What kind of shutter does the fujifilm x e1 camera have. Fujifilm X-E1 camera review
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From the table it becomes clear that the X-E1 is not so much a new model as "work on the bugs." The complex and expensive design of the hybrid viewfinder was removed - the camera became more compact, lighter and cheaper. It seems to me that in this case they could completely abandon the viewfinder, but this is my personal opinion - I just don’t see the point in electronic viewfinders. Even in the sun, the X-E1's LCD screen is bright enough to see what you're shooting.
We also optimized the battery - it began to work noticeably longer. This important point, because autonomy is the main weak link of mirrorless cameras compared to DSLRs.
The matrix remains the same - X-Trans CMOS with a basic color filter. Of course, it is a pity that there are no changes here (especially considering Low quality video), but in general, the matrix is not bad. Let me remind you that this matrix does not have a low-pass filter, which the camera manufacturer usually puts in to prevent the moiré effect. Here, to combat moiré, Fujifilm uses an irregular arrangement of color filters (subpixels) on the matrix ( detailed description the mechanism of moiré appearance and how the arrangement of subpixels affects it is worthy of a separate article).
It is also worth talking about the new lens, because it is with it that the Fujfilm X-E1 flaunts in all promotional photographs. We are talking about a zoom lens 18-55 / 2.8-4 OIS. It is clear from the specification that the lens has a zoom from 18mm to 55mm (from 27mm to 83mm in 35mm equivalent), a minimum f/number from 2.8 at wide angle to 4 at telephoto (this is much better than typical 3 .5-5.6 from most manufacturers, including Sony) and a stabilization system. A new lens costs up to 30 thousand rubles, so, today, this is the most expensive lens for the Fujifilm X-Mount mount. It turns out that it is much more profitable to buy an X-E1 camera complete with it - in this case it will cost 10,000 rubles, which is 3 times cheaper.
By the way, in the near future (in 2013) Fujifilm plans to release two more zoom lenses: a 55-200 / 3.5-4.8 telephoto lens and a 10-24 / 4 ultra wide-angle lens. You can be happy for both lenses, especially for 55-200 - it's very nice to see such a aperture ratio in a zoom telephoto lens, especially if it doesn't cost like an airplane.
Appearance and control
The body of the Fujifilm X-E1 is in many ways similar to the X-Pro1, only the dimensions are smaller. However, on our test it was entirely black camera, which, it seems to me, is noticeably more boring than the silver one.
Camera control reminds at the same time both old film cameras (like Leica or Zenith - who could afford anything) and modern SLRs. Also, Fujifilm X-E1, if you look at the back surface, can be confused with the advanced Fujifilm X10 “soap box” - the company strives for design unity, and this is perhaps even good. Models differ in size, but retain the shape and general principles of control.
However, the uninitiated may have a question: where is the mode wheel here? How, for example, to enter aperture priority mode (when the photographer sets only the aperture size and ISO, and the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed) or turn on full auto?
Unlike the prime lenses that hit the market at the same time as the X-Pro1, the 18-55mm zoom doesn't have a fixed aperture dial - it can be scrolled indefinitely. You can view the selected aperture value only on the camera display, and to switch to automatic aperture selection mode, there is a slider on the side of the lens, located above the stabilizer switching slider.
The shutter speed is controlled using the wheel on the upper end of the camera body - there, among others, there is also the value "A", that is, automatic.
Accordingly, in order to enter the aperture priority mode, you need to manually select the aperture (the slider on the lens to a position other than “A”) and set the shutter speed to “A”. And for the shutter priority mode, you need to do the opposite. Fully automatic mode, as you might guess, is enabled when both parameters are set to "A".
Surely from the photographs you have already noticed that the choice of shutter speeds on the wheel is not so great. For slow shutter speeds (when shooting with a tripod), you can use either a synchronizer or a timer. You can also set the shutter speed more flexibly (in 1/3 EV increments) by turning the control wheel.
Also on the body, on top, you can find the exposure compensation wheel. It can be used in semi-automatic and automatic modes.
On the front, on the case, you can see the switch between the positions "M", "C" and "S". These letters refer to the focus mode. M - manual focus, C - constant auto (works while shooting mode is on), S - auto for one frame (autofocus works when the shutter button is pressed halfway). There is a focus ring on the lens, so focusing manually here is even more convenient than on reflex cameras ah with an optical viewfinder - after all, on the LCD screen you can enlarge the visible image. By the way, it is worth mentioning that the X-E1 has trouble with focusing speed. The same trouble as on the X-Pro1. To be more precise, autofocus works for a long time and often misses in the dark, therefore, if you do not want to adjust the focus manually, put the focus mode switch in the “C” position - this will help to gain at least a little time, although the battery will run out faster.
On the back surface of the camera, where the screen is, you can find a considerable number of buttons - for all occasions. There is also a control for the built-in flash, and shift buttons for controlling the autofocus frame (AF) and the metering method (AE) - to change the value, you need to turn the control wheel located at the top right. Also, it was not without the cursor buttons and the “menu” button that have become standard for many cameras.
The View Mode button allows you to switch between the screen, the electronic viewfinder (I remind you that here, unlike the X-Pro1, the viewfinder is not a hybrid, and therefore has only one mode of operation) and automatic selection - if you look closely, you can see the proximity sensor windows to the right of the viewfinder . In the automatic display selection mode, the camera itself determines where to display the picture: on the screen or in the viewfinder. As soon as you bring the camera closer to your face, the viewfinder is activated and the screen turns off. Zoom out - the screen turns on.
Lens 18-55mm
It somehow happened historically that the 18-55mm zoom lens has become the “whale” standard for many cameras. The quality of these lenses, however, varies greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer, and in addition, some companies have a professional version of such a lens, such as Canon's 17-55 / 2.8.
Fujifilm decided to choose a middle option between a "bayonet plug", as cheap kit lenses are sometimes called by the people, and professional optics. The lens included with the Fujifilm X-E1 has a variable aperture, which distinguishes it from professional optics, but at the same time it is 2/3 steps higher than typical "whales". And this means that for the same shooting conditions and ISO values, the shutter speed on such a lens can be chosen almost twice as long.
But, of course, it's not just about luminosity. Other important characteristics of optics: sharpness, absence of geometric distortions, vignetting, chromatic aberrations. For all these parameters, Fujifilm 18-55mm can be called good lens. Not professional, of course, but good.
Photo examples
But finally, let's move on to the most important thing - to photographs. Winter in Moscow is not the brightest time of the year, but it's good for testing the camera. I specifically tried to focus on shooting in low light, because. with good even some mobile phones have learned to give out (under certain conditions and the "direct hands" of the photographer) a good picture. Even more than that - sometimes it’s boring to look at test photos in bright sunshine: without processing, they often look quite dull and sometimes you don’t even know what the author is happy about - it seems like a camera is being tested for 30-40-50 thousand, and the picture is “normal”.
What do photographs tell us in low light? First, they tell us about the "noisiness" of the matrix. Especially at high ISO values(photosensitivity). It is known that the higher the light sensitivity, the more noticeable the digital noise, which is pixels, the brightness and color of which differ from the background. High light sensitivity is needed to maintain a fast shutter speed when shooting in low light.
Secondly, let's see how increasing the ISO affects the sharpness of photos. And thirdly, let's evaluate the color reproduction and the adequacy of measuring the white balance.
The Fujifilm X-E1 camera can save photos in two formats: RAW (12 bit) and JPEG. Since the camera is positioned as “professional”, we will talk about shooting in RAW - especially since the automatic modes in the X-E1 are far from forte. All photos presented in the review have undergone basic processing in Lightroom from RAW to JPEG, original photos you can download from the link: http://yadi.sk/d/cTwWoStt2R7UA
In room
These two photos clearly show the range of focal lengths of the zoom lens. The first one was taken at a wide angle:
ISO 250; 18 mm; f/2.8; 1/30 c
The second - in the position of the body:
ISO 500; 55 mm; f/4; 1/30 c
To appreciate the sharpness, let's take a photo of plush toys:
ISO 320; 18 mm; f/2.8; 1/30 c
And cut out the bear in the center to show the 1:1 image:
By the way, if you download the archive with RAW files, you can do it yourself with any photo.
As you can see, the Fujifilm X-E1 has very high sharpness. Photos can be heavily cropped and they will not lose their sharpness. By the way, that is why the presence of a zoom lens is not so necessary - just one “fix” is enough. Another thing is that you can’t shoot a normal portrait with a wide-angle fixed lens, and it’s difficult to shoot interiors and some landscapes with a portrait lens - much less fits in the frame than we would like. So, if you use "fixes", then you need to wear at least two. Moreover, Fujifilm's 60 / 2.4 is of little use - for both tele and macro it has too short a focal length.
However, in an ordinary living room, lighting is usually worse than in shopping malls. Therefore, in the following frames, the ISO value is higher:
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 ISO 1600; 55 mm; f/4; 1/30 c |
 ISO 1600; 55 mm; f/4; 1/30 c |
As you can see, even at ISO 1600-2500 the noise level remains acceptable. Personally, I disdain the built-in flashes, and with the Fujifilm X-E1 camera, it was possible to take sharp pictures in a dim room without fear of “pulling up” the ISO.
On the street
A typical amateur photographer most often just walks down the street with a camera and takes pictures of what he sees. In this mode, the most important thing is fast autofocus and a certain balance between the automatics of the camera and the skills of the photographer. That is, the camera should optimally complement the photographer. Not many people want to spend time adjusting shutter speed or ISO on the street, so it would be nice if the camera itself selects the most suitable values.
And if the focus of the X-E1 is not going smoothly, there are no problems with the rest. In the camera settings, you can set automatic ISO detection, and set the upper value (as in other Fujifilm cameras). Most often, I set the upper limit to 1600, sometimes 3200. In general, the X-E1 is not afraid to “raise” the ISO and quite often chooses a value close to the maximum. But at first I was afraid of this - I thought that such pictures would have to be sent immediately to the trash. However, in this sense, the camera has exceeded expectations.
 ISO 3200; 18 mm; f/2.8; 1/20 c |
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The same view, but with full zoom:
ISO 1250; 55 mm; f/4; 1/30 c
And here's another one good example to check sharpness - and just at a high ISO value. The cars on the street were dressed in knitted "clothes":
ISO 2500; 18 mm; f/2.8; 1/30 c
On the crop, you can clearly see that even despite the high ISO, the knitted texture is clearly visible:
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 ISO 1000; 18 mm; f/2.8; 1/30 c |
 ISO 2500; 34.3 mm; f/3.6; 1/30 c |
portraits
Of course, prime lenses with f-stops of 1.4 or 1.8 are best suited for portraits. They are loved for their small depth of field (depth of field of the depicted space), which makes it easy to separate the main object (person) from the background. However, the 18-55mm lens can take good portrait shots.
As I said, the RAW file format saved by the Fujifilm X-E1 is 12-bit. The same Nikon D7000 (which, by the way, is cheaper) has a bit depth of 14 bits - that is, the dynamic range is higher. However, the X-E1 can do soft skin tones too:
ISO 1250; 40.7 mm; f/4; 1/30 c
It is possible to take pictures with a small depth of field - you just need to place the subject closer to the camera. As a result, the background is drawn with the bokeh effect so beloved by photographers:
ISO 2000; 48.4 mm; f/4; 1/30 c
Of course, it is more difficult to photograph people in poor lighting conditions. They are constantly moving and even if you ask them not to move, few succeed. You have to “bully” the ISO as much as possible, although this does not save you from low shutter speeds and the “stirring” effect, as a result:
ISO 3200; 18 mm; f/2.8; 1/17 c
However, this shot shows that even at ISO 3200, the X-E1 can produce a tolerable picture and, with proper processing, something good can come out of this shot. The only question is where this picture should then be used.
Macro
Macro shooting and telephoto - this is probably the only thing in which "soap dishes" are functionally leading. No expensive lenses, macro rings and other accessories - just a camera and a standard fixed lens. In “serious” cameras, on the other hand, every lens that says “macro” can focus on dust that has fallen on the front lens.
So here - in the macro mode, it will not work to shoot the retina of the grasshopper's eyes. Is that a close-up of coins.
ISO 3200; 18 mm; f/2.8; 1/30 c
Video
Like its predecessor, the X-Pro1, the X-E1 captures video no matter what. Firstly, even though the resolution is Full HD, the frame rate of 24 frames per second is still too small for amateur video. And secondly, the effect of blurring moving objects has not gone away - if, for example, you go by car or train and shoot poles passing through the window - they will turn out to be inclined. The faster the car moves, the greater the slope. Already at a speed of about 60 km / h, the slope reaches almost 45 degrees. Such a discrepancy turns out: you can shoot a video, but moving objects are undesirable.
Battery
Of course, where mirrorless cameras will probably always lag behind DSLRs - in battery life. The manufacturer claims that a fully charged X-E1 can take about 350 frames and this number is close to the truth. Although my camera took more pictures. But in general, for some reason, my cameras hold a charge longer than other journalists. Perhaps just because I rarely use flash. In any case, the camera will definitely be enough for one shooting day. It may be that it will be enough for the second one, but it is better not to risk it - there is nothing worse than a camera that is discharged at the most interesting moment.
By the way, shooting a video also drains the battery a lot. Even if the indicator shows two of the three "sticks", you should turn on the video - in a couple of minutes you will get a red flashing empty indicator.
Total
The word "professional" in relation to photography in press releases should be divided into two. I'm not sure that it is the respectable guys who earn photography not only for bread, but also for the Maldives, who bought themselves optics for several million, who will suddenly become interested in the Fujifilm X-E1 mirrorless camera. And for a compact “always with you” camera, it is not so compact, the same Fujifilm X100 is preferable (and for some, including the author of the review, the “soapy” X10 / X20 is enough). On the other hand, the X-E1 may be of interest to advanced amateurs - this camera really provides a very good quality at not the highest price.
Surely tomatoes will fly at me, but I would even say that mirrorless cameras from Fujifilm are the best in terms of the quality of matrices, optics and, as a result, finished shots. It is among the mirrorless ones. And in this sense, the X-E1 is the next link in the evolution, after the X-Pro1. The only pity is that the camera has not learned how to shoot video at an acceptable level (Sony and Panasonic mirrorless cameras are out of competition here) and autofocus speed still leaves much to be desired. Who knows, maybe the next step in the evolution of Fujifilm mirrorless cameras will get rid of these problems too?
Note that because of the similarities between the X-E1 and X-Pro 1 in many of its key systems and specifications, some of the material in this review is adapted from previously-published content on the X-Pro 1.
When Fujifilm launched the X system in January 2012, it did so with an unusually high-end body: the X-Pro1 . With its unique hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder, solid metal body and analogue dial-led control philosophy, it was clearly targeted at professionals and enthusiasts looking for an updated take on the classic rangefinder concept. The X-Pro1 was generally well-received, but its price was always likely to limit its appeal. Fujifilm's X-E1 aims to broaden the line's appeal to a wider range of enthusiasts, and will compete directly with the likes of the Sony Alpha NEX-7 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 .
Fujifilm X-E1 key features
- 16MP X-Trans CMOS sensor
- ISO 200-6400, 100 - 25600 expanded (JPEG only)
- 2.36M dot OLED electronic viewfinder
- New kit zoom: 18-55mm F2.8-4R
- Same control layout as X-Pro1, including top-plate shutter speed and exposure compensation dials
- 2.8" 460k-dot LCD
- Built-in pop-up flash
- Full HD movie recording with built-in stereo microphone
- 2.5mm stereo microphone socket
- Compatibility with wired remote control units ( via either the USB port or mic socket)
- Available in silver or black
The X-E1 is in essence a slimmed-down X-Pro1, with the large, complex and expensive hybrid finder replaced by a purely-electronic viewfinder. Not any old EVF though - it uses a 2.36M dot OLED unit, out-speccing the X-Pro1"s 1.44M dot LCD finder. In return its rear screen is slightly downgraded in terms of both size and resolution, to a still- respectable 2.8" 460k dot LCD - according to Fujifilm this is necessary to keep the camera"s size down. The result is a compact body that"s broadly similar in size to both the much-loved FinePix X100 , and its most obvious competitors like the E-M5 and NEX-7.
X-E1 - the more affordable X-Pro1
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| The X-E1 joins a developing family of unique cameras that truly stand apart from the pack. The major omission from the X-E1 is the hybrid optical viewfinder found in the X100 and X-Pro 1. Left to right are the Fujifilm X100, X-E1 and X-Pro1. |
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The X-E1 gets a few new features relative to the X-Pro1, commensurate with its class. There"s a little built-in pop-up flash, a 2.5mm stereo microphone socket for movie recording, and the ability to use an electronic shutter release cable in addition to the signature threaded shutter release button. But otherwise it"s nearly identical to the X-Pro1, using the same 16MP X-Trans CMOS APS-C sensor and EXR Pro image processor, and almost exactly the same control layout and interface.
Firmware tweaks - including improved focusing
It "s not just new hardware that Fujifilm has been working on; it"s made some significant tweaks under the hood that promise better performance. The good news for existing X-Pro1 owners is that they"ll benefit equally from this, with the co-announced firmware version 2 offering all the same updates. File write times have been halved, and the camera can now enter playback to check focus and composition within about two seconds of shooting a single frame. Auto ISO now allows use of ISO 6400, but sadly there's still no way of influencing the minimum shutter speed. The most significant changes, though, have been made to focusing, both auto and manual.
The Fujifilm X-E1 uses a new autofocus algorithm and different sensor drive mode, which promises significantly-improved speed, especially with the XF 60mm F2.4 R Macro lens or when shooting in low light. Indeed Fujifilm claims the X-E1 and X-Pro1 now offer AF speeds competitive with benchmark cameras such as the Olympus OM-D E-M5. The "feel" of the electronically-driven manual focus has been improved, and critically the camera now sets the aperture wide open in manual focus mode, finally allowing truly accurate focusing using the EVF. There's also a new 3x magnification mode to assist manual focus, which should be less prone to problems with shake when using long lenses.
Overall, this makes the X-E1 on paper a very strong competitor to other high-end EVF-equipped mirrorless models. Its traditional control layout means it should appeal strongly to stills photographers, although its movie capabilities still lag behind the competition ( you can manually set the aperture, but have no control over the shutter speed the camera will use).
Size and design compared
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| Here"s the X-E1 compared for size against its most obvious rivals, the Sony Alpha NEX-7 on the left and Olympus OM-D E-M5 on the right, all fitted out with their respective kit zooms. All feature built- The E-M5 also has in-body image stabilization that works with all lenses, but on the other hand lacks a built-in flash. The X-E1"s "kit" zoom offers the same 18-55mm (~28-80mm equivalent) range as the NEX-7"s, but a rather faster aperture, which should be good for both low-light shooting and providing a degree of background blur for portraits. The E-M5"s 12-50mm F3.5-6.3 zoom kit offers a wider range, a choice of manual zoom or power zoom for video, and a useful macro setting, but at the expense of maximum aperture. |
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| This is the X-E1 with its 18-55mm kit zoom, alongside its big brother the X-Pro1 equipped with the lovely XF 35mm F1.4 R lens. The X-E1 is substantially smaller due to the elimination of the optical viewfinder, but the two cameras" overall family resemblance is striking. |
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Advantages: - Workmanship (really nice to hold in your hands) - Compact. I began to constantly take a photo with me. - Made in Japan. - Ergonomics, number of control buttons - I really liked the feature - external shutter speed adjustment, convenient. - Lack of modes (little man, clearing, night shooting, etc.) For me, this is a plus, because I never needed these modes. - ISO They are really great after Canon 50d, 3200 can be easily shot, 6400 is also adequate. - The built-in flash pleased me, I thought the slag was full, but it turned out that it can be used. It hits well at 3-4 meters. - EVI This is a plus for me. - Any adapters to install manual optics. I installed Canon FD 1.4, I'm happy. - - Disadvantages: - The price is too high. What's on the camera, what's on the accessories. - Lack of a rotary screen - EVI slowness (sane, then got used to it) - Very weak buffer. I had to turn off photo viewing and buy a card quickly. You need to take ultra fast. Yes, and I take pictures with a pause, so as not to clog. It really takes a long time to process information ... - So far, there are not so many lenses and accessories. I'm waiting for adapters with AF (Like Sony's. In my opinion it's very cool) - There is no budget line of lenses ... Comment: XE-2 is out. Didn't hold it in my hands. According to the reviews and reviews, I can say the following - Yes, the buffer is of course much faster, the display resolution was increased (although it didn’t bother me at all on the XE-1), autofocus is even faster (for a fraction of a second), the processor is smart new, but not really, so that I run to change the camera to a newer one. Moreover, the folding screen did not appear and outwardly the f / a did not change (although this may be +) ... I'll wait for the XE-3 ... - About the folding screen. I was always an opponent of him, but then I encountered the fact that when I photographed some moments, I realized that he was very needed ... He would be very helpful in some situations ... - The battery is quietly enough for a 3-hour photo session. But despite this, I ordered a couple more.
Mirrorless cameras have been trying for a long time to win their niche among the top-level compacts supporting on the one hand, and on the other - SLR cameras of the initial and medium segments. Customers look with disbelief at seemingly toy cameras interchangeable optics, more like soap dishes. Manufacturers at the same time promise quality no worse than in the usual DSLRs. Progress in photographic technology has come to the point that the smallest and most budget mirrorless camera for $600 can put a professional camera for $5000 5 years ago on both blades in terms of image detail and noise on high values ISO. Since it is quite difficult for an ordinary buyer to believe in this, manufacturers have to use all their imagination to serve their product on the most beautiful platter with a gold border, and even with a gift bow on top, thus seducing the consumer into a risky step for him.
Fujifilm has been an innovator in the production of photographic equipment since ancient times. Announced in January 2012, the X Mirrorless System and the X-Pro1 professional camera are proof of that. Could the company follow the proven path of others and release typical mid-range and entry-level models with sensors like everyone else? Could. But she didn't do it. The first and only camera at that time received a sky-high price tag for many of $ 1400 for a bodysuit. Just a couple of lenses available at that time were also extremely expensive. But the engineers gave it their all. The X-Pro1 featured a unique sensor, hybrid viewfinder, magnesium body and a reimagined set of buttons and dials. At the same time, X-Pro1 had a number of shortcomings, some of which were solved by the release of new firmware.
Fujifilm X-E1 is a more affordable model in the X line, the price tag has dropped to $999 per body. The engineers took into account the feedback from real users of the X-Pro1 and carried out significant work on the bugs. As a result, the X-E1 turned out to be a somewhat simplified, but at the same time more mature product. What and how? Let's figure it out.
Fujifilm X-E1 video review:
What will please the outside?
I grew up in the photographic sense on the Zenith E/EM. The export version of the all-black Zenit-122 was the first camera I wanted to print my own photos in large format. Fujifilm X-E1 is a celebration of life for my eyes and hands. You can choose between black and silver-black options. I found that the opinion of the surrounding people who saw the X-E1 and held it in their hands was divided exactly 50/50 on color preference. Personally, I prefer all black. Genuine accessories add even more retrospective X-E1.
The front and top parts of the case are made of magnesium alloy, the upper control dials and keys are also made of metal. The back panel is plastic with a practical coating. This is a small step back compared to the top-end X-Pro1, but in the hands of the X-E1 everything is also felt monolithic. Yes, and the weight has decreased due to this, which is far from the last factor for a mirrorless camera. The biggest difference between the X-E1 and the X-Pro1 is the lack of an optical viewfinder. In a more affordable model, they decided to leave only a digital viewfinder with a resolution of 2.4 million dots. For some, this is a minus, but I know X-Pro1 owners who still use only the electronic viewfinder most of their time. Next to it is a diopter correction wheel and a proximity sensor.
The keys are large enough, have a clear and transparent stroke, however, like the disks. During testing, I can not remember their false positives and scrolling. The only exception is the slightly freely rotating exposure compensation dial. More than once it happened that I put a camera with zero correction in my bag, but took it out with the value “-1/+1”.
The person who picks up the X-E1 for the first time after using modern digital cameras, gets confused. Where is the mode dial? How to enable shutter/aperture priority? Well, or at least the software mode at worst? Where is the choice of aperture? No, this is not done through the menu. The aperture is selected where the aperture itself is located - on the lens. Accordingly, the shutter speed priority is called in the same place - in position “A”. Aperture priority is activated by switching to position “A” on the shutter speed dial. For program mode, you need to combine two letters “A” - on the lens and the disk on top. As you understand, there are no “green” modes here. Only PASM, only hardcore! In fact, with a certain amount of skill, the X-E1 turns out to be more convenient to control than some professional DSLRs. Indeed, in most cameras, changing many parameters is carried out by pressing a certain key and then scrolling the disk (s). Immediately - an instant change in parameters, moreover, even in the off state. I was especially pleased with the dedicated exposure compensation wheel. 
With the “Q” button, a quick menu is called up for one-touch adjustment of the most requested menu settings. Hidden behind the Drive button are speed modes, bracketing options, and even video recording. There are many settings that can be assigned to the Fn function key located on top, but most likely it will be ISO. "AE" - select the method of metering exposure, "AF" - focus settings. It is to the latter that I have certain complaints. Either the habit developed over the years to select the focus point with the thumb using the joystick to the right of the display affects, or this is really a small blunder of Fujifilm engineers. When looking at the display, everything is fine, but with the viewfinder you have to stick your finger between your face and the camera if you need to quickly change the focus area without removing the camera from your eyes. Nothing critical, of course, but since you are going to hone the control mechanisms that have been proven over the years, let's do everything perfectly.
The characteristics of the display puzzled me a little. Now it is difficult to find a display with a diagonal of less than 3″ even in budget mirrorless cameras. There is also a 2.8-inch screen with a resolution of only 320x240 pixels. IN real life the lack of resolution or diagonal is practically not felt. The image does not change much when viewed from an angle, the color reproduction is more or less reliable. The display is protected from shock by a solid piece of plastic.
Under the cover on the left you will find a microphone input in addition to the usual HDMI and USB ports. For some reason, a separate compartment for a memory card did not fit on the right. The SD slot is crowded next to the battery.
The built-in flash is called manually using a button specially assigned to this role. In addition to the ability to illuminate the subject head-on, the flash has an undocumented function - turning to the ceiling for more artistic lighting.
What's under the hood?
At the heart of the Fujifilm X-E1 is a proprietary 16-megapixel APS-C sized X-Trans CMOS sensor. It is he who is the main reason to buy a Fujifilm mirrorless camera, and not any other manufacturer on the market. Why is he so different from others?
99% of modern matrices use the Bayer color filter layout - GRGB 2x2. Such a sensor is prone to displaying the moiré effect on a fine repeating texture. All manufacturers struggle with this by the same method - placing a low-pass filter (AA filter) in front of the matrix, which slightly blurs the final image. Fujifilm engineers took a different path. Instead of the GRGB 2x2 scheme, a 6x6 block is used with a pseudo-random placement of red, green and blue cells. Thus, the moire effect can be forgotten, however, as well as the AA filter that reduces detail. In terms of detail, the X-Trans sensor will give odds to any APS-C sensor on the market among SLR and mirrorless cameras.
The same applies to its effectiveness in terms of signal-to-noise ratio. In the ISO 200-6400 range, you don't have to worry about noise at all. Even at maximum settings, the picture remains clear of the most annoying color noise. At the first meeting, I can’t even believe that a camera with a cropped sensor can shoot so cool in the dark. By and large, in this parameter it is on par with previous generation full-frame cameras.
Another big plus Fujifilm X-E1 - competent JPEG settings. The programmers have set everything up in such a way that for each ISO value the most effective balance between detail and noise reduction is used. This is one of the few cameras with which I am ready to shoot in JPEG most of the scenes.
With RAW at first there were certain problems. Although RAW converters supported Fujifilm X-Pro1 / X-E1 files, they were not able to fully reveal their potential due to the signal recognition curve and, consequently, a certain amount of artifacts in the pictures. More recently, the fresh ones have learned how to fully work with X-E1 / X-Pro1 RAW files. So you don't need to worry about this anymore.
Most users are concerned about the X-E1's autofocus speed. Unfortunately, there is a problem, and it is quite significant. If we look at the market leaders in mirrorless cameras, then Fujifilm is somewhere in the rear. This is especially true for the first Fujifilm X system lenses released along with the X-Pro1 model. With the new glasses, the engineers came to their senses and made significant progress in the design of the lens system to make it easier for the motor to turn it. The only zoom lens 18-55mm F2.8-4 XF R LM OIS belongs to the latter. My personal recommendation is to buy the X-E1 with this lens, and then, if you wish, grow your fleet of high-aperture fixed optics.
Despite its retro look, the X-E1 can shoot at 6 frames per second. And the overall performance of the camera does not cause negative emotions. It turns on quickly, viewing and enlarging pictures does not slow down, moving through the menu does not lag.
The video capabilities of the Fujifilm X-E1 leave much to be desired. This is definitely not the strong point of this camera. The frame rate is limited to 24 fps when recording in Full HD without any manual settings. The quality of the video sequence is also not so hot.
Pictures Gallery:
(Click on the top right corner to view full screen)
Fujifilm X-E1 vs X-Pro1:
- Electronic viewfinder only vs hybrid optical + electronic viewfinder.
- Slightly smaller and lighter in weight.
- The Fujifilm X-E1 has a built-in flash.
- Connector for an external microphone on the X-E1.
- External light sync connector for X-Pro1.
- The X-Pro1 has a better and bigger display.
- Choice of 2 design colors (black + silver) against only one black.
What we liked:
- the most convenient access to managing all the necessary exposure parameters with one touch;
- great photo quality at all ISO sensitivities: impressive resolution with low noise levels;
- well-designed “Q” menu for quick access to all settings without going to the main menu;
- really attractive appearance, both in silver and black versions;
- the quality of the materials used and assembly;
- highly detailed electronic viewfinder;
- a large selection of film effects;
But what's wrong?
- slower autofocus compared to current competitive mirrorless cameras, especially lenses that have been produced since the launch of the X system;
- lack of customization of the auto ISO setting;
- average video quality, only 24 frames per second in 1080p;
What glass to take for Fujifilm X-E1?
At the time of writing the review, there were only 5 lenses in the Fujifilm X line. The company decided not to produce cheap lenses at all. Each lens is made from quality materials, the build is commendable, and the focus and aperture rings have a nice smooth ride. Before deciding to buy the camera itself, make sure you have enough money for at least some kind of lens. After all, there is simply nothing cheaper than $ 700.
The Fujifilm XF 14mm f/2.8 R is the widest lens available for Fujifilm mirrorless cameras. The fixed value of the focal length is equivalent to 21mm for a full frame. I would like the “fix” to be lighter, but for such a wide angle it is not so important. The price for the widest angle hurts - $ 890.
The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2.0 R is a moderate wide-angle lens with a 27mm equivalent focal length for FX cameras. Its aperture is exactly one exposure stop higher than the corresponding focal length in the Fujifilm XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 XF R LM OIS kit zoom. You will have to spend a lot of money, because such a glass costs a considerable $740.
Fujifilm XF 35mm f/1.4 R is the most fast lens in the Fujifilm X line. Translated into a 35mm equivalent, it turns out 52.5mm - the classic fifty-kopeck focal length. It is with this lens that it will be easiest to shoot everything in a row if you plan to buy only one “fix”. A maximum aperture of f/1.4 coupled with a low-noise sensor at high ISOs will allow you to shoot anything, anywhere and in any lighting conditions. The cost of such a lens is slightly lower than the previous two, but not by much - get ready to shell out $ 720.
The Fujifilm XF 60mm f/2.4 R Macro is the longest focal length Fujifilm X lens to date. Translated to a full frame, an almost classic portrait focal length of 90mm is obtained. It is with this lens that you can get the smallest depth of field, separate your model from the background as much as possible, strongly blur the background and get beautiful bokeh in the blur zone. In addition, the lens can also shoot macro in a ratio of 1: 2. The minimum focusing distance is 26.7 cm. The design uses a 9-blade diaphragm, each blade of which is rounded so that at any aperture value, the circles of confusion are very soft. For a portrait lens with macro capabilities, you will also have to pay a tidy sum of 800 US dollars.
The Fujifilm XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 XF R LM OIS is the only zoom lens in the lineup. Despite the standard 18-55mm focal length range for whale zooms, this lens has little in common with them. All this is due to twice the aperture ratio of the classic "whales". The quality of materials and workmanship, weight, sharpness at open apertures, focusing speed - everything corresponds to expensive professional zoom lenses. Optical stabilization allows you to compensate for 4 stops of exposure. The price for a whale zoom is the same as for professional lenses - about $ 870.
FUJINON LENS X lens release plan in 2013
In the current 2013, the company plans to release 5 more new lenses:
- 23mm f/1.4 - super-fast moderate wide-angle;
- 28mm f / 2.8 is almost a standard “fifty kopeck”, translated into a 35mm equivalent - 42mm. Given its relatively low aperture, there is hope that it will cost less than $400 or at least $500;
- The 56mm f/1.4 is a true fast “portrait lens” with an equivalent focal length of 84mm. “Must have” for lovers of beautiful bokeh. For shooting people, it will be much better than the current 60mm f / 2.4 Macro;
- The 10-24mm f/4 OIS is an ultra-wide-angle zoom with a constant f/4 aperture. An atypical feature is the presence of a stabilizer. It should be very expensive, but also give a very high-quality, detailed picture without any special defects;
- The 55-200mm f/3.5-4.8 OIS is the company's first tele-zoom with stabilizer and the classic 55-200mm range (82.5-300mm equivalent) for budget tele-zooms. True, considering pricing policy Fujifilm, it's unlikely to be cheap. But for extra money, it should give a fairly sharp picture at an open aperture with the most extreme value of the focal length in the direction of increase.
Alternative
Olympus OM-D E-M5
Perhaps the main rival of the Fujifilm X-E1 in terms of market positioning is Olympus's OM-D E-M5 mirrorless camera. This is facilitated by a retro design echoing the X-E1, a metal body with inserts, a high-quality electronic viewfinder and convenient mechanical controls. The E-M5 belongs to the Micro 4/3 family, which means it has a smaller sensor with crop 2 and the usual Bayer filter arrangement against crop 1.5 and X-Trans of the X-E1 sensor. But here autofocus is much faster, there is a swivel display and a case protected from water and dust. The camera costs $300 more than the X-E1 at the time of writing the review: ~$1300 without a lens. On the other hand, the range of optics for the Micro 4/3 system is the most extensive among all mirrorless systems, and Olympus/Panasonic have been selling lenses that Fujifilm has yet to release.
Sony NEX-6 looks like a modern camera, can not boast of the same materials of execution, but nevertheless it carries no less, and maybe even a little more features than the X-E1. Read more about the camera in our.
Summary
The Fujifilm X-E1 is by far the best mirrorless camera on the market in terms of photo quality in all conditions and formats (JPEG or RAW), the look, handling and quality of a standard 18-55mm zoom lens. If you are interested in shooting video, dynamic photography, a more confident grip, then you should look towards other options that are plentiful on the market.
The X-E1 is a wonderful and unique camera of its kind. It will be able to turn your idea of the quality of shooting with a compact camera, but it has certain drawbacks, which for some will be critical, for others - forgivable.
P.S. Soon we will definitely see the successor to the X-E2 or X-E1S with an X-Trans II sensor and phase detection autofocus sensors. So he should become the embodiment of all the dreams of every photographer.