Daily Archives: February 10, 2016

 

 

 

 

By now you have read reams of reports, reviews and tests on the new Fuji X-PRO 2.  There is little sense in my duplicating all of that, so I will approach this from a different direction.  I would like to attempt to answer some key questions I had when I first heard about the X-PRO 2;

 

(1.)  Is it a significant improvement over the XT-1 ( a camera a really love a lot!)?

 

Yes, it is Fuji’s latest and newest technology and, and in almost every way, it is an improvement over the last generation of cameras.  Fuji looked at every performance category and found a way to bolster it. If you decide to purchase the X-PRO 2 you will have the most capable camera Fuji has ever produced in the X System line!

 

(2.)  How much of a difference does the increase in resolution from 16 to 24.3 mega pixels really make?

This is not a scientific study,  just a judgement based on a looking at thousands of image files over the past decade.  Resolution wise a 33% increase is significant and it does lead to crisper more detailed images.  Even though it is readily apparent even in small sizes, it will make the resulting prints in large sizes (feet by feet) very impressive indeed.  You must understand that because the 24.3 mega pixels resides on an APS-C size sensor the pixel density gives resolution that is very much like a 36 mega pixel full frame sensor.

 

(3.)  Does it in fact have as good or better high ISO – Low noise performance compared to the X-T1.

 

In the past packing that much resolution on an APS-C size sensor meant that you had to sacrifice noise at higher ISO settings, Fuji has conquered this somehow and now we can have very high effective resolution and extraordinary low noise even at very high ISO settings.  So far I believe with this sensor you can shoot all the way to 6400 with almost no noise penalty.  It is my opinion that Fuji’s noise levels were already essentially an industry standard, this sensor and processing chip take them to an even higher level!!!  Mark this one down for 1 to 1-1/2 stops higher ISO with low noise.

 

(4.)  How is the construction?  How do the buttons perform?

 

 

All the buttons and controls are improved from the X-T1, they are raised more, and have a satisfying click when depressed.  The four way pad on the back now does not need an application of sugru to work properly as the X-T1 did.  Because of the new “Joy Stick” moving the focus points and menu items is now much easier and positive.  The exposure compensation dial is larger and easier to turn with your thumb, though not too easy to be accidentally moved.  The speed of operation for all function is aided greatly by the new X-Pro processor.  The viewfinder now  has a diopter correction that makes viewing much clearer without glasses.  How do the numbers look?

 

 

(5.)  Does it have any features or performance increases that make it a GAME CHANGER?

 

 

The optical viewfinder is absolutely wonderful.  The bright line frames give a great view of the scene and what is happening outside your image area.  This, added to the increase from 49 to 77 Phase Detection AF Pixels and the new camera is an auto focus monster.  Being able to move the focusing points with the joy stick is, as they say in the MasterCard commercials, “Priceless!”

 

(6.)  How useful is the Hybrid viewfinder?

 

This is a matter of what kind photography you do.  If you are a newspaper or magazine photojournalist or a street shooter, the optical viewfinder is an absolute must!  If you need to know what will enter your frame next, go and buy an X-PRO 2.  The view is breathtaking and I have to say that even though I really don’t need an optical viewfinder, I love it.  I still find the Electronic Viewfinder better for me because it shows what the final image will look like after you push the shutter release!  The magic, the majesty of mirror less is a new beginning for photographers like you and me!

 

(7.)  What are my feelings about overall Image Quality compared to the X-T1?

 

There is no question that the X-PRO 2 has raised the bar for image quality coming out of a Fuji X cameras.  I don’t think I could put a percentage on the improvement, but it is clearly a sizable step up!

 

(8.)  Does the X-PRO 2 elevate the Fuji X game?

 

You bet, and I can only hope and pray that the X-T2 whenever it comes, will have most of the advances included in the X-PRO 2.  The Fuji engineers have done themselves very proud with this one.

 

(9.)  Who needs the Fuji X-PRO 2? 

 

If you want the latest and greatest, you need it!  If you love rangefinders and want to take advantage of the incredible Optical Viewfinder order yours today!!!  If you love your X-T1 and prefer that style of camera, and might want to wait for the X-T2.  Just know you will be jealous of this sensor for a few months!!!

 

I went out this morning and tried to find a few things to test the camera on.  Here is what I have so far!

 

Acros Film Simulation ISO 400 – 23mm f 1.4 lens

 

The Historic Sander’s Cafe sign at the original Harlan Sanders restaurant.  223mm f 1/4 lens at f 11   ISO  1600

 

Old rusty Volvo at one of my favorite antique stores.   23mm f 1.4 f 8  –  ISO  400

 

Old passenger rail car door   23mm f 1.4 @ f 8  –  ISO 200

 

 

Brightly painted door and wall.  Velvia Film simulation  23mm f 1.4 @ f 8   ISO 400

 

 

L&N Railway painting on a brick wall in Corbin.   23mm f 1.4 @ f 8  –  ISO 400

 

Metal Indiana Pacers sign.  23mm f 1.4 @ f 8   –  ISO 400

 

So in summatioin, killer camera, many improvements, and if you are a Fuji X shooter, and need it’s special graces, order one today!!!

 

NEXT UP:  Side by side image quality and noise comparisons with the X-T1!

 

Blessings,

 

the pilgrim