Fuji XT1 Review (Fujifilm X-T1)

 

Fujifilm extends the X-System with the splash-proof X-T1 with extra large, fast and high-resolution viewfinder.

Until now, the design of Fujifilm’s X system cameras has been based on rangefinder cameras, but with the X-T1 this changes, and Fujifilm takes the SLR cameras of the 80s as a design model. As the first camera in the X system, the X-T1 offers a small handle and a viewfinder hump that is not so large for nothing: With a magnification of 0.77x, it is the largest electronic viewfinder ever to be found in a mirrorless system camera.

Short evaluation

Pros

• High-quality, sealed housing
• Many control elements can be freely configured
• Very good to excellent image quality (also with set lens)
• UHS-II compatible memory bus enables fast continuous operation
• Excellent, large electronic viewfinder

Cons

• No on-board flash (but mini flash included)
• No motif programs/automatic modes
• Fiddly fourweweights

 

The new Fujifilm X-T1 has a magnesium housing and 80 seals to protect it from environmental influences. [Photo: Fujifilm]

Until there are suitable splash-proof lenses for the Fujifilm X-T1, the XF 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 R OIS WR is supposed to make the start in June 2014, the XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 R OIS is the set lens of the XT-1, which you can also buy without a lens. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The X-Trans CMOS II sensor of the Fujifilm X-T1 is already known from the X-E2. The APS-C sensor has a resolution of around 16 megapixels and does not require a resolution-reducing low-pass filter thanks to its special color filter arrangement. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The Fujifilm X-T1 offers a 2.36 million pixel OLED viewfinder with 0.77x magnification and only 0.005 seconds delay – both are new records. The folding display has a resolution of around one million pixels. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The Fujifilm X-T1’s menu-guided operation is characterised by classic setting wheels for exposure time, exposure compensation and ISO sensitivity, as well as numerous other buttons and setting wheels. [Photo: Fujifilm]

Behind the side flap on the Fujifilm X-T1 are the connectors for USB, cable remote trigger, microphone and HDMI. The X-T1 also has an ISO-TTL system flash shoe and a flash sync socket. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The handle of the Fujifilm X-T1 is much easier to grip than on previous X system cameras. The memory card is also removed here. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The Fujifilm X-T1 can be extended with the battery handle VG-XT1. It offers the same splash water, dust and frost protection as the camera and accommodates a second battery that is drained first. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The battery handle of the Fujifilm X-T1 offers a portrait shutter release and other controls. Whether with or without portrait handle: The fade-ins in the viewfinder rotate with the orientation of the camera and can therefore always be perfectly read. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The functionless handle MHG-XT not only extends the handle of the Fujifilm X-T1, but also moves the tripod thread into the optical axis and gets access to the battery through a flap, without having to unscrew the handle. [Photo: Fujifilm]

With the X-T1, Fujifilm impressively continues its series of high-quality mirrorless system cameras. It fits between the X-E2 and X-Pro1, functionally and price-wise. The housing is made of a robust magnesium alloy and, thanks to 80 seals, is protected against environmental influences such as splash water and dust. Even frost down to -10 °C is no problem for the camera. Fujifilm not only relies on classic elements in design, but also in operation. On the top of the camera, for example, there are three control wheels for ISO sensitivity, exposure time and exposure correction milled from solid material. The aperture, however, is adjusted with the aperture ring on all lenses with an “R” in the abbreviation, and on the others with the control wheels of the camera, of which the camera again offers two, one at the front and one at the back. The setting wheels for ISO sensitivity and exposure time each have a locking knob that must be kept pressed when turning the wheel, which protects against accidental adjustment, and an automatic position so that the camera can also be operated as a fully automatic camera, but without subject programs. There is an adjustment lever under each of the ISO setting and exposure time wheels to adjust the shooting mode (bracketing, multiple exposure, continuous advance, panorama, and digital filters) and exposure metering method. In addition, there are six freely assignable Fn buttons and a focus mode selector switch, so that you rarely have to enter the camera menu.

In addition to the classic, button-heavy operation, the OLED viewfinder also catches the eye immediately. With a resolution of 2.36 million pixels, it not only has an extremely fine resolution, but with its 0.77x magnification it also offers an extremely large viewfinder image that can compete with full-frame SLR cameras. One looks at a real cinema screen, which, however, shades the corners when viewed through with glasses. Unrivalled is currently the viewfinder delay of only 0.005 seconds, so that one perceives this electronic viewfinder almost as a real-time finder. No other electronic viewfinder is currently nearly as fast, because the X-T1 should only have a tenth of the normal viewfinder delay. The refresh rate is around 54 frames per second – whether in bright or dark environments, the latter is also a significant improvement. The viewfinder image has three modes: First, a full-screen view, for which the entire display is used for the live image display and the viewfinder ads partially overlap, in the second possible view “Normal” the live image is somewhat smaller, but all viewfinder ads lie outside the live image, so that you can judge this undisturbed, eyeglass wearers now see at least in the live image no more shadows. Practically, in these two modes, the viewfinder superimpositions are rotated in portrait format so that they are easy to read. The third view “Dual” can only be activated with manual focusing. Here the live image is now slightly smaller on the left side, while on the right side the central area is displayed in a magnifying glass with a cross-sectional image simulation for simplified manual focusing. So you can see the magnification at the same time as the entire viewfinder image and don’t have to switch between magnifying glass and full screen view. In addition to the digital split image indicator, the X-T1 also offers focus peaking as a focusing aid.

The X-T1 also has a normal 7.6 cm screen with a resolution of 1.04 million pixels on the back, with a coating that is supposed to protect against scratches and reflections. The screen can be folded up and down for ground level or overhead shooting. Inside the X-T1 is the X-Trans CMOS II sensor, already known from the X-E2, with the 100,000 integrated phase measurement sensors, which accelerate the autofocus to a short 0.08 seconds. According to Fujifilm, this makes the X-T1 one of the fastest mirrorless system cameras. The sensor is distinguished by its special color filter arrangement, which comes closer to the natural film grain than the usual Bayer color filter matrix used in other cameras. This eliminates the need for a low-pass filter, resulting in a higher usable resolution. In addition, the sensor offers all color pixels in each row and column, which should also contribute to a higher image quality.

The EXR Processor II works with a very high clock frequency, which not only results in fast image processing and image optimization using Lens Modulation Optimizer to reduce lens errors such as edge and diffraction blur, but also results in short response times. Fujifilm specifies a switch-on time of 0.5 seconds, the shooting interval is also short, the shutter release delay should even be only 0.05 seconds. In continuous-advance mode, the X-T1 shoots 8 frames per second, while the tracking autofocus should be able to continuously track the sharpness despite the high frame rate. As the first digital camera, the X-T1 even supports the SDXC UHS II standard, which is intended to provide particularly short storage times, about twice as fast as UHS I.

Although the Fujifilm X-T1 doesn’t have a built-in flash, the camera comes with a small EX-X8 plug-in flash with a guide number of 8, which can either duck onto the flash shoe or be folded up to move away from the optical axis. The basic sensitivity of ISO 200 increases the flash speed to 11.3, but other Fujifilm system flash units can also be used, and it also has a flash sync socket. Other interesting functions include the interval timer, which allows recordings to be made at constant intervals over a longer period of time. For this, one should connect a power supply, which Fujifilm offers optionally for the X-T1. Full HD videos can also be recorded with the X-T1, for which it has its own video trigger. In addition, Fujifilm has also provided the X-T1 with a built-in WLAN module that allows the camera to be remotely controlled via an app, which is new to Fujifilm. The “Fujifilm Camera Remote” app allows the setting of numerous recording parameters, live image transmission and, of course, the transfer of entire photos from the memory card to the smartphone or tablet. The app is available for Android and iOS.

Matching the X-T1, there should also be new accessories, such as a leather case that allows direct access to the battery compartment, the memory card is removed from the side anyway. A functionless handle provides a better grip and moves the tripod thread into the optical axis, even with this handle the easy access to the battery compartment remains. Finally, Fujifilm also offers a real battery handle that offers a portrait format handle with shutter release and controls. Like the camera body, this handle is of course protected against splashing water and resistant to cold. It accommodates a second battery, which is drained by the camera first.

Fujifilm launched suitable splash-proof lenses on the market in the course of 2014. this was the universal zoom called XF 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 R OIS WR, which offers aperture ring, image stabilizer and splash protection. Later this year, the XF 16-55mm F2.8 R OIS WR and the XF 50-140mm F2.8 R OIS WR will follow, which also feature splash protection, aperture ring and image stabilizer. Until then, the X-T1 will be offered either as a housing or together with the XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 R OIS, a set with the 18-135mm will follow as soon as this lens is launched in summer.

So let´s say that Fujifilm is breaking new ground with the X-T1: The X-T1 is the first system camera from the traditional Japanese company whose design takes its cue from the look of a classic SLR camera. But a lot has also happened under the hood. According to Fujifilm, the X-T1 was the system camera with the fastest autofocus in its class at its launch at the end of January. And it is weatherproof, the manufacturer guarantees operation down to -10° C. What has remained is the traditional operating concept of the X series, which relies on a large number of dedicated knobs and rotating wheels, but does without a program selector wheel. The camera had to prove how well this idea works in several extensive practical applications. In the test laboratory, the question was raised as to whether Fujifilm’s special X-Trans sensor offers advantages over image converters with conventional Bayer patterns.

Ergonomics and workmanship

Small and light, but with all the advantages of a DSLR – these advantages should once make mirrorless system cameras attractive to the customer. But at Fujifilm there have always been other goals in the specifications, and the X-T1 is no exception. Ready for use with the Fujinon XF 18-55mm/2.8-4 OIS lens, it takes 750 grams on the dare – some DSLRs are hardly any heavier. This decent weight is due on the one hand to the rather large housing dimensions for a mirrorless system camera and on the other hand to the material: The housing of the X-T1 consists of a resistant magnesium-aluminium alloy and makes an extremely robust impression. You can feel it right away: this camera is tough! However, it is not obvious at first glance that the X-T1 is also “weatherproof”. Fujifilm doesn’t mention any details here, but at least announces that the X-T1 is protected against splash water and dust with more than 80 seals. In addition, it should be cold-resistant to -10° C – which unfortunately could not be checked during this year’s winter by me as I did the review during summer.

The handling qualities of the camera are in any case beyond any doubt – this also applies to the three generously dimensioned setting wheels on the top plate. One is used to select the ISO sensitivity, another to set the exposure time, and the third is used to adjust the exposure compensation. The wheels lock in place, the first two are also equipped with a lock. This effectively prevents inadvertent adjustment, but on the other hand makes it more difficult to operate the camera with one hand when the camera is lifted in front of the eye. But you don’t want to put the X-T1 away once you look through the electronic viewfinder. Hardly any other camera offers such a sumptuous viewfinder image, at most a DSLR bolide in the 5000 Euro class. The X-T1’s viewfinder image is so large and brilliant that you don’t seem to look at the action, but are drawn right into it. Even in critical situations, such as when the winter sun was low, there was hardly any desire for an optical viewfinder; the EVF of the X-T1 proved to be just bright enough. In addition, he reacts practically without delay to camera movements and is unaware of any streaks. Only in a very dark environment does the electronics attract attention through noise, but this is easy to get over. It’s also great that the EVF can rotate all displays by 90 degrees if desired, as soon as you take the X-T1 into portrait format. The highlight, however, is the possibility to share the viewfinder image.

Then, in addition to a reduced overall view of the subject, a freely selectable section appears enlarged – a clever idea that makes manual focusing much easier. You almost forget that the X-T1 also has a decent 3-inch display that can be folded horizontally upwards and downwards by 45 degrees.

 

The operating concept of the X-T1 remains entirely in the tradition of the X family: all important camera functions can be set with dedicated controls, a trip to the somewhat confusing main menu or the graphic, old-fashioned quick menu is so rarely necessary. Another trademark of the X family is that it does without a conventional program selector wheel. On the one hand this may only be consistent, but on the other hand it sometimes makes operation unnecessarily complicated. For example, to set the P (Program Auto) mode, both the aperture ring and the time dial must be set to the “A” position. In this case, two operating steps may be necessary, where one is sufficient with the conventional operating concept. It gets complicated when an XC lens is attached without an aperture ring. Then the program automatic can only be switched on via the rear control dial – if the corresponding function is enabled in the main menu.

If the X-T1 presents itself with its front and from above still from the noblest side, then its back looks ordinary. The switches are downright puny, and should gladly have a more defined pressure point. The four-way seesaw in particular is not much fun, it lies deep in a hollow and can hardly be felt blindly. After all, the X-T1 spoils the photographer with six buttons that can be freely configured – a bit of digital comfort is allowed. Although the X-T1 comes in the guise of a small DSLR, it is only moderately in the hand. For a firm hold, the narrow handle would have to be larger. After all, the X-T1 can be upgraded with the additional handle MHG-XT, which promises more grip. And for the first time for a camera from the X family, the X-T1 comes with a battery handle that holds two batteries and provides more comfort for portrait shots. One battery charge of the X-T1 is sufficient for approx. 350 shots (measured according to CIPA), which is not much. When the tripod plate is attached, the battery compartment is completely blocked, the tripod thread is located far away from the optical axis directly next to the battery door.

Equipment

Generally speaking, the X-T1 is equipped like the X-E2. Fujifilm has also added some new features to the X-T1. This includes the possibility of interval shooting: An interval can last between one second and 24 hours, the X-T1 takes a maximum of 999 photos with the automatic function. Another new feature is the ability to record white balance series. What has remained, however, is that only three shots per row are possible – this is a bit less for exposure series; especially since the X-T1 allows a maximum spread of 1 EV.

With the X-T1, Fujifilm also remains true to its decision not to equip the sophisticated cameras with motif programs or even various fully automatic modes. If you shoot with the X-T1, you should know the effects of f-number, exposure time and other parameters. For experienced photographers, this is certainly not a problem – but maybe you’ll hand the camera over to a less experienced family member. The X-T1 by no means does without digital assistants. It has an extremely practical panorama function on board, which records a widescreen image of the scenery with just one pan. Or a function to extend the dynamic range for high-contrast scenes. In addition, it offers a variety of effect programs, which distort a shot in the style of a pinhole camera up to the inevitable miniature effect.

Although the case of the X-T1 is by no means small, Fujifilm didn’t put an on-board flash in it anymore. For compensation, the camera comes with a miniature attachable flash, which is not very potent with a guide number of 8.7. After all, it towers up quite high ready for use and thus minimizes the danger of the flash light being shadowed by wide-reaching lenses. The shortest possible flash sync time is 1/180 second; the X-T1’s flash system does not have a special HSS mode. Otherwise it fulfils all wishes including the possibility of wireless control of remote flash units. In addition, the X-T1 is equipped with a PC synchronous socket, via which studio flash systems can be triggered.

The Fujifilm X-T1 was the first camera in the world to feature a UHS-II interface, which connects memory cards with a write speed of up to 312 MByte/s. The UHS-II interface is the first camera in the world to do so. The X-T1 thus supports SDHC and SDXC memory cards, which record up to 30 times faster than conventional class 10 cards. On paper, the long-lasting, high serial frame rate promises a fast continuous run when the camera’s buffer memory is full. At first the X-T1 was allowed to compete with a SDHC-II card “Exceria Pro, 16 GB” for the speed test, for which manufacturer Toshiba specifies a write rate of 240 Mbytes/s. Toshiba is the first manufacturer to offer this card. No matter if you record in Raw or JPEG, the X-T1 sprints with about 7.1 photos per second (fps). A considerable value, but our test model did not quite reach the 8 fps stated by Fujifilm. With JPEG recordings, the buffer memory is full after approx. 45 recordings, then the X-T1 goes into a very fast continuous run with 4.7 fps. When recorded in raw, she trots on at a more leisurely 2.8 fps in the endurance run. But what happens if the X-T1 has to store on a conventional SD Class 10 card? Especially with raw recordings the difference is striking: As soon as the buffer memory is full, the frame rate drops to a very comfortable 0.5 fps. With JPEG recordings, however, the X-T1 still records a fast 4.4 fps even with a slow map. The fast UHS-II card therefore offers advantages, especially when long series are to be recorded in raw format. But that’s not all: With the high-speed card, the X-T1 series virtually writes away “on the fly” and is then immediately ready for recording or playback. Many cameras block for a while until the photo series are written away, but the X-T1 is always wide awake.

The X-T1 records videos either in full HD (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) or HD (1,280 x 720 pixels). It allows a frame rate of 60 fps or 30 fps and is stored in MOV format with H.264 compression. The X-T1 is equipped with a stereo microphone, but also allows the connection of an external microphone via the 2.5mm jack socket. The sound can be controlled manually if desired. During video recording, the AF-C is somewhat hesitant to adjust the distance setting, but does not pump. In addition, the focus drive of the Fujinon XF 18-55mm/2.8-4 OIS lens is very quiet, with practically no background noise on the audio track. It is a pity, however, that the sharpness cannot be adjusted semi-automatically: In the AF-S focus mode, the distance to the value set at the beginning of video recording.

Compared to the X-E2, Fujifilm has significantly improved the WiFi functions of the X-T1. It can not only be triggered via smartphone or tablet, but with the corresponding app “Fujifilm Camera Remote” (for iOS, Windows Phone and Android) you can also control parameters such as ISO sensitivity, exposure correction or white balance from a distance. The X-T1 can’t come up with a GPS receiver, but it synchronizes the location data with a smartphone via “Fujifilm Camera Remote”. As usual with Fujifilm, the X-T1 also offers rich editing possibilities in playback mode. A feature that develops RAW shots directly in the camera into JPEG photos stands out.

Lens

When Fujifilm introduced the X-Pro1, the first camera in the X family, about two years ago, there were just three fixed focal length lenses for the system. In the meantime, the manufacturer has significantly expanded its range of lenses. However, lenses with weather protection especially for the X-T1 are still missing – but these will also be handed over in the coming months.

The camera with the Fujinon XF 18-55 mm/2.8-4 OIS as well as the XC 50-230 mm/4.5-6.7 OIS was presented for testing at digitalkamera.de. While the higher quality XF series has a ring for aperture control, the XC series does without it – with these lenses the thumbwheel of the camera takes over the corresponding function. This, however, makes the operating concept inconsistent, which in no way benefits ergonomics.

The processing and handling quality of the XF is on a high level, tube and bayonet are completely made of metal. The electronic focus ring of the 18-55 runs rich and soft, the electronic aperture ring also engages noticeably. The XC, on the other hand, doesn’t look that good haptically: it is made of plastic, the focus ring scrapes audibly when rotated. But the fact that the 50-230 is anything but a yoghurt pot makes it clear with its full weight of 375 grams. Fujifilm may have saved on the outer shell here, but by no means on the glass: the optics consist of 13 elements in ten groups, one aspherical lens each and one with a particularly low dispersion. The high construction effort also helps the budget zoom to a more than respectable imaging performance.

At the end of January 2015 Fujifilm complained about the fastest autofocus in its class for the X-T1 (another manufacturer now boasts even more impressive data). Special phase AF sensors on the image converter, which relieve the conventional contrast AF of the rough work and thus noticeably accelerate the entire system, should contribute to this. In fact, the AF proves to be pleasantly fast in practice, but in the test laboratory with DxO software, it achieves average values at best: paired with the Fujinon XF 18-55 mm/2.8-4 OIS, the X-T1 requires 0.41 seconds to focus and release at the wide-angle position of the zoom, at the long telephoto end the release delay including AF is even 0.5 seconds. In practical use, the tracking AF also made a somewhat sluggish impression, after all, all shots of a floating duck were sufficiently sharp even at the highest serial frame rate. Even with its hybrid AF, the X-T1 won’t be a proven sports and action camera, but the AF speed is sufficient for quick snapshots and reportage photos.

Image quality

The same image converter as in the X-E2, which was recently a guest in the test laboratory of digitalkamera.de, works under the DSLR garb of the X-T1. And since we also tested the X-T1 with the Fujinon XF 18-55 mm/2.8-4 OIS set lens, it’s hardly surprising that the lab results of the two sisters are very similar.

 

The sensor and image processor of the X-T1 play at the highest level. This is certainly also due to the fact that Fujifilm only expects the sensor in APS-C format to have a rather moderate resolution of 16 megapixels (which is sufficient for DIN A3 size prints at 300 dpi). For example, the X-T1 delights with a high signal-to-noise ratio that only falls below the critical 35 dB mark beyond ISO 3,200. ISO 3.200 is also the mark up to which luminance noise is practically invisible, and color noise is even under control up to ISO 25.600. If there is a bit more noise at higher ISO values, it is not disturbing at all, the grain always remains very small. Thus, with increasing ISO numbers, only the texture sharpness decreases, the images appear increasingly softer, but by no means noisy. With this tuning the X-T1 can be expected to ISO 6.400, in extreme cases even an ISO level higher.

A low pixel density on the sensor undoubtedly benefits the noise behaviour. But on the other hand, does this mean that we have to cut back on resolution? Fujifilm means “no” – after all, the image sensor of the X-T1 is also based on the in-house X-Trans technology. In contrast to sensors with conventional Bayer patterns, the color filter mask is arranged much more irregularly here. The X-Trans matrix improves the resolution of red and blue line pairs and does not require a low-pass filter to suppress moiré. But all theory is grey – what counts are hard measurement results. And the X-T1 does not disappoint here: in the team with the XF 18-55 mm/2.8-4 OIS it resolves almost 50 line pairs per millimetre (lp/mm) – a very good value. It’s especially pleasing that the resolution only decreases moderately towards the image edges – as a rule, set lenses show their weaknesses here. This also applies to the XC 50-230 mm/4.5-6.7 OIS, which only struggles with a pronounced drop in resolution at the long end of the telephoto. The X-T1 is also good in terms of chromatic aberration and distortion: Both color fringes and geometric errors are very small and play no role in practice.

However, the X-T1 must leave its mark on the input dynamics. It reaches 9.4 EV at best, so some other cameras can process a whole f-stop of stronger contrasts. The exposure control of the X-T1 tries to avoid eroding lights under all circumstances, therefore high-contrast subjects tend to turn dark. This makes it all the more annoying that the X-T1 lacks depth dynamics in particular: incoming shadows cannot be reconstructed as well in their RAW shots as with other cameras. With careful exposure metering (which is possible without any problems thanks to the live histogram), the X-T1 also delivers highly differentiated color and brightness values, which is reflected in images with remarkable fine dynamics. A finding that, by the way, is also supported by the test laboratory: The output tonal range at basic sensitivity of 200 ISO is at the level of the theoretical maximum of 8 bit/channel – not all cameras can do that! The only serious point of criticism is that the X-T1 doesn’t take the color rendering exactly as it should. But the bottom line is that the average color deviations of about 6 Δab are still fine. And that the X-T1 has a penchant for the typical Fujifilm colours from analogue times – who’s surprised?

Conclusion

With the X-T1, Fujifilm presents a mirrorless system camera that is ahead of the competition. For example, the formidable electronic viewfinder that pulls you straight into the action. Or the extremely fast data bus, which in conjunction with UHS-II cards enables very long series of images with almost no speed drop. The image quality of the X-T1 is also without fault and criticism, the moderate sensor resolution of 16 megapixels is by no means negative. The Fujinon XF 18-55 mm/2.8-4 OIS set lens proves to be the ideal partner for the camera, which can also call on its performance potential. It takes some getting used to, however, the camera’s operating concept, which does without a mode dial. In addition, the operating concept depends on the type of lens used (XF or XC) and therefore does not remain consistent. Also, the ergonomics of the not exactly small camera body could be better: The handle is extremely slim, the keys of the four-weigher are difficult to operate. The bottom line is that the X-T1 is a mirrorless system camera with praiseworthy unique selling points. However, the camera requires a profound photographic basic knowledge, for novices it is less suitable due to its renunciation of motif programs and fully automatic.

Firmware updates for the Fujifilm X-T1, X-T2, X-Pro2, X-A10 and EF-X500: Numerous new functions and bug fixes

Fujifilm is providing new firmware updates for the X-T1, X-T2, X-Pro2 and X-A10 mirrorless system cameras and the EF-X500 system flash. Especially the updates for the X-T2 and X-Pro2 bring numerous new features, while the firmware update 1.02 of the EF-X500 only affects certain serial numbers. Not only could there be a problem waking up from standby, but alkaline batteries could overheat so much that you could burn yourself. Before the flash can be updated, however, the camera must be updated so that the flash can be updated at all.

This new function for firmware updates of accessories in the flash shoe is also the only innovation of the firmware update 5.10 for the Fujifilm X-T1. The firmware update 2.00 for the X-A10 brings the same improvements as the firmware update 2.00 for the X-A3 (see further links). This includes a tripod mode for the SR auto mode, an improvement of the portrait enhancer and an improved autofocus performance.

The firmware updates 2.00 for the Fujifilm X-T2 and 3.00 for the X-Pro2 are much more extensive, so that Fujifilm even offers an extension of the user manual for download. The new firmware offers the following innovations (original text from the press release follows below):

 

The update 5.10 for the Fujifilm X-T1 only ensures that the flash EF-X500 can be updated via the camera.

1. RAW Shooting in Bracketing and Filtering: The update not only allows RAW shooting in AE bracketing, but also in other bracketing modes (ISO, Dynamic Range, White Balance, Movie Simulation) and in Advanced Filter Mode.
2. Extension to ISO 125 and 160: With the update the ISO settings are extended by the values ISO 125 and ISO 160.
3. Programmable long time exposure up to 15 minutes: Long-term exposures in T mode are currently possible up to 30 seconds. The update extends this to up to 15 minutes.
4. On/Off in 1/3 steps at shutter speed setting (X-T2 only – available in X-Pro2): The update allows the shutter speed setting to be deactivated in 1/3 steps via the rear dial to prevent unintentional settings.
5. Complete ISO settings via mode dial (X-T2 only): The complete ISO values (including advanced ISO settings) can be set via mode dial.
6. “AUTO” setting for minimum shutter speed in “ISO AUTO Setting”: With the update, the minimum shutter speed in “ISO AUTO Setting” can now also be set to “AUTO”.
7. Faster “Face Recognition Auto Focus”: Face recognition is accelerated by using phase auto focus.
8. Improved focus point detection in AF-C mode: The update improves focus point detection in AF-C mode. This makes it easier to track objects.
9. Added smaller focus field size for single point autofocus: A smaller focus field size in single point autofocus is added, making a total of six sizes available. The new, smallest size enables precise focusing.
10. Autofocus Point Display (X-Pro2 only – present in X-T2): The update allows autofocus points to be constantly displayed in the zone autofocus and wide/tracking autofocus.
11. “AF-C Custom Settings” (X-Pro2 only – present in X-T2): The update makes “AF-C Custom Settings” available in AF-C Tracking. Five presets can be selected.
12. AF point and AF mode in portrait or landscape mode selectable (X-T2 only): AF point and AF mode can be selected separately for shooting in portrait or landscape mode.
13. Change of the focus point in combination with the focus magnifier: The position of the focus point can also be changed in combination with the focus magnifier.
14. Activation of the eye sensor during video recording (X-T2 only): The eye sensor now also works during video recording.
15. Change ISO sensitivity during video recording (X-T2 only): The ISO value can be changed during video recording.
16. Re-Autofocus in Video Mode (X-T2 only): Re-Autofocus can be selected using the shutter-release button or the FN (“AF-ON Function”) button.
17. Histogram display in video mode (X-T2 only): The update allows histogram display in video mode as well.
18. Microphone connector input sensitivity optimization (X-T2 only): The standard microphone connector input sensitivity is optimized to minimize overloading.
19. New Eye Sensor Mode “Eye Sensor + Playback LCD”: The new Eye Sensor Mode “Eye Sensor + Playback LCD” allows you to take the picture through the viewfinder and control the image on the LCD (like a DSLR).
20. Improved refresh rate in electronic viewfinder (X-Pro2 only – present in X-T2): The update improves the refresh rate in AF-C mode and minimizes the delay in the electronic viewfinder.
21. Eye sensor switching now also works when focusing (X-T2 only): The eye sensor now also switches when the shutter release button is pressed halfway.
22. Graphical user interface adapted for portrait format (X-T2 only): If the camera is used for portrait format recordings, the graphical user interface adapts automatically.
23. Designation of user-defined settings: The update allows a specific name to be assigned to the user-defined settings C1 to C7.
24. Copyright information for the EXIF data: The photographer’s name and copyrights can be entered so that the camera automatically adds this information to the EXIF data of the images.
25. Voice memo function: The update makes it possible to record 30-second voice memos in playback mode.
26. Extended Bracket: An extended bracket from currently 3 shots +/-2EV to up to 9 shots +/-3EV is possible with this update.
27. Recording without memory card (On/Off): With the update it is possible to switch the mode “Recording without memory card” on or off.