FUJIFILM X-M1 / SHOOTING REPORT

The X-E1 is like the X-Pro1 without the optical viewfinder and it has the EVF instead. I was expecting a smaller model like the X-M1 with just a rear LCD and I was right. The view in the optical viewfinder doesn't reflect the actual image output, but it lets you integrate yourself into the scene and capture the mood. On the other hand, an EVF is also a great finder because it simultaneously shows the exposure, composition, white balance, and even ghost. Now, if you only need LCD and want something more compact interchangeable lens camera with "the sensor," this is the camera you should pick.

( Photography & Text : K )

I found a petal on the water surface. The slimy surface is reproduced nicely, but speaking of Fuji, don't you remember this PROVIA color? I'm so happy to be able to use this color on a digital camera.

The lowpass-less sensor is sharp by nature. It depicted the wave of Kasumiga-ura very realistically. With other cameras, the wave tends to become more grayish, but this has a greenish cast. This is very Fuji, I guess.

The focused petal looks wonderfully sharp, but maybe what Fujifilm users like best is the rich and deep saturation that doesn't destroy the fidelity.

Mid-tone reproduction is splendid. This is particularly effective to depict liquid objects. The grasses are perfectly sharp.

The resolving power is evident on the Ferris wheel, but the depicting line is very natural and there's a 3D plasticity. The sky looked just like this and in such a situation, I used to shoot under and raise contrast with software, but cameras in these days depict the scene like this with rich tonality.

Another shot showing the sharp and natural depiction.

This ghost is caused by the high saturation rather than the lens. I noticed it while framing, but I chose the position that generates the best possible ghost. With this direct intense backlight, it can't be helped. Still, the building walls are wonderfully depicted.

I shot through the window, but it depicted the texture of silver panel and resinous buttons. Also, high contrast helps this modulated reproduction.

Large sensor loaded in the X20 size!

Except the little additional dimension for the tilting LCD, it's almost as small as the X20. But, because the sensor is much larger, it's so seductive. The jog dial on the right side of the body (when LCD facing toward user) is well designed for downsizing: it works as exposure compensation dial when using auto exposure, and it becomes a shutter speed dial when using manual exposure. This camera will become a great second body for X users or the excellent first body for the new users. Also, it's a dangerously addictive camera for some X users who have a history of shooting with just the LCD.