Fujifilm has released details of its latest ‘selfie orientated’ X-A3 camera and a new XF23mm f/2 R WR lens, which will go on sale within the next few months.

 

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The three colour options for the X-A3 camera, which is expected to be available in October. (Source: Fujifilm.)

Designed for younger photographers, the X-A3features a flip-up monitor that offers 100% visibility when the panel is tilted by 180 degrees. Its fashionable retro design features a new faux leather texture that will be available in silver, pink or brown. The top cover, front plate and top dials are made of aluminium. The new camera boasts a newly developed 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor and the camera includes X Series signature colour reproduction technology. The Film Simulation function offers 11 modes, including the recently added PRO Neg.Hi and PRO Neg.std. as well as Classic Chrome. The X-A3’s native sensitivity range of ISO 200 to ISO 6400 can be extended to ISO 12800 and ISO 25600 to minimise camera shake in dim lighting. The X-A3 also provides 10 Advanced Filters, including the new Fisheye and Cross Screen, as well as Toy Camera, Miniature, Dynamic Tone, Pop Colour, Soft Focus, High Key, Low Key and Partial Colour.

The Self-Timer function now offers Smile Detection, Buddy Timer and Group Timer modes. Eye Detection AF is activated automatically when the monitor is flipped up. A built-in, pop-up flash supports the Super Intelligent Flash system that accurately controls light output according to detected scenes and can provide fill-in for backlit subjects. Two Command Dials provide manual control of aperture, shutter speed and exposure settings. Frequently used functions such as white balance, continuous shooting and the self-timer can be assigned to standalone function buttons. The energy efficient design of the X-A3 has extended the battery life to approximately 410 frames per charge.

Other X-A3 features include full HD recording; enhanced autofocus settings; versatile shooting functions including an electronic shutter with a maximum speed of 1/32,000 seconds; and wireless communications functionality to enable remote shooting from smartphones and tablet devices. The Fujifilm X-A3 is expected to be available in Australia in October 2016 at an RRP of AU$949.

Announced concurrently with the X-A3 is a new Fujinon XF23mm f/2 R WR compact wide angle lens, which is due for release in late September 2016 at an RRP of AU$699. This lens is weather and dust resistant and can operate at temperatures as low as -10 °C, making it ideal for outdoor photography. Weighing just 180 grams, it has a versatile focal length to 35mm (in the 35mm film format), an inner-focus AF system driven by a stepping motor that provides fast and quiet autofocusing.

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The new Fujinon XF23mm f/2 R WR lens. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The optical design of the new lens consists of 10 elements in six groups, including two aspherical elements, which are positioned to ensure flatness of the image plane for edge-to-edge sharpness. The aspherical elements are used as part of the focusing group to minimise performance fluctuations between different focal distances. The metal exterior is modelled on the design of the XF35mm f/2 R WR lens. The aperture ring and focus ring have been designed for optimum operability with the right amount of clicking and torque. Optional accessories for the XF23mmF2 R WR include a vented metal hood (LH-XF35-2), which is also compatible with the XF35mmF2 R WR lens.

Details of both products can be found on Fujfilm’s website at www.fujifilm.com.au.