FUJIFILM X-T2 Launched
Available this fall starting at $1,600.00
At a swanky party in New York City tonight, FUJIFILM will present the X-T2 to the media. We’ll get our hands on the camera later this month at a West Coast version of the event, here in Seattle. For now, the headline from FUJIFILM is…
X-T2, THE ULTIMATE MIRRORLESS CAMERA WITH NEW AUTOFOCUS SYSTEM AND 4K VIDEO SHOOTING
Having shot a few remarkable frames with the X-Pro2, expect the X-T2 to produce the same results in a tough, weather-sealed body that seems aimed right at Sony’s mirrorless offerings. Is it the ultimate mirrorless camera? We’ll find out soon enough when we take it with us on a ride. Where FUJIFILM cameras really shine is their onboard JPEG processing. Looking at the extensive specs, the two cameras are very similar, with the X-T2 styled like a traditional DSLR (viewfinder in the middle of the body) and the X-Pro2 has an off-axis viewfinder, a “rangefinder.”
Speaking of the specs, the X-T2 houses the latest generation 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III with an APS-C sensor with no low-pass filter, boasting the highest performance in the history of X Series. Expect it to produce crisp images in a compact and classically-designed body.
And for the first time in a FUJIFILM camera, the X-T2 supports 4K video recording that can use each available Film Simulation mode, including ACROS, to easily produce the premium-quality footage photographers expect from FUJIFILM.
The X-T2 also includes a dramatically improved autofocus system (AF) that increases the overall single AF points to 325, and the number of Zone focusing points to 91 (expanded from 49 in previous models). Approximately 40% of the imaging area (center area containing 49 focusing points) is covered with phase detection auto focus pixels to form an expected fast and precise phase detection autofocus area that can be used in a variety of scenes.
That’s a powerhouse of a focuser capturing images with a high-speed X-Processor Pro. Speed has been boosted throughout every function of the camera, with faster boot, and read/write times.
The X-T2’s electronic viewfinder, which can 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 the display time lag of 0.005 seconds. Viewfinder blackout, as the camera writes to the SD card, has been reduced by 1/2, so photographers shouldn’t miss a shot while tracking a moving subject.
Ergonomic Body and Grip
Made of magnesium alloy, the X-T2’s compact body has a solid feel and is highly durable (dropped an X-Pro2 once, so this is true). Weather-proofed at 63 points to achieve a high level of resistance to dust and moisture, and capable of operate in temperatures down to 14°F, FUJIFILM insists the camera is ready for full-fledged field photography. The new Vertical Power Booster Grip is just as rugged and offers more battery life for all-day shoots.
FUJIFILM X-T2 Key Features:
- 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III Sensor
- Dust and moisture-resistant body with approximately 63 points of weather sealing; Freeze resistance to 14°F
- X-Processor Pro
- High-precision 0.48-inch, 2.36 million dot OLED viewfinder
- Full 4K 3840x2160 30P/25P/24P shooting (Using a card with the UHS Speed Class 3 or higher)
- Four different display modes: Full, Normal, Dual and Vertical
- Tempered glass 1.04 million dot high-precision 3” tilting LCD monitor
- Digital Split Image and Focus Highlight Peaking
- Wi-Fi and remote camera operation
- ISO200–6400, extended ISO 100, 12800, 25600, Auto(maximum ISO setting from ISO 400 — ISO6400 available) with High ISO 51200 setting
- Lens Modulation Optimizer technology maximizes each lens’ performance
- In-camera RAW converter
- Die-cast magnesium body provides a sturdy and durable, while compact and lightweight design
- Two command dials and six Function buttons for instant control and customization
- Interval timer shooting for Time Lapse
- Advanced filters and Film Simulations, including ACROS
In our ongoing quest to take better photos with less weight, the X-T2 on paper looks like it’ll deliver what FUJIFILM is best known for: outstanding image quality. Once we shoot with the X-T2, we’ll share more of our thoughts, and sample photos. Will it replace what’s in our bike bags now from Sony? We’ll let you know that too.
