Fujifilm unveils X-T2 camera

Angled view of the just-announced Fujifilm X-T2 camera. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The X-T2 will sit alongside the X-Pro2 as flagship models in Fujifilm’s X Series range. It will be the first model in the series to support 4K video recording. With a weight of just 507 grams (including memory card and battery), the X-T2 has a durable magnesium alloy body that is dust resistant, water resistant and capable of operating at temperatures as low as -10 °C. An optional weather resistant Vertical Power Booster Grip is available. Dual SD card slots support UHS-2 cards for faster write speed.   The two slots can be set up for Sequential, Backup or RAW / JPG for recording RAW data in Slot 1 and JPEG data in Slot 2, as well as Video Destination. The rear LCD screen is the first three-direction tilting display in the X Series range. Mechanical dials enable fast operation of all basic camera settings, including the shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, exposure compensation, drive modes and metering modes.

The new camera will feature an APS-C-sized,  24.3-megapixel  X-Trans CMOS III sensor with no optical low-pass filter, which is paired with the X-Processor Pro high-speed image processing engine. It will offer a top sensitivity of ISO 12800 with low noise, even in low light conditions. Fujifilm’s proprietary imager technology helps to reproduce warm skin tones, deep blacks, bright blue skies and rich green foliage. Film Simulation ““ which includes ACROS mode – has further evolved to capture a subject’s textures complete with a three-dimensional feel, as well as the atmosphere surrounding it. The nine different Film Simulation modes can also be applied to video recording.

4K UHD video recording captures clips with 3840 x 2160 pixel resolution and the supports high video bit-rate recording of 100Mbps for both 4K and full HD video. Clean HDMI output for 4K video recording is available and the camera offers the ‘F-log’ log-gamma option, which takes advantage of the sensor’s wide dynamic range to record video in wide colour gamut, facilitating video production workflow. The X-T2 also features a significantly improved start-up time of 0.3 seconds, shooting interval of 0.17 seconds and shutter release time lag of 0.045 seconds.

The number of focusing points has been dramatically expanded from 49 in previous models to 91 (up to 325 points). Approximately 40% of the imaging area (centre area containing 49 focusing points) is covered with phase detection AF pixels. The rear panel of the camera body features the Focus Lever which can be moved up/down, right/left and diagonally to make quick changes to focusing.   The high-speed processing power and enhanced algorithms has significantly improved the basic autofocus performance. AF-C Custom Settings enable photographers to adjust settings to optimise AF characteristics according to the type of subject movements. The electronic viewfinder, which is used to continuously track a moving subject, is capable of displaying up to 100 frames per second, while also maintaining the magnification ratio of 0.77x and a display time lag of 0.005 seconds. Viewfinder blackout has been halved, enabling up to 5fps during continuous shooting in the Live View mode.

The new camera will also support tethered shooting and Wi-Fi communication. Accessories include lithium-ion battery, battery charger, shoulder strap, body cap, metal strap clip, protective cover, clip attaching tool, hot shoe cover, sync terminal cover, owner’s manual and warranty documents. The recommended retail price for the Fujifilm X-T2 (body only) is AU$2,499.  

Fujifilm’s new EF-X500hot-shoe mount flash. (Source: Fujifilm.)

To be released simultaneously with the X-T2 is a new EF-X500 hot-shoe mount zoom flash with a maximum guide number of approximately 50 (ISO100ï½¥m). It features a FP high-speed flash sync mode that enables the flash to be fired at any shutter speed. EF-X500 also supports multi-flash lighting. Multiple flashes can be controlled in up to three groups, each of which can be set up to have different light output, which can be adjusted from the camera. The EF-X500 is the first Fujifilm flash that is dust-resistant and weather-resistant. Optional accessories include an external Battery Pack that supports 8 x AA batteries. The recommended retail price for the EF-X500 is AU$699. It is expected to be available in Australia in early September 2016.

Fujifilm has also announced three new lenses: the XF23mm f/2 R WR, a compact wide-angle lens (35mm equivalent), the XF50mm f/2 R WR, a fast 76mm-equivalent lens for portrait photography and the XF80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR, a mid-telephoto, 1:1 macro lens, which can be used with a teleconverter. The XF120mm f/2.8 R Macro lens – listed in the previous roadmap released in February 2015 – has been replaced with the XF80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WRto meet the market demand for compact and lightweight lenses. This new lens is compatible with the existing teleconverters to extend its reach into the telephoto range.

For more information, visit www.fujifilm.com.au.