The fashion for digital technology is actively eradicating the last signs of analog devices. The trend did not start today, but there is no need to talk about the complete departure of classical solutions. Still, the love of a considerable part of consumers for mechanics does not disappear. This is especially true in the feature phone segment, where the combination of a traditional keypad with new features provides manufacturers with high demand. An equally interesting solution was prepared by the developers of the Fujifilm X100S camera, a review of which will help to find out its features, advantages and disadvantages.
General information about the model
Before the advent of digital cameras, there was a stereotype about the dependence of the size of the device and the quality of the resulting images. Later, this opinion changed and it became obvious that the sensor has a direct impact on the characteristics of photographs. Already in our time, only mirror models were supplied with such elements. Later, very worthy mirrorless cameras began to appear. In this context, the position that the Fujifilm X100S occupies in its segment is especially unusual. Technologically, this is more of a mirrorless device, but it is equipped with a largefixed lens and CMOS sensor. The result is a compact camera with a finely implemented and modern filling. External stylization of classic film cameras also adds charm to the model, for which it is appreciated by both amateurs and professionals. I must say that this concept with technical implementation is not the first time used by the manufacturer. For example, in 2012, the X100 model was released. The device in the first version was largely imperfect, which, however, did not prevent it from gaining quite a high popularity.
Specifications
The shooting possibilities of the camera are wide and, most importantly, they are supported by thoughtful optics. Other advantages of the Fujifilm X100S modification can be judged by its technical characteristics:
- Sensitivity - ISO 200 to 6400.
- Focus options - in normal mode, the range is from 50 cm to infinity, and in macro shooting from 10 cm to 2 m.
- Matrix - 16-megapixel with a standard size of 23, 4x15, 6 mm.
- Shutter speed range - 60 s, 1/4000.
- Display - 2.8" LCD.
- Screen resolution - 460 thousand dots.
- Viewfinder type - electro-optical (hybrid).
- Connectors - USB, HDMI, AV.
- Battery - Li-Ion with a capacity of 1,700 mAh.
- Measures 127mm wide, 74mm high and 54mm thick.
- Weight – 446 gr.
Body and design
At first glance at the camera, it becomes clear that the alliance of constructors and designersFujifilm did a great job. The choice of materials and assembly does not raise the slightest doubt about the quality of the device. By modern standards, the dimensions are large, but otherwise everything is impeccable - backlashes and areas with unpainted plastic are not even close. But the retro style is implemented in the best traditions of cameras of the last century. The top and bottom areas are made of aluminum, making the Fujifilm camera strong and durable. The central part of the body is girded with soft rubber, the texture resembling leather. It is especially pleasant that this solution has not only a decorative, but also a practical function - the coating provides a comfortable and secure grip. As for the lens, it moved to this model from its predecessor and is located in a central place on the front panel. The protrusion beyond the line of the body is a couple of centimeters - the aperture and focus adjustment rings are also taken out here. On the front panel there is also an autofocus illuminator with a viewfinder mode switch.
Screen and viewfinder
One of the main disappointments for the sophisticated amateur photographer can be the display of the model. Still, 460 thousand pixels with a diagonal of 2.8 - such indicators are considered an exception to the rule even in budget models of DSLRs. But this nuance does not cause serious difficulties in operation - all elements on the screen are clearly distinguished and located. The hybrid viewfinder deserves special attention. Since its introduction to the X100 line, there have been rumors that it won't work with some lenses, but that's not the case. X100S from the WCL series to convert focal length to 28mm equivalent. Transitions between the optical and electronic viewfinders are instantaneous. Switching can be performed both manually and automatically. The optical viewfinder mode provides for the output of graphic information. In the list of settings you can find focus points, horizon level, composition grid and distance scale. All metrics are updated automatically as the camera's operating parameters change. A fully electronic viewfinder mode is also provided, in which the image is transmitted directly from the sensor.
The functionality of the device
Due to the convenient setting of the focal length, the model can be considered as universal and does not require changing optics. The device has a fairly high aperture ratio of f / 2.0, which also increases the efficiency of shooting. There are also nice little things for fans of flash synchronization at ultra-short shutter speeds - this is provided by a central-type shutter. The lens itself has a neutral density filter, which allows you to capture rich landscapes even on a sunny day at an open aperture. In addition to conventional photography, the Fujifilm X100S is equipped with slide film simulation modes. Also included is support for recreating images like new films and filters for shooting with miniature effects. The panorama tools are also well-implemented - one touch of a finger allows you to get a 120 or 180-degree view with the device's wiring.in any direction. Available to the camera and the ability to shoot in RAW format, which in itself is a good start for professional photography. The developers have provided support for 14-bit RAW, which is reminiscent of the quality of images from expensive DSLRs like Nikon D4.
Additional options
In addition to the standard shooting settings, the user will be able to fine-tune the tone of light and shadows, sharpness, noise reduction level, and white balance to suit their needs. All of these indicators in this case are regulated beyond the capabilities of the dynamic range. Unfortunately, there is no built-in stabilizer in the model, but for a fixed focus fixed lens, this is not so scary. But there is a flash that improves the quality of shooting in low light. It is worth noting the video shooting capabilities of the Fujifilm X100S, which have progressed significantly compared to the predecessor of the device. Recording is done at a decent 60fps, stereo sound and progressive scan. A MOV container is also provided, but for some reason the creators abandoned this function far in the menu, and did not display it with a separate button. It can be seen that, in general, the developers did not put much emphasis on video shooting, although the quality of the resulting materials is very worthy.
Battery
The device comes with the same battery as the X100. This is, in principle, a familiar element of the NP-95 brand, providing 1,700 mAh. As noted in Fujifilm's instructions, a full charge should be enough for 330 photos. So highThe result was achieved through optimized power consumption, which allows the rational use of the battery's CIPA standard. True, in practice of using the device, the number of shots in the range of 290 - 310 is noted. The deviation is small, but that's not even the point. In fact, the charge is enough for one day of shooting, which is not always convenient. Unfortunately, this is a problem not only for Fujifilm, but also for most models, even from the middle level.
Shooting quality
In terms of photo quality, the model deserves the most generous and harmonious epithets. The colors are natural and saturated at the same time. Skin tones are also optimal: the cover shines, but does not break out into the light. Even in difficult conditions, automatic exposure works perfectly, and even premium DSLRs can envy autofocus speeds. In many ways, shooting provides such high results due to the refusal of the company from the Bayer grid. The creators, along with this, abandoned the low-pass filter and, accordingly, the moiré. For all the benefits of low-pass filters, they negatively affect sharpness. As the Fujifilm X100S tests show, the noise level is also within the acceptable range. Even at maximum ISO, the image looks very good.
Positive feedback about the camera
Owners, first of all, praise the excellent matrix, which minimizes the noise level. This allows not only to take high-quality pictures during the day, but also at night. There are many positive opinions aboutlens qualities. For example, its luminosity and clarity are noted. The developers have provided the ability to open the aperture to create portraits with blurry backgrounds. Although many digital cameras have similar capabilities, reviews of Fujifilm's development highlight several rare qualities. For example, the company allows shooting with stylization of an outdated branded film. The owner's arsenal includes a filter for dramatic landscapes with bright colors, options for soft portraiture, and other tools that allow you to return to retro-style photos with a digital device.
Negative reviews
Among the shortcomings of the model, the owners note the uneven operation of autofocus, the lack of a stabilizer and the high cost. The absence of interchangeable lenses is sometimes mentioned, but this is a fundamental decision for the Fujifilm X100S line of camera. Reviews also criticize the model for some gaps in ergonomics. For example, there are delays in menu transitions, implementation of settings and adjustments. The same is observed in the process of viewing the pictures taken. As a result, the overall shooting progress slows down.
How much?
For its characteristics, the model is not cheap, but the overpayment is offset by a number of noticeable advantages. First of all, this is an original performance. Of course, the manufacturer is by no means new to the use of retro style, but in this case, the symbiosis of several directions with the inclusion of a sensor and new digital technologies is interesting. But the mainthe advantages come down to the quality of Fujifilm X100S images. The price, as a result, averages 60-70 thousand rubles. Again, the nominal characteristics do not promise anything supernatural, but practice shows that it was the implementation of the technical stuffing that provided noticeable progress against the background of the base X100 model.
Model competitors
Similar features are offered by different manufacturers. For example, compacts with APS-C sensors in the spirit of Sigma DP1, as well as mirrorless devices from Sony and Samsung, can compete with this model. If we talk about comparison in terms of design features, then the retro style with a similar filling was also successfully combined by the Pentax brand in the fresh version of the MX-1 and the manufacturer Olympus, which released the OM-D E-M5 camera. If we talk about the quality of shooting, which the Fujifilm camera has, then the closest characteristics are noted in the CyberShot RX1 from Sony, which is also provided with a non-replaceable lens. Optics are also comparable in the two competitors, and the difference is expressed in the better screen of the RX1, its improved matrix and a full 35mm focal length. True, the cost of the proposal from Sony is much higher.
Conclusion
The model confirmed the prospects for the development of the concept proposed in the first version of the X100. Moreover, the novelty has demonstrated the results of successful work on the bugs. In particular, the Fujifilm X100S has significantly improved image quality, faster focusing speed, and its controls have becomemore responsive and comfortable. True, there is still work to be done. Users still expect a better display, as well as corrections of minor flaws in ergonomics. Otherwise, the device provides the best opportunities for modern shooting based on high-quality optics. At the same time, do not forget about the original form factor and stylized design. In this case, it is assumed not just an external design for a rare film camera, but also a full-fledged implementation of controls in the form of mechanical winglets on the body.
