Out with the old. In with the old.
On paper the Fujifilm Finepix X100 has an incredible feature list:
- Large 12.3MP APS-C Size CMOS Sensor
- FUJINON 23mm (35mm equivalent) Single Focal Length Fixed F2 Lens
- Switchable Optical/Electronic Viewfinder
- 2.8″ LCD Monitor W/460K-Dot Resolution
- JPEG + RAW (Process In-Camera)
- 100-12800 ISO Capabilities
- HD 720p Video W/Stereo Sound
- Classic Design Magnesium Alloy Body
- High Speed Contrast Autofocus
- Built-In Flash–Compatible W/Optional EF-20 & EF-42 Shoe-Mount Flashes
That’s all impressive, for words on paper. But I have to admit, the real magic happened when I finally got my hands on its perfectly weighted die-cast body. I haven’t shot film for years now so it was amusing that when I picked the X100 up for the first time, I (my thumb) instinctively tried to advance the film. Of course there is no lever but it clearly feels like there should be one. It’s that kind of camera.
Almost there
I’d researched it before getting the test unit and was initially concerned I’d be disappointed because users have reported software quirks since its release. I am incredibly happy (and relieved) to report most of these have been effectively addressed through firmware updates. I did find one or two things still needing attention – it sometimes takes a little too long to wake from sleep and the command dial is fiddly for my fat, errant thumb. The former may very well be fixed in an update by the time you read this and the latter just takes getting used to.
Way above expectations
The X100 RAW files are vibrant with really incredible detail between high- and low-lights and the high ISO performance, astounding up to 3#200. The lens is sharp and the viewfinder bright. Its manual controls hark back to an age of Rangefinders not long since lost. It’s perfectly proportioned to carry everywhere and because of the high quality output I didn’t suffer that guilty feeling that compromise breeds when taking a compact camera instead of the DSLR.
Should you buy one?
Yes. It’s a stellar product and I want one myself, not only because it’s a heart-achingly beautiful piece of photographic gear but it’s one that makes me want to shoot for pleasure again.
R13#495 from Orms Direct
