Fujifilm’s latest interchangeable lens camera, the X-T2, will be available in September 2016 for $2,499, and is set to become the next flagship model for the X Series range with a focus on portraiture, nature and sports photography.
The X-T2 video function is now able to support 4K video recording for the first time on an X Series camera. The X-T2 also supports high video bitrate recording of 100Mbps for both 4K and full HD video, enabling high resolution footage with minimal compression artifacts.
Film Simulation — which includes ACROS mode — has further evolved to capture textures complete with a three-dimensional feel, as well as the atmosphere surrounding it. The nine different Film Simulation modes can also be applied to video recording.
It supports Clean HDMI output for 4K video recording and also offers the “F-log” log-gamma option, which takes advantage of the sensor’s wide dynamic range to record video in wide colour gamut. There’s a start-up time of 0.3 seconds, shooting interval of 0.17 seconds and shutter release time lag of 0.045 seconds. The number of focusing points has been expanded from 49 in previous models to 91 (up to 325 points). Approximately 40 per cent of the imaging area (centre area containing 49 focusing points) is covered with phase detection AF pixels.
The high-speed processing power and enhanced algorithms has significantly improved the basic autofocus performance, improving the focusing performance on points of light, low-contrast objects and subjects with fine and delicate textures, such as bird feathers and animal fur. The X-T2 also features AF-C Custom Settings for even higher accuracy in focus-tracking moving subjects. You can customise settings to optimise AF characteristics according to the type of subject movements.
The electronic viewfinder, which is used to continuously track a moving subject, is capable of displaying up to 100 frames per second, while also maintaining the magnification ratio of 0.77x and a display time lag of 0.005 seconds. The duration of the viewfinder blackout — where the live view display blacks out temporarily while the camera reads picture data — has been reduced by more than half, enabling up to 5fps during continuous shooting in the Live View mode.
Weighing 507 grams (including memory card and battery), the X-T2 has a magnesium alloy body that is dust resistant, water resistant and capable of operating at temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. The use of the APS-C sized sensor means the camera body can mount more compact and lightweight lenses, and the optional weather resistant Vertical Power Booster Grip allows you to shoot up to approximately 1,000 frames per charge.
Basic settings — including including the shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, exposure compensation, drive modes and metering modes — are selected via a mechanical dial. The settings can also be adjusted when the camera is turned off. The rear panel of the camera body features the Focus Lever which can be moved up/down, right/left and diagonally.
In response to requests from professional photographers, Fujifilm says, the X-T2 comes with dual SD card slots, both supporting UHS-2 for faster write speed. The two slots can be set up for “Sequential,” “Backup,” “RAW / JPG” for recording RAW data in Slot 1 and JPEG data in Slot 2, as well as “Video Destination.”
The rear LCD screen is the first three-direction tilting display in the X Series range. It can tilt up and down when shooting in landscape, and upward when shooting in portrait. The screen remains positioned on the optical axis of the lens even when tilted, facilitating easy high-angle and low-angle shooting. When not tilted, it fits flush to the body.
The FujinonRed Badge zooms — XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR, XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR and XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR — all fit on the X-T2. When you add the optional Vertical Power Booster Grip to the body it provides a more comfortable grip, as well as additional features for the entire system such as higher-speed AF and faster continuous shooting.
You can install the Tether Shooting Plug-in for Adobe Photoshop Lightroom / Tether Shooting Plug-in Pro for Adobe Photoshop Lightroom to tether the X-T2 to a Mac or Windows computer for remote shooting. Photographers can automatically transfer and save images on a computer, and shoot while checking Live View images (Pro version only) to accommodate the workflow of professional photographers.
You can download the free “Fujifilm Camera Remote” app onto your smartphone or tablet device and use the Wireless Communication function to transfer photos and videos to the device with easy one-touch operation, or browse photos and videos in the camera from the device to select and download specific images, without having to enter an ID or password. The app also allows the X-T2 to download location information from your device and attach it to images.
The “Remote Control” function on the app enables wireless operation of the X-T2’s shutter, exposure, etc. from your smartphone or tablet device. The Remote Control function allows you to not only handle basic operations such as Touch AF and Shutter Speed selection, but also adjust a diverse range of shooting settings or even record video remotely. It makes it easy to compose and take a photo from a remote location when shooting a group photo, self-portrait or even wildlife in its natural environment.
Accessories include lithium-ion battery, battery charger, shoulder strap, body cap, metal strap clip, protective cover, clip attaching tool, hot shoe cover, sync terminal cover, owner’s manual and warranty documents.
Optional accessories are also available.
The recommended retail price for the Fujifilm X-T2 (body only) is $2,499. It is expected to be available in Australia in early September 2016.