Fujifilm launched its mirrorless camera system five years ago with the X-Pro1, setting the tone for future X-mount cameras. Its X-Trans color filter array is more complex than models from other manufacturers, for a more organic, analog loo. The three lenses that launched with it were compact, high-quality primes, and nobody has even tried to copy its hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder.
Fans of that viewfinder have stuck with the X-Pro1, even as newer models like the X-T1 eclipsed it in terms of pure speed and autofocus performance. But if you've been holding out for a new X-Pro body, wait no longer. Today Fujifilm is unveiling the X-Pro2, which looks a lot like its predecessor on the outside, but has a spate of updates inside.
The image sensor is an all-new design. It's still an X-Trans array and an APS-C size, but the resolution has been updated to capture photos at 24-megapixel resolution. The optical finder now has a built-in diopter for adjustment to match your eyesight, and when you switch to the EVF you'll be greeted with a modern, high-resolution 2,360k-dot finder with an 85fps refresh rate.
Split-image manual focus is available using the EVF, but the new sensor and image processor allow the focus aid to be displayed in color rather than black and white. Other tweaks include a new film simulation, mimicking the monochrome Acros emulsion, and a revamped menu system. The shutter can fire at 1/8,000-second and sync at 1/250-second, with a maximum burst rate of 8fps. Video is limited to 1080p.
The body is very similar to the X-Pro1, but there are a few changes. There's a small joystick on the back to select the focus point, a welcome addition, and the ISO control is integrated into the shutter speed dial. The X-Pro2 has two memory card slots, one of which supports UHS-II media, and the body is sealed against dust and moisture.
The camera will ship next month and sell as a body only. It's priced at $1,699.95 in the U.S., and $1,899.99 in Canada.
A new X lens, which will make sports and nature photographers happy, is also launching. The Fujinon XF 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR is a sturdy, weather-sealed telezoom. It can focus to 1.75 meters, capturing objects at 1:5.3 life-size magnification, and delivers 5 stops of image stabilization. It will go on sale in February and is priced at $1,899.95 in the U.S. and $2,149.99 in Canada.
The Fujifilm X-E2 is also enjoying an update. The new X-E2S is basically the same camera, with some minor changes to the grip and cosmetic design. But the firmware has been updated to bring its performance and functionality up to the same standards as the X-T10. The new firmware will be a free update for X-E2 owners.
The X-E2S is also shipping in February. It's priced at $699.95 as a body only and at $999.95 as a kit with the
It's not all about interchangeable lenses. Fuji has two new fixed-lens compact models. The X70 features a 16-megapixel APS-C X-Trans II image sensor and an 18.5mm F2.8 prime lens—delivering a field of view that's equivalent to a 28mm prime on a full-frame camera.
If that sounds like the cult-favorite Ricoh GR II, it's because it is. But even though they share a similar lens, the cameras handle differently. The X70 is a little bulkier all around than the GR II. The lens extends a bit further out of the body—but it does have a physical control ring—as does the rear LCD, which is mounted on a hinge and can face forward for selfies.
The autofocus system is speedy, with 49 selectable points and an automatic mode that can select from 77 points. The body features a physical shutter speed dial, as well as an EV compensation dial, and includes a built-in Wi-Fi. There's no EVF, but an optical finder is available, as is a wide-angle 21mm conversion lens.
The X70 is also shipping in February. It's priced at $699.95 in the U.S. and $899.99 in Canada.
Finally, Fujifilm has a new underwater compact camera. The FinePix XP90 is waterproof to 50 feet and shockproof to 5.8 feet. It features a 28-140mm (5x) optical zoom lens, a 3-inch rear LCD, and built-in Wi-Fi. Like the other cameras it ships in February. The price is $229.95 in the U.S., and only $10 more in Canada.