Fujifilm X-Pro1

January 9, 2012 | Zoltan Arva-Toth | Compact System Camera , CES 2012 | Comment |

The Fujifilm X-Pro1 is a new compact system camera sporting a 16-megapixel, APS-C sized “X-Trans” CMOS sensor, Hybrid Multi Viewfinder and a new “X” lens mount. The completely new Fujifilm X-Trans CMOS sensor has a new type of CFA (colour filter array) “inspired by the random arrangement of fine film grain” and no optical low-pass filter. According to Fujifilm, this solution results in a higher resolution than that provided by a Bayer sensor of a similar pixel count. The new X lens mount has a short flange-back distance of just 17.7mm and a wide opening, contributing to high edge-to-edge sharpness and resolution. The Hybrid Multi Viewfinder works similarly to the hybrid opto-electronic finder found on the X100, except that it also offers variable magnification to match lenses of any focal length. The camera comes with a traditional shutter speed dial and a recessed exposure compensation control that is precision milled from solid metal. The Fujifilm X-Pro1 body will cost £1399 in the UK and $1699 in the US.

In addition to the Fujifilm X-Pro1 camera, the company has also announced three Fujinon XF prime lenses, the XF 18mm f2 R ($499), the XF 35mm f/1.4 R ($499) and the XF 60mm f/2.4 R Macro ($599), each of which features a traditional aperture ring and an iris diaphragm with rounded aperture blades.

Fujifilm Press Release

Interchangeable lens system camera from FUJIFILM

FUJIFILM X-Pro1

Featuring the new X-Trans CMOS sensorTM
FUJIFILM original X-Mount and Hybrid Multi Viewfinder

FUJIFILM Corporation (President and CEO: Shigetaka Komori) are proud to announce the FUJIFILM X-Pro1, an all-new interchangeable lens camera system. The X-Pro1 features a 16 megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensorTM, a brand new X lens mount, Hybrid Multi Viewfinder and three prime lenses.

FUJIFILM X-Pro1 – The Main Features

Setting new standards in image resolution
FUJIFILM have developed a new CMOS sensor called the X-Trans CMOSTM. The X-Trans CMOSTM sensor is capable of delivering resolution that is parallel, if not superior, to a full frame sensor.

The new colour filter array paves the way for an ideal sensor that does not need an optical low-pass filter. While the optical low-pass filter is indispensable for the reduction of moiré and false colour generated by conventional sensors, it also degrades resolution. FUJIFILM has developed a new colour filter array that is inspired by the random arrangement of fine film grain, removing the need for an optical low-pass filter to solve moiré and false colour issues. In the array, RGB pixels are arranged in 6x6 pixel sets with high aperiodicity. Increasing the degree of randomness eliminates the fundamental cause of moiré and false colours – a problem that occurs in conventional arrays when shooting stripes and other repeating patterns. The presence of an R, G and B pixel in every vertical and horizontal pixel series minimizes the generation of false colours and delivers higher colour reproduction.

EXR Processor Pro – As a result of using a film-inspired array, a more powerful processor is required to process the image signal data. So FUJIFILM have created the EXR Processor Pro. This development will maximize the full potential of the X-Trans CMOSTM sensor and deliver high speed and high precision image processing.

Prime FUJINON XF lenses deliver the highest image quality
Fujinon lenses have long been associated with delivering high quality images, with optics used for both broadcast TV and medium format cameras. Now the expertise borne out of this enviable optical heritage has been put into lenses for the FUJIFILM X-Pro1

Three compact XF Fujinon fast aperture prime lenses will be available at launch. The “XF18mmF2 R”, “XF 35mmF1.4 R” and “XF60mmF2.4 R Macro” all offer precise control over depth-of-field and deliver excellent out-of-focus bokeh thanks to the design of the moulded aperture diaphragm blades. The blades are curved to create a circular image at all aperture settings, while the very edges of each blade are meticulously rounded off rather than simply cut off, which delivers a sharper image. In addition, the solid feel of the high-quality metal barrel and detailed exposure setting in 1/3 step increments using the aperture ring fuel your desire to capture more photos with every shot.

FUJIFILM original “X-Mount” maximizes lens performance
Specifically designed to maximize the mirror less design of the body the X-Mount has a short flange back distance of just 17.7mm. This means the rear lens elements are as close as possible to the sensor. The wide opening allows the lens to be mounted deeper within the body – up to 7.5mm (approx) from the mount surface – reducing the back focus distance of each lens to the minimum possible, thus achieving high resolution all the way to the edge of the image

Hybrid Multi Viewfinder – seeing is believing
FUJIFILM’s revolutionary Hybrid Viewfinder first appeared in the X100. With its ability to instantly switch between an Optical Viewfinder and Electronic Viewfinder the Hybrid Viewfinder has added a new dimension to the pleasure of composing photographs. For the brightest viewing image, and to keep shutter lag to a minimum, users should choose the Optical Viewfinder. Those wanting focus confirmation, exposure information, white balance information and depth of field indicators should switch to Electronic Viewfinder.

The Electronic Viewfinder provides an excellent “Live View” of your composition. This fusion of technologies allows users to enjoy composing their images through a bright viewfinder, but has the option to overlay vital picture taking information should this be required.

Changing between the two viewfinders is simple, thanks to the switch on the front of the X-Pro1 body. When attaching a FUJINON XF-series lens on X-Pro1, both the viewfinder magnification and bright frame size automatically switch to support the lens focal length. Viewfinder magnification switches to 0.37x for the 18mm lens, and to 0.60x when the 35mm or 60mm lens is mounted, letting you compose your shot with the bright, crystal clarity of an optical image. The X-Pro1 also gives you the freedom to manually set a focal distance and switch between viewfinder magnifications. 

Cutting-edge technology in a beautiful camera body
The top and base are made from die-cast aluminum alloy which, combined with high quality touches like precise engraving on the top-plate and hand-enamelled lettering on the lenses, underlines the fact that the entire X-Pro1 system is built without compromise.

This eye for detail extends to the shutter speed dial and exposure compensation control that is precision milled from solid metal. Details like the shutter speed dial lock mechanism and the recessed exposure compensation dial are designed to prevent accidental movement of settings. The knurled finish on the sides of the dials feature rows of minutely milled squared pyramids for superb grip and confidence.

“Made in Japan” confirms that every part of the construction has had to meet FUJIFILM’s highest standards.

The lightweight, precision-milled lens hood (included with the lens) has been exclusively designed and machined from aluminum for the FUJINON XF lens. Its compact size delivers superb light shading performance in a design that perfectly matches X-Pro1 styling.

Diameters of the aperture ring and focus ring of the 3 Fujinon XF-series interchangeable lenses are only slightly larger than the barrel for sleek uniformity of design. Precision machined from metal, the reassuring click of the aperture ring at each setting and the comfortable torque resistance when operating the focus ring enhances the shooting experience.

The X-Pro1’s leather-like finish designed for a quality look and durability. The synthetic leather offers resistance to the elements and high durability, while an original manufacturing process produces a texture with the look and feel of authentic leather.

The X-Pro1 has been designed with the photographer’s comfort in mind. The natural fit of the eyepiece provides excellent shielding from light leakage. A dioptric adjustment lens can also be attached.

Extending FUJIFILM’s photo film legacy
In film cameras, multiple exposures is the unique photographic technique of superimposing one image on another by double exposing a single frame of film. Through advanced digital processing the X-Pro1 can simulate this technique - just select Multiple Exposure mode and take your first shot. By viewing it in the Hybrid Multi Viewfinder or on the LCD screen, you can see how the finished multiple exposure will look and precisely frame the second shot.

Further enhancements have been made to the Film Simulation modes with the new Professional Colour Negative Film Modes (Pro Neg. Std and Pro Neg. Hi) designed for X-Pro1 users working in the studio. If you’d like to shoot the same scene in a variety of Film Simulation modes, the X-Pro1 offers Film Simulation bracketing, along with AE, Dynamic and ISO bracketing.

FUJIFILM has also included Film Simulation modes, where the X-Pro1 simulates the colours and tonal qualities of popular FUJIFILM emulsions. These include the vibrant colours of Velvia, the softer skin tones of ASTIA and the natural look of PROVIA.

Enhance Monochrome Expression with Colour Filters - Replicating the effects of monochrome film photography the X-Pro1 lets you use colour filters to expand your photographic interpretation. Heighten contrast with the yellow filter and red filter or brighten greens and deepen reds with the green filter. Just as professional film photographers once selected a filter and printing paper to complement their creative vision, you can easily fine tune image quality with these filters. For those after a more nostalgic theme there’s a sepia filter too.

Premium Accessory Lineup
Hand Grip, HG-XPro1 (sold separately) - Giving you more secure and balanced handling of the camera, the X-Pro1 accessory grip smoothly molds to the lines of the camera body for a uniform look. The grip helps balance the weight of the camera body, allowing for a more comfortable hold.

Shoe Mount Flash EF-X20 (sold separately) - Being designed to match X-Pro1’s distinctive styling. One dial lets you choose between two modes: AUTO - automatically optimizes flash for both outdoor daylight and dark indoor shots; MANUAL - for hands-on control. In addition, the built-in flash diffuser has an easy one-touch operation to soften harsh flash effects.

Leather Case LC-XPro1 (sold separately)* - Beautifully molded to protect the X-Pro1, leather case is designed to allow fast access for easy shooting. Attention has been given to every detail, from the colour and spacing of the stitches to the adoption of a hidden magnet rather than a snap for closing the case. The premium case is completed by the inclusion of the authentic leather neck-strap and hood case.

Protector Filter?39mm and Protector Filter?52mm - This is a protection filter with high transmissivity without affecting the visible light. The Super EBC (Electron Beam Coating) of these would control harmful borrowed light effectively. The frame of filter given the semi-gloss black coating fits a high sense design. Or the inner side of filter given the matt black coating restrains a reflection effect and does design well.

*?Case not suitable for FUJINON XF60mm lens

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