Fujifilm GFX100 II Opens New Genres for Large Format Photography @Fujifilmx_za

Hi Guys, 

The new flagship model delivers the highest burst-shooting, auto-focus and video performance in the history of the GFX Series. Three new GFX lenses were also added.

Fujifilm South Africa has announced the latest (and greatest) camera in the GFX lineup - the Fujifilm GFX100 II. This new flagship large format camera promises not only outstanding image quality due to its 102MP sensor but also improved shooting speed, auto-focus (AF) performance and video quality.

To start, the GFX100 II features the newly-developed GFX 102MP CMOS II HS high-speed image sensor consisting of 102 million pixels. At 43.8mm x 32.9mm in size it’s approximately 1.7 times larger than a 35mm full-frame sensor. The mirrorless camera is powered by the high-speed X-Processor 5 image processing engine, which in combination with the sensor provides double the signal readout speed compared to 2021’s Fujifilm GFX100S.

Improved speed and auto-focus

Thanks to this improved signal readout speed, the GFX100 II is capable of continuous shooting of up to 8.0 frames per second, up from 5.0 fps on the previous GFX model. With a reinforced buffer memory, it opens the GFX Series up to the field of sports photography. It does so without sacrificing the high definition and high image quality synonymous with the large format sensor.

However, the GFX100 II is also the first GFX Series mirrorless digital camera that features Fujifilm’s AI-based subject-detection AF, developed with Deep Learning technology. The use of an improved algorithm has evolved not only Face/Eye Auto Focus (AF) but now allows photographers to automatically track animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, aeroplanes, trains, insects and drones. Once again, this benefits sports photography, which requires advanced tracking capability to track a subject that moves quickly within the frame.

And enhanced video performance

The GFX100 II is the first GFX model that supports 8K/30P video recording, plus it can also record 4K/60P 4:2:2 10-bit video internally and features F-Log2, broadening post-production flexibility. The GFX100 II’s range of video features allows videographers to explore completely new avenues due to the possibilities of the large format sensor in use.

The camera is further equipped with the best Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) on a Fujifilm camera yet - a high-magnification and high-definition 9.44-million-dot EVF with 1.0x magnification. It boasts a smooth refresh frame rate of approx. 120fps in Boost Mode to accurately identify a subject’s fast movements. Alternatively, the 3.2-inch Tilt-Type touchscreen monitor at the back can be used, consisting of approx. 2.36 million dots.

This while low light performance is improved thanks to the five-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) now set to an impressive eight-stops - more than any other camera in the full Fujifilm lineup.

For those looking for even larger images, GFX users can use the Pixel Shift Multi-Shot function. This controls the IBIS mechanism to shift the image sensor by 0.5 pixels at a time and shoot 16 RAW images in quick succession, with the dedicated software combining these to generate a mouth-watering 400MP image.

Price and local availability

The Fujifilm GFX100 II large format mirrorless camera, with its improved speed, AF and video capabilities, is set to land in South Africa during October 2023, with a suggested retail price of R160 000 incl. VAT.

Three new GFX lenses also coming

Fujifilm has also committed three new lenses to the GFX lens lineup. Two new tilt-shift lenses, the Fujinon GF30mmF5.6 T/S and the Fujinon GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro, cater to the needs of professional photographers who want to explore composition and shooting positions in architecture, landscape and commercial photography. They do so by combining the tilt function of tiling their optical axis and the shift function of moving their optical axis, to alter how the optical axis relates to the imaging plane. The tilt-shift lenses are set to retail for a suggested R80 000 and R70 000 respectively.

Finally, the Fujinon GF55mmF1.7 R WR lens with its creamy bokeh characteristic and field-of-view close to that of human vision, allows for capturing genres ranging from day-to-day snapshots to full-fledged portraiture both indoors and outdoors. It comes with a suggested R45 000 retail price.

All the new Fujinon lenses are set to arrive in October 2023 in South Africa, alongside the Fujifilm GFX100 II large format camera.

Aum Namah Shivay!

Till next time...Aashish
Thanks! Cheers!!!
https://linktr.ee/thelifesway

Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for historical tech, new gadgets, stationery, product reviews
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Your Lifestyle and Technology Blog for the Last 10.5 Years!

New Fujifilm X-S20 Makes Life Easy for vloggers & Travellers @fujifilmx_za #FujifilmXS20

Hi Guys, 

• X-S20 brings the latest auto-focus tech, Vlog mode and a larger battery to the compact body.
• Also, an ultra-wide lens coming to SA, with the new Fujifilm XApp app available for enhanced wireless image transfer.

Fujifilm South Africa has announced the Fujifilm X-S20 mirrorless camera, the follow-up to the 2020s highly regarded X-S10. The X-S20 continues down the path set by its older brother, making it easy for both beginners and professional photographers alike, not forgetting about videographers and now also vloggers.

Quick and easy vlogging

For vloggers, Fujifilm has incorporated a new Vlog mode. It works by setting the Mode dial on the top panel to ‘Vlog’ in order to have the X-S20 ready for recording video in a second. Doing so activates the LCD monitor to display the live view alongside six important functions (such as Background Defocus mode, Product Priority mode and High-Speed Rec.), making it easy to adjust settings by simply touching the screen.

To make recording convenient, the X-S20 comes equipped with a 1.84-million-dot rear vari-angle LCD monitor to clearly view yourself when shooting video, while the camera can be also combined with Fujifilm’s innovative TG-BT1 tripod grip for enhanced vlog production.

By using a USB-Type C cable to connect the camera to a computer, vloggers can use the X-S20 as a webcam without having to install extra software. This allows them to continue to use Fujifilm’s innovative Film Simulation modes even during live streaming or an online meeting, and also able to adjust shooting settings on the fly.

As far as video capture capabilities, the X-S20 can record 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit video internally, further supporting extensive video functions including 4K/60P and 1080/240P.

Improvements all around

First seen on the X-S10, the X-S20 features the signature large grip for stability, being further enhanced with a five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) mechanism that offers up to a 7.0-stop advantage. Fujifilm also drastically improved battery life on the X-S20, with the newly adopted high-capacity NP-W235 battery capturing approx. 800 frames (more than double the X-S10), making it an ideal travel camera. This status is further confirmed by the weight of the camera, pulling the scales at only 491g.

The X-S20 is certainly no slouch, boasting the back-illuminated 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and the high-speed X-Processor 5 image processing engine to produce high-quality images and video. This is the same image processing engine found in Fujifilm’s flagship X-T5 camera and allows for a number of improvements including to the auto-focus (AF) system.

Importantly, Fujifilm brings its latest subject-detection AF technology to the X-S20, developed with Deep Learning technology. Now users can detect drones, cars, animals, birds, motorcycles, bicycles, aeroplanes, trains and insects, keeping them in focus for the perfect shot. In AUTO mode – advantageous for beginner photographers – the X-S20 automatically selects the optimum settings according to scenes, complemented by the new AUTO Subject Detection function.

Fujifilm X-S20 - local price and availability

A full all-rounder that caters to professionals, beginners and vloggers, the Fujifilm X-S20 should be available in South Africa in mid-June with a suggested retail price of R23 900 (incl. VAT), or R29 500 (incl. VAT) for X-S20 body alongside an 18-55mm lens.

Fujifilm’s widest lens yet - the XF8mmF3.5 R WR

Alongside the X-S20, Fujifilm has also launched its widest XF lens yet. The Fujinon XF8mmF3.5 R WR is an ultra-wide angle (UWA) prime lens with a focal length of 8mm (equivalent to 12mm in the 35mm film format). It boasts a viewing angle of 121 degrees diagonally and 112 degrees horizontally, capturing information from an area about double the effective visual field that human vision can recognise. The compact and lightweight design makes it an ideal walkaround lens with a wide range of applications including landscape, architecture, snapshots and travel photography. Furthermore, the lens barrel is weather-sealed at ten locations to achieve dust- and weather resistance and is able to operate in temperatures as low as -10°C.

The Fujinon XF8mmF3.5 R WR ultra-wide angle lens is expected in South Africa in mid-June with a suggested retail price standing at R16 500 (incl. VAT).

New XApp app brings stability to wireless image transfer

Last but certainly not least, Fujifilm is also releasing a new app to use with the GFX / X Series of digital cameras - the XApp. This app connects Fujifilm’s Wi-Fi-capable digital cameras with a smart device for remote shooting, image transfer and viewing. It offers improved wireless communication stability and speed over the previous app, allowing for smoother picture transfer and simplified operations. With the XApp, users can remotely operate a GFX / X Series camera from a connected smartphone/tablet while checking images in the Live View mode. There’s also a new ‘Timeline’ function which gathers and displays shooting information such as the camera and lens used, number of images taken, shooting location and more. The Fujifilm XApp is available for free to download from the most important app stores right now.

Aum Namah Shivay!

Till next time...Aashish 

Thanks! Cheers!!! 

https://linktr.ee/thelifesway

Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for historical tech, new gadgets, stationery, product reviews and mystery unboxings. #TheLifesWay Link to all social media platforms - https://t.co/gUHjo8DQ7h Your Lifestyle and Technology Blog for the last 10 Years!

New Instax Square SQ40 brings ease of use to Instant Cameras @Instax_ZA #InstaxSQ40

Hi Guys,

Automatic Exposure and Selfie Mode make it easy for those who love to go Square.

Popular Instax Mini Evo also coming to SA in brown limited release.

Fujifilm South Africa has announced the Instax Square SQ40, the latest model in the range of Instax instant cameras and printers. The Square SQ40 is a retro-inspired analogue instant camera compatible with the popular Square format film.

The look of the SQ40 leans towards the vintage camera style also featured on the Instax Mini 40 and Instax Mini Evo. This incorporates a black base tone for the camera body, which is complemented with a touch of silver and premium-feel leather-look material. The surface is finished with a pleasant texture that fits comfortably in users’ hands, with a protective carry case available too.

Instax’s ability to make photography as easy as possible is reflected in the Square SQ40’s ease of use. With its Automatic Exposure function, users simply have to twist the lens barrel to turn on the camera, point the camera at the subject and press the shutter. This achieves optimum exposure for a given scene by automatically adjusting the shutter speed and flash output to suit each scene. This means the subject is perfectly exposed, whether in the sunny outdoors, poorly lit indoors, in close-ups or in selfies.

Furthermore, users can also switch to the Selfie Mode for taking selfies and close-ups by simply rotating the lens barrel to turn the camera on and rotating the barrel again in the same direction. Selfie Mode is best for distances between 30cm - 50cm, with a small mirror on the front of the lens providing a framing guide for the perfect shot.

Once your photo is taken, it will take approximately 90 seconds for the print to develop. All Instax prints can be captured by the Instax UP! app via smartphone to be stored or shared on social media.

The Instax Square SQ40 will be coming to South Africa, with the local release date and retail price still to be confirmed.

Instax Mini Evo is now in brown

Launched alongside the Instax Square SQ40 is a brown version of the Instax Mini Evo, a flagship model of the Instax range. Until now, the Mini Evo was only available in black, with a brown version now being brought to South Africa as a limited release. The Mini Evo is known for its ten lens effects and ten film effects which can be combined to create truly unique prints. The brown Mini Evo will now also come with a USB Type-C charging port for greater convenience.

The Instax Mini Evo Brown is set to retail for a suggested R2 499, with the precise arrival date yet to be determined.

I will definitely review the same once the units arrive in South Africa on my youtube channel as well, so keep looking forward to the same. If you want any other products to be reviewed on my channels from Instax range of products, please do let me know and I will arrange for a video to be done on the same as well. 

Aum Namah Shivay!

Till next time...Aashish 

Thanks! Cheers!!! 

https://linktr.ee/thelifesway

Subscribe to my YOUTUBE Channel for historical tech, new gadgets, stationery, product reviews and mystery unboxings. #TheLifesWay Link to all social media platforms - https://t.co/gUHjo8DQ7h Your Lifestyle and Technology Blog for the last 10 Years!