FUJIFILM Corporation’s recent camera additions combine advanced technology with stylish, compact designs. The FUJIFILM X-E1 is an interchangeablelens camera, while the FUJIFILM XF1 offers a built-in lens with a 4x manual zoom. Both models have a distinctive design reminiscent of the style of rangefinder cameras. Also new is the FUJINON XF 14mm f/2.8 wide-angle lens, which enables X-E1 users to capture highquality landscapes and other broad scenes.
FUJIFILM X-E1
This camera follows in the footsteps of the acclaimed FUJIFILM X-Pro 1. It utilizes the same X Mount to accommodate FUJINON XF lenses, yet weighs just 12.35 ounces. One of this camera’s most notable features is the newly redesigned 16.3 megapixel X-Trans CMOS sensor, which has the capability of delivering resolution that rivals full-frame camera models, according to Kayce Baker, director of marketing at Fujifilm’s electronic imaging division. “This camera appeals to advanced amateurs, students and up-andcoming pros mainly because of its APS-C sensor chip,” she says. “It allows you to get superior image quality in a compact camera.”
Fujifilm’s X Mount is designed to take advantage of the X-E1’s mirrorless design. The rear lens elements are positioned as close as possible to the sensor, thus achieving high resolution from edge to edge. This mount can also be fitted with an optional Fujifilm M Mount adapter, allowing the X-E1 to be used with a wide variety of M lenses. The X-E1 is equipped with a high-definition OLED electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 2.36 million dots, which makes it closer to optical viewfinder technology, according to Baker.
The X-E1 incorporates Fujifilm’s creative Film Simulation Modes to emulate the distinctive color palettes of conventional photo film. These modes include the transparency films Velvia, ASTIA and PROVIA, in addition to two settings based on professional color negative films, PRO Neg. Std. and PRO Neg. Hi. The digital processing in the X-E1 allows you to create multiple exposures and to take two shots while visually checking the finished image, either in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen. Manual settings include M, Av and Tv, and a panoramic shooting mode is also available.
Other features include a built-in pop-up TTL flash, ISO 100-6400, an in-camera RAW converter, Auto Bracketing functions and full HD movie recording (1930 x 1080). The X-E1 is available in two designs ”” a two-tone black and silver, and a solid black. The camera body is available alone for $999.95 or as a kit with the XF 18-55mm (27-84mm equivalent) f/2.8-4 lens for $1,399.95. At its widest aperture, f/2.8-4, this fast, imagestabilizing lens is ideal for low-light photography or for scenes in which you want very shallow depth of field. Besides being included in the kit, this lens is available alone for $699.95.
Optional accessories for the X-E1 include a leather half-case, a range of FUJINON XF lenses, M Mount adapter, ergonomically designed hand grip, dedicated flash units (EF20, EF40, EFX20), protector filters (39mm, 52mm, 58mm) and a remote release cable (RR-80).
XF 14mm f/2.8 Lens
The new FUJINON XF 14mm (21mm equivalent) f/2.8 is a fixed focal length lens that offers an ultra-wide angle of view and superior edge-to-edge resolution. This lens consists of 10 elements in seven groups, including two aspheric and three extra-low dispersion elements, and a seven-blade rounded diaphragm. The distance and depth-of-field scales on the lens barrel make it well suited for a variety of shooting situations, and the bright f/2.8 maximum aperture ensures great performance in low light. Available for $899.95.
FUJIFILM XF1
This compact model features a fast FUJINON retractable wide-angle lens with a 4x manual zoom (25mm-100mm) and image stabilization. The lens has new HTEBC (high-transmittance EBC) coating on all lens surfaces that greatly reduces flare. “One of the key features of this camera is its bright f/1.8 lens,” Baker says. “The lens is built around multitudes of aspherical ED glass. It’s a wonderful display of our optical capabilities.” The lens utilizes high shutter speeds to prevent camera shake and to freeze subject motion without the need for flash. The XF1 is also capable of macro photography at ranges as close as 3 cm, capturing crisp images of subjects against a softly blurred background.
The XF1’s large 2/3-inch, 12-megapixel EXR CMOS sensor and EXR processor offer fast auto-focusing in a wide variety of light situations, even in low light. The quick read time of the sensor and processor accelerates all operations ”” start-up in 0.55 seconds, focusing in as little as 0.16 seconds and a minimum shot-to-shot time of 0.8 seconds.
This camera has an on-screen menu dial that allows you to gain control of the manual shooting modes. The dial is fully customizable and allows for quick setting adjustments. A programmable E-Function button can be assigned up to six functions via a bright, 3.0-inch LCD monitor.
A new hardware design offers three modes for carrying, engaging and using the XF1. In Travel Mode, the lens is retracted and the camera is powered down; in Standby Mode, the lens is extended but in power-saving mode for quick startups; and in Shooting Mode, you’re actively taking pictures. Artistic incamera effects include six Advanced Filters with 11 patterns and five Film Simulation Modes for creative expression. There is also an individual shutter 3D shooting option to create a 3D effect from 2 x 2D photos.
Additional features include apertures ranging from f/1.8 (wide) – f/4.9 (telephoto), full manual controls, ISO 100- 12,800, Motion Panorama 360 for panoramic shooting, full HD movie recording and a range of retro-style coordinating camera cases. The FUJIFILM XF1 is available in black, tan or red at $499.95.
For more information on the products described in this article, visit http://www.fujifilmusa.com/products/dig ital_cameras/x/