawback is that LCD in my book; it just doesn’t stack up to Australian bright summer conditions in our testing. If Fujifilm can up the quality of that to around the 2000 NITS level, this will be a camera to maybe start to get into the realms with in that marketplace of  between the high-end smartphone and something like the Panasonic GH5 or Sony A7 series

For more info click here.