Fujifilm X-E2s: Noble art
The resolution, in broad terms, represents a unit of measure of the hypothetical information that a photographic instrument is capable of acquiring. Indeed, hypothetical and in broad terms because it says nothing regarding the quality, the modality and the options of the acquired information.
As I love to say, again and again, there are certain photographic requirements that even 1000MP would probably not suffice. But generally speaking, and for the vast majority of photographic genres, 10MP are enough to obtain a very high image quality level.
This is why, when evaluating a photographic instrument, one must take into consideration all aspects and not just the resolution.
The Fujifilm X-E2s inherits the main characteristics of the X-E2 and implements all the technology that has been developed in the last years. In the name X-E2s the “s” stands for “second”, that is, second edition. Therefore this is not a completely revolutionized model but rather has a whole series of improvements and implementations that make this modern “telemeter” an even higher performing camera.
Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF 16-55 f/2.8 - 1/640, f/4, Iso 200
Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF 16-55 f/2.8 - 1/500, f/4, Iso 200
First Impressions
Note: After the announcement of the new firmware for the Fujifilm X-E2 many people have asked me what were the real differences between the new X-E2s and the previous model. Respond without trying in parallel the two models I think it's impossible. In theory it would appear that the differences between the two models are truly minimal. But as always I intend to compare the two cameras to make a more accurate judgment.
As soon as the camera is held, one notices the improved ergonomics thanks to the new grip. Its now definitely more comfortable to use this digital “telemeter” even with bulky zooms mounted on it. This is not to be regarded as a minor detail it just takes a days work using a Fujinon XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR and XF50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR to realize this.
Another upgrade concerns the viewfinder that has a new panel defined as “organic EL”. This implementation practically reduces, to almost zero, the delay between the real image and the one seen in the viewfinder and makes everything even more comfortable (Like X-T10).
But the real innovation is the reorganization of the auto-focus mode that raises this model to the apex of Fujifilm's operative speed.
This camera has become very fast. Don't get me wrong. The X-E2 was an instrument principally thought for reportage or street photography. Now, with the X-E2s one can tackle other genres that are even more demanding from a performance point of view such as sports or naturalistic photography without having to accept who knows what type of compromises.
Personally, I have put the X-E2s to the test in two situations: “artistic” photography with constant and controlled lighting and on the edge of a boxing ring in “terrifying” lighting conditions that forced me to shoot at a fixed 25600 Iso.
What really impressed me is that setting the camera in manual mode, continuous AF, fast burst mode (around 7 frames per second) and in Jpg quality only, with just one battery I was able to take almost 4000 shots!! Now, I dont know what this incredible autonomy is caused by, but fact is that its 10 times greater compared to a standard use. I will attentively investigate on the matter, but for now, I am convinced that this bit of information will be much appreciated by sports photography lovers.
Its would be presumptuous of me to give complete and definite conclusions today, therefore will pass for the moment. I do however reserve the right to take a couple of months work to enable me to express a final opinion, in light of the possibility of developing Raw shots and understanding which are the maximum limits that can be reached with this camera. What is certain is that the X-E2s is a product that has benefited from the whole evolution that Fujifilm has made throughout the years.
Official Video: Fujifilm X-E2s x Max Angeloni
Director: Gilles Rocca
DOP: Francesco Inglese
Original Soundtrack: Andrea Camilletti
Production: Riflessifotografici
Location: Accademia Pugilistica Renato Costantini
Special Thank's to Cesare Costantini
Official Gallery: Fujifilm X-E2s "Noble Art" - Max Angeloni (coming soon)
Photographer: Max Angeloni
Assistent: Vincenzo Ricciarello
Location: Accademia Pugilistica Renato Costantini
Special Thank's to Cesare Costantini
Print: Fujifilm Mini Lab Frontier
Print: Tokyo, Headquarters Fujifilm - Fujifilm X 5th Anniversary
Bordo Ring
Note
All the pictures have been made starting from the Jpg shot.
Given the really impossible lighting conditions (low light, shadow areas due to the lights on the ceiling, color temperature variations within the various areas of the ring) I have re-touched the images for the white balance and softened the color cast using Lightroom.
Clik to enlarge - Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF16-55 f/2.8 - 1/250, f/2.8, Iso 12800
In spite of the very scarce light, the continuous auto-focus does its job very well.
Coupled with the burst mode of 7 frames per second, the X-E2s behaves very well even in sports photography.
Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF 50-140 - f/2.8 - 1/250, f/2.8, Iso 6400
Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF 50-140 - f/2.8 - 1/250, f/2.8, Iso 12800
Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF 16-55 - f/2.8 - 1/400, f/2.8, Iso 25600
Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF 16-55 - f/2.8 - 1/400, f/2.8, Iso 25600
Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF 16-55 - f/2.8 - 1/400, f/2.8, Iso 25600
Fujifilm X-E2s - Fujinon XF 16-55 - f/2.8 - 1/400, f/2.8, Iso 25600