First look
Michael Topham
michael topham inspects the new Fujifilm X-H1
inspects Fujifilm’s latest X-series camera in detail
THE arrival of the Fujifilm X- H1 is the most exciting release in the X-series since the launch of the X-T2, slotting in at the top of the X-series line- up above its sister model and the X- Pro2. It has a comprehensive specification for serious stills photographers and videographers and presents a number of firsts on an X-series camera: it’s Fujifilm’s first mirrorless camera with in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), it’s the first top- end X-series model to feature a touchscreen, and it boasts the most robust build quality of any X-series camera that we’ve seen to date. The X- H1 is built around the same 24.3-million-pixel X-Trans CMOS III sensor and X- Processor Pro as found inside the X-T2 and X- Pro2, offering a sensitivity range that covers ISO 200-12,800 (expandable to ISO 100-51,200). The big talking point is the implementation of 5-axis IBIS that provides a maximum 5.5 stops of benefit when using unstabilised lenses such as the XF 35mm f/1.4 R. With most OIS lenses, the camera hands pitch and yaw correction to the lens, and corrects the other three axes. With the Fujinon XF 80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR, the lens corrects 4 axes of movement, with roll corrected by the camera body. Adapted lenses that are paired with the X- H1 only get 3-axis IBIS though, as focus- distance information is a prerequisite for 5-axis IBIS. The key point about the in-body image stabilisation is that it gives many lenses a new lease of life and offers users the ability to shoot sharp handheld shots at slower shutter speeds than has been possible previously on other X-series cameras.
Fujifilm has refi ned the autofocus algorithm on the X- H1 to further improve the accuracy and speed of focusing in low- light situations. It can be used with lenses with apertures up to f/11, for example, the XF 100- 400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR with teleconverter XF2X TC WR, while the performance of continuous AF (AF- C) during zooming is also said to be signifi cantly improved. Other performance upgrades include flicker-free shooting, which detects the rapid on- off pulsing of artifi cial lights indoors, and the introduction of a CM (continuous
medium) mode on the drive dial that lets you shoot at 6fps.
The X- H1 improves in many areas of its video spec over the X-T2, although it doesn’t shoot 4:2:2 10-bit colour like Panasonic’s Lumix GH5 or GH5S. Upgraded video functionality includes 4K/30p 4:2:0 8-bit internal recording at a maximum of 200Mbps (100Mbps and 50Mbps are available) and HDMI live output options include 4K/30p 4:2:2 8-bit. F-log recording direct to the card is available in 4K and Full HD, and there’s a new, dedicated video menu.
All existing Film Simulations can be used in movie mode. There’s a new movie- optimised film simulation called Eterna that mimics the feel of the old film stock, producing a look with low contrast and saturation with softer shadows and strong tonality. Like the X-T2, the X- H1 has a microphone input at the side, and a headphone socket for audio monitoring is provided at the side of the battery grip (see opposite).
On the top, the X- H1 adopts the same sub- LCD panel and leaf-sprung shutter button as on Fujifilm’s GFX 50S, while at the rear you get the same tilting screen as that in the X-T2 with the benefit of touch control like the X- E3. What’s particularly nice about the screen is the way it allows you to drag your thumb over the panel while your eye is raised to the EVF to change the focus position. Entering the quick menu also gives you the option to select settings by touch; however we’re still not at the point where the main menu or key exposure variables can be adjusted by the tap of a finger.
Above the screen there’s a stunningly detailed 3.69-million- dot EVF with 0.75x magnification. Some other features to note include a quieter shutter, and the combination of Bluetooth with Wi- Fi connectivity.
Body and design
The X- H1 is built around an entirely new metal chassis to accommodate the new IBIS unit. It’s larger and heavier than the X-T2, but at 673g (body only) it’s still less than half the weight of a Nikon D5. To reaffirm its robust build quality for professional use, the X- H1 is finished in scratch- resistant paint and is fitted with 94 weather seals around the body to prevent ingress of water, dust or sand.
The overall design and arrangement of buttons combines the best of what the X-T2 and GFX 50S offer. The handgrip is sculpted differently, but like the X-T2, it provides a comfortable, secure and satisfying handling experience.