B-9
Devin Bro
Ive been looking into the Fuji RF/Retro styled camera's.
Ive been trying to save up for a Leica M8, but Im stuck, and with being about the price of a XE-1 or X100 short of the now old M8. Im wondering why im still drooling over such an old camera.
Ive practically NEVER shot seriously with a digital camera.
Ive always shot film, and have only recently felt an urge to assimilate to the modern world. I shoot primarily Leica M and have become accustomed to the size/form/quality of these camera's.
Im wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction!
Im considering the:
X100
XPro1
XE-1
The Xpro is on the high end of my budget, and would not allow the purchase of an XF lens, instead ide be using my LTM/M lenses.
The XE-1, is right in the sweet spot, and would facilitate the possibility of an XF lens in my budget. But the EVF doesnt sit well with me. I enjoy using the optical rangefinder in my Leica's and having virtually no experience using EVF's, im in the dark here.
The X100 was my first choice, but once I started looking at the other Fuji bodies, I really dont understand why a Gen1 X100 cost more in chrome than a black XE-1 body!? I understand the cult like following, with the retro styling, but is it really all its cracked up to be? Will I be dissapointed with the OVF? is there an Actual means of focusing manually without using the hybrid EVF? Is there a rangefinder patch?
Im about as clueless as it gets, and after weeks of comparing compacts, mirroless, and compact system camera's, I feel none the wiser.
Anyone want to give me a friendly push in the right direction?
Ive been trying to save up for a Leica M8, but Im stuck, and with being about the price of a XE-1 or X100 short of the now old M8. Im wondering why im still drooling over such an old camera.
Ive practically NEVER shot seriously with a digital camera.
Ive always shot film, and have only recently felt an urge to assimilate to the modern world. I shoot primarily Leica M and have become accustomed to the size/form/quality of these camera's.
Im wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction!
Im considering the:
X100
XPro1
XE-1
The Xpro is on the high end of my budget, and would not allow the purchase of an XF lens, instead ide be using my LTM/M lenses.
The XE-1, is right in the sweet spot, and would facilitate the possibility of an XF lens in my budget. But the EVF doesnt sit well with me. I enjoy using the optical rangefinder in my Leica's and having virtually no experience using EVF's, im in the dark here.
The X100 was my first choice, but once I started looking at the other Fuji bodies, I really dont understand why a Gen1 X100 cost more in chrome than a black XE-1 body!? I understand the cult like following, with the retro styling, but is it really all its cracked up to be? Will I be dissapointed with the OVF? is there an Actual means of focusing manually without using the hybrid EVF? Is there a rangefinder patch?
Im about as clueless as it gets, and after weeks of comparing compacts, mirroless, and compact system camera's, I feel none the wiser.
Anyone want to give me a friendly push in the right direction?
f16sunshine
Moderator
You should head in to a Fuji dealer. Bring an SD card and maybe even one of your M lenses.
Get a Fuji enthused Sales person who will spend time with you.
My first reaction is to recomend the x100/s. It is a fixed lens AF camera though.. no changing that.
Since you've been a long time RF user and probably would lkje to adapt lenses, probably you will be best off with the XE1.
Go try them all. You can't loose in terms of IQ and output. Just need to find the right fit for yourself personally.
Get a Fuji enthused Sales person who will spend time with you.
My first reaction is to recomend the x100/s. It is a fixed lens AF camera though.. no changing that.
Since you've been a long time RF user and probably would lkje to adapt lenses, probably you will be best off with the XE1.
Go try them all. You can't loose in terms of IQ and output. Just need to find the right fit for yourself personally.
Rogier
Rogier Willems
X100S will give you the most analogue equivalent experience. Plus the image quality is great.
Go get the ball by Rogier Diver, on Flickr
Go get the ball by Rogier Diver, on Flickr
B-9
Devin Bro
Unfortunately there are no local dealers that stock these camera's.
macjim
Well-known
I have both the x100s and the X-Pro1 with the three XF prime lenses. I'd recommend you going for the X-E1 as, as you said, the X-Pro1 would leave you unable to buy the XF lenses. The X-E1 would give you a very nice camera with the same sensor as the X-Pro1 and allow you to buy the XF lenses you need too. Then, when you can finally afford to step up to the X-Pro1/1s/2, whichever model is out then, you can still use those fine lenses. The only real difference is the loss of the optical viewfinder but you gain a built in flash. I think you'd find the X100/100s a little limiting due to its fixed 35mm lens, I know I have one but I'm using it as a 35 mm lens to supplement my X-Pro1 and as a camera for the days I want a challenge or a day camera when I want an easy day.
Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner
Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner
YYV_146
Well-known
I guess you have a nice collection of m lenses, most as fine as Fuji XF glass...
If you intend on adapting lens, the X-E1 wins hands down. The EVF is larger, brighter, more contrasty and much easier to focus with compared to the X-pro1. Handling and IQ are pretty much the same between those. If you want to build a system with XF glass the OVF certainly gives extra versatility.
IMO the best m-lens CSC back is still the NEX-6, but the learning curve is a lot steeper - it's less camera and more computer-with-a-big-sensor.
If you intend on adapting lens, the X-E1 wins hands down. The EVF is larger, brighter, more contrasty and much easier to focus with compared to the X-pro1. Handling and IQ are pretty much the same between those. If you want to build a system with XF glass the OVF certainly gives extra versatility.
IMO the best m-lens CSC back is still the NEX-6, but the learning curve is a lot steeper - it's less camera and more computer-with-a-big-sensor.
daveleo
what?
I have the X100 and am very happy with it. It makes most of my pictures these days.
However, I also have a DSLR with lots of lenses when I need that.
And other cameras.
The x100 could be your only camera and you generally would not miss much, but you would miss some shots. I personally can live with that, can you? - your call.
The safest bet in terms of $$$ spent would be the XE1 and a first lens and see where it takes you. There is a zoom for sale here in the classifieds that you may want to check out.
However, I also have a DSLR with lots of lenses when I need that.
And other cameras.
The x100 could be your only camera and you generally would not miss much, but you would miss some shots. I personally can live with that, can you? - your call.
The safest bet in terms of $$$ spent would be the XE1 and a first lens and see where it takes you. There is a zoom for sale here in the classifieds that you may want to check out.
Mcary
Well-known
With the X100 there not really a means to manual focus without using the hybrid EVF...But shooting in what I like to call Manual focus AF mode its possible to greatly reduce the use of the EVF and work mainly with the OVF.
Setting up the camera
AFL/AEL button set to AFL only
Focus Mod set to MF
Using
1.Place focus area (Center of OVF but can be changed if desired) on your subject
2.Press command dial (temp switch to EVF view of the area with in the Focus area (thumb)
3 Press the AFL button to focus (thumb)
4 Lightly press the shutter release (returns the VF to OVF) press the rest of the way to take the shot(s) Since the camera's in MF follow on shots that are with in the zone of focus, should be in focus/usable. (First finger/Shutter finger)
BTW its hell of lot easier to do/use this method then it is to write instruction on it
B-9
Devin Bro
I'm starting to appreciate the XE the more I read. I did watch reviews from Fuji Guys and The camera store on youtube.
I have no interest in the Nex cameras.
I greatly prefer the manual operation.
I'm absolutely in love with the idea of having a dedicated shutter speed dial.
I really don't understand why the market seems to prefer mode functions.
I also have gotten a lot of info on the new Zoom, for the price IDE rather knab the 18/2 or 27/2.8
Mostly I will use the camera as a digital back for my leica mount lenses.
Do any of these cameras still offer film simulation slections like on the older S5 pro?
I have no interest in the Nex cameras.
I greatly prefer the manual operation.
I'm absolutely in love with the idea of having a dedicated shutter speed dial.
I really don't understand why the market seems to prefer mode functions.
I also have gotten a lot of info on the new Zoom, for the price IDE rather knab the 18/2 or 27/2.8
Mostly I will use the camera as a digital back for my leica mount lenses.
Do any of these cameras still offer film simulation slections like on the older S5 pro?
moffo
Newbie
willie_901
Veteran
The key here is if you will be happy using an EVF only. With the 3.01 firmware, focusing M lenses with focus peaking and then switching to the OVF to compose is a practical option in some situations. Of course for razor thin DOF you will just use the EVF.
With any of the Fujis there will be a period where you adjust your techniques to match the design of the cameras.
With any of the Fujis there will be a period where you adjust your techniques to match the design of the cameras.
B-9
Devin Bro
Im not sure exactly what focus peeking is?
As for the EVF or OVF, If the OVF doesnt contain a rangefinder patch or usable means of manual focus, I have no inrerest in it.
Ive never used an EVF, but it doesnt have me scared yet.
Of course, I expect there to be an adjustment period. I do think the manual control's being readily available externally, will greatly help in the transition from M to Fuji X.
I also have a few general questions, I have absolutely NO desire to use post processing, I actually do not have a computer other than my smartphone. Will IQ be limited if I shoot highest quality jpeg?
Is it practical for me to use my existing stash of black and white filters using a digital sensor? I typically have either a Orange or Green filter on my lenses at all time. I primarily shoot black and white, and only have interest in color capture for Family oriented photo's. Will my filters create the same effect on a digital sensor?
Thanks everyone for your responses, and of course your patience.
giellaleafapmu
Well-known
From some Camera Wiki. Focus peaking is the name for an electronic display technology, which highlights the areas of sharpest focus in an image with a false-color halo. In practice instead of matching the RF part of your screen to what you want in focus and recompose or setting the AF sensor to that which is the closest to the part of your composition you want in focus in your final image you compose and while you focus you see as "frizzle" in the screen the parts of the images which are the sharpest. I don't know how it is implemented in the Fujis Firmware 3.xx but I have that in the Pentax and I find it very convenient. It is a bit different than both a RF or a focusing screen but once you get used I find it to be at least as quick if not quicker.
GLF
GLF
B-9
Devin Bro
Black X100 is 850$ used, best price I could find.
Chrome X100 is 600$ used, best price I could find.
Black or Chrome X-E1 is 600$ NEW, best price I could find.
I do love the 35mm lens stuffed in the X100, but I have much more time and money invested in the lenses I have hunted down.
For me, now, I need to utilize those prior investments.
My main reason for wanting digital images, is simple, Im spending way to much of my time searching for my favourite films, Im also spending ALOT more money for them. I will never stop shooting film, but the price of the X-E1 is very close to what I spend per Michigan season, shooting, developing, and maintaining equipment. If I can supplement even a quarter of my shooting with the XE-1, it will pay for itself before the new year.
Another perk, for me, is the ability to share the photo's via LCD screen or media storage device with potential clients. Meaning I dont have to tote my Moleskin portfolio all over town before a meeting. It would also be great to be able to use the images easily in emails and for sharing on the many social networks without spending a whole night in the computer lab sweet talking my Epson scanner through its painfully slow operation!
rhl-oregon
Cameras Guitars Wonders
XE1 is a very very good compromise. Don't be pre-freaked by focus peaking or EVF or any hobgoblins, in general, that the Chicken Littles of the world fear about the digital evolution of rangefinder photography values. Yes, you'll get the film-sims, yes, you'll get great jpgs, and the manual focus (a nice clicker on the left front of the body) not only is copacetic with film lenses but with the XF 35 1.4 in my use.
I chose the XE1 because I prefer to shoot without glasses (I need varifocals in the real world), and the XP1 lacked dioptrics. But many RF people prefer the optical VF option, and if your eyes are sound or you're happy to wear glasses or contacts all the time, the XP1 will feel more LikeaLeica.
I chose the XE1 because I prefer to shoot without glasses (I need varifocals in the real world), and the XP1 lacked dioptrics. But many RF people prefer the optical VF option, and if your eyes are sound or you're happy to wear glasses or contacts all the time, the XP1 will feel more LikeaLeica.
f16sunshine
Moderator
If you want to get the most out of a digital camera. Particularly one(s) as advanced as the Fuji XE/Xpro/X100(s) models.
Developing advanced skills in post production is absolutely Key.
You can shoot in Jpeg all day if you like but, you will likely be leaving some keepers on the "cutting room floor" that otherwise may have been quite usable.
The computer age sucks in a way. Many photogs wish for simpler times (some days I'm one of them).
The fact is though if you want to excel you have got to embrace the techniques available
Grab a cheap second hand Macbook air and load LR5 or Aperture on it.
You may have to trade a lens in to get it.
It will be the greatest improvement to your photography you can buy.
Not to mention your photo business if you are headed that direction.
Cheers!
GaryLH
Veteran
+1..
As good as the jpgs from the Fuji cameras.. U can really get more out of it by using raw.. Tere is much more room to work w/ to get back blown highlights or shadow detail then what u can get from jpg. In general this holds true for any camera that supports raw.
Gary
As good as the jpgs from the Fuji cameras.. U can really get more out of it by using raw.. Tere is much more room to work w/ to get back blown highlights or shadow detail then what u can get from jpg. In general this holds true for any camera that supports raw.
Gary
GaryLH
Veteran
One approach could be get the xe1 or xp1 w/o a Fuji lens initially. Buy an adapter for your legacy lenses u already own. Some folks here started this way. Save up later for the Fuji lenses u want. In the meantime, u can evaluate the camera and digital Eco-system around it w/o as big of an initial outlay.
Fwiw, the Fuji lenses are really good and can hold their own...
Gary
Fwiw, the Fuji lenses are really good and can hold their own...
Gary
B-9
Devin Bro
Im sort of realizing what its going to take to dive into this.
Im set on using my existing lenses, and so far haven't really looked much into the XF lenses. I did peek prices on KEH and BH used dept, and im sure the 18/2 is something I could afford down the road, and offers a focal length equivalent missing from my current kit. The used price was comparable to the Ultron 28/2 ive been beating around the bush on.
So far ive concluded that I dont want to sacrifice any of my regularly used lenses. Not that they are all that valuable, they have sentimental value.
I especially look forward to shooting the Canon 50/1.2 and 35/3.2 through digital eyes. Some bodies must go, Unfortunately that means my M4-2 and hopefully MD bodies, along with a few misc. items to compensate for the needed accessories.
Can I go off topic for a post or two, and ask what are my best PC options?
My budget would have to be a slim 200-300$ no preference to desktop or laptop. I understand that the programs will also be pricey? I prefer to buy items at discounts, used, refurbished, etc. what should I look for?
Thanks a bunch again, ive really been hesitant to make the jump until just recently, Im feeling its time, to make one of those life changes and take a risk.
@rhl-oregon: I wondered when you'd stop by Robert! I knew this would be right up your alley.
Im set on using my existing lenses, and so far haven't really looked much into the XF lenses. I did peek prices on KEH and BH used dept, and im sure the 18/2 is something I could afford down the road, and offers a focal length equivalent missing from my current kit. The used price was comparable to the Ultron 28/2 ive been beating around the bush on.
So far ive concluded that I dont want to sacrifice any of my regularly used lenses. Not that they are all that valuable, they have sentimental value.
I especially look forward to shooting the Canon 50/1.2 and 35/3.2 through digital eyes. Some bodies must go, Unfortunately that means my M4-2 and hopefully MD bodies, along with a few misc. items to compensate for the needed accessories.
Can I go off topic for a post or two, and ask what are my best PC options?
My budget would have to be a slim 200-300$ no preference to desktop or laptop. I understand that the programs will also be pricey? I prefer to buy items at discounts, used, refurbished, etc. what should I look for?
Thanks a bunch again, ive really been hesitant to make the jump until just recently, Im feeling its time, to make one of those life changes and take a risk.
@rhl-oregon: I wondered when you'd stop by Robert! I knew this would be right up your alley.