Ever since Fujifilm unveiled a new “next-generation kit lens” that replaces its more than a decade-old XF18-55mm F2.8-4 kit lens at the X-Summit in Tokyo, speculation about potential upgrades to come has grown.
And now the wait is over.
Fujifilm provided this publisher with devices for testing purposes. This did not affect our view of the device and our review remains independent of the manufacturer.
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Fujifilm has revealed what these improvements are with the announcement of the recent X-T50 mirrorless digital camera combined with the new XF16-50mm F2.8-4.8 standard zoom lens.
It will be the latest model in the X series to inherit the highly acclaimed FUJINON optical technology and promises a host of new features to be excited about.
Said to deliver exceptional image quality with unique color reproduction technology, the Fujifilm X-T50 promises to be a portable and compact camera.
So, I tested the new features. Here’s what I think of the Fujifilm X-T50 from an amateur photographer’s perspective.
New film simulation dial
Since I like to carry a camera with me when I go on multi-day hikes, it needs to be light, durable and easy to use.
But I also want the option to use different lighting, angles and effects – and this is where the Fujifilm X-T50’s new film simulation feature comes in very handy.
The dial is placed on the top plate and offers 14 different effects that are activated quickly when it really matters. This feature made it incredibly easy to capture a moment while deciding what mood I wanted it to represent.
Some of my favorite simulations were Acros+R Filter, Reala Ace, and Astia/Soft.
Something else I appreciated about the film simulation dial was the ability to use it while in video mode, which provides incredibly sharp footage and captures finer details. I have never worked with a camera that made shooting short films so enjoyable.
“The all-new external film simulation dial is unique to the Fujifilm X-T50 and makes switching between film simulations easy, allowing the user to focus on composition and timing to capture the moment,” General Manager of the Electronic Imaging and Optical Division of FUJIFILM Australia said Sean Mach.
“Combining this with the high-speed image processing engine, up to seven stops of IBIS and a lightweight body makes the X-T50 the perfect travel companion,” added Mach.
Another great new feature is that you can shoot with 10-bit internal recording, which helps bring more color depth and detail to your videos.
Something else I found great was the new three-way tilting touchscreen on the Fujifilm X-T50 for versatile shooting. Using this feature was useful when I wanted to shoot something from above but avoid putting myself in an awkward position.
Lightweight and easy to carry anywhere
As I mentioned earlier, I like to spend time outdoors for several days, so weight and durability are important to me.
The Fujifilm X-T50 weighs less than a 500ml bottle of Heinz Tomato Ketchup, making it an ideal camera for adventures – the camera weighs approximately 438g including battery and memory card.
The new lens is also lightweight and perfect for versatile landscape and portrait shots.
The new FUJINON XF16-50mm F2.8 R LM WR lens combines high-resolution performance with a compact and lightweight design.
“The versatility of the XF16-50mm lens has a broad appeal and is the ideal lens to cover a wide range of shots, such as travel, portrait and landscape. With high-speed precision autofocus and only 240g, it’s a lens for all occasions,” said Mach.
Alongside the release of the new lens, Fujifilm plans to introduce kit lenses with older X-series models that feature In Body Image Stabilization to maximize the performance of the lens.
It is also dust and weather resistant, with a structure that can operate at -10C.
Battery life and charging
The camera’s battery is easily charged as you can use a USB-C port and connect it to your laptop.
However, I would recommend staying on top of your camera battery as it drains fairly quickly. I found that it took a while to charge the battery with my laptop so it might be worth buying a battery charger.
When is it available and at what price?
The camera will be available for purchase in black, charcoal or silver.
The Fujifilm X-T50 + XF16-50mm F2.8-48 R LM WR will be available for purchase from June 17, 2024 for $3149. Buying the Fujifilm X-T50 separately will cost $2,599, and the XF16-50mm F2.8-48 R LM WR $1,299.
