Fuji X-Pro 2 Launched
After months of rumours and speculation the long awaited X-Pro II from Fujifilm has finally launched, and from the looks of it, it was worth the wait. While the new model looks very similar to the original one, there are lots of changes. The most obvious of course is the new 24mp X-Trans 3 sensor. Aside from that headline feature, there are lots of other improvements, and true to its name sake, the camera oozes "Pro".
Ever since the original X-Pro 1 came out, Fuji have been using a variation of the same 16mp sensor, and this is the first time the line has seen a new chip design, so it will be interesting to see how it performs. I wish I was one of those lucky few who got to try out a prototype of the x-pro 2 but unfortunately I'm not high enough on the hierarchy of people who matter! Anyway, as I can't offer any first hand experience (yet) I'm instead going to offer some thoughts on some of the key features that I like, and also share some links to those lucky few who've been trying it out.
First up, for a great hands on preview, check out this first impressions review from fellow Irish Photographer, David Cleland. David's been following the X-Series since the beginning and always offers great insights, along with some wonderful photography of the very scenic landscape of Northern Ireland
New Features of the X-Pro2
There are lots of new features on the X-Pro 2, and I'm not going to go into them all, but here are a few that have caught my eye:
- The new sensor. Obviously this is the big one. While some may argue that increased resolution isn't that important, in my experience it actually does make a difference. I'm curious to see how Fuji's X-Trans colour array performs at a higher resolution. I'm also interested to see if there is an improvements in dynamic range.
- Dual SD card slots. This is a big one for professionals. I'm glad to see Fuji sees the need for this, and also that they managed to squeeze it in!
- Improved OVF, EVF and Screen. I'll withhold judgement on this till I see them in person, but these are welcome improvements. I didn't really a have a huge problem with the screen on the X-Pro one, but I always found the EVF part of the hybrid viewfinder a little hard to see in any kind of bright light. From what those who have used it are saying it seems to be much improved.
- Speed and Performance. The one thing that annoyed me greatly about the original camera was the speed. Everything was slow, from accessing menus to taking a picture. It was one of the main reasons I sold my original X-Pro 1. While it had improved through firmware updates, it's good to see that speed and operational performance seem to have taken centre stage with this release. According to some of the previews, it's dramatically better, so I'm looking forward to that
- Acros film simulation mode. A new film simulation mode designed to match Fuji's legendary black and white film.
Here's another hands on with the X-Pro2 from photographer Kevin Mullinswho puts it through its paces in a wedding scenario
Links
Here are some links where you can find out more about the new Fuji camera.
- Coverage at Fuji Rumors
- Official X-Pro 2 Site from Fuji (UK version)
- Official Full Res sample images
- Video interview with Peter Bridgewood
- X-Pro II round up from the age Collective
- A collection of posts on the X-Pro 2 from Patrick LaRoque (one of my favourite X photographers)
Here's one more, a Hands on Field Test from the Camera Store TV
I'll add more links that are interesting as I find them.
Pre-order the X-Pro II
You can pre-order the X-Pro 2 now from B&H Photo
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