FUJIFILM XF1 / SHOOTING REPORT

Just a glance is enough to know the value of the XF1, a minimum and stylish X camera with high image quality. When the lens is collapsed, the body becomes flat to go smoothly into the pocket or the handbag. It has the X10's 2/3-inch sensor, which is small but powerful enough to generate high quality images. Besides, the 25mm-100mm equivalent zoom lens has a wider coverage than the X10 and it's as fast as F1.8 at the wide-end. This camera travels to everywhere with you and shoots any kinds of scenes.

( Photography & Text : M.Ishizuka )

The high-definition/high-performance sensor inherited from the X10

We had to compromise image quality of a compact digital camera because they were made for smallness. Now with this camera, you don't have to. Of course, we can't compare the image quality with the one of the X-Pro1 and the X-E1, but it never looks cheap unlike conventional compact cameras. It perfectly reproduced the textures of the materials including metal, glass, stone, and cloth. The next image is a shot of small green leaves. The definition is incredibly high for a small sensor and the tone is rich enough to be viewed at the original size. And, it faithfully and clearly reproduced the scene including the reflection on the window. Of course, rendition became a bit soft depending on the aperture and focal length. But, it's still high enough for a zoom lens for everyday use.

Simple interface. Great handling.

It turns on by rotating the zoom ring like you do with the X10, but you may be confused a littler because of the collapsible design. First, rotate it to the right to unlock. Second, extend the lens manually and rotate it to get to stand-by position. Third, rotate it to the right to extend the lens further, and the power is on. The ring functions as a zoom ring from the 25mm position. This whole process sounds complicated, but you'll get used to it because of the reassuring click feel at each step. When you stroll around, extend the lens to the stand-by position. When you find a subject, rotate the lens and aim the camera to be ready to shoot any time. As we XF1 BODY PREIVEW, the simple layout of the buttons and dials lets us focus on shooting. The rear dial can be operated with a thumb and can be configured to work as a shutter speed dial at shutter-speed priority mode and an aperture dial at aperture-priority mode. I like that there's no other unnecessary parts around it because this helps me focus on shooting.

Noise is noticeable at higher sensitivities, but the F1.8 max aperture at the wide-end assists night shooting. I'd say ISO400 to ISO800 are usable.

Quick response. More shots.

As the manufacturer had announced, the AF is very quick. It focuses within a second after half-pressing the shutter button. It's even faster than the X10 and I could fully enjoy taking snapshots. While we tend to be attracted to image quality and specifications of a camera, but we want it to operate quickly and feel good because it's a "tool." If you take many shots before you notice it, you're using a camera that suits your usage. And, if the camera feels good, your output changes. While this camera also features interesting functions including multiple exposure and advanced filters, I think this camera works best at Auto mode.

For all photo enthusiasts who couldn't carry a camera all the time

The modern and smart XF1 blends in to the modern life style. Because the lens isn't projected, it goes into the pocket of a suit smoothly. And, because it's even smaller than a standard day planner, it goes into the briefcase, handbag, or even porch. The simple and timeless appearance will attract just anybody. While cellphones take good pictures these days, we still want to shoot good moments with a camera like this.

Shooting with a SLR on holidays? Why don't you shoot everyday with this pocket size camera? It's hard to find such a camera with a great balance between size, weight, image quality, and design. It comes in black, brown, and red. Choose red to match your tie or scarf. Choose brown to go with your leather goods. When we change watches according to the situation, why not change cameras?