Celebrating the Fujifilm X20: Freedom Through Photography

Fujifilm announced the X20 and X100S cameras back in January 2013. I was fortunate to explore both models in the months leading up to their release, a privilege for which I remain immensely grateful. Although the Fujifilm X20 and X100S were pre-production versions, the advantages of the new X-Trans sensor and EXR processor were immediately apparent.

This isn’t a technical reflection—so much has changed since 2013. There won’t be any graphs, charts, or detailed specifications here. Instead, I’ll revisit my hands-on experience with the X20 in everyday scenarios. Even as an early version, the X20 left a lasting impression with its improved focus performance and exceptional image quality.

Focus locking was remarkably quick, and the resulting JPEGs delivered outstanding clarity, vibrant colors, and intricate details. Like many others, I couldn’t wait to see the final version of the Fujifilm X20.

Note: All images showcased were taken with an early pre-production version of the X20 running basic firmware.

Exploring Northern Ireland

Over the course of two days, I had the opportunity to test the X20 around Belfast and along the picturesque County Down coastline. The camera’s quick responsiveness was truly exciting.

On the first day, I spent time familiarizing myself with the camera while exploring the vibrant St. George’s Market and the festive Continental Market at Belfast City Hall. Unfortunately, there was some local unrest during my visit, which explains the presence of a burnt-out car in one of the images.

On the second day, I visited one of my favorite stretches of coastline. Each trip there always felt like a new experience, and this visit was no exception. I had been assigned the task of creating a short video presentation on using the Fujifilm X20.

Tyrella Beach

Arriving early at Tyrella Beach, I knew we had the perfect conditions: a low winter sun, the majestic Mourne Mountains as a backdrop, and horses galloping through the waves. It was pure luck.

The Fujifilm X20 Highlights

I shot both days in Aperture Priority mode and was impressed with the X20’s responsiveness. Even in low light and changing conditions, the metering was spot-on.

The images were impressively sharp, with minimal noise, even at high ISO settings. The X20 made capturing moments of drama effortless. Compact enough to slip into my jacket pocket, it became the perfect companion for snapping vivid, stunning photographs with the simplicity and elegance of a classic camera.

The FujifilmX20, its design closely mirrored that of the X10—small, portable, and instantly ready to shoot with a quick twist of the lens. Offering a versatile 28–112mm focal range with a fast aperture, it was as functional as it was stylish.

Freedom Through Photography

Freedom through Photography was a collaborative initiative between Fujifilm and Millican (bags), capturing the spirit of outdoor exploration combined with the portability and freedom of the X-range cameras.

I had the privilege of joining a talented group of photographers in the breathtaking Lake District, where we put the X-M1, the Millican bags, and the Freedom Through Photography philosophy to the test. To this day, I’m still using the M series cameras, with my current model being the Fujifilm X-M5.

The Freedom through Photography concept brought together two parallel ideals. The X camera system took us back to the traditional approach to photography; it was methodical, considered, and paid a great deal of attention to detail.

The X20 Celebrated Features:

The Q Button: Simplified navigation, making settings easily accessible.
Optical Viewfinder: A bright and wide viewfinder enhanced the shooting experience.
X-Trans CMOS Sensor: Delivered exceptional image quality in a compact, user-friendly form.

Even as a pre-production model with the first version of its firmware, the X20 had impressed me. The Fujifilm X20 was a notable chapter of the Fujifilm X Series journey. The camera embodied quality, elegance, and ease of use—a true testament to Fujifilm’s craftsmanship. Who owned one?

Links

Documentary Photography
FlixelPix Articles
The Mourne Mountains