Fujifilm X-Pro1 : First Impressions at the Singapore Launch

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Interchangeable lens camera system from FUJIFILM FUJIFILM X-Pro1
Featuring new X-Trans CMOS sensor(TM)
FUJIFILM original X-Mount and Hybrid Multi Viewfinder

[22 Feb 2012] FUJIFILM Corporation is proud to announce the official launch of FUJIFILM X-Pro1, an all-new interchangeable lens camera system in Singapore. The X-Pro1 features a 16 megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor(TM), a brand new X lens mount, Hybrid Multi Viewfinder and three prime lenses.

Pricing and availability
The recommended retail pricing for X-Pro1 is as followings:
Body: S$2400 (inclusive of 7% GST)
Basic lens: S$900 to S$1000 (inclusive of 7% GST)

The FUJIFILM X-Pro1 will be available in all major electronics retailers in Singapore in March 2012.



FUJIFILM X-Pro1 – The Main Features

1. Setting new standards in image resolution

- FUJIFILM has developed a new CMOS sensor called the X-Trans CMOSTM. The X-Trans CMOS(TM) sensor is capable of delivering resolution that is parallel, if not superior, to a full frame sensor.
- The new colour filter array paves the way for an ideal sensor that does not need an optical low-pass filter. While the optical low-pass filter is indispensable for the reduction of moiré and false colour generated by conventional sensors, it also degrades resolution. FUJIFILM has developed a new colour filter array that is inspired by the random arrangement of fine film grain, removing the need for an optical low-pass filter to solve moiré and false colour issues. In the array, RGB pixels are arranged in 6x6 pixel sets with high aperiodicity (randomness). Increasing the degree of randomness eliminates the fundamental cause of moiré and false colours – a problem that occurs in conventional arrays when shooting stripes and other repeating patterns. The presence of an R, G and B pixel in every vertical and horizontal pixel series minimises the generation of false colours and delivers higher colour reproduction.
- EXR Processor Pro : As a result of using a film-inspired array, a more powerful processor is required to process the image signal data. So FUJIFILM has created the EXR Processor Pro. This development will maximise the full potential of the X-Trans CMOS(TM) sensor and deliver high speed and high precision image processing.

 

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2. Prime FUJINON XF lenses deliver the highest image quality
- FUJINON lenses have long been associated with delivering high quality images, with optics used for both broadcast TV and medium format cameras. Now the expertise borne out of this enviable optical heritage has been put into lenses for the FUJIFILM X-Pro1.
- Three compact XF FUJINON fast aperture prime lenses will be available in March 2012. The “XF18mmF2 R”, “XF 35mmF1.4 R” and “XF60mmF2.4 R Macro” all offer precise control over depth-of-field and deliver excellent out-of-focus bokeh, thanks to the design of the molded aperture diaphragm blades. The blades are curved to create a circular image at all aperture settings, while the very edges of each blade are meticulously rounded off rather than simply cut off, which delivers a sharper image. In addition, the solid feel of the high-quality metal barrel and detailed exposure setting in 1/3 step increments using the aperture ring fuels your desire to capture more photos with every shot.



3. FUJIFILM original “X-Mount” maximises lens performance
- Specifically designed to maximise the mirrorless design of the body, the X-Mount has a short flange back distance of just 17.7mm. This means the rear lens elements are as close as possible to the sensor. The wide opening allows the lens to be mounted deeper within the body – up to 7.5mm (approx) from the mount surface – reducing the back focus distance of each lens to the minimum possible, thus achieving high resolution all the way to the edge of the image.



4. Hybrid Multi Viewfinder – seeing is believing
- FUJIFILM’s revolutionary Hybrid Viewfinder first appeared in the X100. With its ability to instantly switch between an Optical Viewfinder and Electronic Viewfinder, the Hybrid Viewfinder has added a new dimension to the pleasure of composing photographs. For viewing images in the brightest mode and to keep shutter lag to a minimum, users should choose the Optical Viewfinder. Those wanting focus confirmation, exposure information, white balance information and depth of field indicators should switch to the Electronic Viewfinder.
- The Electronic Viewfinder provides an excellent “Live View” of your composition. This fusion of technologies allows users to enjoy composing their images through a bright viewfinder, but has the option to overlay vital picture taking information should this be required.
- Changing between the two viewfinders is simple, thanks to the switch on the front of the X-Pro1 body. When attaching a FUJINON XF-series lens on the X-Pro1, both the viewfinder magnification and bright frame size automatically switch to support the lens focal length. Viewfinder magnification switches to 0.37x for the 18mm lens, and to 0.60x when the 35mm or 60mm lens is mounted, letting you compose your shot with the bright, crystal clarity of an optical image. The X-Pro1 also gives you the freedom to manually set a focal distance and switch between viewfinder magnifications.

 

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5. Cutting edge technology in a beautiful camera body
- The top and base are made from die-cast aluminium alloy which, combined with high quality touches like precise engraving on the top-plate and hand-enamelled lettering on the lenses, underlines the fact that the entire X-Pro1 system is built without compromise.
- This eye for detail extends to the shutter speed dial and exposure compensation control that is precision-milled from solid metal. Details like the shutter speed dial lock mechanism and the recessed exposure compensation dial are designed to prevent accidental movement of settings. The knurled finish on the sides of the dials feature rows of minutely milled squared pyramids for superior grip.
- Made in Japan, the X-Pro1 provides users the assurance that every part of the construction has met FUJIFILM’s highest standards.
- The lightweight, precision-milled lens hood (included with the lens) has been exclusively designed and machined from aluminium for the FUJINON XF lens. Its compact size delivers superb light shading performance in a design that perfectly matches the style of the X-Pro1.
- Diameters of the aperture and focus ring of the three FUJINON XF-series interchangeable lenses are only slightly larger than the barrel for sleek uniformity of design. Precision machined from metal, the reassuring click of the aperture ring at each setting and the comfortable torque resistance when operating the focus ring enhances the shooting experience.
- The X-Pro1’s leather-like finish is designed for a quality look and durability. The synthetic leather offers resistance to the elements and high durability, while an original manufacturing process produces a texture with the look and feel of authentic leather.
- The X-Pro1 has been designed with a photographer’s comfort in mind. The natural fit of the eyepiece provides excellent shielding from light leakage. A dipodic adjustment lens can also be attached.



6. Extending FUJIFILM’s photo film legacy
- In film cameras, multiple exposures is the unique photographic technique of superimposing one image on another by double exposing a single frame of film. Through advanced digital processing the X-Pro1 can simulate this technique - just select the Multiple Exposure mode and take your first shot. By viewing it in the Hybrid Multi Viewfinder or on the LCD screen, you can see how the finished multiple exposure will look and precisely frame the second shot.
- Further enhancements have been made to the Film Simulation modes with the new Professional Color Negative Film Modes (Pro Neg. Std and Pro Neg. Hi), designed for X-Pro1 users working in the studio. If you’d like to shoot the same scene in a variety of Film Simulation modes, the X-Pro1 offers Film Simulation bracketing, along with AE, Dynamic and ISO bracketing.
- With the Film Simulation mode, the X-Pro1 is also able to simulate the colours and tonal qualities of popular FUJIFILM emulsions. These include the vibrant colours of Velvia, the softer skin tones of ASTIA and the natural look of PROVIA.
- Enhance Monochrome Expression with Colour Filters – With the use of colour filters, the X-Pro1 is able to replicate the effects of monochrome film photography, expanding your photographic interpretation. Heighten contrast with the yellow and red filter or brighten greens and deepen reds with the green filter. Just as professional film photographers once selected a filter and printing paper to complement their creative vision, you can easily fine tune image quality with these filters. For those after a more nostalgic theme, there’s a sepia filter too.

 

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7. Premium Accessory Lineup
- Hand Grip, HG-XPro1 (sold separately) - Giving you more secure and balanced handling of the camera, the X-Pro1 accessory grip smoothly molds into the lines of the camera body for a uniform look. The grip helps balance the weight of the camera body, allowing for a more comfortable hold.
- Shoe Mount Flash EF-X20 (sold separately) - Designed to match X-Pro1’s distinctive styling. One dial lets you choose between two modes: AUTO - automatically optimises flash for both outdoor daylight and dark indoor shots; MANUAL - for hands-on control. In addition, the built-in flash diffuser has an easy one-touch operation to soften harsh flash effects.
- Leather Case LC-XPro1 (sold separately)* - Beautifully molded to protect the X-Pro1, the leather case is designed to allow fast access for easy shooting. Attention has been given to every detail, from the colour and spacing of the stitches to the adoption of a hidden magnet rather than a snap for closing the case. The premium case is completed by the inclusion of an authentic leather neck-strap and hood case.
- Protector Filterφ39mm and Protector Filterφ52mm - A protection filter with high transmission without affecting the visible light, the Super EBC coating effectively controls harmful borrowed light. The frame of filter given the semi-gloss black coating fits a high sense design while the inner side of the filter is coated in matt black to prevent reflection.

 

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Condensed versions of some FAQs from the launch (combined from panel discussion, interviews, brochure) :

Q: How do you get the APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor to outperform a FF sensor?
A: It’s a result of the combination eliminating the need for a OLPF (as explained in the next post) and the implementation of the new EXR processor pro. Further, the short flange back distance and back focus distance also helps achieve high resolution all the way tp the edge of the image.

Q: One of the main misgivings of some Fujifilm X100 users was regarding the shutter lag, what can we expect for the X-Pro1?
A: The adoption of the high-speed focal plane shutter in the X-Pro1, different from the leaf-shutter of the X100, shortens the time lag between framing the shot with Live view.

Q: How will the implementation be of any manual focus assist when using the M mount adaptor?
A: Information on the adaptor(s) etc will be announced in due time...

Description of the Hybrid Multi View Finder and the XF-Lens Roadmap are also in subsequent post...

 

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Market Positioning of the FUJIFILM X-Pro1



Evident in the above graph, the market position of the Fujifilm X-Pro1 is to satisfy the "high-end and professional" segment in a "light & small" package. I think some the APS-C DSLRs and mirrorless cameras may have something to say about that, but I don't think that the choices, decision, and considerations are quite so straightforward. But I must admit that the X-Pro1 does make a strong bid to be a head above the others.

FUJIFILM X-Pro1 IQ Comparison



Related to the market positioning of the X-Pro1, Fujifilm has also put forward rather bold statements that the Image Quality (IQ) of the X-Pro1 can even out shine that of a Full-Frame (FF) DSLR. Part of this is credited to the removal of the Optical Low Pass Filter (OLPF), and the other part to the EXR processor pro. The usual Bayer Array, whose repeated array of pixels can result with moiré, requires a OLPF to help correct for this. However, the silver halide film inspired colour filter array of the new X-Trans CMOS is an irregular array solves the moiré and removes the need for an OLPF, leading to no moiré and higher resolution.

 

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Hybrid Multi View Finder



The hybrid multi viewfinder can be activated by the eye sensor, located at the slide of the viewfinder. The optical VF framelines is approx. 90% coverage, where the 0.47" 1,440,000-dots electronic VF is approx. 100%.

There are 2 optical viewfinder magnifications, x0.37 and x0.60. When attaching a XF-series lens, the viewfinder magnification and frame lines automatically switch to support the lens focal length. Switching between the optical and electronic viewfinders can be done by a switch on the front of the body.

The above show the frame lines and magnification options for the XF18mmF2 R, XF 35mmF1.4, and the XF60mmF2.4 R Macro. The 2012-13 should bring 3 more XF prime lenses - 14mm, 28mmF2.8 (pancake), 23mmF2, and 3 XF zoom lenses - 12-24mmF4, 18-72mmF4, 70-200mmF4.

FUJIFILM XF-Lens Roadmap

 

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FUJIFILM X-Pro1 LCD - The Fujifilm X-Pro1 comes with a 3" 1,230,000 dots RGBW (White) LCD monitor, which has approx 100% coverage.

 

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Sample Pics (Full-Res available)


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF18mmF2 R | 1/125 sec | f/8.0 | ISO400 |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | 1/10 sec | f/2.4 | ISO800 |

 

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[FUJIFILM X-Pro1]
Number of effective pixels : 16.3 million pixels
Image sensor : 23.6 mm x 15.6 mm (APS-C) X-Trans CMOS with primary color filter
Sensor Cleaning system : Ultra Sonic Vibration
Storage media : SD memory card / SDHC memory card / SDXC (UHS-I) memory card*1
Lens mount : FUJIFILM X mount

[File format & Number of recorded pixels]
Still image : JPEG (Exif Ver 2.3)*2, RAW (RAF format), RAW+JPEG
L : (3:2) 4896 x 3264 / (16:9) 4896 x 2760 / (1:1) 3264 x 3264
M : (3:2) 3456 x 2304 / (16:9) 3456 x 1944 / (1:1) 2304 x 2304
S : (3:2) 2496 x 1664 / (16:9) 2496 x 1408 / (1:1) 1664 x 1664
Movie : H.264 (MOV) with Stereo sound, 1920 x 1080 pixels, 1280 x 720 pixels (24 frames/sec.) with stereo sound (max 29 minutes)
Motion Panorama: L Vertical: 7680 x 2160 Horizontal: 7680 x 1440, M Vertical: 5120 x 2160 Horizontal: 5120 x 1440

[ISO and Bracketing]
Sensitivity : Equivalent to ISO 200 - 6400 (Standard Output Sensitivity)
AUTO mode : AUTO (400) / AUTO (800) / AUTO (1600) / AUTO (3200) / Extended output sensitivity equivalent ISO 100, 12800 and 25600
Exposure control : TTL 256-zones metering, Multi / Spot / Average
Exposure mode : Programmed AE, Shutter priority AE, Aperture priority AE, Manual exposure
Exposure compensation : -2.0 EV - +2.0 EV, inclement with 1/3 EV step
Shutter control : Focal Plane Shutter
Shutter speed : (P mode) 1/4 sec. to 1/4000 sec., (All other modes) 30 sec. to 1/4000 sec., Bulb (max. 60 min.)
Time : 2 to 30 sec.
Synchronized Shutter speed for flash : 1/180 sec or slower (P mode or A mode), 1/160 sec or sowler (S mode or M mode)
Continuous shooting : Max 6 / 3 fps selectable
Auto bracketing : AE Bracketing (±1/3 EV, ±2/3 EV, ±1 EV)
Film Simulation Bracketing : Any 3 type of film simulation selectable
Dynamic Range Bracketing : 100%, 200%, 400%
ISO sensitivity Bracketing : ±1/3 EV, ±2/3 EV, ±1 EV

[Focus]
Mode : Single AF / Continuous AF / MF Distance Indicator
Type : TTL contrast AF, AF assist illuminator available
AF frame selection : Area (EVF / LCD: 49 areas with 7 x 7, OVF: 25 areas with 5 x 5) / Multi

[White balance]
Automatic scene recognition
Custom, Color temperature selection (K)
Preset : Fine, Shade, Fluorescent light (Daylight), Fluorescent light (Warm White), Fluorescent light (Cool White), Incandescent light, underwater

 

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[Film Simulation mode]
10 type (PROVIA/STANDARD, Velvia/VIVID, ASTIA/SOFT, PRO Neg Hi, PRO Neg Std, MONOCHROME, MONOCHROME+Ye FILTER, MONOCHROME+R FILTER, MONOCHROME+G FILTER, SEPIA)
Dynamic range setting : AUTO (100-400%), 100%, 200%, 400%

[Timer and Flash]
Self-timer : Approx. 10 sec. / 2 sec. Delay
Flash modes : Hot shoe with TTL contacts; sync terminal
Red-eye removal OFF : Auto, Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Slow Synchro, Rear-curtain Synchro.
Red-eye removal ON : Red-eye Reduction Auto, Red-eye Reduction & Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Red-eye Reduction & Slow Synchro, Red-eye Reduction & Rear-curtain Synchro.
Hot shoe : Yes (dedicated TTL Flash compatible)

[Hybrid Multi Viewfinder and LCD]
Optical viewfinder : Reverse Galilean viewfinder with electronic bright frame display
Magnifications : 0.37x / 0.6x
Coverage of frame area v.s. capturing area: approx. 90%
Electronic viewfinder : 0.47", approx. 1,440,000-dots color LCD viewfinder
Coverage of viewing area v.s capturing area: approx. 100%
LCD monitor : 3.0" RGBW (White) LCD monitor, approx. 1,230,000 dots, (Approx. 100% coverage)

[Photography functions]
Select custom setting, Motion panorama, Color space, Color (Saturation), sharpness, Dynamic range, Film simulation, Gradation, Auto red-eye removal, Framing guideline, Frame No. memory, Histogram display, Preview depth of focus, Focus check, Electronic level, Multiple exposure, Date input, Fn button setting (RAW, Movie, etc)

[Playback functions]
RAW conversing, Image rotate, Red-eye reduction, Photobook assist, Erase selected frames, image search, Multi-frame playback (with micro thumbnail), Slide show, Mark for upload, Protect, Crop, Resize, Panorama, Favorites

[Size & Battery]
Dimensions : 139.5 (W) x 81.8 (H) x 42.5 (D) mm / 5.5 (W) x 3.2 (H) x 1.7 (D) inches (Minimum depth: 34.1 mm / 1.3 in.)
Weight : Approx. 450 g / 15.9 oz. (including battery and memory card), Approx. 400 g / 14.1 oz. (excluding battery and memory card)
Battery : NP-W126 Li-ion battery (included)
Guide to the number of available frames for battery operation : approx 300 frames

Source : FUJIFILM X-Pro1 | Specifications | Fujifilm Global

 

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[ISO test]... I'll let the sample images sepak for themselves. However, I'll have to apologize in advance that despite using a little tripod, I think that there was some camera shake at lower ISO settings as it was shooting at around 1/5sec. There were some inconsistencies in the exposure due to roaming colored lights in the exhibit room. I did try to wait for the colour lights to pass before snapping, but this is an environment and cameraman issue... not the camera.

All that been said, don't let this take away from the high ISO performance of the Fujifilm X-Pro1. Even at ISO800 and ISO1600, when images from many other cameras are starting to loss micro detail and contrast, the images at these ISO settings are still showing good details and contrast, while allowing the photographer faster shutter speed and / or more depth of field.


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO200 | Full Images |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO200 | 100% crop (1200x800) |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO400 | 100% crop (1200x800) |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO800 | 100% crop (1200x800) |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO1600 | 100% crop (1200x800) |

 

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| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO3200 | 100% crop (1200x800) |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO6400 | 100% crop (1200x800) |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO12800 (extended) | 100% crop (1200x800) |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO25600 (extended | 100% crop (1200x800) |

ISO6400 is at the top end of the X-Pro1's native ISO range, but can still extend an additional 2 stops to ISO25600. Depending on your use of the final image, the images at ISO12800 and ISO25600 are surprisingly usable... you might have lost some of the micro details of the lower ISO settings, added some smugging, and lost some contrast... well, your milage may vary with the use of the extended ISO settings - the full ISO25600 image is presented in the next post.

 

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| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO200 | Full Images |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO800 | Full Images |


| Fujifilm X-Pro1 | XF60mmF2.4 R Macro | ISO25600 | Full Images |

 

[jenfaith]

Is this on sale in Singapore already?

 

[metals99]

Hi Jen, I read and fuji said it will be available in Singapore March 2012 onwards... MSCOLOR had teamed up with Fuji for the launch in Sitex on March 2012...

 

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Is this on sale in Singapore already?

Hi Jen, I read and fuji said it will be available in Singapore March 2012 onwards... MSCOLOR had teamed up with Fuji for the launch in Sitex on March 2012...

Pricing and availability were actually announced in post #4, but I have now posted the info onto the first post instead. And yes, Fujifilm are teaming up with MScolor for the IT show, which is from 8 - 11 March 2012. I think that they are optimistic that sets will be in and available then...

Pricing and availability
The recommended retail pricing for X-Pro1 is as followings:
Body: S$2400 (inclusive of 7% GST)
Basic lens: S$900 to S$1000 (inclusive of 7% GST)

The FUJIFILM X-Pro1 will be available in all major electronics retailers in Singapore in March 2012.

 

[zzyzx]

the high ISO is insanely good!

 

[pinholecam]

The ISO6400 closeup is very impressive indeed!

Hmm.... looks like my piggy bank is in trouble.

 

[sharps]

really tempting...
no reviews on the M mount for the X mount yet?