FUJIFILM X-H1

The X-series line-up from Fujifilm hit new heights with the launch of the flagship X-H1

Cameras like the X-T100, X-T20 and X-T2 are renowned for their streamlined retro styling and impressive image quality. The range-topping X-H1 is a more grown-up affair that adds top-end features. For example, the more pro-grade layout includes a secondary info LCD on the top panel and the chunkier build is more durable as well as giving an improvement in handling.

At its heart, the X-H1 harnesses the same 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III image sensor and X-Processor Pro engine as other recent X-series cameras. A crucial addition, however, is that the X-H1 gains IBIS (in-body image stabilisation), which is lacking in other X-series cameras. Indeed, it’s a highly effective five-axis stabiliser which gives a benefit of up to 5.5 stops.

Furthering its ability to fight the shakes, the X-H1 has a redesigned mechanical shutter that reduces vibrations and is quieter in operation. Even the shutter release button is revamped with a ‘feather-touch’ action. All in all, you can be assured of pin-sharp results when using Fujifilm’s excellent range of X-series lenses.

The hybrid phase/contrast-detection autofocus system is upgraded to better track moving objects in continuous AF mode. This makes the X-H1 well suited to action sports, even indoors under artificial lighting, thanks to its flicker-reduction mode. Meanwhile, the maximum continuous drive rate of 8fps with the mechanical shutter is boosted to 14fps if you switch to using the electronic shutter, giving a real burst of shooting speed.

RightIt’s a smooth operator WITH A REDESIGNED SHUTTER AND SHUTTER RELEASE BUTTON, PLUS THE ADDITION OF IBIS, THE X-H1 IS EFFECTIVE AT REDUCING VIBRATIONS THREEDIRECTION TILT THE SCREENCAN BE TILTED OR FLIPPED OUT FOR PORTRAIT-FORMAT SHOOTING. IT’S NOT AS INTUITIVE AS A VARI-ANGLE UNIT, BUT IT’S SOLIDLY CONSTRUCTED. VIDEO 4K VIDEO CAN BE RECORDED TO AN EXTERNAL DEVICE VIA AN HDMI CONNECTION. FOOTAGE RECORDED INTERNALLY TO AN SD CARD HAS 4:2:0 COLOUR. FLICKER-FREE WHEN THE MECHANICAL SHUTTER IS EMPLOYED, THE FLICKER REDUCTION SYSTEM CAN ENSURE MORE STABLE EXPOSURE UNDER FLUORESCENT LIGHTING. CONTINUOUS SHOOTING THERE’S A MAX CONTINUOUS SHOOTING SPEED OF 14FPS, OR 8FPS WITH THE MECHANICAL SHUTTER, BUT YOU HAVE TO DROP TO 5.7FPS IF YOU NEED UNINTERRUPTED LIVE VIEW.

MIDTONE CONTRAST IMAGES HAVE ATTRACTIVELY HIGH MIDTONE CONTRAST, MAKING THEM LOOK SHARP AND BRIGHT STRAIGHT FROM THE CAMERA.

GOOD EXPOSURE ON THE WHOLE EXPOSURES ARE GOOD, AND WITH THE EVF YOU CAN ASSESS THEM IN THE VIEWFINDER AT THE SHOOTING STAGE.