Fujifilm X-T3: a look at the retro focal point

I'll tell you from the outset: this is not a technical review with metering values and pixel peeping, but a first practical look. I'd also like to point out here that I've been shooting with Fujfilm for years, so I can't guarantee 100% objectivity. Last week I was in Zurich with the X-T3 and used the camera to take a few portraits. I'll of course show you some of the photos. The camera will normally be available from the end of September 2018.

A cool retro look, but are there any other highlights?

Let's start with the key numbers: 26, 11 and 60.
The 26 stands for the number of megapixels in the new backlit sensor, the 11 for the number of frames per second in burst mode and the 60 followed by a 'p' and 10 bits ensures great 4K video.

Cameras

Fujifilm X-T3 Kit

18 - 55 mm, 26.10 Mpx, APS-C / DX

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Cameras

Fujifilm X-T3 Kit

18 - 55 mm, 26.10 Mpx, APS-C / DX

50

Cameras

Fujifilm X-T3 Kit

18 - 55 mm, 26.10 Mpx, APS-C / DX

50

Cameras

Fujifilm X-T3 Kit

18 - 55 mm, 26.10 Mpx, APS-C / DX

50

Because we're all fans of lists, it's all summarised below:

• 26-megapixel backlit sensor (X-Trans CMOS 4)
• new generation processor "X Processor 4"
• 425 autofocus points with 100% image coverage
• 11 frames per second in burst mode (30 with electronic shutter and 1.25 crop)
• high-resolution viewfinder with 3.69 million pixels
• 3-inch tilt and swivel LCD touchscreen with 1.04 million pixels
• 4K video with F-Log, 10bits and 60fps (SD 4:2:0 and 4:2:2 via HDMI)
• resistant to water splashes, dust and cold down to minus 10 degrees
• 2 SD card slots

What's new? Especially compared to the previous model, the X-T2?

At first glance, it doesn't look like much if anything has changed. Which is actually a pretty good sign, because it's precisely because of its looks and ergonomics that the X-T2 has been such a success. But as soon as you pick it up, you'll notice that something has changed. The most obvious change is the touch screen. It's been an integral part of the X system for some time and is now found on the latest model T. I'm not a big fan of touch focus or shutter release, but I do enjoy using the touch screen to look at the photos I've taken.
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Compared to the previous model, the new processor and sensor are most noticeable for fast patterns and in poor lighting conditions. Focus is now better in the dark (-1EV with the X-T2 and -3EV with the X-T3) and autofocus and facial recognition - which now also works in video mode - work more accurately. According to the manufacturer, focusing is around 1.5 times faster. I noticed this especially when using the smallest possible autofocus point.

Find here a comparison of all the properties. I also noticed the following positive points:

• The trigger has a better pressure point, which allows for better trigger control.
• Face detection is more accurate, now works even when people are far away and is also available for video mode.
• The diopter wheel now has to be pulled out to adjust. This prevents unintentional adjustment.
• The resolution, viewing angle and robustness of the screen have been improved. In addition, the display lock has been changed. Hard to say why, but it's one of my favourite improvements. :-)

Can we film?

With the launch of the X-H1, Fujifilm has clearly expressed its ambition in the world of video. F-Log, 4K, two new XF Cinema lenses and a number of specific video functions have enabled Fujifilm to take its first steps into the demanding circle of videographers. As the first APS-C camera, the X-T3 adds 4K video resolution with 60p and 10-bit (internal) to all these features. The necessary connections are also there. The revamped side connector now has a headphone and microphone jack, and an HDMI output.

What's your first impression?

Thankfully, with cameras, it's not like with films. The third version of the T series continues the momentum of its predecessors with some notable improvements. It's fast and, above all, a lot of fun to use.

As I used the X-T2 for some time, I didn't have much trouble switching to the X-T3. My fingers found the buttons easily, as they are in exactly the same place.

When I shoot portraits, I like to work with automatic facial recognition and AF on the eyes. Partly because I'm not able to multitask and partly because I can concentrate better on the model and the composition of the image. Both functions worked very well in my test. I also noticed a significant improvement over the X-T2.

Even if the model was several metres away, moving quickly or, like my girlfriend, was for all intents and purposes not interested in posing, the camera could easily keep up. Facial recognition can certainly help with the latter challenge by focusing, but experience has shown that only a little something to nibble on can put a smile back on Miss's face.

It all sounds rightly very positive. But if I could voice my wishes, I'd like more megapixels and sensor stabilisation from the X-H1. In my opinion, the X-T2's move from 24 megapixels to 26 megapixels isn't bold enough.

Another point of contention: the compactness of the camera. Depending on needs, this can clearly be an advantage of the X-T3. Personally, I prefer to have a good grip. But this problem can easily be solved with a power grip or handle.

Batteries + Hand grips

Fujifilm MHG-XT3 metal handle X-T3

Handgrip

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Batteries + Hand grips

Fujifilm MHG-XT3 metal handle X-T3

Handgrip

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I can't comment yet on the final image quality, as this is a pre-production model that I tested and so I couldn't read the RAW files yet. I took the photos on this page with the 35mm F/1.4 and 16-55mm F/2.8, then reworked the JPEGs with Lightroom Classic.