FUJIFILM X-M1 BODY PREVIEW
The interchangeable lens camera handles like the X20
The X-M1 has joined the Fujifilm's premium X series. There're two types of X cameras: 1) interchangeable lens type cameras and 2) fixed lens type cameras. The interchangeable lens type such as X-Pro1 and X-E1 are high-grade cameras, but the new X-M1 is equally sized to the fixed-lens X20. Because of its lightweightedness and the simple operationability, the interchangeable lens line has greatly expanded. This is also a good news to those who couldn't decide on the X-series because of the size and the price. Actually, ladies in my office say the silver body is cute.
It still has the same razor sharp X-Trans CMOS, but the body became so small that the metal lens mount looks big. There's no focus switch on the right side of the body and it looks very plain. The design is as classical as other X series bodies, and you may want to choose a nice case and strap.
While the viewfinder is omitted, the rear LCD monitor became tiltable by 90 degrees and it facilitates high and low angle shots. The buttons located on the left side of the monitor have been gathered to the right side and this rearrangement of buttons enabled the downsizing while maintaining the large monitor.
( Products images are for illustrative purposes only. )
It has the same retro layout of the two large dials on the top cover, but the shutter dial (for the X-Pro1 and the X-E1) has now become a shooting mode dial and the exposure compensation dial has now become a dial for many functions. The shooting mode dial has picture styles, so you can instantly change the mode according to situation. The right thumb command dial is facing up and it can be pushed as well. The size is compact and it fits comfortably to everyone's hands.
The X-M1 not only allows easier operation, but also offers new ways of use. First, it has an independent movie-shooting button on the back. Second, the Wi-Fi function can be assigned on the Fn button located next to the shutter button. Now, you can send your data to your smart phone directly by pushing it.
Together with the X-M1, Fujifilm released a new 3X standard zoom lens "XC 16-50mm F3.5-5.6." This XC lens is different from the XF lenses in that it doesn't have the aperture ring and aperture is controlled on the body. It has the anti-shake mechanism and still it's very compact and lightweight (filter size: 58mm, weight: 193g). There's a wide zoom ring next to the thinner focus ring, and it's easy to turn. The body and lens kit weighs 519g (actual value). It's neither too light nor too heavy - ideal for carrying all the time.
When I first saw this camera, I thought it was targeted to the entry-level users rather than the X-Pro1/X-E1 users. Of course, I'm not wrong. However, as an X-E1 user, I started to feel jealous of the X-M1's simple and compact style, as I use it for a while. The X-M1 will be a perfect camera when you don't want to carry heavy equipment or when you want a sub camera. It has some new features that the old X users find them beneficial. For example, the MF assist function shows focus peak and the mount adapter settings menu is shown without attaching the M mount adapter. The interface of the menu is easy to follow like former Xs, but it's a little more sophisticated allowing easier ISO AUTO setting thanks to the additional hierarchy.
The functions assigned to dials and buttons are optimized for the level of users and the context of their use. However, the pleasant feel of operation hasn't changed. It still has the switches in the right place. The paint and texture of the well-made metal dials look stylish. I think the old X users can use the X-M1 without problem and I feel Fujifilm cares about the users.
As for the color choice, they released black and silver versions first and later they will release the brown version based on the silver body. Our shooting report will be coming soon, so please come back again.
In addition to the X-M1 and the XC16-50mm F3.5-5.6, they released the XF27mm pancake lens that had once been listed on their lens roadmap. The actual weight is just 79g and it's as thin as one finger. Because of the size, there's no aperture ring for this lens, either, but I'm sure you want to take the set with you all the time. The focal length in 35mm equivalent is 40.5mm, which is the standard focal length for existing pancake lenses. This lens is something I cannot wait to get it, too. (Note for X-Pro1 and X-E1 users: You need to upgrade the camera's firmware in order to use the two new lenses.)