Due for release next month, the new X-S20 camera is the first to include a dedicated Vlog Mode and features AI-based subject-detection AF plus a high-capacity battery.


Angled view of the new Fujifilm X-S20 camera with the XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ kit lens. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The latest addition to Fujifilm’s mirrorless camera line-up, the X-S20, has a body weight of only 491 grams and has been designed as an all-in-one model that caters to a wide variety of photographers and videographers. The X-S20 is equipped with a back-illuminated 26.1 megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and high-speed sensor and X-Processor 5 image processing engine, which makes it ideal for content creation and travel photography. Power consumption is lower than the X-S10 model the new camera replaces. The NP-W235 battery is CIPA rated for approximately 800 frames per charge, more than twice the capacity of its predecessor. The new Vlog Mode makes it easy to produce a range of content.

Subject-detection autofocusing has been developed with Deep Learning technology, enabling the system to detect and track animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects and drones, that last two included under the ‘Brids’ and ‘Airplanes’ settings. The evolved AF prediction algorithm provides stable focusing for stills and video capture, including in the AF-C mode. Nineteen Film Simulation modes are provided, including Nostalgic Neg., which combines high saturation and soft tonality.


Rear view of the X-S20 with the adjustable monitor reversed. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The X-S20 is equipped with a 2.36-million-dot EVF with 0.62x magnification as well as a 1.84-million-dot vari-angle rear LCD monitor, which can be positioned to make self-portraits easy. A generous hand-grip moulding makes for comfortable shooting, while in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) offers up to seven stops of shake correction for hand-held shooting at night or in low-light conditions.

Video capabilities are extensive, with support for 6.2K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit video internal recording as well as 4K/60p and 1080/240p video recording with extended recording times. The F-Log2 recording is available for shooting video with an expanded 13+ stop dynamic range for enriched tonality, adding freedom in post-production creativity. When an ATOMOS HDMI device is connected, users can record RAW video output as 12-bit Apple ProRes RAW at resolutions up to 6.2K and frame rates up to 29.97fps. Similar support is provided for Blackmagic RAW recordings with Blackmagic Design Video Assist 12G devices.


Top view of the X-S20 showing the mode dial with the dedicated Vlog Mode. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The camera features a 3.5mm microphone and earphone jack and the new Vlog Mode makes it easy to produce a range of content, enabling users to change camera settings with a touch of a button for self-portraits. The X-S20 can also be connected to a computer via a USB-C cable for use as a webcam, without having to install extra software. Shooting settings can be adjusted and Film Simulation modes are available during live streaming.

The X-S20 will be available in June, 2023 at an RRP of AU$2349 for the body alone or $2499 for the combined X-S20 and XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens kit.


Angled view of the Fujinon XF 8mm f/3.5 R WR lens with the petal-shaped lens hood fitted. (Source: Fujifilm.)

The latest addition to Fujifilm’s range of XF lenses is the Fujinon XF 8mm f/3.5 R WR lens, the widest in the line-up. Its 8mm focal length is equivalent to 12mm in the 35mm film format with a viewing angle of 121 degrees diagonally and 112 degrees horizontally. This is roughly double the average person’s effective visual field. The optical design of the new lens contains 12 lens elements in nine groups and includes three aspherical elements and two ED elements to ensure edge-to-edge clarity. Weighing only 215 grams and just 52.8mm long, it makes a great walk-around companion for landscape and architectural photographers. The versatile filter thread size of 62 mm can accommodate a wide variety of filters.

Internal focusing provides a fast AF speed of as little as 0.02 seconds, which is useful when shooting dynamic action photography. With greater than normal depth-of-field, its aperture can be stopped down to facilitate pan-focusing. The lens barrel is weather-sealed at 10 locations to achieve dust- and weather-resistance and capability of operating in temperatures as low as -10℃. A fluorine coating on the front lens element will repel water and offer protection against stains.

The Fujinon XF 8mm f/3.5 R WR lens will be available in June at a local RRP of AU$1429. Click here for more information on both products.