FUJIFILM XQ1 / SHOOTING REPORT

"Premium" is the main concept of the X-series. The XQ1 is the latest addition to its compact lineup. They already have the XF1 which is fashion-oriented, and I should say the XQ1 is quality-oriented. The shape is truly simple and it goes into the pocket comfortably. The zoom lens with a max aperture of F1.8 covers a general-purpose range. It has the X20's 12-megapixel lowpass-less X-Trans CMOS sensor which generates high quality images and realizes high AF speed. You may find that it lacks of enough buttons to operate smoothly, it's actually quite easy to use thanks to the control ring around the lens. If you're looking for a compact camera which produces high quality pictures and offers great handling, this may be the camera for you. Also, if you haven't experienced the X-Trans CMOS sensor, or interested in "the Fujifilm" picture quality, I'm sure you want to try this camera. Now, let's check the sample shots.

( Photography : Z II / Text : Taka )

Sharp and deep expression

We can only expect high picture quality from the latest X-Trans CMOS II sensor. How do you like this resolution without ambiguity? I can check each window of the highrise condominium. While many compact digital cameras are not good at resolving this kind of subject, the XQ1 does a great job as the X20 did.

I zoomed to the tele-end to shoot the mountains heading to fall. It depicted the shapes and colors of the trees standing in the morning gas. I can even recognize some blighted trees and this is something I didn't expect from a compact digital camera.

You can easily bet how well it depicts the close view. I shot wide open (F1.8) and the texture of the focused area looks realistic. With this sensor size and the max aperture of the lens, you can enjoy bokeh and it will expand the scope of your expression.

It's a Fujifilm camera, so I shot Mt. Fuji... doesn't this color reproduction remind you of the slide film PROVIA? I guess there're many people who choose Fujifilm because of this color. This image quality must be credited to Fujifilm who have been a leading film manufacturer.

In addition to the natural color reproduction, the wide dynamic range is another advantage of using a Fujifilm camera. Even in this difficult situation, the highlight didn't get whitened and there's still some tone data. With this dynamic range, I don't have to be nervous in exposure while I would have to be so with other compact digital cameras.

TThe tone from the highlight to the shadow is very smooth and it helps texture reproduction. Also, more is invisible even though the subject has crossing lines. This must be because of the unique aperiodic color filter arrangement. Some people may be worried about moire deriving from the lowpass-less filter, but this camera is free from such problem.

ISO800 is safe to be used and it was impossible for older compact digital cameras. The 25mm (in 35mm format) wide-end lets you capture subjects within the frame (say, including everyone in the frame when shooting commemorative photos) even if you cannot step back any further.

Easy and quick operation for instant firing.

This is a scene where we want to zoom out to the wide-end, set the aperture wide open, step close, and use faster shutter speed to freeze the moment. Having excellent sensor isn't enough and we want the camera to be easy and quick to operate. And, the XQ1 meets the demand.

First, it has the "control ring" around the lens. For example, in aperture priority mode, it lets you control aperture value directly. If you know how to use a SLR camera, I'm sure you'll like it. I think I was able to react on the scene quickly because I could control the aperture with my left finger and zoom with my right finger. This ring is made of metal in fine finish and has a comfortable torque. The dial on the top cover has a nice click feel, too. So, even though the body doesn't have many buttons and dials, it's still easy to use. The control ring can also be used to change other parameters such as zooming, exposure compensation, etc. as you keep using it, you'll develop your own style, and this camera lets you control actively. And, I don't think we have many such compact cameras.

As the say "world's fastest," the AF is lightening-quick, indeed. Taking advantages of the image stabilizer equivalent to 3EV stops, I could easily zoom in and capture the moment. It's such a casual location when you want the camera to operate quickly, and the XQ1's AF will react to your desire to shoot instantly.

The best moment doesn't last, but the XQ1's fast AF and powerful image stabilization let you freeze it. In fact, I could even use the slow shutter speed to get the silky water texture. It turned out to be a surrealistic shot because of the contrast between the earnest cat and the silky quiet white water.

Sharing moments is easy with the XQ1. By installing the App on your smartphone, it lets you transfer photos directly to your smartphone with a push of a button. And, you don't need to preset your ID and password. Of course, you can do the same thing with smartphones, but not all of them cannot zoom in/out, generate images with less noise, and operate quickly as real cameras do.

No need to miss the best moment

We encounter the best moment only when we don't carry a camera with us. Even if you have a high-end camera, it can't shoot unless you have it with you. The XQ1 goes into any kind of pocket, so you can bring it even when you don't plan to shoot. Once you encounter the moment, the quick and direct operation will instantly respond to your instinct. And, you get the top-of-the-category picture quality. Plus, you can send it directly to your smartphone. The more you use it, the better you will like the elegant and smart appearance. This is a premium compact camera that fits any kind of situation and it exemplifies the X-concept.

Worried about the picture quality of small digital camera? Don't worry. If you carry the XQ1 wherever you go, you can shoot seriously and casually anytime you want. Carry it like you carry your cellphone and the best moment is waiting for you.