The anticipation for the release of the new Fujifilm X-Pro2 had been building for months, and I was thrilled to be part of the UK team of photographers granted early access to pre-production models of Fujifilm’s flagship camera.
Lead Image: Michael Mormecha PR for LoFi Life Album
My journey with the X-Pro series began in January 2012 when Fujifilm entrusted me with a pre-production X-Pro1 camera, complete with 35mm and 18mm lenses. This was Fujifilm’s first multi-lens X system, following the monumental success of the X100 camera in 2011.
Tasked with capturing the Northern Ireland landscape, I immediately fell in love with the X-Pro1, solidifying my admiration for Fujifilm’s rangefinder-style cameras.
Jumping forward to November 2015, a special package arrived from Tokyo: the pre-production Fujifilm X-Pro2. With its extensive updates, improvements, and refinements, it was evident that this camera was a game-changer.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
From the moment I unboxed the Fujifilm X-Pro2, I was struck by its robust magnesium build, exuding a professional quality. The buttons and dials are tactile and responsive, with one standout feature being the redesigned ISO control integrated into the shutter speed wheel. This pull-up-and-rotate mechanism feels intuitive and efficient.
Another notable improvement is the addition of a focus lever (or joystick) on the rear, allowing for effortless adjustment of the focus point without needing to remove the camera from your eye. The dual card slots, one UHS-II and the other UHS-I, add a professional-level feature that allows for sequential writing, backup, or separating RAW and JPEG files.
Getty Music & the Fujifilm X-Pro2
Fujifilm X-Pro2 Performance in the Mountains
Despite challenging weather conditions in the Mourne Mountains, the X-Pro2’s weather and dust resistance proved invaluable. The prototype firmware was remarkably stable, and the revamped menu system offered impressive customisability.
The camera’s ergonomics shone during a narrow window of favorable weather atop Doan Mountain. The X-Pro2’s intuitive controls and professional build allowed me to focus solely on composition, capturing stunning landscapes during fleeting moments of light.
Image Quality and Features
24-Megapixel X-Trans CMOS III Sensor
The Fujifilm X-Pro2 introduces a 24-megapixel sensor, delivering exceptional detail and color accuracy. Despite the higher resolution, the camera’s performance remains lightning-fast, thanks to its advanced processor.
Viewfinder and LCD Enhancements
The electronic viewfinder (EVF) offers higher resolution and better refresh rates, making it a pleasure to use. The rear LCD screen is also larger and sharper, providing a clear preview of images post-capture.
Film Simulation and ACROS Mode
The new ACROS film simulation mode produces rich, high-contrast black-and-white images. Straight-out-of-camera JPEGs, particularly in this mode, are outstanding—so much so that I found myself shooting JPEGs exclusively until RAW support becomes available in Lightroom.
Additional Features
Long Exposure Capabilities
The threaded shutter button supports a traditional cable release, making long exposure photography straightforward. The X-Pro2 includes long exposure noise reduction, which I’m eager to explore further.
Connectivity
With built-in Wi-Fi, the X-Pro2 pairs seamlessly with the Fujifilm Instax printer. Printing directly from the camera is intuitive, and images in Classic Chrome simulation mode look particularly striking on Instax paper.
Final Thoughts
The Fujifilm X-Pro2 is a leap forward in mirrorless photography. Its speed, precision, and remarkable color rendition make it a powerhouse for both professional and enthusiast photographers. From its build quality to its innovative features, this camera is a joy to use. Whether navigating rugged landscapes or capturing intimate portraits, the X-Pro2 has quickly become my go-to camera, solidifying its place as a worthy successor to the X-Pro1.
For anyone contemplating a switch from DSLR to mirrorless, the X-Pro2 provides a compelling reason to make the leap. It’s not just an upgrade; it’s a testament to Fujifilm’s commitment to innovation and excellence in photography.
Links
The Mourne Mountain Gallery
The Long Exposure eBook
Getty Music
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