FUJIFILM X-PRO1
The very first time I picked up the retro-styled camera, my analogue photographer’s brain kicked in and my thumb went looking for the (non-existent) film advance lever. The combination of tactile materials, heft and manual setting dials will appeal to those who, like me, cut their teeth on analogue equipment. The physical set-up and a logical software menu layout make it so intuitive that I never once needed to refer to the instruction manual.
The system consists of a range of fast prime and zoom lenses and accessories such as M-mount adaptors are being released intermittently. They’re a pleasure to carry and performance is exceptional – the system trounces any DSLR for street- or documentary-style photography.
The camera performs beautifully, the autofocus is accurate and the 16-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor delivers incredibly clean and crisp image files even at high ISOs. While there were performance issues initially, Fuji is to be highly commended for quick and effective releases of firmware updates to quash buyer dissonance. Which, considering the premium pricing, should be expected.
In short, the Fujifilm X-Pro1 looks über-cool and, more importantly, performs beautifully. It’s hands down the best camera currently available for travel photographers.
Costs R25 999 for the body with 35 mm f1.4 lens kit from Foto First retail stores.
