You had me at 4K/60p 4:2:2 10-Bit!
Wowsers! Now this I like. I love the Fujifilm X range of cameras for their simplicity, stunning retro design and overall quality and the new Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless is no exception.
If I am being honest, if someone put a gun to my head and said choose either the:
I would more than likely go for the Fujifilm X-T3. What's not to like?
When you take away all the bells and whistles that generally distract us from the core of a camera these days, this thing is beautiful. By "core", I mean ease of use, image quality, speed, tactility (how it feels in the hand), usability, connectivity and accessory possibilities.
Sure, many companies are adding some amazing tech to their cameras but I for one have found I rarely use them. When I bought the superb Panasonic GH5, I was excited about many things it offered. However, in reality and in real-time, commercial shooting, I now forget they are even there.
There is nothing nicer than going out shooting with a camera that you simply love the look and feel of. A camera that makes you want to go out and play. I think the Fujifilm X-T3 is that camera.
Beautiful.
Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Main Features
Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless "Disappointments"
The lack of IBIS in this day and age is a shame, after all, the X-H1 has it. Nevertheless, and as handy as it is, it is not really a biggie. Especially when there are so many DSLR/Mirrorless camera 3-axis stabilisers coming to market these days. I personally own 5.
Needing to buy the additional power pack for longer shoots (or carry a ton of batteries) is a shame. It bumps the price up and means more to carry.
Lack of full frame is only really a disappointment with regards to bokeh and noise. Other than that, three things isn't much to be sad about now is it : )
For Photographers
I can see why so many pro and serious amateur photographers go for the Fuji X range. They are beautiful cameras, produce stunning images and from what I hear, Fuji have a great customer service. Fujifilm are still quite underrated in many people's eyes.
Maybe not so any more.
The larger sensor and much faster processor are going to improve the functionality and quality of stills from this camera immensely. 30fps "black out free" high speed continuous shooting is bonkers and will no doubt be very welcomed!
Having 100% frame coverage, 2.16m-point phase-detection autofocus is just spot on. Maybe overkill but if it works like it should, this is a fantastic improvement. Couple that with the 3.0" 1.04m-dot tilting LCD touchscreen and improved weather sealing and you have no excuse to not go out and shoot away!
Lastly, for the nostalgic togs amongst you, the new digital micro prism is a fun feature. It simulates the old school manual focussing by adding a micro prism focussing screen. Cool.
For Film-Makers
Well, well. Who'd have thunk it?
The Fujifilm X-T3 has some video features that puts to shame the new Canon EOS R, Nikon Z7 and even (especially) the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. 4K 60p. You see Canon and Nikon, its not that difficult and I am sure a firmware update is winging it's way to us right now yes?
Magic Lantern to the Rescue? Again?
Note: In fact, with regards to the 5D Mark IV, it seems that Magic Lantern are not far off "breaking" the Mark IV for some serious updates of their own...
Not only will the Fujifilm XT-3 shoot 4K in buttery smooth 60fps, it will also output 4:2:2 10-bit via HDMI. That is a first for a APS-C or larger sensor mirrorless camera. Without the need for an external recorder, you can still record internally to the SD card at 4K 60p 4:2:0 in 10-bit so still pretty cool.
Fujifilm have also reduced the rolling shutter problem. Rolling shutter is BAD BAD BAD on the 5D Mark IV and many other cameras right now so this is good news.
Add in:
...and you have a very nice and very capable video camera. Check out this trailer filmed entirely on the Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless:
More
The additional features like two memory card slots, Bluetooth and WIFI connectivity, USB-C (USB 3.1) for faster tethering are all great for stills and video shooters.
All in all, I can see Fujifilm shooters grabbing one of these as well as many other serious photographers and film-makers. If I was rich, I'd get one. If the upcoming Panasonic full frame mirrorless camera doesn't float my boat, you never know...
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