The Fuji X-Pro1 is another in the X-Series by Fuji that takes interchangeable lenses unlike the sister camera, the X100s which has a fixed lens. The X-Pro1 was introduced at the same time as the X100 but before the updated X100s. Many wish some of the enhancements of the X100s were included with the X-Pro1 and I have no doubt that Fuji will with the next model.
There are many great reviews of the similar, and more recent, X-E1. However, I much prefer the rangefinder window of the X-Pro1 which is absent the X-E1.
The X-Pro1has a few challenges for the photographer mostly centered around focusing. Since there is no perfect camera, not even my favorite tool, the Leica M system, the we photographers adapt with the best tool we have. The Fuji X-Pro1 is no different and the rewards are plenty.
First, let me agree with many. The Fuji XF Lenses available for the X-Series and the Zeiss of the same, are not the same quality as the Leica lenses. The materials are not as hefty, the glass is not the same, nor are the total sum of the aberrational corrections the same (note that the Leica glass comes with a 3 year warranty repairing or replacing any damage except fire or theft, which I have taken advantage of gladly). HOWEVER, the Fuji XF lenses are superb.
I have used the XF lenses long enough now that most photographic situations work in tandem with the lens design to produce superb images. Throughout here I have posted some of the images and while mists of you know my passion is black and white, the X-Pro1 produces some stunning color images in JPEG out of the camera. I love Adobe Lightroom, but I Love the challenge of taking digital images I can use straight out of the camera. It must be reminiscent of the film days when that was an only choice.
Articles on the X-Pro1
- Using Voigtlander and Leica Lenses
- Color Remains Outstanding
- Iridient Developer – Sharp as a Tack
- New Images with the 3.0 Firmware
- Dynamic Range of Clouds with the X-Pro1
- Black and White Images that Glow
- Exposures with the Fuji X-Pro1
UPDATES:
I continue to enjoy the ease of the X-Pro1 in obtaining great Out of the Camera (OOC) images. I have found, unlike the Leica cameras, I enjoy using the Electronic Viewfinder (EVF). It shows me a preview of the color intent for the image. While some indicate a lag in the movement, I keep both eyes open, so I’m able to catch the action. More importantly, it helps me compose better.
I’ve also found using the EVF allows for better battery management. I turn off the LCD display on the back and use the EVF for everything – menu items, previews and taking images.
I have also begun to use the small external flash from Fuji for fill-in in outdoor portraits. It does a spectacular job because it is easy to dial down the flash output and ‘underexpose’ the scene. More on that later… time to do some work in Lightroom…
eBook Out Soon
I have been working on an advanced photography book for the X-Pro1 (and really the other top X series bodies as they have similar usability and the same trans-sensor). This book go far beyond a simple regurgitation of the user’s manual. In fact, I have tried my best to keep from referring to the manual other than to tell you to read it.
The point of this eBook will be to use the X-Pro1 to take great shots. Composition and light will not be the focus either, but what you need to know to take advantage of existing light photography. I will be discussing the best workflow I have come up with to date both in camera and out of camera. I will not spend much time on flash photography, but will spend some time using third party lenses as well as the Fuji XF lenses.
To provide you with some background, I’ll also include some compendium information you can refer back to over time.
More will be forthcoming, but I hope to have this out in November…
Thanks for spending time here!