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Fuji x-e1  Rate Topic 
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Posted by Squarerigger: Mon Sep 17th, 2012 21:39 1st Post
Saw this new item and was wondering about your opinions? I like the concept better than the x100 and the xpro. Seems Ike anice simple carry around with very good capabiliy.



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Gary


Posted by Robert: Tue Sep 18th, 2012 02:44 2nd Post
http://www.dpreview.com/previews/fujifilm-x-e1/

And reading...

Thanks Gary, Well worth a read for X100 owners...



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Posted by richw: Tue Sep 18th, 2012 05:41 3rd Post
Looks nice, but I'll wait a while before buying any new cameras!



Posted by jk: Tue Sep 18th, 2012 08:21 4th Post
Yes I have been aware of this camera for the last month or so as it has been heavily talked about on the Fuji forums.

Essentially it is an XPro1 without the optical viewfinder. If you dont want the extra expense of the XPro1 with the OVL/EVL combo and want interchangeable lenses then it is a good option. Also the XE1 is a little smaller than the XPro1, closer to X100 in size.



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Posted by Squarerigger: Tue Sep 18th, 2012 09:07 5th Post
The more I read about this, the more I like it. I have been on the fence for some time now wanting a smallish carry around. I liked the x100 but wanted more than a 35mm lens. The x pro was too much in size and cost but very capable. I think the x-e1 may be the answer. Time will tell. Fuji really seems to have found their niche market. Anyway, I thought this was interesting.



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Gary


Posted by jk: Tue Sep 18th, 2012 12:24 6th Post
The biggest change is that the AF on a mirrorless camera is nowhere as good as a DSLR but everything else can be similar.

Once you get over the need to have snap instant focus then you will be content with a mirrorless camera. The great things about it are the lower weight and the same quality of image (assuming same sized sensor).



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Posted by TomOC: Tue Sep 18th, 2012 16:28 7th Post
It definitely is going to be a "hot" camera.

I just downloaded the firmware for the xp1 (which gives it all the new features except the slightly higher res evf and the build in diopter).

It is great. Focus is still slower than a nikon, but much closer. The manual focus is greatly improved and makes it very usable in MF mode.

The difference between the xe1 and the x100 are the sensor (not too meaningful but clearly "better) and the interchangeable lenses... Negative... Probably not really a pocket camera like the x100, not silent (really silent) shutter and not high speed flash sync...oh yeah, and no hybrid VF.

For me the size is appealing and the EVF, but I'm sold on the x100 and xp1 hybrid VF, which for me really separate Fuji from the pack.

tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Wed Sep 19th, 2012 08:52 8th Post
TomOC wrote: It definitely is going to be a "hot" camera.

I just downloaded the firmware for the xp1 (which gives it all the new features except the slightly higher res evf and the build in diopter).

It is great. Focus is still slower than a nikon, but much closer. The manual focus is greatly improved and makes it very usable in MF mode.

The difference between the xe1 and the x100 are the sensor (not too meaningful but clearly "better) and the interchangeable lenses... Negative... Probably not really a pocket camera like the x100, not silent (really silent) shutter and not high speed flash sync...oh yeah, and no hybrid VF.

For me the size is appealing and the EVF, but I'm sold on the x100 and xp1 hybrid VF, which for me really separate Fuji from the pack.

tom
+1 Definitely agree. 
But then Tom is my USA twin. :-)



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Posted by jk: Sat Nov 3rd, 2012 17:39 9th Post
I've not held an XE1 yet and am resisting the temptation to go to UK as I know if I touch one of these cameras then I will probably want one.
That said I still believe the Leica M9 is probable he pinnacle of rangefinder technology and digital cameras. The Fuji cameras have AF whilst the Leica has MF only I still cant decide if AF or MF is better especially in mid range lenses (28-90mm).



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Posted by Eric: Sat Nov 3rd, 2012 18:32 10th Post
TomOC wrote:
It definitely is going to be a "hot" camera.

I just downloaded the firmware for the xp1 (which gives it all the new features except the slightly higher res evf and the build in diopter).

It is great. Focus is still slower than a nikon, but much closer. The manual focus is greatly improved and makes it very usable in MF mode.

The difference between the xe1 and the x100 are the sensor (not too meaningful but clearly "better) and the interchangeable lenses... Negative... Probably not really a pocket camera like the x100, not silent (really silent) shutter and not high speed flash sync...oh yeah, and no hybrid VF.

For me the size is appealing and the EVF, but I'm sold on the x100 and xp1 hybrid VF, which for me really separate Fuji from the pack.

tom

The X100 has some failings. The start up time, the battery life, the fixed lens (possibly), the exp comp knob mobility.

If the xe1 resolves these I will be interested.



____________________
Eric


Posted by TomOC: Sat Nov 3rd, 2012 19:03 11th Post
jk wrote:
The biggest change is that the AF on a mirrorless camera is nowhere as good as a DSLR but everything else can be similar.

Once you get over the need to have snap instant focus then you will be content with a mirrorless camera. The great things about it are the lower weight and the same quality of image (assuming same sized sensor).

JK-

Some would argue it's better focus but slower :-)

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by TomOC: Sat Nov 3rd, 2012 19:11 12th Post
Eric wrote:

The X100 has some failings. The start up time, the battery life, the fixed lens (possibly), the exp comp knob mobility.

If the xe1 resolves these I will be interested. ---------------------------------
Eric-

I broke down and ordered one.

The only way to know is to use it. I'm expecting it will be exactly the same size weight etc of the x100, which would make it a pretty darn nice walkaround camera with the 18mm on it. Once you go to the 35mm, it no longer fits in a pocket - though that is the lens I use most on the xp1 - and why wouldn't I, it's an amazing lens and the xp1 isn't pocketable under any scenario.

So the one hang up is the hybrid finder of the x100 - I think that might be hard to give up.

The issue of interchangeable lenses isn't too much of an issue for me. At first I really favored a fixed lens to avoid any dust issues, but I'm not having any dust issues with the xp1, so that may be a bogus "advantage" that I thought might be necessary on a camera that gets carried everywhere...we'll see about that, too.

In USA it looks like about two more weeks till they start shipping xe1

Cheers,

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Squarerigger: Sat Nov 3rd, 2012 20:21 13th Post
I am looking forward to your review of this new Fuji Tom. I am very interested in this camera. I have no backup and it seems like a perfect solution to a backup and a smaller walk about camera.

I think Fuji has really nabbed the market in this format.

If you don't like it Tom, you could always toss it my way to lighten the load.



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Gary


Posted by TomOC: Sun Nov 4th, 2012 02:35 14th Post
I'll keep that in mind, Gary...always hard to part with the cool stuff :-)

The quality is definitely going to be there - it will be a question of the EVF only and I think that will really be a question of getting used to.

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Sun Nov 4th, 2012 04:39 15th Post
I dont think that the EVF in the XE1 will be a problem as it is better than the ones in the X100 and XPro1.

I find that I am using the EVF more to get accurate framing and focus with the 60mm.



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Posted by Eric: Sun Nov 4th, 2012 06:31 16th Post
TomOC wrote: Eric wrote:

The X100 has some failings. The start up time, the battery life, the fixed lens (possibly), the exp comp knob mobility.

If the xe1 resolves these I will be interested.
---------------------------------
Eric-

I broke down and ordered one.

The only way to know is to use it. I'm expecting it will be exactly the same size weight etc of the x100, which would make it a pretty darn nice walkaround camera with the 18mm on it. Once you go to the 35mm, it no longer fits in a pocket - though that is the lens I use most on the xp1 - and why wouldn't I, it's an amazing lens and the xp1 isn't pocketable under any scenario.

So the one hang up is the hybrid finder of the x100 - I think that might be hard to give up.

The issue of interchangeable lenses isn't too much of an issue for me. At first I really favored a fixed lens to avoid any dust issues, but I'm not having any dust issues with the xp1, so that may be a bogus "advantage" that I thought might be necessary on a camera that gets carried everywhere...we'll see about that, too.

In USA it looks like about two more weeks till they start shipping xe1

Cheers,

Tom

------------------------------------------------------------------

I am told that there are some already 'in stock' in the UK. I am trying to avoid their websites in case I break down too.
 :rofl:


Its interesting you refer to its pocketability as important to you. I always thought I would pocket it ...but in practise I dont.

I still carry the X100 round my neck, as its so light and easily concealable in a jacket.

I also wonder if 18mm is too wide for many general situations?

I have been quite happy with the X100's 23mm and frankly wonder if I would be better to keep the X100 (in my pocket) for wide work and get the 60mm with the XE1?

In cost terms the resale value of the X100 isnt going to be much different to the cost of a new 18mm lens. Of course it adds complications in terms of batteries and all the other X100 negatives I raised are still there. o.O





____________________
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Posted by Squarerigger: Sun Nov 4th, 2012 07:24 17th Post
Eric wrote:
TomOC wrote: Eric wrote:

The X100 has some failings. The start up time, the battery life, the fixed lens (possibly), the exp comp knob mobility.

If the xe1 resolves these I will be interested.
---------------------------------
Eric-

I broke down and ordered one.

The only way to know is to use it. I'm expecting it will be exactly the same size weight etc of the x100, which would make it a pretty darn nice walkaround camera with the 18mm on it. Once you go to the 35mm, it no longer fits in a pocket - though that is the lens I use most on the xp1 - and why wouldn't I, it's an amazing lens and the xp1 isn't pocketable under any scenario.

So the one hang up is the hybrid finder of the x100 - I think that might be hard to give up.

The issue of interchangeable lenses isn't too much of an issue for me. At first I really favored a fixed lens to avoid any dust issues, but I'm not having any dust issues with the xp1, so that may be a bogus "advantage" that I thought might be necessary on a camera that gets carried everywhere...we'll see about that, too.

In USA it looks like about two more weeks till they start shipping xe1

Cheers,

Tom

------------------------------------------------------------------

I am told that there are some already 'in stock' in the UK. I am trying to avoid their websites in case I break down too.
 :rofl:


Its interesting you refer to its pocketability as important to you. I always thought I would pocket it ...but in practise I dont.

I still carry the X100 round my neck, as its so light and easily concealable in a jacket.

I also wonder if 18mm is too wide for many general situations?

I have been quite happy with the X100's 23mm and frankly wonder if I would be better to keep the X100 (in my pocket) for wide work and get the 60mm with the XE1?

In cost terms the resale value of the X100 isnt going to be much different to the cost of a new 18mm lens. Of course it adds complications in terms of batteries and all the other X100 negatives I raised are still there. o.O




If you had the X100 with 35mm lens and XE1 with 60mm lens would you drop the D7000 from the travel kit?

Why not just the XE! and the 18-55mm?



____________________
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Gary


Posted by Squarerigger: Sun Nov 4th, 2012 13:36 18th Post
Alright, so now for the big question, probably the one which will make the most difference when taking a perfect photo.

Tom, did you order the retro silver or the modern black XE1 body?

Eric, I know you are avoiding the advertisements, but if you had to choose, silver or black.

I am betting silver takes a much more refined photo. Also, goes better with my hair color. :-)



____________________
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Gary


Posted by Eric: Sun Nov 4th, 2012 13:45 19th Post




If you had the X100 with 35mm lens and XE1 with 60mm lens would you drop the D7000 from the travel kit?

Why not just the XE! and the 18-55mm?

The 18-55 isn't available yet, so we don't know how good it will be compared to the 18, 35 primes. It also looks a bit bulky. But there is no doubt that if it passes muster a zoom might be useful for lazy so and sos like me. :-)

As far as the D7000 is concerned, my wife prefers the feel of a lightish DSLR to the X100 so it may still come with us. I also take a long lens with me, just in case I need some long reach and, although you can probably get an fujix - nikon afs adapter, I prefer to fix it to a DSLR.

But there is no doubt that we are entering an interesting phase of digital development. Until now it's been all about improving sensor, pixels and noise. But I think the new compact camera formats are blending the ease of use and convenience of point and shoot cameras with the funtionality and performance of DSlRs.

That's a wig I am wearing. My real hair colour is dark brown.:rofl:



____________________
Eric


Posted by Squarerigger: Sun Nov 4th, 2012 14:15 20th Post
Can't seem to come up with a one liner about your "dark brown" hair Eric, probably because I wish I had thought of that before you did.

:rofl:



____________________
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Gary


Posted by jk: Sun Nov 4th, 2012 16:01 21st Post
I think that the XE1 with 18-55 at £1200 would be a good purchase unless you really want fast primes.
I would love to have the same choice as I would go for XE1 with zoom but that said the 35mm f1.4 is wonderful to use, a i the 18mm for landscape shots even though some people on the Fuji forum whinge about it. They are mainly ex-Leica users who want cheap quality. An oxymoron!



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Posted by Squarerigger: Fri Nov 9th, 2012 08:49 22nd Post
Was just looking at B&H Photo and since yesterday, they have changed the available date from 10 November to just new item available for pre order.

I don't understand why companies over estimate on their ability to deliver.

Waiting for them to arrive and see some reviews before I try to open my rusted shut wallet.

Tom, may I ask where you ordered yours from and if you have had any updates on availability??



____________________
--------------------------------------------
Gary


Posted by TomOC: Fri Nov 9th, 2012 14:48 23rd Post
Eric-

I really don't use the 60mm at all (other than macro work but my DSLRs are better for macro work with the nikon flash systm)

I haven't used the xp1 with the 18mm enough to say it's not too wide, but I'm eager to see :-)... Not ready to part with the x100 either - it's a gem and is likely to be under the seat of my car for some time !!!

Tom


Eric wrote:
TomOC wrote: Eric wrote:

The X100 has some failings. The start up time, the battery life, the fixed lens (possibly), the exp comp knob mobility.

If the xe1 resolves these I will be interested.
---------------------------------
Eric-

I broke down and ordered one.

The only way to know is to use it. I'm expecting it will be exactly the same size weight etc of the x100, which would make it a pretty darn nice walkaround camera with the 18mm on it. Once you go to the 35mm, it no longer fits in a pocket - though that is the lens I use most on the xp1 - and why wouldn't I, it's an amazing lens and the xp1 isn't pocketable under any scenario.

So the one hang up is the hybrid finder of the x100 - I think that might be hard to give up.

The issue of interchangeable lenses isn't too much of an issue for me. At first I really favored a fixed lens to avoid any dust issues, but I'm not having any dust issues with the xp1, so that may be a bogus "advantage" that I thought might be necessary on a camera that gets carried everywhere...we'll see about that, too.

In USA it looks like about two more weeks till they start shipping xe1

Cheers,

Tom

------------------------------------------------------------------

I am told that there are some already 'in stock' in the UK. I am trying to avoid their websites in case I break down too.
 :rofl:


Its interesting you refer to its pocketability as important to you. I always thought I would pocket it ...but in practise I dont.

I still carry the X100 round my neck, as its so light and easily concealable in a jacket.

I also wonder if 18mm is too wide for many general situations?

I have been quite happy with the X100's 23mm and frankly wonder if I would be better to keep the X100 (in my pocket) for wide work and get the 60mm with the XE1?

In cost terms the resale value of the X100 isnt going to be much different to the cost of a new 18mm lens. Of course it adds complications in terms of batteries and all the other X100 negatives I raised are still there. o.O





____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by TomOC: Fri Nov 9th, 2012 14:49 24th Post
Squarerigger wrote:
Alright, so now for the big question, probably the one which will make the most difference when taking a perfect photo.

Tom, did you order the retro silver or the modern black XE1 body?

Eric, I know you are avoiding the advertisements, but if you had to choose, silver or black.

I am betting silver takes a much more refined photo. Also, goes better with my hair color. :-)


BLACK BLACK BLACK



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by TomOC: Fri Nov 9th, 2012 14:51 25th Post
GARY-

I ordered from B&H and don't have a firm delivery date... I'm hoping to get it next week as I'm going away Thanksgiving week...so I'll have it next week or in 3 weeks :-)

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Squarerigger: Fri Nov 9th, 2012 15:01 26th Post
TomOC wrote:
GARY-

I ordered from B&H and don't have a firm delivery date... I'm hoping to get it next week as I'm going away Thanksgiving week...so I'll have it next week or in 3 weeks :-)

Tom

I guess you ordered the body only since you have the lenses already. B&H shows the bodies available 12 Nov. they have taken the date off the XE1 with the 18-55mm kit which I would probably order. You should be in good shape. I saw somewhere they were having problems with the 18-55 lens and some folks now saying delivery mid Dec.

Black - so you can tell the difference between the X100 and the XE1? I am still prone to the silver just for old times.



____________________
--------------------------------------------
Gary


Posted by jk: Fri Nov 9th, 2012 16:21 27th Post
I agree, about a year ago the EVF quality of most cameras was fairly dire but the X100 changed that and the XPro1 has improved and again the XE1 is much better.

Who knows what next year brings.



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Posted by Ray Ninness: Sun Nov 18th, 2012 08:04 28th Post
jk wrote: I agree, about a year ago the EVF quality of most cameras was fairly dire but the X100 changed that and the XPro1 has improved and again the XE1 is much better.

Who knows what next year brings.
How about full frame and real Wides???

I still lust to a degree for an M9, but in the current economy, not happening..

I finally decided to build a car Guys Garage, and for the next year that will be my cash focus!!!

:thumbsup:



____________________
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F8Photos.com
Bedford, New Hampshire
USA


Posted by TomOC: Sun Nov 18th, 2012 14:09 29th Post
Ray-

I lust for an M9, too...once they have hybrid VF, auto focus, macro settings, actually HIGH ISO with low noise.

Leica is the manual wind watch in an age of iphones... Admittedly Rolex feel, but just not really doing all it should do (IMNSHO)



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Ray Ninness: Mon Nov 19th, 2012 21:24 30th Post
TomOC wrote: Ray-

I lust for an M9, too...once they have hybrid VF, auto focus, macro settings, actually HIGH ISO with low noise.

Leica is the manual wind watch in an age of iphones... Admittedly Rolex feel, but just not really doing all it should do (IMNSHO)
Yep I was just fondling my M6's yesterday..

Now I just have to remember where film is sold???

o.O



____________________
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F8Photos.com
Bedford, New Hampshire
USA


Posted by TomOC: Mon Nov 19th, 2012 22:18 31st Post
Well, the M lenses work great on the Fuji's with an adapter.

You don't get all the functionality of the Fuji lenes but you still get all the Leica quality.

I have one Leica lens but prefer the Fuji native lenses - the only time I use the Leica one is on the street doing zone focus shots. Still very nice.

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Squarerigger: Tue Nov 20th, 2012 07:09 32nd Post
Got your XE1 yet Tom? I am going to wait for our report card on the new item before making a decision between the X100 and XE1.



____________________
--------------------------------------------
Gary


Posted by TomOC: Tue Nov 20th, 2012 13:35 33rd Post
Gary-

Looks like it was delivered today <sigh> but I am not home today and won't be back till next Tuesday. If it had been sent on the 10th as B&H posted on their Web site, I would have had it before I left, but they didn't get them in in time to make that shipment date.

Will post next week :-)



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Squarerigger: Tue Nov 20th, 2012 18:17 34th Post
TomOC wrote:
Gary-

Looks like it was delivered today <sigh> but I am not home today and won't be back till next Tuesday. If it had been sent on the 10th as B&H posted on their Web site, I would have had it before I left, but they didn't get them in in time to make that shipment date.

Will post next week :-)

Thanks Tom, enjoy your Thanksgiving wherever you are. :cheers:



____________________
--------------------------------------------
Gary


Posted by jk: Wed Nov 21st, 2012 04:41 35th Post
Ray Ninness wrote:
TomOC wrote: Ray-

I lust for an M9, too...once they have hybrid VF, auto focus, macro settings, actually HIGH ISO with low noise.

Leica is the manual wind watch in an age of iphones... Admittedly Rolex feel, but just not really doing all it should do (IMNSHO)
Yep I was just fondling my M6's yesterday..

Now I just have to remember where film is sold???

o.O

Trade it in for an M9 and save yourself the hassle buddy.
You know it makes sense.
:applause:



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Posted by jk: Wed Nov 21st, 2012 04:42 36th Post
TomOC wrote:
Gary-

Looks like it was delivered today <sigh> but I am not home today and won't be back till next Tuesday. If it had been sent on the 10th as B&H posted on their Web site, I would have had it before I left, but they didn't get them in in time to make that shipment date.

Will post next week :-)

Hmmmm, send me one twin!
:lol:



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Posted by jk: Thu Dec 6th, 2012 03:48 37th Post
Just ordered the new 18-55 f2.8-f4 zoom for my XPro1.
That will curtail my need to buy the kit of XE1 and 18-55 lens!
Should be here before Christmas assuming the Spanish postal service performs adequately.



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Posted by TomOC: Thu Dec 6th, 2012 12:01 38th Post
JK-

To me the main reason to use the xe1 seems to be either to have the very slightly better DVF for manual focus with 3P lenses or to be slightly smaller than the xp1 for travelling light.

If you put the larger lens on it, I think you might as well use the xp1 which I think is really a better build, has the hybrid VF (which is the big big advantage to fugi) and the better built body...so... In summary: I think you did the right thing :-)

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Thu Dec 6th, 2012 12:34 39th Post
Thanks Tom.

Making decisions on kit is not good without getting hands on but unless I wait, wait, wait then I need to do this.
I would have bought the zoom lens first, before any of the primes if Fuji had brought them out at the same time.
That said the 35mm f1.4 is as good a lens as I have ever used.



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Posted by TomOC: Thu Dec 6th, 2012 13:31 40th Post
I agree re the 35mm...totally !!!

Just remember to plug into your thinking that a "mistake" is easily corrected at very little cost by offing the ones you decide don't work for you on ebay!



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Tue Dec 11th, 2012 11:35 41st Post
My Fuji 18-55mm zoom arrived yesterday but I only got a chance to use it for the first time today.
This lens is sold in a kit with the new Fuji XE1 camera.




In the box was all the normal stuff from Fuji plus a 2GB SD card containing Firmware updates for the XE1 and XPro1.
I didnt need the firmware as my XPro1 was fully up to date. So a nice 2GB spare card.

The lens hood supplied is a petal hood. Nice and light but not as good as a metal tube as on the 60mm or as neat as the hoods on the 18mm and 35mm lenses from Fuji. Not sure if this is a plus or negative.

The lens when in OIS mode 'ticks' so I have it switched off until such time as I need to use it.

The aperture ring has no markings but the aperture is clearly shown in EVF/OVF so its not a problem.


The lens itself is a joy to use.

Fast focussing. Definitely better than the primes. This is great and now begs the question will these original primes live in their lens bags while I use the zoom more. Frankly this would be a shame but practicality wins. Only time will tell.

The OVF frames zoom very nicely and this will be a winner for me. The EVF just works fine.

So all in all a very good lens from a handling perspective.

Now to go and test out in real life use.

If the lens is as good as reported then I will be extremely happy.



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Posted by TomOC: Tue Dec 11th, 2012 18:47 42nd Post
Now you are REALLY making my life difficult.

All of what you say makes sense...except for one little thing !!! SIZE

To me, this is still a high priority and will keep the primes on most of the time no matter how good the zoom...but....

On another note, I had mentioned a 28mm Zeiss in the offing. A look at the Fuji Web site shows the announcement of a 21mm and 28mm pancake !!!! Pancake ! Pancake! I LOVE PANCAKE !!!

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Eric: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 11:38 43rd Post
Well the War of the Roses is still alive and kicking.

Having noticed that a Lancashire based camera dealer was offering the EX1 at a much lower price than my normal Yorkshire dealer.


I emailed them to say that although it was tastless for a Yorkshireman to deal with Lancastrians, I might have to swallow my pride and buy from them...at least I would still be true to one Yorkshire tradition....paying as little as possible.


The Yorshire dealer has just replied that it was breaking his heart to do so ....but he will match the Lancastrian bunch. (10% reductions are previosly unheard of in the White Rose realm)


I now just need to decide if I reeeeealy want it....and if not I will report them to the Whippet and pigeon committee ....for renouncing their thrift pledge.






____________________
Eric


Posted by TomOC: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 14:04 44th Post
Don't know where you stand on fixed lens issue, Eric, but you might want to wait till Jan 7 to see what the Fuji announcements are.

Rumor is new x100s which will have focus peaking and some kind of hybrid split screen focus thingie plus improved EVF (equal to the xe1). Of course, by the time we can actually buy one of these babes, the x300 will be announced :-)



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 15:43 45th Post
I think that the XE1 is a much better prospect than the revised X100s with focus peaking.
Tom where did you hear about the split focus thingle ?

Eric, If you dont like the XE1 compared to the X100 then I'll take the body off you (seriously). I'd even lend you my 18mm f2.0 lens that goes on it.



____________________
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Posted by TomOC: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 15:49 46th Post
Jk-

You might be right, but if you don't care about interchangeable lenses, I would argue that the x100 has many advantages (even as is).

I saw the first reference to hybrid focus here:

http://photorumors.com/2013/01/04/more-fuji-x100s-and-x20-details-and-specs/

But I saw another link that discussed it as a split screen focus scheme and I cannot find it - at least in english. If you can read Japanese, there are several sites that cover it.

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 16:08 47th Post
I agree Tom. For fill-in flash the X100 is perfect as it syncs at 1/1000 --- beautiful !



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Posted by TomOC: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 16:10 48th Post
Even more important to me is the size (though when the pancake 27mm is release, that may not be so true) and the true SILENT mode.

I've used it in many places that would not have been possible if the shutter made any sound at all :-)



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Eric: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 17:52 49th Post
So let's have a quick summary...


For compactness ...X100


For short range interchangeable lens...EX1

For tele reach... V1

For price...V1

For image quality....?

For overal speed and ease of use.....?

Anyone want to fill in the blanks and add anymore?



____________________
Eric


Posted by TomOC: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 18:02 50th Post
I have drawn the line on sensor size at APS-C size, so the V1 isn't on my list.



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Eric: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 18:31 51st Post
Oh my head hurts!!!
:needsahug:



____________________
Eric


Posted by TomOC: Fri Jan 4th, 2013 18:56 52nd Post
Take 2 aspirin and get a D4 and call me in the morning :-)

Size - easily in and out of jacket pocket
Quality - aps-c or better
IQ - best available

Otherwise, why not just use the DSLR?

Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 03:17 53rd Post
TomOC wrote: Take 2 aspirin and get a D4 and call me in the morning :-)

Size - easily in and out of jacket pocket
Quality - aps-c or better
IQ - best available

Otherwise, why not just use the DSLR?

Tom
Yes those are my criteria as well but the XPro1 size is larger than the average jacket pocket which is why the smaller XE1 looks attractive. 



____________________
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Posted by jk: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 03:45 54th Post
Eric wrote: So let's have a quick summary...


For compactness ...X100


For short range interchangeable lens...EX1

For tele reach... V1

For price...V1

For image quality....?

For overal speed and ease of use.....?

Anyone want to fill in the blanks and add anymore?

For compactness..... XE1 is same size as X100 but is better specified.
For short range interchangeability add 18-55 zoom to XE1.
For tele reach ..... Agree V1 but x3 reach is gained by small CCD size so no further cropping without loss of quality.
For price.... V1  full kit now available for £430 inc 10-30 and 30-100 zoom lenses.  http://www.camerapricebuster.co.uk/prod.php?n=NikonNikon1V1+10-30mm&30-110mmLenses&p=2372
For image quality.... XE1 not as good as the D800 but as good as the D3.
For overal speed and ease of use...... Nikon D3S
The AF on XE1 or XPro1 cant compete with DSLR AF speeds and accuracy.

Reinforces the no perfect camera thought!   Only perfect for that situation of use.



____________________
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Posted by Eric: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 04:44 55th Post
jk wrote: Eric wrote: So let's have a quick summary...


For compactness ...X100


For short range interchangeable lens...EX1

For tele reach... V1

For price...V1

For image quality....?

For overal speed and ease of use.....?

Anyone want to fill in the blanks and add anymore?

For compactness..... XE1 is same size as X100 but is better specified.
For short range interchangeability add 18-55 zoom to XE1.
For tele reach ..... Agree V1 but x3 reach is gained by small CCD size so no further cropping without loss of quality.
For price.... V1  full kit now available for £430 inc 10-30 and 30-100 zoom lenses.  http://www.camerapricebuster.co.uk/prod.php?n=NikonNikon1V1+10-30mm&30-110mmLenses&p=2372
For image quality.... XE1 not as good as the D800 but as good as the D3.
For overal speed and ease of use...... Nikon D3S
The AF on XE1 or XPro1 cant compete with DSLR AF speeds and accuracy.

Reinforces the no perfect camera thought!   Only perfect for that situation of use.

Given that it is from Amazon, and easily returnable, at that price it's worth having a look.



____________________
Eric


Posted by jk: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 06:51 56th Post
Eric wrote: jk wrote: Eric wrote: So let's have a quick summary...


For compactness ...X100


For short range interchangeable lens...EX1

For tele reach... V1

For price...V1

For image quality....?

For overal speed and ease of use.....?

Anyone want to fill in the blanks and add anymore?

For compactness..... XE1 is same size as X100 but is better specified.
For short range interchangeability add 18-55 zoom to XE1.
For tele reach ..... Agree V1 but x3 reach is gained by small CCD size so no further cropping without loss of quality.
For price.... V1  full kit now available for £430 inc 10-30 and 30-100 zoom lenses.  http://www.camerapricebuster.co.uk/prod.php?n=NikonNikon1V1+10-30mm&30-110mmLenses&p=2372
For image quality.... XE1 not as good as the D800 but as good as the D3.
For overal speed and ease of use...... Nikon D3S
The AF on XE1 or XPro1 cant compete with DSLR AF speeds and accuracy.

Reinforces the no perfect camera thought!   Only perfect for that situation of use.

Given that it is from Amazon, and easily returnable, at that price it's worth having a look.

The wallet unfurls.
The sails are set.

Then you just need a FT1 adapter for £185 and you can put all your Nikon lenses on it.
.



____________________
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Posted by Squarerigger: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 08:37 57th Post
I have a hard time visualizing having a full size Nikon lens attached to a V1 and going on vacation. Keep seeing ------ Eric at the beach with his new kit. :rofl:

Doesn't seem to save all that much weight and not sure how you would get it in a pocket.
I would still rather have a DSLR and 2 lenses and something like the x100 or xe1 in my pocket. But, then carrying gear is part of my work out keep healthy routine. 

Attachment: th.jpeg (Downloaded 21 times)



____________________
--------------------------------------------
Gary


Posted by Eric: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 10:04 58th Post
Squarerigger wrote: I have a hard time visualizing having a full size Nikon lens attached to a V1 and going on vacation. Keep seeing ------ Eric at the beach with his new kit. :rofl:

Doesn't seem to save all that much weight and not sure how you would get it in a pocket.
I would still rather have a DSLR and 2 lenses and something like the x100 or xe1 in my pocket. But, then carrying gear is part of my work out keep healthy routine. 
That was taken some time ago before the weight of my gear turned my beard grey!:rofl:
You are absolutely right about the weight saving. I think a clearer division of activity is required...leaving telephotos, tripods and DSLRs at home when walking about. Having a body that CAN cover all ranges isn't necessarily the best option.




____________________
Eric


Posted by Constable: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 12:15 59th Post
Why is noone including the NEX-7 in the list of options?
Ed



Posted by Squarerigger: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 13:23 60th Post
Eric wrote: Squarerigger wrote: I have a hard time visualizing having a full size Nikon lens attached to a V1 and going on vacation. Keep seeing ------ Eric at the beach with his new kit. :rofl:

Doesn't seem to save all that much weight and not sure how you would get it in a pocket.
I would still rather have a DSLR and 2 lenses and something like the x100 or xe1 in my pocket. But, then carrying gear is part of my work out keep healthy routine. 
That was taken some time ago before the weight of my gear turned my beard grey!:rofl:
You are absolutely right about the weight saving. I think a clearer division of activity is required...leaving telephotos, tripods and DSLRs at home when walking about. Having a body that CAN cover all ranges isn't necessarily the best option.


I think you have hit on the solution. The same advice you gave me about software can be used for what you need for travel/walk about. What do you  want to accomplish should rule the day.
I have concluded that travel photography encompasses a wide range of photographic needs and a DSLR can handle almost all of them. I now carry a DSLR FX with a 24-70mm lens which can handle 75% of my shots and a 70-300mm for any reach requirements where I am too lazy to move myself. Yes, the 24-70 lens is heavy but hard to beat when you want the best photos of a location you may never see again. I take the whole kit but will leave the 70-300 lens on the boat or hotel if I know I will not need it. 
I want a x100 or xe1 for times where a DSLR may not work or to be less conspicuous or you just want a camera along "just in case". Also works as a backup when traveling.
Sometimes simpler is better. I find a smaller kit easier to get comfortable with. Sometimes having too much gear at your disposal makes it harder to select what you "need" from what you think "you MAY need".
Just my little world and I am sure everyone will have their own requirements which is great or we would all be carrying the same kit - how boring.



____________________
--------------------------------------------
Gary


Posted by TomOC: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 14:19 61st Post
jk wrote: JK wrote"

Yes those are my criteria as well but the XPro1 size is larger than the average jacket pocket which is why the smaller XE1 looks attractive. 
Agreed, but x100 fits much easily into pockets. Even with the 18m and no lens shade, the xe1 isn't perfect in this regard...but with the upcoming 27mm pancake it might be.



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by TomOC: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 14:24 62nd Post
>>Given that it is from Amazon, and easily returnable, at that price it's worth having a look.<<
Eric-
Beyond that, the secondary prices on ebay have held up great! Use one for 6 months, upgrade to the next one at cost of less than 20%
Tom



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Constable: Sat Jan 5th, 2013 16:02 63rd Post
I use the description sun-bleached myself
Ed



Posted by Eric: Sun Jan 6th, 2013 17:48 64th Post
TomOC wrote: >>Given that it is from Amazon, and easily returnable, at that price it's worth having a look.<<
Eric-
Beyond that, the secondary prices on ebay have held up great! Use one for 6 months, upgrade to the next one at cost of less than 20%
Tom
Lost my appetite for eBay. You are now robbed 12-14% of the sale value by eBay and PayPal. Last lens transaction I shipped to Sweden...and got the courier charge wrong. Lost me another 15% .
:whip:




____________________
Eric


Posted by Eric: Sun Jan 6th, 2013 17:52 65th Post
Constable wrote: I use the description sun-bleached myself
Ed
:baffled:



____________________
Eric


Posted by TomOC: Sun Jan 6th, 2013 18:12 66th Post
Eric wrote:Lost my appetite for eBay. You are now robbed 12-14% of the sale value by eBay and PayPal. Last lens transaction I shipped to Sweden...and got the courier charge wrong. Lost me another 15% .
:whip:


Damn... I'd better check my invoices - thought it was more like 6%



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Eric: Sun Jan 6th, 2013 18:19 67th Post
TomOC wrote: Eric wrote:Lost my appetite for eBay. You are now robbed 12-14% of the sale value by eBay and PayPal. Last lens transaction I shipped to Sweden...and got the courier charge wrong. Lost me another 15% .
:whip:


Damn... I'd better check my invoices - thought it was more like 6%
Paypal charge 4% over here just for handling the money...and they include thepostage in the transaction value as well!
Of course you can control the amount of the listing fee, by setting a low start price....but the final valuation fee can mount up depending on the sale price range.



____________________
Eric


Posted by TomOC: Sun Jan 6th, 2013 18:45 68th Post
Wow, thanks for pointing that out, Eric.

I am stunned. US fees are 9% to ebay and 2.9% to paypal. This was about 4% and 2% when they started - I haven't paid much attention to the changes...obviously...

What other marketplace do you sell in?



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by Eric: Sun Jan 6th, 2013 19:22 69th Post
TomOC wrote: Wow, thanks for pointing that out, Eric.

I am stunned. US fees are 9% to ebay and 2.9% to paypal. This was about 4% and 2% when they started - I haven't paid much attention to the changes...obviously...

What other marketplace do you sell in?

In the UK a growing number are using 'preloved' which is a free service I believe.
I have been fortunate to sell recent items (using eBay initially) to local buyers, who were happy to collect and pay...for a sizeable cash discount!



There is a funny story here...
I advertised a camera on eBay some months back.  Local buyer emailed to say could he pay cash and collect....and if so, what price. I offered him the equivalent of the eBay /PayPal fees discount and we did a deal. When he came to my house, it transpired he was the brother of one of my clients. He had returned from Germany and wanted to get into photography. he was a nice guy and we chatted over several drinks.


Spin forward two months and I am shooting some products at this clients premises when up walks the brother, who is now working at his brother's company.


Spin forward to the week before Christmas and I get a panic phonecall. It transpires the brother had been commissioned by my client to do the next shoot himself.

Well I sortof guessed that's where it was going...but hey I am heading for retirement what the heck?


He had done some ok shots indoors of the product, the problem was they wanted them shot outdoors .....in a garden. They had tried taking the products to a local mansion...and the brothers images didn't work....he didn't know how to best shoot them in outdoor settings.

I suppressed a smug smile.


As a £120,000 contract was going to be lost if they didn't get 'outdoor' images of the products onto a customers website in 48hours, just before Christmas. They needed me to take his indoor shots and set them realistically in garden settings.


As anyone might guess, trying to match studio lighting (taken without trying to recreate sunlight) to outdoor shots....finding shots that have similar shooting angles....etc ...ain't easy. Then you have to do the actual editing invisibly.


Somewhat fortunately, while on holiday in France in October I took some shots of gardens...in flat lighting. For some reason, I took the shots at different heights which miraculously matched up sufficiently with the 4 images the needed doing urgently.


A few hours later and their bacon was saved...and an invoiced issued!!!!


Am I glad I went on my holidays in October?!   Cant wait to go away again!.
Don't you love happy little accidents?




:rofl:









____________________
Eric


Posted by TomOC: Sun Jan 6th, 2013 23:19 70th Post
Well, that proves that all's well that ends well :-)

The complete anonymous trade on ebay is one of its best features, I think :-)



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Mon Jan 7th, 2013 15:32 71st Post
Oh no. Just seen the video of the split image focussing offered in the X100S

http://photorumors.com/2013/01/07/video-demo-of-the-new-fuji-x100s-digital-split-image-function/

Oh no I so didnt want to like this.



____________________
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Posted by Constable: Mon Jan 7th, 2013 18:00 72nd Post
I think you are still OK Jonathon

It is not a split image but rather a sprit image (look at the first few frames of the video)

Ed

:applause::applause:



Posted by Robert: Mon Jan 7th, 2013 18:15 73rd Post
My (ex) mother in law gets everywhere. :devil:



____________________
Robert.



Posted by TomOC: Mon Jan 7th, 2013 22:10 74th Post
jk wrote:
Oh no. Just seen the video of the split image focussing offered in the X100S

http://photorumors.com/2013/01/07/video-demo-of-the-new-fuji-x100s-digital-split-image-function/

Oh no I so didnt want to like this.

Does this make you hallucinate about a xp1 with this feature and a Leica lens? :-)

Actually, I'm getting over the Leica envy - great manual lenses but why in the world would i want a MANUAL ONLY lens??? This spring Zeiss will have a line of full fuji-function lenses!!!



____________________
Tom O'Connell

-Lots of people talk to animals.... Not very many listen, though.... That's the problem.

Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh


Posted by jk: Tue Jan 8th, 2013 03:58 75th Post
The whole Leica MF only versus others with AF/MF options is a very difficult debate.

Whilst AF is great and gets 80% focus without a thought, the same is possible with MF with a little thought.  Its the 20% that AF misses that when you consider MF only and the fact that isince you have already started and completed the process in MF when with AF by the time you use AF then found that the first image is OOF and switch to MF you have taken longer or missed the opportunity.
Balancing the faster initial AF for the snatch shot versus the MF missed it because you were too slow is a difficult call as it varies with photographer.


Cost wise it should be possible to make an MF only lens for much reduced cost until you consider the red dot factor. That said the Leica lenses are very good.


I think I will be staying with the XPro1 with maybe an addition of a XE1.
I really want the 10-24 and 70-200 zooms from Fuji.



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