It’s the 5th anniversary of the Fujifilm X-series and what better way to celebrate than by welcoming along the brand new Fujifilm X-Pro2.

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We were lucky enough to get a sneak preview of a sample model. It’s also available to pre-order for £1349.00, with stocks due in early February. All pre-orders are eligible to claim a free Limited Edition Globe Trotter Leather Strap from Fujifilm.

The headliners:

  • x-pro2New X-Trans™* CMOS III sensor & X Processor Pro
  • New Advanced Hybrid Multi Viewfinder
  • New 1/8000 sec. Mechanical Shutter
  • New Film Simulation "ACROS"
  • New 7x7 Phase Detection AF Area
  • New Compressed RAW file format
  • Weather resistant structure

 

 

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Build wise, it looks very much like the X-Pro1, with little change in the overall design. Noticeable changes are the button layout on the back, and inclusion of a new toggle navigation button, a nifty new dual function dial on the top plate, and a larger optical viewfinder.

For X-Pro1 users, the X-Pro2 will be satisfyingly familiar, with that same quality build and rangefinder styling as its predecessor. We were quite surprised by how little it had changed, but we appreciate that no changes have been made for changes sake.

xpro2-IH-back

On the inside, it’s a completely different story. A brand new sensor, boasting the highest ever pixel count for a Fujifilm X-series camera, the 24.3MP X-trans CMOS III APS-C promises highly detailed images thanks to removal of the Optical Low Pass Filter. Combined with a new processor, the X-Processor Pro engine, and phase detection AF over a larger area of the sensor, the X-Pro2 promises not only highly detailed images, but fast Auto Focus and fast processing; perfect for shooting moving subjects.

XPro2-EVF Xpro2-OVFEVF

One of the best features of the X-Pro1 was the hybrid viewfinder and the X-Pro2 ensures this legacy is not only continued, but improved. The hybrid viewfinder combines an optical viewfinder with an electronic rangefinder and viewfinder. A quick flick of the lever beside the viewfinder allows you to flick between optical, EVF and electronic rangefinder.

The overlay of information over the optical viewfinder image is crisp and clear and the frame guideline and magnification changes automatically dependant on which lens you are using. Of course, the added advantage of a true optical viewfinder, is not only the ability to truly see what you are shooting, rather than an electronic image of it, but also there is no delay, however slight it may be with modern EVF’s.

So why would you even need an EVF? With a simple flick to EVF mode, you can see the end result of your chosen settings before you take the shot. Depth of field, exposure, film simulation modes all come to life so you can see what your final shot will look like without having to check the LCD screen after each shot.

The Electronic Rangefinder, mode displays a small EVF image over the optical image, which allows you to zoom in on an area to check various settings, focus, etc. in real time even when using the optical viewfinder. We were very impressed with the results and it was a nice combination of OVF meets EVF.

XPro2-AFpoints Xpro2-splitscreenfocus

Focussing is improved on the X-Pro2, with the number of selectable focus points now at 77 (increased from 49) and around 40% of the imaging area is covered by fast, phase-detection AF pixels, ideal for fast moving subjects.

The new joystick button aka the Focus Lever, can move in 8 directions for super quick area selection. It’s really quick and easy to change with just a couple of thumb flicks. It can also be used to change the selected enlarged area when using MF (Manual Focus) assist mode. MF assist also has a new Digital Split Image mode – it wouldn’t be a Fujifilm X series camera without a retro touch!

XPro2-IH-dualbutton

 

Another new feature is the dual-function ISO dial. Where the dial was previously a simple shutter speed control, the dual control dial allows quick ISO adjustment without adding clutter to the top of the camera and gives quick, easily visible ISO access and information. You simply lift the ring up and twist to control ISO or use as normal for shutter speed. It’s really easy to use and a nice addition to the X-Pro2.

xpro2-IH-dualcardFor more control, with minimal clutter, a new front command dial has been added to the front of the camera. In the menu system, a new “My Menu” allows you to build your own quick access menu of frequently used items for even more customised control.

Build-wise, the X-Pro2 body has that great sturdy feel of the X-Pro1 and both are built on magnesium alloy chassis. The grip has had minor cosmetic changes, but our testers preferred the new grip to the old one; it sits nicely in your hand. X-Pro1 users will know this isn’t a one of the lightest compact system cameras, but it is well balanced and feels robust. The dials are made from aluminium with knurled sides from grip, and are smooth to operate whilst satisfyingly mechanical as you click between settings.

The biggest change to the build, is that the X-Pro2 is dust-proof, splash-proof and freeze-proof, so now you can take it anywhere. The focal plane shutter promises to be highly durable and has a maximum speed of 1/8000 seconds. Dual SD card slots also allow you to shoot for longer or use one as a backup card, or sort jpg and RAW files onto separate cards, which will definitely appeal to a lot of photographers. Slot 1 is compatible with UHS-II standards, so with suitable cards and the incredible speeds of the X-Pro2’s AF and processing systems, you won’t miss a moment of action.

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Extra functions include AE bracketing, ISO Sensitivity Bracketing, Film Simulation Bracketing and White Balance Bracketing. Essentially, whichever mode you are in one press of the shutter will give you three outputs per exposure. No time or crucial moments lost as you decide which settings you want to use.

xpro2-double-exposure

Multiple exposure capture is a fun creative option, allowing you to overlay to scenes in-camera. The first shot can even be displayed on the LCD screen while framing and shooting the second shot – much easier than the guesswork of multiple exposures shot on film, and much quicker and more fun than editing post production.

As other brands are heading in the 4K direction and adding a myriad of professional video features, the X-Pro2 is Full HD with a section of frame rates, from 60fps to 24fps. It’s not a serious videographer’s camera, but then the X-Pro2 is a photographer’s camera through and through and not attempting to be anything else.

Finally, Fujifilm have a new dedicated app “Fujifilm Camera Remote” offering Wi-Fi connectivity to a smart device allowing you to shoot remotely, but also change settings and adjust focus with a simple touch on your smart device’s touch screen. As well as controlling the X-Pro2, you can send images across to your smart phone or tablet for easy sharing and even on-the-go editing with suitable software and geotag using your phone’s location data.

Was the Fujifilm X-Pro2 worth the wait? Most definitely. You can pre-order yours today

Other new products announced today include:

• FUJINON XF100-400mm F4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR

• Fujifilm X70

• Fujifilm XP90