Fujifilm has released details of the latest addition to its premium compact camera line-up, the X30.

 

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The new Fujifilm X30 will be offered in black and silver versions. (Source: Fujifilm.)

 

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 Rear view of the Fujifilm X30. (Source: Fujifilm.)

Now in its third generation, the X30 replaces the existing X20 and features an innovative viewfinder along with new functions and improvements. The new Real Time Viewfinder  claims to be the largest, fastest and highest resolving viewfinder in its class. With a magnification of 0.65x  and a display lag time of just 0.005 second, it uses a new 2.36M-dot organic EL display and dedicated lens. Visibility has been improved by automatically controlling finder brightness according to the ambient light levels.
 
 

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The complex optical structure of the new EVF is shown in the illustration above. (Source: Fujifilm.)
 The ‘Preview Pic. Effect’ function in the Live View display can also be set to reflect shooting conditions or offer a natural view close to what is seen with the naked eye. The viewfinder’s eye sensor will also automatically switch the visible information when the camera is positioned vertically; something not possible with the previous model’s optical viewfinder.
 

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Automatic switching of data displays in the X30’s viewfinder. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The X30 is also equipped with a 2/3-inch type (8.8 x 6.6 mm)  X-Trans CMOS II sensor and EXR Processor II. The X30’s 4x optical zoom lens has a maximum aperture range of f/2 to f/2.8 and covers focal lengths equivalent to 28-112mm in 35mm format. Built-in stabilisation shifts five lens elements to compensate for camera shake by up to 3.0 stops. The camera’s Super Macro mode supports focusing as close as 1cm from a subject for dramatic close-up shots.

The X30 boasts a tilting 3.0-inch 920K-dot premium clear LCD monitor,  a new control ring and extra dials and function buttons for more control. Battery performance has also been improved, with the X30 capable of shooting approximately 470 photos/charge.

Fujifilm has added a new “Classic Chrome” setting to the X30’s Film Simulation modes. It delivers ‘muted tones and deep colour reproduction’ and brings the number of options up to 10.  Also available on the X30 are the Advanced Filter functions, which allow users to choose from eight different artistic effects.

Wi-Fi connectivity is built-in, allowing users to upload images to social networks and control the camera remotely from a smart device equipped with the Fujifilm Camera Remote app (a free download). Accessible functions include Touch AF, shutter release for stills and movies, shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation, ISO sensitivity, film simulation modes, white balance, macro, timer and flash.

Full details of the new camera can be found at http://www.fujifilm.com/news/n140826_01.html. The X30 will have a recommended retail price in Australia of $829. Check the local Fujifilm website (http://www.fujifilm.com.au/pro-cameras) for more information .