Fuji x100(s) to Supplement an SLR

[pozols]

I actually just purchased an X100s a few weeks ago, so i can give you a hands on compared to the 5D Mark III
If you shoot mostly in the 24-50 range with your 5D, then you will like the x100s alot. If you shoot mostly 100-200 then you will miss the bokeh and seperation from the background. With the X100s you have to open it wide open and get pretty close to your subject for any shallow DOF. The x100s colors and sharpness, i think are excellent, especially skin tones. The camera is a little quirky. If you are trying to take pictures of moving things like sports and kids, it's hard... See my sample pics attached...

Nice pics and I love the IQ. Much PP on these?

Thanks...these are ooc jpegs, no pp except cropping.

 

[The_Arsonist]

Thanks for the responses, everyone!

I wound put pulling the proverbial trigger on the x100s Saturday night. It's backordered from B&H, but hopefully I'll have it in the next week or two. While I really wanted to grab the TS-E 24mm, I ultimately decided to go with the x100s because I feel I'll get more use out of it. And I started a 365 project a couple weeks ago, and I think I'm more likely to do well at it if I have a smaller camera with me instead of having to go out of my way to ensure I have my 5Dm3 with the appropriate lens on hand.

But I'd love to get more feedback on the x100s or sample pictures.

I ordered mine around 4/19 from B&H and got it last Friday.

 

[Quasimodo]

[/quote]

Nice pics and I love the IQ. Much PP on these?
[/quote]

Thanks...these are ooc jpegs, no pp except cropping.
[/quote]

Thats pretty impressive IQ

 

[ryan00013]

I've had my X100s since release as a compliment to my 5DIII. I'll list my current setup and usage.

Gear:
5DIII, Canon 50L, Canon 85L II, Tamron 24-70 VC, & Canon 70-200 IS II
and... Fuji X100s.

What gets more use? The Fuji X100s by far.

Usage
Daily Shooter: Fuji X100s - It is small enough that I keep it in a small case and toss it in my bag every day.

Street shooting: Fuji X100s - Small, discreet, silent

Portrait Shoots: 5DIII, 50L, & 85L II with Fuji X100s as a compliment

Event Work/Photojournalism: Tamron 24-70 & Canon 70-200. Although, I did shoot an event last night with the 5dIII + Fuji X100s for an 85mm + 35mm prime combo and it worked out pretty well! For paid gigs though, I'll stick with my zooms.

Low Light Work (low action): 5DIII and Fuji X100s (the Fuji actually handles noise "slightly" better than the 5DIII).

Low Light Work (action): 5DIII - Fuji AF is too slow in low light for action shots for my tastes.


Additional Points:
To answer someone's question earlier about one-handed shooting with Fuji X100s - Yes for shooting, not for changing many settings. With one hand I can grab the camera, turn it on, swap between OVF and EVF, and take a shot. (worst case scenario, with a neck strap and X100s pressed against your body, you can change shutter speed, aperture, etc).

AF - I have found the Fuji X100s AF "good enough" for me probably 90% of the time in good lighting (phase detect AF only engages in good light. in low light, it uses the slower contrast AF which is the same as the original X100)

Usage percentage - I'd say I use my X100s 75% of the time, if not more. I end up bringing it for most professional work too, so it gets used a lot. It is also the most fun camera I have ever used, so that helps.


Limitations & Quirks -
*The X100s is still not a "perfect" camera, and does still face some limitations. The AF is nowhere near 5DIII/OM-D levels. In low light, it gets worse as mentioned above.

*Fixed 35mm lens - Great as a second camera, but I would never own it as my only camera.

*Still room for improvement - The focus peaking in MF could be better; Exposure compensation dial doesn't work in Manual mode; no customizable Q menu, etc. Basically, there are a few small things that could be better but Fuji is in my opinion, the BEST at offering users frequent software updates and listening to user feedback.

*Image Quality - Pretty amazing for APS-C. It is the best IQ I have seen come out of any APS-C sensor camera and is mostly indistinguishable from the comparison shots I have seen with a 5DIII + Canon 35L and the Fuji X100s. My 5DIII + 85L II on the other hand, well... nothing short of a $10,000 kit can top that combo.

JPG vs. RAW - Both are great. The Fuji has one of the best JPG engines of any camera in my opinion. However, I still mainly shoot in RAW. You may read things about issues with the X-Trans sensor and Adobe, but rest assured that these issues have been resolved to the satisfaction of 95% of Fuji users (there will always be the remaining 5% pixel peepers).

Overall I've never owned a Fuji before the original X100, but I am smitten. I'm biased because I love it so much. I can't wait for the X-pro 2 to come out (which will hopefully be an interchangeable lens X100s).

 

[Quasimodo]

Hello All,
So I'm seriously considering purchasing the new Fuji x100s. I love my 5Dm3 and my variety of EF lenses, but the entire kit can seem a bit obnoxious at times... particularly for street photography or simply for a camera to casually carry around. I have a point and shoot (S90), but rarely use it as I don't like shooting with an LCD. So I'm looking to get some advice from members who have purchased the x100s or a similar camera. Which do you find yourself using more? Are you glad to have purchased a secondary mirrorless camera to supplement your SLR?

And the other half of this question is a bit more pointed; I'm also considering getting the TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II. However, I've come to the conclusion that I likely wouldn't use a TS lens nearly as often as a more compact mirrorless camera.

Thoughts? Thanks!

Life is crazy and fun I am actually contemplating selling my 17 TSE to finance the x100s and its various filters, flashes for it, and stuff. I was very ambitious when buying the TS lens, but with two small children I have not had time to really learn how to use the tilt and shift. Given my other lenses, I feel that I have much covered so I will not be to hard on my day to day photography.

 

[pierceography]

Life is crazy and fun I am actually contemplating selling my 17 TSE to finance the x100s and its various filters, flashes for it, and stuff. I was very ambitious when buying the TS lens, but with two small children I have not had time to really learn how to use the tilt and shift. Given my other lenses, I feel that I have much covered so I will not be to hard on my day to day photography.

Exactly my thoughts on the TS-E 24mm. I love shooting architecture -- which is the bread and butter of any tilt shift lens -- but with my son being born a couple weeks ago, I fear my architecture shooting days may be few and far between now.

I was also hesitant about purchasing such an expensive camera with a fixed prime lens. However, since my son was born I'm yet to break any zoom lens out of my bag. I've been exclusively using my 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm. I've been using my 85mm the most, as I really like the bokeh that lens produces as well as the the frame you get with the 85. BUT if I had to pick only one of these lenses and discard the rest, I would likely go with the 35mm for its versatility. So that made my decision on the x100s a little easier.

 

[pierceography]

I've had my X100s since release as a compliment to my 5DIII. I'll list my current setup and usage.

Gear:
5DIII, Canon 50L, Canon 85L II, Tamron 24-70 VC, & Canon 70-200 IS II
and... Fuji X100s.

What gets more use? The Fuji X100s by far.

Usage
Daily Shooter: Fuji X100s - It is small enough that I keep it in a small case and toss it in my bag every day.

Street shooting: Fuji X100s - Small, discreet, silent

Portrait Shoots: 5DIII, 50L, & 85L II with Fuji X100s as a compliment

Event Work/Photojournalism: Tamron 24-70 & Canon 70-200. Although, I did shoot an event last night with the 5dIII + Fuji X100s for an 85mm + 35mm prime combo and it worked out pretty well! For paid gigs though, I'll stick with my zooms.

Low Light Work (low action): 5DIII and Fuji X100s (the Fuji actually handles noise "slightly" better than the 5DIII).

Low Light Work (action): 5DIII - Fuji AF is too slow in low light for action shots for my tastes.


Additional Points:
To answer someone's question earlier about one-handed shooting with Fuji X100s - Yes for shooting, not for changing many settings. With one hand I can grab the camera, turn it on, swap between OVF and EVF, and take a shot. (worst case scenario, with a neck strap and X100s pressed against your body, you can change shutter speed, aperture, etc).

AF - I have found the Fuji X100s AF "good enough" for me probably 90% of the time in good lighting (phase detect AF only engages in good light. in low light, it uses the slower contrast AF which is the same as the original X100)

Usage percentage - I'd say I use my X100s 75% of the time, if not more. I end up bringing it for most professional work too, so it gets used a lot. It is also the most fun camera I have ever used, so that helps.


Limitations & Quirks -
*The X100s is still not a "perfect" camera, and does still face some limitations. The AF is nowhere near 5DIII/OM-D levels. In low light, it gets worse as mentioned above.

*Fixed 35mm lens - Great as a second camera, but I would never own it as my only camera.

*Still room for improvement - The focus peaking in MF could be better; Exposure compensation dial doesn't work in Manual mode; no customizable Q menu, etc. Basically, there are a few small things that could be better but Fuji is in my opinion, the BEST at offering users frequent software updates and listening to user feedback.

*Image Quality - Pretty amazing for APS-C. It is the best IQ I have seen come out of any APS-C sensor camera and is mostly indistinguishable from the comparison shots I have seen with a 5DIII + Canon 35L and the Fuji X100s. My 5DIII + 85L II on the other hand, well... nothing short of a $10,000 kit can top that combo.

JPG vs. RAW - Both are great. The Fuji has one of the best JPG engines of any camera in my opinion. However, I still mainly shoot in RAW. You may read things about issues with the X-Trans sensor and Adobe, but rest assured that these issues have been resolved to the satisfaction of 95% of Fuji users (there will always be the remaining 5% pixel peepers).

Overall I've never owned a Fuji before the original X100, but I am smitten. I'm biased because I love it so much. I can't wait for the X-pro 2 to come out (which will hopefully be an interchangeable lens X100s).

This is a fantastic review and comparison. Thanks for sharing!

 

[And-Rew]

So, you've made your choice - but I'm going to hit this from a slightly different angle...

Last June, I opted for the Pro1-X instead of a 5D3. I wanted the ability to change lenses whilst having something smaller than a 5D2 with BG & 24-105 slung over everyone's shoulder

I bought the Fuji with 35mm f1.4 lens, and as most comments agree, it is vastly different from a Canon system in many ways. I rarely take the 5D2 out anymore - such are the benefits of the Pro1-X. I keep meaning to buy another lens, bought can't get past going out with a camera that almost fits in my pocket and happily shoots at ISO 6400 with out any qualms.

I'm accepting of the fact that this is not an 'action' camera. But then I'm not really an 'action' photographer! However - that does not mean you can't shoot some motion based shoots - they're just harder to get than a 5D3 or1D* series or 7D.

For any one thinking of getting a Fuji as a walk around camera that's smaller and more portable than a DSLR - I would say 'go for it'. But be prepared to take a little bit learning the differing technology used in this camera to that usually found in a Canon.

 

[HarryWintergreen]

I definitely love the x100s. The restriction of the fixed focal lens doesn't bother me at all. My Canon bodies are showing signs of serious deprivation. They are so obtrusive. I think the resurgence of street photography contributes very much to the attractiveness of cameras like the x100s. Sometimes I feel a bit fed up by this technically perfect pictures coming along like pp monsters.
To me IQ of the x100s is terrific, high iso is great, in terms of af there is still leeway.
I always loved my Canon gear but there is a looming shadow on the horizon with the name Fuji x-pro2 on it.

 

[RLPhoto]

Hello All,
So I'm seriously considering purchasing the new Fuji x100s. I love my 5Dm3 and my variety of EF lenses, but the entire kit can seem a bit obnoxious at times... particularly for street photography or simply for a camera to casually carry around. I have a point and shoot (S90), but rarely use it as I don't like shooting with an LCD. So I'm looking to get some advice from members who have purchased the x100s or a similar camera. Which do you find yourself using more? Are you glad to have purchased a secondary mirrorless camera to supplement your SLR?

And the other half of this question is a bit more pointed; I'm also considering getting the TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II. However, I've come to the conclusion that I likely wouldn't use a TS lens nearly as often as a more compact mirrorless camera.

Thoughts? Thanks!

If you shoot alot of flash, the Sync speed is worth it's weight in gold but I get the same speeds from my g15. A camera that does something better than your SLR is always useful.

 

[TommyLee]

I use the 24-105 a fair amount...... pretty flexible

but when I want to get MORE...
I use the 35 1.4 sigma .......and the 135 f2... (maybe sub the 85L II)
...
get those two real bargains...if you want primes

THEN
I would vote for a stretch into the 14 L II ....
14, 35 135 (or 85) ... is a VERY capable set

mostly...you'll likely use the 35 1.4 sig..... the best of these 4 lenses IMO...
135 f2 is second place then 85L II....
14L II is even more specialized and optional


yes the immediate avail of the 24-70 II zoom is nice...
but 35 and 85/135 ...and FAST is so nice to use

just my idea...
having used them all ............own all but the 24-70 II

TOM

 

[Quasimodo]

Life is crazy and fun I am actually contemplating selling my 17 TSE to finance the x100s and its various filters, flashes for it, and stuff. I was very ambitious when buying the TS lens, but with two small children I have not had time to really learn how to use the tilt and shift. Given my other lenses, I feel that I have much covered so I will not be to hard on my day to day photography.

Exactly my thoughts on the TS-E 24mm. I love shooting architecture -- which is the bread and butter of any tilt shift lens -- but with my son being born a couple weeks ago, I fear my architecture shooting days may be few and far between now.

I was also hesitant about purchasing such an expensive camera with a fixed prime lens. However, since my son was born I'm yet to break any zoom lens out of my bag. I've been exclusively using my 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm. I've been using my 85mm the most, as I really like the bokeh that lens produces as well as the the frame you get with the 85. BUT if I had to pick only one of these lenses and discard the rest, I would likely go with the 35mm for its versatility. So that made my decision on the x100s a little easier.

Congratulations on your baby! Is it your first? My life changed for the better, but with less time for self indulgence

 

[Quasimodo]

A new question if anyone have the time....

I have been reading David Hobby's post on the X100s (strobist) and his writing on flashuse (and subsequent member comments). In his post he talks of how he has used some SB 800's on the camera hot shoe (that's Nikon right?) and even slaved them. That made me wonder if I can use my 580 and slave my 600 and 430 on it as well? Will the shoe fit?

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated

 

[pierceography]

Exactly my thoughts on the TS-E 24mm. I love shooting architecture -- which is the bread and butter of any tilt shift lens -- but with my son being born a couple weeks ago, I fear my architecture shooting days may be few and far between now.

I was also hesitant about purchasing such an expensive camera with a fixed prime lens. However, since my son was born I'm yet to break any zoom lens out of my bag. I've been exclusively using my 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm. I've been using my 85mm the most, as I really like the bokeh that lens produces as well as the the frame you get with the 85. BUT if I had to pick only one of these lenses and discard the rest, I would likely go with the 35mm for its versatility. So that made my decision on the x100s a little easier.

Congratulations on your baby! Is it your first? My life changed for the better, but with less time for self indulgence

Thanks! Yes, my first. And life has certainly changed, and also for the better. I'm definitely taking more pictures (my 5Dm3 with a prime lens is always sitting on the kitchen table) and losing a lot of sleep, but no surprise with either of those.

When my wife and I found out we were expecting, I went on a prime lens buying spree. Literally picked up the Sigma 35mm f/1.4, Sigma 50mm f/1.4, Canon 85mm f/1.2L II, and Canon 135mm f/2L within the span of four months, and also threw the 24-70mm f/2.8L II in there for good measure.

So far I'm immensely happy with my decision to invest in primes, and also glad I have the 24-70mm ii for when my kid gets a little more mobile and I'll need some more versatility.

And also why I'm very happy with my decision to order the x100s over the weekend. A bulky SLR and primes are great for when we're around the house and I want to get some photos, but once we start traveling more with the baby, having something a little more mobile and easy to carry will be great.

 

[privatebydesign]

A new question if anyone have the time....

I have been reading David Hobby's post on the X100s (strobist) and his writing on flashuse (and subsequent member comments). In his post he talks of how he has used some SB 800's on the camera hot shoe (that's Nikon right?) and even slaved them. That made me wonder if I can use my 580 and slave my 600 and 430 on it as well? Will the shoe fit?

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated

It will fit on the shoe and it will fire, but it won't work like the Nikon units. Nikon flashes have an optical trigger built in, it is just a dumb "fire now" signal but it works.

For Canon shooters the work around is to use dumb radio triggers, RF-603's and the like, you can even have a strobe on camera using the 603 through pass. As with the Nikon setup the flash will be manual only.

I have seen people use a Canon off camera cord with a 580 in their hand, but it must be in manual flash mode. I don't believe that master firing would trigger Canon remotes.

 

[Quasimodo]

Exactly my thoughts on the TS-E 24mm. I love shooting architecture -- which is the bread and butter of any tilt shift lens -- but with my son being born a couple weeks ago, I fear my architecture shooting days may be few and far between now.

I was also hesitant about purchasing such an expensive camera with a fixed prime lens. However, since my son was born I'm yet to break any zoom lens out of my bag. I've been exclusively using my 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm. I've been using my 85mm the most, as I really like the bokeh that lens produces as well as the the frame you get with the 85. BUT if I had to pick only one of these lenses and discard the rest, I would likely go with the 35mm for its versatility. So that made my decision on the x100s a little easier.

Congratulations on your baby! Is it your first? My life changed for the better, but with less time for self indulgence

Thanks! Yes, my first. And life has certainly changed, and also for the better. I'm definitely taking more pictures (my 5Dm3 with a prime lens is always sitting on the kitchen table) and losing a lot of sleep, but no surprise with either of those.

When my wife and I found out we were expecting, I went on a prime lens buying spree. Literally picked up the Sigma 35mm f/1.4, Sigma 50mm f/1.4, Canon 85mm f/1.2L II, and Canon 135mm f/2L within the span of four months, and also threw the 24-70mm f/2.8L II in there for good measure.

So far I'm immensely happy with my decision to invest in primes, and also glad I have the 24-70mm ii for when my kid gets a little more mobile and I'll need some more versatility.

And also why I'm very happy with my decision to order the x100s over the weekend. A bulky SLR and primes are great for when we're around the house and I want to get some photos, but once we start traveling more with the baby, having something a little more mobile and easy to carry will be great.

The pub was suddenly a strange word, and sleeping in; not sure if I remember it at all

I see that you have the wonderful 100L in your prime lineup. It is wonderful for babypictures, at least when they are infants and somewhat calm in their movements. I took one of my second son (the same day that he was born. It is by no means a great shot, but I like it quite a bit). If you want, and have time to look at it you'll find it here: http://500px.com/photo/2197306

I will get the x100s in one way or the other. Whether it is after the selling of the 17 TS or by other means.

If I am not overstepping any boundaries, I would like to give you one advice on the newborn.. Don't mind the state of the house (there is a life left to clean), and take shifts sleeping. The latter is hard, because when the baby awakens it is natural for both to get up, but one will be worn out pretty quickly

Gerhard.

 

[Quasimodo]

A new question if anyone have the time....

I have been reading David Hobby's post on the X100s (strobist) and his writing on flashuse (and subsequent member comments). In his post he talks of how he has used some SB 800's on the camera hot shoe (that's Nikon right?) and even slaved them. That made me wonder if I can use my 580 and slave my 600 and 430 on it as well? Will the shoe fit?

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated

It will fit on the shoe and it will fire, but it won't work like the Nikon units. Nikon flashes have an optical trigger built in, it is just a dumb "fire now" signal but it works.

For Canon shooters the work around is to use dumb radio triggers, RF-603's and the like, you can even have a strobe on camera using the 603 through pass. As with the Nikon setup the flash will be manual only.

I have seen people use a Canon off camera cord with a 580 in their hand, but it must be in manual flash mode. I don't believe that master firing would trigger Canon remotes.

Thank you Privatebydesign.

Never a lucky break huh? I guess I will try the effect once I get this camera. I have also seen that Fuji has some flashes that has gotten some decent reviews. Maybe that is easier, at least for street/party shooting.

Again, thank you.

 

[And-Rew]

I always loved my Canon gear but there is a looming shadow on the horizon with the name Fuji x-pro2 on it.

+1 & I wonder how many others from Nikon as well as Canon?

 

[wayno]

Canon flashes will work on the x100s on the shoe or on cord but in manual only. Have done both. The 430 is a nice fit on the camera for a bit of bounce light.
I love mine - it doesn't replace my 5d2 but its excellent at what it does and is definitely worth it in lieu of say just another L lens