A Photographer's Review of the New Fujifilm X100VI

The Fujifilm X100 series has been a cornerstone for photographers who want a compact solution without compromising on image quality. The introduction of its latest model, the X100VI, marks a significant development, incorporating a high-resolution sensor and built-in stabilization, promising enhanced capabilities in a familiar, vintage package.

Coming to you from Gordon Laing, this detailed review of the Fujifilm X100VI unpacks the camera's photography-centric features. Laing emphasizes the camera's appeal to street and travel photographers, thanks to its compact design, APS-C sensor, and the classic 35mm equivalent focal length. He highlights its high-resolution 40-megapixel sensor and built-in stabilization (IBIS) as major upgrades, enhancing image quality and versatility in various shooting conditions. Laing appreciates the camera's dual aesthetic options—silver or black—and its compatibility with existing accessories, maintaining the series' cherished vintage appeal.

The discussion around the camera's IBIS system is particularly noteworthy, presenting it as a game-changer for shooting under less-than-ideal lighting conditions without compromising on image quality. Laing's hands-on experience showcases the practical benefits of IBIS, allowing for sharp images at significantly slower shutter speeds, thereby broadening the camera's utility in low-light scenarios. Additionally, the review covers the camera's unchanged yet effective hybrid viewfinder, lens characteristics, and the continuity of its design and ergonomics, ensuring a seamless transition for users upgrading from previous models. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Laing.

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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2 Comments

GAH! Thank you for a very well-rounded review. I WISH I had seen this before returning my VI because when I rotated the camera clockwise and counterclockwise I 'felt' a 'clunk' in the camera. I thought it might be the battery so I removed it and it still 'clunked' After hearing you state that it is the IBIS I'm mad. Adorama here will exchange it, but I didn't need to send it at all. GAH. At least I now know that when they send me the replacement, I'll be aware that the 'clunk' does not indicate a faulty unit.

Gordon, thank you for a most informative review. While awaiting shipping of my pre-ordered x100iv I found some of your hints useful for my x100v which I've owned for 2 years and which cost me $1849 used on eBay. After the M6 arrives I will sell the M5.

I use a filter adapter onto which I attach a 49mm B+W collapsible rubber hood. On the front thread of the hood I have a 49mm K&F magnetic UV filter which completes the weather sealing. Then I drop on a K&F magnetic CPL. I tether a pinch type lens cap to the camera with a bit of fly fishing line. I can pinch the filter to leave the CPL in place or I can lift the cap with the filter remaining secured to the cap to use the camera without the CPL. (I do this with many of my FF E-mount lenses.)