This month will see the release of Fujifilm’s latest X-mount camera, the X-E3, with a new 80mm f/2.8 macro lens following in November.

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The new Fujifilm X-E3 digital camera, shown with the XF23mm f/2 lens that will be bundled with it. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The X-E3 features a 24.3-megapixel APS-C sized X-Trans CMOS III sensor and X-Processor Pro image processing engine, along with a large phase detection AF area and updated algorithm to deliver a fastest AF speed of 0.06 seconds. Compact and lightweight for portability and practicality, the X-E3 features enhanced connectivity with low energy Bluetooth wireless communication for easy transfer of images from the camera to a smartphone or tablet, using minimal power. The top plate of the new X-E3 camera body features two dials ““ one for shutter speed and the other for exposure compensation. Both are aluminium-milled and deliver a reassuring click at every notched setting. The exposure compensation dial now has the C position to enable exposure compensation up to +/-5 stops in 1/3EV steps.

The new camera’s LCD monitor uses a high resolution 1,040,000-dot, 3.0-inch static touchscreen panel display. It can record both Full HD and 4K video as well as high-quality stills. The X-E3 will launch as a kit on 28 September, complete with a Fujinon XF23mm F2 lens for an RRP of AU$1799.

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The new Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR macro lens. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The robust XF80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR macro lens features a focal length equivalent to 122mm (in 35mm format) and maximum aperture of f/2.8. Featuring weather and dust resistance it can operate in temperatures as low as -10 °C, making it suitable for a broad range of outdoor shooting conditions. A fluorine coating has also been applied to the front lens element to repel water and dirt.  With an optical construction of 16 elements in 12 groups, including one aspherical lens, one Super ED lens, and three ED lenses along with a Floating Focus System, this lens is capable of achieving high quality macro shooting. A built-in Optical Image Stabilizer system supports hand-held shooting while linear motors ensure fast and silent autofocusing. The aperture and focusing rings have been designed to be comfortable and easy to use. This lens will go on sale in November at an RRP of AU$1899.

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The latest roadmap for Fujifilm’s X-mount lenses. (Source: Fujifilm.)

Fujifilm has unveiled the latest developments in its X Mount Roadmap by adding an Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom and a Telephoto Prime Lens to its line-up. The XF8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR covers a focal length range equivalent to 12-24mm (in 35mm format) with an f/2.8 maximum aperture. This lens is most suited to shooting dynamic landscapes, night views and architecture. The XF200mm f/2 R LM OIS WR is telephoto prime lens with a focal length equivalent to 305mm and a fast f/2.0 maximum aperture. It is best suited for shooting sports, nature and wild birds. Availability and pricing for these new lenses will be announced closer to the launch date.

Fujifilm will also release firmware updates in late November and December 2017 for the X-Pro2, X-T2, X100F and X-T20 mirrorless digital cameras. They can be downloaded from the company’s website (www.fujifilm.com.au) free of charge.