Fujifilm has recently announced the X-H1, a larger APS-C mirrorless camera that leans more towards the video crowd. Although this camera is definitely an interesting one, I can't help but feel a little disappointed with the features.
Skimming through many of the comments online, the most common questions are around where this camera fits and whether or not people should simply wait for the replacement to the Fujifilm X-T2.
As a fan of Fuji cameras, it's not very often I'm disappointed by them, however this camera is a missed opportunity. It seems feature-packed on the surface but when comparing it to other Fuji cameras and a quick look at the competition, it will allay any excitement.
First of all, this camera is big when it comes to mirrorless and especially big considering it's an APS-C camera. It rivals full-frame mirrorless cameras in terms of size and weight. In fact, it's actually heavier than the Sony a7R III even when including batteries and SD cards. The sensor and the processor are exactly the same as the X-T2 and so are most of its other features.
It's probably much quicker to point out what's new because there's not a lot:
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Sensor-Shift in-body image stabilization
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DCI 4K
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F-Log
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120 fps at 1080p
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Addition of a touchscreen and an improved viewfinder
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A top LCD screen
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Minor improvement to focus system
For photographers, this camera offers almost nothing over the X-T2 at a much higher price point. Based on that it's safe to assume this camera has been developed more for videographers and even then this is disappointing. Sure DCI 4K is great and 1080p at 120 fps is very useful, however the camera is limited to 15 minutes worth of recording time without the battery grip. If you include the battery grip then the price shoots up further and makes this camera about as heavy and much larger than the Canon 5D Mark IV, which is a full-frame DSLR. There's no headphone jack in the camera, battery life is actually worse than the X-T2, and due to the less-than-useful record time, the battery grip is essentially a requirement. With this camera, gone is the argument of mirrorless being more compact and lightweight. Even on a gimbal this camera is going to be relatively awkward and potentially very difficult to balance.
In general, Fuji is not considered the go-to brand for video, and with this camera, I have a feeling this is not due to change anytime soon. With alternatives like the Sony a7R III and the Panasonic GH5, why would you pick the X-H1? The GH5 offers far better video features like 4K at 60p, internal 4:2:2 10-bit, a much bigger battery, a really effective flip-out touchscreen, no record time limit, and all packed into a smaller, lighter body with a lower price. This is, of course, comparing it to the X-H1 with the battery grip, which is as mentioned, pretty much a requirement.
The Fujifilm X-H1 is a disappointing and confusing release from the company which is very unlike them. This feels rushed and completely unnecessary, and it would have been much better to simply wait and release a proper update the X-T2.
Did its predecessor have IBIS? cause I would of that be worth mentioning
I mentioned it as being one of the new features thus implying it wasn't in the old camera. Fuji calls it Sensor-Shift.
Are you serious? Fuji calls it what it is. In-body image stabilization (IBIS), READ the press release dated Feb 15, 2018. Second paragraph. You'll find the acronym IBIS. I suppose a few other APSC brand loyalist are afraid that they no longer can say "oh, but Fuji doesn't have IBIS"
Fujifilms website tech specs clearly discuss it as Sensor shift check yourself.
I called it what Fuji calls it we all know it’s IBIS.
Also I don’t understand what you’re on about with the last part of your comment.
Dear Usman. Fuji corrected the term and removed the content that you have linked here
here they call it IBIS
https://www.fujifilm.eu/uk/products/digital-cameras/model/x-h1
Nobody is ever happy.
Oh boy you are about to trigger all the Fuji shooters(Fujicans, Fujise, Fijians?).
The XH-1 is what the XT2 should have been without the top screen.
I'm one of them haha
If the XT-2 was the same size as the XH-1, then I would have stayed shooting FF. We don't want these giant bodies anymore.
The author of this article is spot on. The camera does not fit into any category that makes sense. I literally think the only category the XH-1 fits is for the person that feels extreme remorse for switching to mirrorless, but doesn't want to go through the hassle of selling all their Fuji glass.
Fuji cameras have atrocious AF, so they make no sense for sports or wildlife shooters that prefer APS-C.
From my understanding, IBIS is the big new feature for the Fuji XH-1 camera and it isn’t mentioned in this article. I’m happy with my X-Pro2 and these new features don’t warrant an upgrade for me but I know IBIS is a big deal for some shooters and they are excited for this feature.
Fuji calls it sensor shift so I called it that too.
No they don't - they call it 5-axis IBIS. More evidence as why your article is complete rubbish. Stick to youtube videos.
Fact checking is important please see below. See article and how it's described.
This is a seriously minor issue and I find it odd that you would make such a big deal about it. You're still wrong.
https://www.fujifilm.eu/uk/products/digital-cameras/model/fujifilm-x-h1/...
Dear Usman, Fuji removed the content from the link that you have shared
Now they call it IBIS here
https://www.fujifilm.eu/uk/products/digital-cameras/model/x-h1
Hey thank you for the comment. It’s good to see Fuji using terms that most of understand. At the time of writing this article I had to use the terms they used for their features.
I'm disappointed that it doesn't have a flip out screen. That was a real big disappointment.
But I still have my pre order in and this will replace my XT2. At the end of the day it's a personal choice. I've owned/used Sony (A7RII/A7s/A7), Nikon (D7000, D600) and Panasonic (Gh3)... Fujifilm, for me, has the best user experience. The video features on this camera doesn't compare to GH5 but they are more than good enough for my needs.
What excites me the most is IBIS and the isolated settings for photo/video.
It does have a flip out screen?!
I think he may have meant a flip out screen like the GH5. Flip out to the left instead of the tilt and the weird vertical thing the screen does.
Yes. This is what I meant. Thank you.
the actual term is Fully Articulated screen
I really like the top LCD screen.It'll be nice to see all camera manufacturers putting something like this on the next generation of DSLR cameras. After 15 or so years almost totally unchanged,it'll be refreshing to have a new camera that doesn't look like it's a victim of a time travel accident.
but you are missing one point. If a Fuji user, that usually did photography, wants to leap more into video, then that user was waiting for this camera. And it coming with IBIS, is an extra plus. That user already has a set of fuji compatible lenses, therefore probably would never switch to other brands.
Now, if it's going to be the first camera you buy, then definitely you are right.
Even in that context, this is disappointing, they've given their users a severely crippled video camera that comes in a huge form factor. It's bigger than a 5D Mark IV, what were they thinking?
Hmmm, I don’t know, about $3,000.00 cheapah!
$3000 cheaper than the 5D4? don't you mean about $1000?
5D4 is also full frame.
It is certainly a disappointment.
But it also certainly isn't bigger than a 5D mkiv
http://camerasize.com/compact/#772,682,ha,f
I discuss that point specifically with the battery grip. The grip is essentially a requirement and with that it’s definitely bigger and heavier than the 5D4.
I don't get the argument that if Fujifilm isn't going to release a product that essentially is not better than anything else out there i.e. best bits from GH5, best bits from 5D4, best bits from Sony, then they should not bother or be flamed/ridiculed for trying.
That is not only childish but also ridiculous, more options are great for the consumer whether they are at the top, middle or bottom of the product feature pack.
Everything is relative.
yeah, get your point. but keep in mind that changing kit to a 5d4 plus good quality lenses, is way more expensive. I have an xt-2+grip and I'm not impressed by the update to the xh1 for photography, but specially cause I don't do video. I have a kit of six lenses for the xt2 though, so in case I WOULD be interested in video, I would definitely update. Size isn't an issue for professionals.
I'm still quite happy with the X-T1. Maybe this is where I just get an X-T2 since it doesn't feel like I'd be missing much.
Same here.
I don’t think it’s made with a video shooter as it’s first thought. I think, like the rest of Fuji stuff, it’s made for the still photographer who does the occasional video.
I agree. The X-H1 looks like a killer camera, but why not include the headphone jack on the camera? For video, a fully articulating screen is so incredibly useful as well and would have been a nice feature to have. I'm not sure why they wouldn't make a bigger battery. It's a much bigger grip, so one would think a bigger battery would work and it will require more juice than the X-T2.
Overall, it looks pretty awesome, but I think it could have been refined more. I'll stick with my X-T2 as I do 90% stills.
“The X-H1 looks like a killer camera, but why not include the headphone jack on the camera?”
Simple - Heat dissipation. If you are doing video (and thing longer than a few minutes), the battery grip is essential because the heat generated by the processor requires a bigger heat sink (which is partly what the grip acts as). So if the grip is essential for video, putting the headphone jack there makes sense.
If you do 90% stills, I’d wait for the X-T3, which is rumored for fall of this year.
The body is massive. There's more than enough room for a proper heat sink. You don't hear about DSLRs overheating, and this is literally the size of a DSLR.
i mentioned this when this camera was still a rumour and i totally agree with your thought process. a consider this a total failure from Fuji. This product is all over the place and nowhere at the same time. I understand it has been created with video in mind, but it's lacking some really important features. As for photography, i'm very happy with my XT2 so this is not for me.
Hard to say anything without using the camera all the current reviewers love the size and balance of the camera. It has some new features but its a Fuji at heart so if you don't like Fuji X cameras you wont like this one, if you thought Fuji was going to release a brand new looking camera completely redesigned with new menus and what not your dreaming.
I would suggest anyone with doubts buy one from B&H and try it out for a couple of weeks if you don't love it send it back for a full refund, but I have a feeling you will have just bought yourself a new camera!
the major flaw is handled by the battery grip what was the 1st and primary flaw with the X cameras BATTERIES AND THE DRAW OF CURRENT SUCKS MOST MIRROR-LESS CAMERAS HAVE SHORT BATTERY LIFE. The batteries just too small probably for a good reason but its frustrating.
"For photographers, this camera offers almost nothing over the X-T2 at a much higher price point." I would respecfully disagree! There were 3 things on my X-T2 I didn't like: No IBIS, lack of a decent ergonomic grip, and an unlockable protruding compensation dial that would frequently (and annoyingly) get accidentally moved during action shoots. Plus many more little gripes. The new X-H1 resolves these issues and more.. it's the perfect upgrade for me. My X-T2 is now sold and I'm happy paying extra for the upgrade, in fact I think the X-H1 is good value, considering all the significant improvements and technological complexities. Well done Fujifilm!
But if you want a giant, ergonomic grip, why not switch to FF and get a good improvement in image quality? The only real benefit of a small mirrorless setup is wiped out with this giant, heavy body. The ergonomics of these small cameras do basically suck, but for most of us, it is worth it to keep the weight and size down.
Good question and interesting comments Clint, and I can give you a good reply, as I have previously given this very topic much consideration!
Firstly, the results I'm getting from Fuji 24MP files are so incedibly good that I have never, not even once, found myself wishing for a larger sensor. As many professional Fuji users can testify, it is possible to create stunning detail-rich enlargements that are more than good enough for 99% of clients. Even the previous generation 16MP sensor is wonderful. I suppose if I was regularly comissioned to produce massively detailed enormous bill boards I might consider Medium Format, but I'm not. And even then, most bill boards are viewed at a distance and 24MP is fine.
Secondly, the benefits of compact mirrorless are certainly not "wiped out" by the "giant, heavy" X-H1 (I smile.. you've obviously never handled a Mamiya RB67!!) because now I have a choice: with one set of lovely Fujinon lenses I can use a great-handling X-H1 or, if I really need a compact lightweight body for whatever reason, use my little X-A2. (or X-E3, if I had one). So I can have the best of both worlds and still agree with your last sentence.. perfect! I'm a satisfied and contented Fuji photographer with no regrets whatsoever.
Giant, heavy??? Read the specs, its 1/3 heavier and still way lighter than a FF body. With the same lightweight Fuji lenses its still a significantly smaller package than a FF camera. It's virtually the same weight as the Sony A7R3, but once you attach those FF lenses, well??
Also we should'nt compare the X-H1 with the Sony A7R3, its almost half the price, a better comparison would be with the Sony A6500
Really lame article - why is Fstoppers having a guy who shoots architecture commenting on a camera he knows nothing about? The 4K footage I've seen online shot using the Eterna setting is among the best sub $10K camera footage I've ever seen and far better than anything M43. I won't be buying a XH-1 (I have the X-T20 as a travel cam and 5D4 for work) but I would have no problem using this camera to shoot an indie feature film especially with those new Fujifilm compact cinema zooms.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5pi2dBRTcg&t=86s
Indeed, the footage so far looks amazing. Better even than the A7r3. Pure cinema, without any effort.I am really tempted by it. I would disagree though about the under 10000 camera. C200 and Ursa mini look better
Well I said "among the best..." I concur the BMD and C200 are great in fact I would use the C200 any day for just about any budget feature film.
Many professionals prefer to shoot log and flat profiles. Baking everything in with Eterna isn’t how a lot of professionals like to work.
Also yes I shoot architecture but I also shoot Fuji and love many of those cameras. I have an active and growing YouTube channel so video is huge deal for me.
Yes, many may do but it's not that many also don't. It is very well known that Roger Deakins, one of the most famous and professional in the industry, will shoot in camera and his latest movie the colour was famously shot as much as possible in camera.
I would argue that a Youtube 'professional' vs Hollywood professional are not the same. I would sooner adopt the techniques of those latter - grading is about achieving the basics e.g. skin, highlights, roll-off et-al, before mocing onto artistic effects like mood. If you can do some of the heavy lifting in camera, then so be it. They are just tools.
Aren't Hollywood films shot in RAW? Essentially nothing is baked in.
I can't claim to know this but whatever the answer may be, it can be clear that he chooses to film WYSIWYG (to bring back an old acronym). What he see's in camera is what you get - essentially, for anyone wanting to use Eterna in camera and have it pop out at the end as you saw it is acceptable.
I had to look this up this quote and I can't be 100% certain of its accuracy but what he has once said of his shooting process for the James Bond film.
"As I have said elsewhere, I create the ‘look’ of a film in-camera. I use only one LUT and the set timing for each scene follows the metadata to the DI suite. The DI process then is, for me, all about matching from shot to shot within a scene and less about adjusting individual scenes."
I believe "in-camera" is as much as a reference to the set-lighting and colours as much as it is post processing but from what many who have studied his techniques can say is that he chooses to see what he wants in camera as opposed to being flat and then adjusting in PP to colour grade and match individual scenes.
For the most part correct - not only RAW but uncompressed out to an external recorder creating MASSIVE files. But I could go make a really nice feature film with just the DIT and Color timing budget from a studio feature. A big studio feature will have 3 to 6 weeks of color timing at a top facility like Company 3 or Technicolor easily spending 6 figures. I've been lucky to attend some of these and it's a mind blowing experience. But for the rest of us, shooting in a world-class look such as Eterna from Fujifilm is a bonus that would be hard to replicate without a lot of time as a Colorist.