I have a soft spot in my heart for the Fuji x100s. I absolutely love when pros give it a chance in a working environment rather than confining it to the street like so many do. When Bucharest-based Vali Barbulescu got his hands on one that's exactly what he decided to do. Granted, any camera can shine in a large studio filled with top of the line lighting equipment but that's not really the point I mean to make. Embracing the restrictions of using a 35mm fixed-lens rangefinder when anyone would rather have a 50mm or greater SLR is what I appreciate. Here is what Vali had to say about the experience:
“This camera is normally used for street photography and documentary-styled images due to its fixed 35mm lens, but I organized everything like I do when using medium format or DSLR cameras. The setup included Profoto lights, as I find them to be a very important factor for delivering professional results. I triggered the flashes with a PocketWizard Plus II and I could sync up to 1/500s at f/2 with no problems. The fast aperture was intended to emulate the looks and feel of a full frame system. I wanted the images to look as professional as possible and not just like some random snaps with a retro-looking camera. But I have to say, the Fujinon lens is a very good piece of glass. Pairing it with the X-Trans II sensor and the Profoto lights gave me the freedom to work unconstrained.”
This to me echos what every great photographer has said. It's not about the camera, it's about the eye behind it. Should you use a rangefinder on a studio session? Maybe so maybe not. Can you? Absolutely, so long as you understand and embrace it's purpose. That's another article for another time though. For now enjoy the video and be sure to check out the links to see not only this shoot's images, but the rest of Vali's work as well.
Via ProFoto Blog
See more of Vali's work at valibarbulescu.viewbook.com
Like to know why this photographer used the Plus II instead of Plus III for example (since they happen to be cheaper with more functions). And also wondering what brought this idea to be to use the x100s.
Maybe he had access to them? Maybe he owned them prior to Plus III? Maybe email him?
To me it looks, like that photographer wants to promote himself and misuses the shooting with a x100s to gain more attention. The whole video is more about showing him shooting than the shooting itself.
What I got out of this video is that the LUXO iMac is still fashionable (for a prop).
:)
Guys, I tried PW plus iii on my x100s the other day but it did not fire. It was not the channel or mode problem. Could not think of any other reason. Do you guys have any idea why it did not work? Do I need to upgrade PW firmware or something?
Any thought would be appreciated!! ^^
Obvious question...did you have the cam set to use external flash?