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Fujifilm X-S1 12MP Black Digital Camera with Fujinon F2.8 to F5.6 Telephoto Lens
Brand | Fujifilm |
Model Name | Fujifilm X-S1 |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | 2/3-inch |
Image Stabilization | Optical |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Metering Description | Multi, Average, Spot |
Exposure Control Type | programmed ae, Manual, shutter priority |
Form Factor | SLR-like (bridge) |
About this item
- 2/3 inches - 12MP EXR CMOS Sensor
- High Quality Fujinon 26x Manual Optical Zoom Lens
- Large High Performance EVF
- 3.0 inches Tilting LCD
- All-Metal Dials
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Purchased this on black friday last year, had it sitting in the closet never opened or used it.. BRAND NEW!
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Customer Ratings | ||||||
Auto focus | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.4 | — |
Zoom | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.2 | 4.5 | — |
Image stabilization | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 4.6 | — |
Sold By | — | 6ave | Focus Camera LLC | Digital Village | Amazon.com | Adorama |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | OLED |
display size | 3 inches | — | 3 inches | 3 inches | — | 3 inches |
lens type | Zoom, Telephoto, Wide Angle | Zoom | Telephoto, Wide Angle | Zoom | Telephoto | Zoom |
zoom type | Optical Zoom, Digital Zoom | — | — | — | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom |
shooting modes | Panorama, Program | Movie | Automatic, Movie, Panorama | — | Bulb Mode,Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority | Sports |
connectivity tech | HDMI, USB | USB | USB | Wi-Fi | HDMI, Bluetooth, USB | Wi-Fi, USB |
video resolution | FHD 1080p | 2160p | 4K UHD 2160p | 4K UHD 2160p | 4K UHD 2160p | 2160p |
optical zoom | 26 multiplier x | 24 multiplier x | 24 multiplier x | 24 multiplier x | 16 multiplier x | 24 multiplier x |
What's in the box
Product Description
Product Description
Fujifilm X-S1
From the Manufacturer
The FUJIFILM X-S1 is a premium, high performance DSLR-styled long-zoom camera, built with careful craftsmanship for the sophisticated consumer and enthusiast photographer who are looking for maximum photographic performance – and true picture quality – with a versatile long-zoom lens housed in a durable, lightweight body.
The all-new FUJIFILM X-S1, made in Japan, is the latest addition to the premium FUJIFILM X-series that includes the X100 and X10. The X-S1 features a large 2/3” 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor and a newly-developed, bright all glass and high-definition FUJINON F2.8 Wide-Angle to F5.6 telephoto lens with an ultra-smooth 26x manual zoom (24-624mm). The FUJINON lens consists of 17 glass lens elements in 12 groups, to offer amazing clarity and high resolution through the entire image. The new FUJINON lens has a metal cam design that delivers smooth, precise zoom control, and an O-ring that is injected with a specially blended grease similar to what is found in high definition broadcast television lenses.
The X-S1 is the ideal “all-in-one” camera because it offers all of the benefits of a DSLR system in a single camera and lens body. The X-S1 is designed to exceed expectations in all photographic situations, and is especially well-suited for nature photography thanks to its impressive wide angle, long zoom and super macro capabilities all from a single lens.
The EXR processor delivers an extremely fast auto focus while minimizing shutter lag and supports high speed continuous shooting of approximately 7 frames per second (fps) at full resolution. The premium long zoom X-S1 has a wide, 1.4 million dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) that is exceptionally bright and clear, and it includes a heads-up sensor that automatically switches between the viewfinder and the LCD screen when the camera is raised to the user’s eye to compose an image. The viewfinder uses two glass lenses and one non-spherical lens to capture realistic lighting and display true-to-life images. The X-S1 has a large 3.0” titling LCD display with a Monitor Sunlight Mode that allows users to review their images in bright sunlight.
The well-balanced X-S1 also features an enhanced, full-body, rubberized grain texture coating that adds superior grip, a hot shoe mount to add additional accessories, full 1080p HD movie capture and milled mode and adjustment dials for exceptional feel and functionality.
The FUJIFILM X-S1 features Fujifilm’s Intelligent Digital Zoom which effectively doubles the telephoto capabilities and provides up to an amazing 52x total zoom, and a Super Macro Mode that captures images as close as 1cm.
Fujifilm X-S1 Highlights
Images Worthy of the X-Series Designation
The FUJIFILM X-S1 features the same large 2/3-inch 12MP EXR-CMOS sensor as the FUJIFILM X10 to ensure high quality images regardless of the lighting conditions. The unique EXR- CMOS technology, pioneered by Fujifilm, allows the user to switch between three modes depending on the lighting conditions – or leave the camera to make its own choice in the EXR Auto Mode.
Switching between the modes changes the performance of the sensor. The High Resolution option is perfect in bright conditions or when the very best picture quality is the primary aim. Wide Dynamic Range mode can be used in scenes of high contrast when the user wants to get details in both shadow and highlight areas of an image, while the High Sensitivity & Low Noise option should be selected for optimum results in low light conditions.
Coupled to the EXR-CMOS sensor is the high speed EXR processor, which offers a minimal shutter lag of just 0.01 seconds and a high speed continuous shooting capability of 7fps at full resolution (Large JPEG) or 10fps at six megapixel resolution (Medium JPEG).
Extraordinary versatility
At the heart of the FUJIFILM X-S1 is the FUJINON 26x optical precision zoom lens that offers a focal range of 24-624mm with its bright and fast f/2.8 maximum aperture at the wide-angle zoom setting.
The X-S1 FUJINON lens delivers images with superb edge-to-edge sharpness and amazing clarity. The lens construction is of the highest standard, featuring metal cams for smooth zoom control and fast, precise framing.
The FUJIFILM X-S1 is also ideally suited for capturing subjects close up. In standard Macro mode, the zoom focuses as close as 7cm, but by selecting Super Macro Mode, users can focus as close as 1cm for frame-filling close-up images. Furthermore, the lens’ aperture is made up of nine blades for excellent "bokeh" effect photography.
Full Manual Controls for Maximum Flexibility
Photographers who prefer full manual controls will enjoy the flexibility of the X-S1 with its full range of conventional shooting functions (program/shutter-priority/ aperture- priority/manual). The extensive external controls give the more advanced photographer direct access to virtually every control they will need for uninterrupted shooting, and the specially designed chassis includes dedicated command buttons for quick and easy key functions such as ISO, white balance, focus and metering.
The large command dial, manual focus ring, twist and zoom lens barrel, bright, clear electronic viewfinder, high quality tilting LCD screen and deep hand grip ensures the camera handles well. Additionally, the X-S1 provides four auto bracketing options, eight Film Simulation and white balance functions and Raw file shooting capabilities.
For simplicity, the X-S1 automatically assesses the subject and then selects the relevant scene mode for the perfect result, automatically switching the EXR-CMOS sensor accordingly. Not only does it determine the type of scene being photographed, it can also calculate whether an image contains a person, features backlighting or has any subject movement. ISO settings are adjusted by the Auto ISO mode, which selects the optimum setting between ISO 100 and 3200. Those after more ISO flexibility can manually select up to ISO 12800 (Small JPEG format only).
HD Movie Capture and High Speed Movies
The FUJIFILM X-S1 captures full 1080p High Definition (1920 x 1080 pixels) movie with stereo sound at 30fps, which is saved in the H.264 format profile compression for smaller file sizes without sacrificing quality. With a mini-HDMI output connector, it is easy to connect and view images on your HDTV (HDMI cable not included). Versatility is further increased thanks to the High Speed Movie options, which include capture at an incredible 320fps. With features like this, even the fastest moving subjects can be captured and watched in slow motion.
RAW / RAW+JPEG Shooting
The X-S1 has the ability to shoot both a RAW and JPEG shot simultaneously. RAW is for ultimate quality shots via post processing, JPEG is for great quality with no need for further post-production work.
Motion Panorama 360°
The FUJIFILM X-S1 delivers exquisite panoramas by allowing its sensor to extend the sweep range to 360˚ (shots can also be taken vertically). Combined with high quality Fujifilm printing, sweeping and impressive scenes can be taken, showing fine detail, low noise and high resolution at 180°, 240˚ or full 360˚ panoramic ranges.
Clear Viewing and Reviewing for Ideal Results
The FUJIFILM X-S1 offers a powerful combination of a high quality electronic viewfinder and a tilting LCD screen to ensure composing and viewing images is quick and simple, regardless of the lighting conditions.
The 0.47-inch electronic viewfinder (EVF) features 1.4 million pixel resolution for superb image clarity and has a wide viewing area of 26 degrees for better image framing. The bright EVF makes it easy to check settings or adjust focus manually.
The large, tilting 3” LCD features 460,000 pixel resolution making it easy for users to scroll through menus, assess exposure accuracy and view images. The LCD also offers a useful Sunlight mode that allows for easy viewing in even the brightest locations.
FUJIFILM X-S1 key features
- Large 2/3-inch 12 MP EXR-CMOS sensor
- High quality FUJINON 26x optical precision zoom 24-624mm (35mm equivalent) with Intelligent Digital Zoom boosting focal range up to 52x and Optical Image Stabilization
- Superb build quality and finish with rubberized coating and metal dials
- Up to 10fps continuous shooting
- Large tilting 3” 460,000 pixel resolution LCD screen with Sunlight mode
- Large EVF with 1.4 million pixel resolution and 26 degree viewing angle
- Full 1080p HD movie with stereo sound
- Super Macro focusing as close as 1cm
- Raw and jpeg shooting
- Film simulation modes
- Program / Shutter-Priority / Aperture-Priority / Manual modes
- Lithium Ion rechargeable battery providing up to 500 shots per charge
- 360° Motion Panorama mode
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Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Center, Tracking, Multi-area, Single, Continuous, Live View, Contrast Detection |
---|---|
Display Resolution Maximum | 460,000 |
Photo Sensor Size | 2/3-inch |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Effective Still Resolution | 12 |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12 MP |
White balance settings | Auto |
Self Timer Duration | 10 seconds |
JPEG quality level | Fine |
Image Stabilization | Optical |
Video Capture Format | AVC |
Video Capture Resolution | FHD 1080p |
Video Standard | MPEG-4 |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 3200 |
---|---|
Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Exposure Control Type | programmed ae, Manual, shutter priority |
Metering Description | Multi, Average, Spot |
Shooting Modes | Program, Panorama |
Model Name | Fujifilm X-S1 |
---|---|
Brand | Fujifilm |
Model Number | 16199188 |
Customer Reviews |
4.1 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #640,680 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #1,621 in DSLR Cameras |
ASIN | B006T7QRN2 |
Color | Black |
Included Components | Battery, HDMI Cable, Instruction Manual |
Specification Met | No |
Assembly Required | No |
Processor Description | EXR |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.31 x 5.87 x 4.21 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 2 Pounds |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Lens Type | Zoom, Telephoto, Wide Angle |
---|---|
Aperture Modes | F5.6 |
Optical Zoom | 26 x |
Digital Zoom | 2 |
Maximum Aperture | 5.6 f |
Real Angle of View | 26 Degrees |
Minimum Aperture | 2.8 f |
Zoom Type | Digital Zoom, Optical Zoom |
Autofocus Points | 49 |
Compatible Mountings | Fujifilm X |
Focus Type | Autofocus & Manual |
Maximum Focal Length | 624 Millimeters |
Minimum Focal Length | 24 Millimeters |
Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
---|---|
Screen Size | 3 Inches |
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Tilting |
Flash Memory Installed Size | 26 |
---|---|
Batteries Required? | Yes |
Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included) |
Are Batteries Included | Yes |
Rechargeable Battery Included | No |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Description | Lithium-Ion NP-95 rechargeable battery & charger |
Battery Weight | 34 Grams |
Software Included | yes |
Target Gender | Unisex |
Digital Scene Transition | zoom |
Connectivity Technology | USB, HDMI |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 10 |
Wireless Communication Technology | Yes |
Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
Memory Storage Capacity | 26 MB |
Special Feature | Travel Charger |
Skill Level | Professional |
Form Factor | SLR-like (bridge) |
Hardware Interface | HDMI, mini HDMI |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, image quality, and build quality of the digital camera. For example, they mention it looks very expensive and impressive, has a great tonal range, and shoots full HD. That said, they appreciate the value for money. As for color, they say it produces great images.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the image quality of the camera. They mention that it has a far better picture, has excellent photos, and produces images with a great tonal range. The sensor is 23 12MP EXR-CMOS sensor that produces stunningly clear and cinematic type images. The camera does really well in natural light. However, some customers feel the resolution is sufficient but the default sharpening is too much.
"...But this particular model offers lots of picture-taking and operating options, splendid construction (metal), specifications and settings options..." Read more
"...You will see that this machine can get excellent photos and they are far better than an limited point and shoot...." Read more
"...Keep in the mind our primary concern was good image quality, the ability to learn how to really use a camera and some fun factor in shooting...." Read more
"...The electronic viewfinder is bright and startlingly clear and offers adjustment for clarity...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the camera. They mention that it is an amazing, well-built camera with an excellent electronic viewfinder. The lens is sharp throughout its 24mm to 624mm range, and it looks very expensive and impressive. It is also excellent for daylight shooting, and does not miss its DSLRs at all. The build quality is also impressive, and the camera has a hot shoe. Overall, customers are happy with their purchase and recommend it to others.
"...like the automatic switching between the screen and the excellent electronic viewfinder when you place you eye up to it...." Read more
"...The camera has lots of great features and is laid out well. The viewfinder is electronic and really great...." Read more
"...This camera has all of of the high end features you'd find on a a DSLR; Program mode, Aperture and Shutter Priority, Manual Mode, AE/AF lock. etc...." Read more
"...proud to pull it out of my camera bag, it looks very expensive and impressive, no one knows it's not a DSLR unless I tell them, ha! Kind of funny...." Read more
Customers like the build quality of the camera. They say it's excellent, solid, and built like a tank. The heft is reassuring, and helps steady the aim. Overall, customers describe it as an outstanding high-quality camera.
"...model offers lots of picture-taking and operating options, splendid construction (metal), specifications and settings options too numerous to..." Read more
"...Also the quality of the build is better than most as it is an x series and we work hard for our money so it feels good to get something solid and..." Read more
"...Christmas morning when she opened the box and found such a well built piece of equipment. I also got her the book BetterPhoto Basics by Jim Miotke...." Read more
"...To me it's heft is not only reassuring, but actually helps steady my aim. I've read that the lens produces soft images at full zoom...." Read more
Customers appreciate the value of the digital camera. They say it's a very good zoom camera for the money, and well worth it.
"...Fortunately they are all relatively low-priced (and are all available here on Amazon).1. [..." Read more
"...I'm proud to pull it out of my camera bag, it looks very expensive and impressive, no one knows it's not a DSLR unless I tell them, ha!..." Read more
"...For $299 ($349 selling price-$50 gift certificate) it's a LOT of camera for the money. I definitely recommend it." Read more
"...S1 it was featured on the Amazon home page so I took a peek - the price was right, but I knew zilch about the camera and the few reviews it had...." Read more
Customers like the zoom of the digital camera. They say that it has an excellent manual zoom that is silky smooth and sharp. They also appreciate the quick zoom and the long zoom range. Customers also say that the focus rings are smooth and the range of the lens is fantastic.
"...It features a manual zoom as well as a manual focus option (along with, of course, many varied auto-focus options) and also full manual aperture and..." Read more
"...Nicer colors, IMO (subjective). The Fuji has a manual zoom lens. Much more fun and I prefer it to zooming with the rocker switch...." Read more
"...I love it that it has a manual zoom, saves battery life and I love manually zooming. I do not miss my toggle at all. The EVF is great...." Read more
"...Excellent, smooth manual zoom and focus rings. Better than any of my DSLR lenses, and I've owned some pretty pricey ones.-..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the color of the camera. They mention that the pictures look great, and are remarkably sharp. They are also pleased enough with the image quality, saying that the images zing without looking fake or doctored. Customers also appreciate the stunningly clear and cinematic type images. Overall, customers are happy with the quality and design of the product.
"...and settings options too numerous to mention here but excellent-to-superb in almost every regard, excellent ergonomics, and a wonderful lens, all of..." Read more
"...So you see you get ease, versitility, high build quality and great pictures at the expense of some image sharpness...." Read more
"...7. Last but not least, excellent image quality. Wonderful, vivid colors. We took a trip to the Zoo this weekend and took over 700 pictures...." Read more
"...I am actually very pleased with my purchase. I love the look and feel of the camera, it's a very impressive looking camera...." Read more
Customers like the performance of the digital camera. They say it works great, every function of the camera seems to work flawlessly, and it's fully capable of handling all their photography. The results have been stunning, and the advanced modes work very well. The viewfinder is bright, and there's a bright LCD screen. It works well in all kinds of lighting, although there was visible noise at 800 ISO and higher. Overall, customers are satisfied with the performance and versatility of the product.
"...Telephoto Lens and Ultra-Smooth 26x Manual Zoom (24-624mm)]] is a superb performer...." Read more
"...Every function of the camera seems to work flawlessly. The build of this camera just gives the reassurance of quality...." Read more
"...I invested in an extra battery pack. My charger works fine and I've played so much with this camera I've already taken nearly 1,500 clicks just..." Read more
"...not very good at all, and from mid-zoom range to full zoom it doesn't seem to work at all...." Read more
Customers find the digital camera easy to use. They mention that the manual is easy and quick, the menu is easy to access, and the settings are easy to set. The options are many, but they're relatively straightforward to configure to your taste. The camera is rugged, the controls are easy, and smooth to get used to.
"...producing less noise in the pictures, the superior versatility and ease of use that this Fujifilm offers..." Read more
"...It can be skittish3. Ease of use and user enjoyment.. Well it is really really a pleasure to use without a doubt...." Read more
"...The Menu is straightforward and easy to learn.It's got several bracketing modes for ISO, Exposure Values, Film Types and Dynamic Range...." Read more
"...I found the menus easy to navigate and it all made sense to me. It's really more simple than I thought it would be to figure out...." Read more
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My original review follows:
This Fujifilm X-S1 12MP EXR CMOS Digital Camera with Fuijinon F2.8 to F5.6 Telephoto Lens and Ultra-Smooth 26x Manual Zoom (24-624mm) is a superb performer. It is my first advanced super-zoom camera, something I have wanted for a long time.
Yes, it's somewhat heavy. Yes, it's complex. Yes, it requires an effort to learn to use it.
But having owned several previous digital cameras (including a Canon PowerShot G1 X 14.3 MP CMOS Digital Camera ), I found it to be quite easy to use even before I read the manual. While its menu options are many, they are relatively straightforward to configure to your taste. If you too are experienced with sophisticated digital cameras, I am sure you will find this one quite easy to master.
And, believe it or not, in addition to the PDF owner's manual, Fujifilm supplies a PRINTED owner's manual! Reading this, which I did yesterday, will answer the overwhelming majority of your questions about the camera and its use. (You can download the PDF from Fujifilm's site if you wish to read it before purchasing the camera so as to see if it is suitable for you.) Of course one reading is not sufficient; I'll be spending the next few days re-reading the manual, this time with camera in hand, so I can learn the various ins-and-outs of it. (Frankly, this will be necessary for every purchaser. If you do not wish to make this effort, then I recommend that you do not buy this model, opting instead for something simpler.) I am truly looking forward to learning the capability of this camera and enjoying the pictures I am able to take with it.
This camera has many individual buttons and knobs which means that changing settings via the menu is only rarely necessary. It features a manual zoom as well as a manual focus option (along with, of course, many varied auto-focus options) and also full manual aperture and shutter controls.
Its sensor is 2/3-inch. This is not as large as the 1.5-inch sensor in my G1 X - but imagine the size (and weight - not even to mention the price) of the lens (26x zoom ratio) which would be necessary to accommodate that size sensor. A 2/3-inch sensor is large enough to create good pictures with minimal noise (in most cases the noise will not be visible) at ISOs from 100 to, say, 400. That range is plenty for most outdoor and many indoor shots.
Even though it has a very good image stabilization [IS] circuit (it's turned on by default; you'll find its options on Page 4 of 6 in the Set-Up section of the Menu and please read below), I would not use this camera under extremely low light levels without some sort of additional lighting or, if absolutely necessary to take a picture under low light without flash, I recommend the use of a tripod and a longer exposure time - tell your subjects to be absolutely still. (Please see the paragraph below.) (In any case, you'll want to use a tripod at longer zoom settings.) The 2/3-inch sensor is larger than in some other Fujifilm Super-zoom cameras and note that a larger sensor produces less image noise (all else being equal) at higher ISO settings. However a 2/3-inch sensor is still a small one so you must keep in mind its limitations (there is no getting around the laws of physics).
Its nominal ISO range is from 100 to 12,800 - but note that ISOs over 3200 are available only with reduced image file size (less than the usual 12 MP). While I have had my camera for only two days, and have not been able to put it through all the 'hoops,' I should think that, for all practical purposes, ISO 1600 would be the absolute maximum that I should ever want to use (and even that only in an 'emergency') and I shall probably restrict my use to the aforementioned ISO 100-400. This will, of necessity, restrict its use in low light situations in which you cannot or do not want to use flash; as I mentioned above, for these kind of pictures, you'll want to use a tripod and a longer exposure time. At least for me, this is no real inconvenience.
But, all that aside, I have found three (ONLY three!) VERY minor points about which I have 'druthers':
(1) I wish the lens stopped down to f/16. It does not; its minimum aperture is f/11. But that is something I can live with. (The Panasonic FZ200, for example, stops down to only f/8. That's an absolute deal-breaker for me even though I like its constant f/2.8 maximum across the board aperture.)
(2) I wish there were some means of quickly changing the Image Stabilization settings. There are several settings, all of them useful (including 'Off'), but to change them the user must go deep into the menu. Fortunately, at least for me, I do not need to change the settings very often. (I generally leave it off or, when I want to use it, in Shooting + Motion [that uses less battery power than Continuous].)
(3) I wish there were some sort of cover for the LCD screen. As it is, it will ALWAYS get smeared. I have ordered one of the screen protectors from Amazon but even that is just a partial remedy. (Does anyone make a snap-on plastic cover for the screen?)
But the screen itself and its tilting mount is a model of good design. I would not buy a camera which did not have some sort of adjustable-position LCD screen and this one is one of the best I have seen. I especially like the automatic switching between the screen and the excellent electronic viewfinder when you place you eye up to it. (You can also set your LCD screen/Electronic viewfinder preferences manually.)
I should mention something interesting about the lens - it has filter threads engraved in it (this is my first compact digital camera which has that feature though I know that there are some others). It takes 62mm filters directly WITHOUT the necessity of putting on a filter adapter first. I wish ALL cameras had this feature. I have ordered a Skylight filter; I always keep one of these mounted on my cameras to protect the lens. Replacing a damaged filter is cheap; replacing a damaged lens is horribly expensive if it is even possible at all. I have also ordered a few additional filters (star, polarizer, etc.) which I like to employ from time to time.
Some reviewers have stated that it takes a relatively long time to 'boot up' - not my camera (with a 33Axxxxx serial number, ordered from Amazon on November 14, 2013 and received the next day - thank you Amazon!). Mine is ready to take a picture in LESS than two seconds (I clocked it).
The few pictures I have taken with it so far (both manually and automatically) have all turned out fine, as would be expected. When I have truly learned how to operate this camera to maximum advantage, I am sure that my pictures will turn out even better.
Of course there is no "one-camera" which is the best at everything. That's why many people, including myself, have more than one. But this particular model offers lots of picture-taking and operating options, splendid construction (metal), specifications and settings options too numerous to mention here but excellent-to-superb in almost every regard, excellent ergonomics, and a wonderful lens, all of which equal a superb camera. Plus, at its current price here on Amazon, it is, in my opinion, a true bargain. Furthermore, again in my opinion, it could easily be someone's only camera.
Please remember that, as I stated above, you should READ THE OWNER'S MANUAL. It will contain the answers to the overwhelming majority of your questions about the camera and its use.
I really like this Fujifilm camera and I think that you will too. I highly recommend it.
And I thank you for reading this review. I hope that the information and opinions I have written have been of some help to you.
Lawrence H. Bulk
==========
Update: November 19, 2013
Do you enjoy taking black-and-white photos as I do? Most digital cameras, in my experience, offer a sepia as well as a black-and-white setting. But the Fujifilm X-S1 has a monochrome feature I have not seen before: the usual sepia setting of course but also FOUR (4) black-and-white settings. The first is the regular b&w setting found on all cameras but the other three have color filter simulations: a red filter, a green filter, and a yellow filter.
And they work!
For those unfamiliar with the use of color filters in conjunction with black-and-white film here is a quick "short course:"
The red filter passes red but blocks blue. Thus the sky will appear very dark and clouds will stand out in sharp relief. (But you do not want to use this filter if you have people in the picture and they are close to you. Their skin tones will be unnatural-looking.) Foliage is also darkened.
Green allows foliage to be highlighted as it passes the green color; it is excellent for landscapes and seascapes. And yellow is a balance between the two other color filters and is suitable for taking pictures with people in it.
You ought to see the test picture I took yesterday which included the sky which had lots of fluffy clouds. I used the b&w red filter setting. The photo came out beautifully with deep gray sky and sharp white clouds. I was planning to order 62mm color filters (none of my previous cameras had this size filter) but now it is unnecessary. When my circular polarizer filter arrives I am planning to use that in conjunction with the color filter equivalents in the camera. Landscape and seascape pictures should be as stunning as they were back in the film days using Kodak Plus-X and occasionally Tri-X when using color filters (at least I hope they turn out that way). (A polarizer is very useful in outdoor color photography: it can make the sky appear a deep blue with white clouds highlighted and it doesn't affect any other aspect of the picture.)
I had occasion to speak with someone at Fujifilm yesterday (on another subject) and I mentioned this feature. The representative stated that this was the first Fujifilm camera to have these color filter equivalents incorporated. I assume that many future Fujifilm cameras will also have them.
I do not know if other brands also have these built-in filters but if you like b&w photography, even just on rare occasions, this feature is amazing and well-worth having.
I do not like to use "post-processing" to achieve effects, much preferring to create my pictures "in-camera." In my opinion (my opinion only), much post-processing introduces artificial looks which can almost always be seen. This camera allows varied effects in b&w which had formerly been available to me only with the use of physical color filters. This is much more convenient.
I would like to have a Leica M Monochrome (Black & White Photos ONLY) but I'll have to wait until I win the lottery really, really big before I can buy one. (I believe, though I do not know for sure, that this Leica would require the use of physical color filters for b&w effects.) Until that time, this new Fujifilm X-S1 12MP EXR CMOS Digital Camera with Fuijinon F2.8 to F5.6 Telephoto Lens and Ultra-Smooth 26x Manual Zoom (24-624mm) will MORE than suffice!
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Update: December 22, 2013
I have bought a few accessories; I personally regard them as essential (but of course that's an individual choice). Fortunately they are all relatively low-priced (and are all available here on Amazon).
1. SanDisk Extreme 16 GB SDHC Class 10 UHS-1 Flash Memory Card 45MB/s SDSDX-016G-AFFP (two of these)
2. STK's Fuji NP-95 Battery - 2000 mAH for Fujifilm Finepix X100S, X100, F30, X-S1, F31fd, Real 3D W1, NP-95, BC-65 (two of these)
3. STK's Fuji NP-95 Battery Charger - for Fujifilm Finepix X100S, X100, F30, X-S1, F31fd, Real 3D W1, NP-95, BC-65 (two of these)
4. Hoya 62mm (HMC UV / Circular Polarizer / ND8) 3 Digital Filter Set with Pouch
5. Hoya 62mm Star 6 Filter
6. Hot Shoe Cap Cover for Panasonic , Nikon , Fuji & Canon Digital SLR Cameras
7. 6 x MEXXPROTECT Ultra-Clear Screen Protector for FujiFilm FinePix X-S1, 6 Protective Films, 100% fits, Display Protection Film
and finally
8. Navitech Camera Bag Case/ Cover/ Sleeve For The Fuji film X-S1, Fuji film FinePix HS30EXR, Fuji film FinePix HS25EXR, Panasonic Lumix G DMC-GH3, Panasonic Lumix G DMC-GH2, Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 (perfect for this camera).
All of these accessories, ordered between November 15 and December 9, 2013, have arrived. All are of excellent quality and will greatly enhance the usefulness/protection of this camera. I highly recommend all of them to you in conjunction with this Fujifilm X-S1 digital camera.
And I'll say again: I cannot recommend this camera too highly. It is a superb instrument, one which can be used easily by a novice (and that person will be amazed at the quality of the photographs he or she can obtain with it) yet can be enjoyed with pleasure even by the most advanced photographers.
I have had it a couple of weeks and used it under a good many situations to get a feel for it. I really like it. But let me get right to the "negatives". But please understand that all cameras are trade offs of one thing for another. There are far more positives than negatives.
1. Image quality.. People have a strange idea of what image quality is and they toss the term around. I think a lot of people who have knocked the image quality and said it is no better than an average point and shoot have not explored all the settings because it is far more than point and shoot image quality. There is a lot you can change in terms of setting and how you shoot. So it is possible to get great images and they are far more than point and shoot images. The images could be sharper under some circumstances but in others it is really good. The thing is that for the most part the average person is not going to notice the difference. The image quality issue is VERY dependent on the circumstances. The macro is excellent. Portrait is good and acceptable but a G 12 would do better. Outdoor is just fine even with lower light and even at 600mm zoom I was pleasently suprised. Also there are different modes and image quality will be effected by those. But IF you really want to pick... the lens could be sharper BUT the sharpness will not be an issue for most people and it would not be noticed until you blow up a picture. Funny how people that don't shoot much and cannot compose often will get hung up on stats. For the average person looking for nice pictures with advanced possibilities sharpness in this camera is not something to get hung up on. A person should be improving other factors in their photography and not obsessing over pixels in situations where you would forget about them anyway.
2. Autofocus. This could be better and snappier. It works but it is not up to the standard of the camera. It can be skittish
3. Ease of use and user enjoyment.. Well it is really really a pleasure to use without a doubt. It has many preset programs in it that could really help a person get nice picture especially if that person is looking for better than point and shoot pictures but does not want to fumble with an SLR or lenses. It bothers me to see people with disposible income and these expensive SLRS waltzing around snapping without a clue. They would be better with this. Hey, if you really have the skills to negotiate and manipulate an SLR in a very versitile way then that is a good thing but IF you want to drop the ego and don't care about impressing anyone when you are not a highly skilled photographer you are better with this. Yeah this camera is a pleasure to use and so versitile. It will accomadate most all situations on a family trip or day of taking photos of animals or whatever...
The camera has lots of great features and is laid out well. The viewfinder is electronic and really great. The LED screen is sharp enough and great.
Here is the bottom line. On one hand you have SLRs. We all know that their images are great. But lets take the average person what wants better than average pictures and wants to be creative. They may not want to take the kids to the park or the zoo with an SLR and a bunch of lenses. They may not want to be changing lenses. The reality is that if all they are going to do is snap then get a regular and save some money. If the snapper is wanting sharper images and has money get a G 15 or something. Or take an SLR with a 50mm lens. But let's take the person that takes the family on a trip. They go to the zoo. Well they want to snap the kids in front of a zebra. But then they want a close up of an animal in the distance. Then they see a flower and want a really nice macro. Then they want to do a portrait. Then this and then that at different lightings and distances. This camera will do that. Then it gets to be the end of the day and lighting is getting lower but you see a seagul in the distance and you want a zoom at 620mm. Well this camera will pull that off fairly well. So it is very versitile. Yes, you will suffer some image sharpness under many circumstances but as I have said most of the time that is a non issue and will not be perceived. To overcome that on your trip you need an SLR or smaller version of one with all the lenses. It is your choice.
I would say that for a person that wants more than a point and shoot but does not want to go to SLR with all the hassels and benefits then this is a great thing. A person that has become desireous to expand beyond their point and shoot and get infinately better pictures and opportunities will like it. A kids birtday party, trip to the zoo, vacation or.. You see some kind of bird on your lawn and want a real close picture. Well you won't get it with the average point and shoot and with an SLR the bird may be gone by the time you change lenses.
So you see you get ease, versitility, high build quality and great pictures at the expense of some image sharpness. Image sharpness that many times will not be dectected. In fact most of the time. And please remember that IF you wanted a 620mm lens in an SLR what it would cost. You see balancing a superzoom lens with a macro at a cost a family can afford is not an easy thing to do. I think people forget that. This lens goes from super macro to superzoom and all points in between. You are going to have to comprimise somewhere. I mean it is like that in life. A general surgeon may be just fine for the operation but the specialty surgeon will do the job a bit better. But the question is that in the operation is the difference important? Many times no. Sometimes yes..
Lastly.. Everyone has an opinion. Many times their opinions are based on some obsessive notion or whatever. So when people say it is no different than a point and shoot, check it out. This is what you do. You go on line and you look at the pictures people are producing with the camera. You look at the good and not so good. You look at a lot of galleries. You don't listen to image quality reviews so much because they can have and agenda. You will see that this machine can get excellent photos and they are far better than an limited point and shoot. Sometimes those photos will be up to an SLR and other times they will not. More often than not they will be in between. A very fair comprimise for the reasonible price. And make no mistake you are getting a lot of bang for your buck with this camera.
So sharpness often will not matter and it will matter very very little IF you are not blowing things up or viewing without printing. BUT IF.. If you have a photographic need for tack sharpness or you are obsessed over it and have the money to spend then this is not a good choice for you. But I think that sometimes a person gets hung up on something like sharpness when it really will not come into play for their situation. This camera is plenty sharp enough for most people and especially considering all other factors.
If you are making a decision just go look at galleries and a lot of them...
Have a nice day...!
6/12/13**** Addendum
Ok it has been 6 months of a lot of almost daily shooting. I just wanted to say that this is the camera I go for the most and I do that because it is the most versatile. The more I use it the more I love it. I have a number of other cameras and they all have their own respective advantages. Leica, Panasonic ect.. BUT this is the one I go for mostly. If you are a family I highly advise it. You want something that you will get all the shots with and this is the best thing going in my opinion. The more you use it the more you find that you learn to get the great shots. It is really nice right away but as you shoot over time you really begin to appreciate it. Just explore and gradually you will become one with the camera and get all those shots of the kids and places you go. Oh and Fuji has a website where owners post their pics and it is really good. Also the quality of the build is better than most as it is an x series and we work hard for our money so it feels good to get something solid and obviously superior rather than just a tinny plastic junk. It is really built fine. Every time I pick it up it feels like quality in my hands. I am so so glad I dished out a little more money. Over the long term it was not much at all to get the quality I got. This is a camera a family will USE and won't tie you down. If you don't have a usable camera then what good is it?