Fujifilm X-T1

amazon Fujifilm X-T1 reviews

Fujifilm’s new camera model changes dramatically in appearance. Although the nostalgic style has long been loyal but on the X-T1 in the direction of the SLR line with high-definition viewfinder. It has the same X-E body as the X-T1 rugged, with a firmer hand than the high-end magnesium frame. This feature also makes it more resistant to weather conditions.

Besides the viewfinder, the steering wheel system also helps the X-T1 to stand out. The product is geared towards users who want to adjust their hands with a variety of controllable settings such as ISO, shutter speed, EV compensation, capture mode, focus mode, and aperture adjustment on the lens. For a nice photo, almost the photographer does not need to take his eyes off the viewfinder, but it is easy to change the parameters. However, with novice users, automatic mode will be more convenient in many cases.

X-T1 owns the second generation X-Trans CMOS sensor with 16.3 million pixels resolution. The phase-to-phase and right-focusing systems help the device focus in 0.08 seconds, while the shutter speed and lag are only 0.05 seconds.

The X-T1 is also an OLED electronic viewfinder. This viewfinder has a magnification of 0.77x, which is much higher than the current viewfinder of 0.72. Combined with a 3-inch LCD screen with flexible flip-flops, Fujifilm’s new mirrored camera viewer has been greatly improved. Also under the viewfinder equipped with sensors will automatically turn off EVF without looking at and turn on the LCD to help significantly save battery life.

The front of the Fujifilm X-T1 impresses with the protruding viewfinder similar to the Sony Alpha A7 / R.

The screen can change the viewing angle quite useful and will turn off when the eye in the viewfinder to save battery life.

Monitors and EVF display excellence with the ability to convert very quickly.

The EVF focal length adjustment ring is located on the viewfinder for people with refractive eye disease who may use the X-T1 without wearing glasses.

The connection ports are covered by the lid on the left side.

The SDHC UHS II memory card must be installed at a read / write speed of 240 MB / s.

The X-T1 manual focusing ring system is highly rated. Professional users almost do not need installation operation in the menu. 35mm f / 1.4 Fujinon lens with adjustable ring on tube body.

There are two-stage revolvers that allow you to select the shooting mode and select the focus mode.

The X-T1 supports wireless streaming over Wi-Fi with dedicated keys and a movie capture button right next to the capture key.

X-T1 uses 16.3-megapixel CMOS sensor X-Trans II.

where can you get a Fujifilm X-T1 online

Fujifilm X-T1 16 MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD and XF18-55mm F2.8-4.0 R LM OIS Lens (Old Model): Buy it now

Fujifilm X-T1 16 MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only) (Certified Refurbished): Buy it now

Fujifilm X-T1 16 MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD and XF 18-55mm F2.8-4.0 Lens (Certified Refurbished): Buy it now

Fujifilm X-T1 16 MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only) (Graphite Silver & Weather Resistant): Buy it now

Viewfinder and LCD

One of the standout features of the Fujifilm X-T1 is its electronic viewfinder (EVF). The 2.36-million-dot OLED viewfinder offers a large 0.77x magnification, providing a bright, clear, and immersive viewing experience. The EVF boasts a lag time of just 0.005 seconds, which is virtually imperceptible and ensures that you can capture fast-moving subjects with ease. The real-time exposure preview and focus peaking features further enhance the shooting experience, allowing photographers to see exactly what their final image will look like.

The X-T1 also features a 3-inch tilting LCD with a resolution of 1.04 million dots. The tilting mechanism is particularly useful for shooting at awkward angles or for low-level shots. The screen’s high resolution ensures that images and menus are displayed with excellent clarity and detail. The LCD is also bright enough to be used comfortably in various lighting conditions, although it is not a touchscreen, which might be a downside for some users.

Sensor and Image Quality

At the heart of the Fujifilm X-T1 lies a 16.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor. This sensor, coupled with the EXR Processor II, delivers outstanding image quality. Fujifilm’s unique X-Trans sensor design eschews the traditional Bayer array in favor of a more randomized pattern, which helps reduce moiré and false colors without the need for an optical low-pass filter. This results in incredibly sharp and detailed images with excellent color reproduction.

The camera’s ISO range of 200-6400 (expandable to 100-51200) provides flexibility in various lighting conditions. The X-T1 performs admirably in low-light situations, producing clean and noise-free images even at higher ISO settings. The dynamic range is also impressive, capturing a wide range of tones from deep shadows to bright highlights.

Autofocus Performance

The Fujifilm X-T1 features a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase detection and contrast detection, providing fast and accurate focusing. With 49 autofocus points (including 9 phase-detection points in the center), the X-T1 excels in a variety of shooting scenarios, from portrait photography to action shots. The camera’s continuous autofocus and tracking capabilities are particularly noteworthy, allowing you to capture moving subjects with precision.

The autofocus speed is further enhanced by the X-T1’s ability to shoot at 8 frames per second (fps) with continuous AF. This makes it a suitable choice for sports and wildlife photography, where capturing decisive moments is crucial. The camera also offers a range of focus modes, including Single Point, Zone, and Wide/Tracking, allowing photographers to tailor the autofocus performance to their specific needs.

Image Stabilization

While the Fujifilm X-T1 does not feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), it relies on lens-based stabilization (OIS) for minimizing camera shake. Many of Fujifilm’s XF lenses come equipped with OIS, which effectively compensates for hand movements and allows for sharper images at slower shutter speeds. The combination of a stabilized lens and the X-T1’s robust build quality ensures that you can achieve steady shots, even in challenging conditions.

Video Capabilities

Although the Fujifilm X-T1 is primarily designed as a stills camera, it does offer respectable video capabilities. The camera can record Full HD 1080p video at frame rates of 60fps, 50fps, 30fps, 25fps, and 24fps. The video quality is good, with sharp details and accurate colors, making it suitable for casual videography and multimedia projects.

However, there are some limitations to the X-T1’s video features. The camera lacks 4K recording, which has become a standard feature in many modern cameras. Additionally, the video autofocus can be slow and occasionally hunts for focus, which may be a drawback for those who require reliable continuous autofocus during video recording. Despite these limitations, the X-T1’s video performance is adequate for most users who prioritize still photography but still want occasional video capabilities.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The Fujifilm X-T1 comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easy image transfer and remote control via the Fujifilm Camera Remote app. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and provides a range of remote shooting options, including adjusting settings and triggering the shutter. This feature is particularly useful for group shots, self-portraits, and shooting from difficult angles.

In terms of battery life, the X-T1 uses the NP-W126 rechargeable battery, which provides approximately 350 shots per charge. While this is decent for a mirrorless camera, it is always advisable to carry a spare battery for extended shooting sessions, especially when using power-hungry features like the EVF or Wi-Fi.

Lenses and Accessories

The Fujifilm X-T1 is part of Fujifilm’s X-mount system, which offers a wide range of high-quality lenses. From fast primes to versatile zooms, there is a lens to suit every photographic need. Fujifilm’s XF lenses are renowned for their optical excellence, build quality, and compact size, making them a perfect match for the X-T1.

In addition to lenses, there are various accessories available for the X-T1, including battery grips, external flashes, and remote releases. The VG-XT1 vertical battery grip, for example, provides extended battery life and improved ergonomics for portrait shooting. The EF-X500 flash offers powerful lighting options and supports high-speed sync for creative lighting setups.

Firmware Updates and Support

Fujifilm is well-known for its commitment to improving and supporting its cameras through regular firmware updates. The X-T1 has benefited from several significant updates since its release, enhancing its performance and adding new features. These updates have addressed user feedback and ensured that the camera remains competitive and relevant even years after its initial launch.

Fujifilm’s support and customer service are also highly regarded. The company has a strong reputation for listening to its users and providing timely assistance, making it a reliable choice for photographers seeking long-term support and satisfaction.

Image Quality Comparison

When comparing the Fujifilm X-T1’s image quality to other cameras in its class, it stands out for its excellent color reproduction and sharpness. The X-Trans sensor’s unique design contributes to its ability to render fine details and textures with minimal moiré or false colors. Skin tones are particularly pleasing, with natural and accurate rendering that makes the X-T1 a popular choice for portrait photographers.

In terms of dynamic range, the X-T1 performs admirably, capturing a wide range of tones and preserving details in both shadows and highlights. The camera’s RAW files offer plenty of latitude for post-processing, allowing photographers to recover details and adjust exposure to their liking.

Low-Light Performance

The Fujifilm X-T1 excels in low-light conditions, thanks to its high ISO performance and advanced noise reduction algorithms. Images shot at ISO 6400 are remarkably clean, with minimal noise and excellent detail retention. Even at the highest expanded ISO settings, the X-T1 produces usable images that can be further refined in post-processing.

The camera’s fast prime lenses, such as the XF 35mm f/1.4 and XF 56mm f/1.2, further enhance its low-light capabilities by allowing for shallow depth of field and faster shutter speeds. These lenses, combined with the X-T1’s high ISO performance, make it a formidable tool for low-light and night photography.

Handling and User Experience

The Fujifilm X-T1 offers an enjoyable and engaging user experience, thanks to its intuitive controls and customizable settings. The physical dials and buttons provide direct access to essential functions, allowing photographers to make adjustments quickly and efficiently. The customizable Q menu further enhances usability by providing quick access to frequently used settings.

The camera’s build quality and ergonomics contribute to a positive handling experience. The robust magnesium alloy body and weather sealing instill confidence, while the pronounced grip ensures a secure hold. The X-T1 feels solid and well-balanced in hand, making it a pleasure to use for extended shooting sessions.

Comparison to Successors

Since the release of the Fujifilm X-T1, Fujifilm has introduced several successors, including the X-T2, X-T3, and X-T4. Each iteration has brought improvements in various aspects such as resolution, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and in-body image stabilization (IBIS).

The Fujifilm X-T2, launched in 2016, brought a higher-resolution 24.3-megapixel sensor, improved autofocus with more focus points, and enhanced video capabilities with 4K recording. The X-T3, released in 2018, further upped the ante with a 26.1-megapixel sensor, faster and more accurate autofocus, and even better video features including 4K at 60fps. The X-T4, introduced in 2020, added IBIS, making it the most versatile camera in the X-T series, particularly for videographers and those requiring better handheld stability.

Despite these advancements, the X-T1 remains a highly capable and beloved camera. Its image quality, handling, and design have stood the test of time, and it continues to be a great option for photographers who appreciate its unique blend of features and aesthetics.

Price and Value

When it was first released, the Fujifilm X-T1 was positioned as a high-end mirrorless camera with a price to match. Over time, as newer models have been introduced, the price of the X-T1 has decreased, making it a more accessible option for photographers on a budget. As of now, the X-T1 represents excellent value for money, offering a robust feature set and high-quality performance at a fraction of the cost of newer models.

For those who prioritize a tactile shooting experience, superb image quality, and a reliable, weather-sealed body, the X-T1 remains a compelling choice. The availability of high-quality XF lenses further enhances its value proposition, making it a worthy investment for both amateur and professional photographers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Retro Design and Build Quality: The X-T1’s classic design and robust magnesium alloy body are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. Weather sealing adds to its ruggedness.
2. Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): The high-resolution, fast-refreshing EVF offers a large, clear, and immersive viewing experience.
3. Image Quality: The 16.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor delivers sharp, detailed images with excellent color reproduction and dynamic range.
4. Autofocus Performance: The hybrid autofocus system provides fast and accurate focusing, with impressive continuous AF capabilities.
5. Ergonomics and Handling: The well-designed grip and intuitive control layout make the X-T1 comfortable and enjoyable to use.
6. Lens Ecosystem: Fujifilm’s XF lenses are renowned for their optical quality, build, and compact size.
7. Firmware Updates: Fujifilm’s commitment to regular firmware updates ensures the X-T1 remains competitive and improved over time.

Cons:

1. No In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): The lack of IBIS means the camera relies on lens-based stabilization, which may be a limitation for some users.
2. Video Capabilities: While adequate for casual use, the X-T1’s video features lag behind newer models, lacking 4K recording and advanced video autofocus.
3. Non-Touchscreen LCD: The absence of a touchscreen may be a drawback for users accustomed to touch controls.
4. Battery Life: While decent, the battery life could be better, necessitating the need for spare batteries during extended shoots.

Conclusion

The Fujifilm X-T1 is a remarkable mirrorless camera that has earned its place as a favorite among photographers. Its combination of retro design, robust build quality, outstanding image quality, and intuitive controls make it a joy to use. Despite being overshadowed by its successors in terms of specifications, the X-T1 continues to hold its own, offering a compelling blend of performance and value.

For photographers who appreciate a tactile, engaging shooting experience and prioritize image quality and handling, the Fujifilm X-T1 is a worthy choice. Its enduring appeal is a testament to Fujifilm’s dedication to producing cameras that not only perform exceptionally but also inspire creativity and passion in photography. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic amateur, the Fujifilm X-T1 is a camera that delivers both in the field and in the final image.