Photography News Issue 35

Photography News | Issue 35 | absolutephoto.com

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Nowwith 4K video

The Fujifilm X-T2 is the first X-series camera to support 4K video recording and it has an impressive list of features to support its filmmaking aspirations. The X-T2 delivers outstanding 4K high definition by capturing extra information. In 4K, the X-T2 captures 1.8x more pixels than are needed (input is 5120x2880 and output 3840x2160) while in Full HD the camera captures 2.4x the required data to produce superior recordings free of moiré and colour artefacts. For both 4K and Full HD formats, the X-T2 supports high video bit rate recording of 100Mbps to deliver high resolution recordings with minimal compression artefacts. Continuous Full 4K 3840x2160 30P/25P/24P recording is possible up to a maximum of ten minutes with a UHS Speed Class 3 or higher memory card. In Full HD 1920x1080 60P/50P/30P/25/24P, recordings of up to 15 minutes are possible. To expand the video making possibilities, the optional Vertical Power Booster Grip (VPB-XT2), which retails for £299.99, increases recording time to 30 minutes for both 4K and Full HD footage. The X-T2 has a Clean HDMI output suitable for recording uncompressed format video to an external memory device, an important feature for experienced videographers. The output is simultaneous too so you can check recordings on an external monitor as well as on the camera’s own monitor. Also on offer via the HDMI output is F-Log, a gamma profile designed to maximise dynamic range and enable greater flexibility with colour grading. It is a method to get the most from a sensor without offering memory-hungry Raw video. F-Log shows Fujifilm’s commitment to attract serious videographers.

Improved handling

Vertical Power Booster VPB-XT2

orientation, as well as landscape, which should please many videographers. It also puts awkward, high and low viewpoints within easy reach. With its HDMI connector for an external monitor or memory and a 3.5mm microphone input jack for an off-camera mic, the X-T2 is well equipped for video shooters. These are the kind of essentials that make the X-T2 a more than credible camera for movie makers. Two SD memory card slots are available. These can be configured for sequential use during recording, which is useful on long shoots using on- board SD memory only when the X-T2 is set up in a rig.

The X-T2 offers significant handling and design improvements over its predecessor that makes it an even more enjoyable, more comfortable camera to use – and now videographers can enjoy this ease of use too. Until now X-series cameras could shoot Full HD movies, but they certainly weren’t shouting about it. With the X-T2 that all changes, so now film fans can enjoy the 2.36 million dot electronic viewfinder with its magnification ratio of 0.77x for a large viewing image. The bright image with minimal blackout is sure to be a hit with videographers. The Automatic Brightness Adjustment function alters the viewing image to ensure you get the most possible view in changing ambient light conditions. The three-way tiltable 1.03 million dot three-inch monitor tilts in portrait

In-camera creativity

The optional Vertical Power Booster Grip (VPB-XT2) retails for £299.99, and for videographers it’s probably a must- have as it increases the camera’s video performance – it also boosts stills shooting to 11fps in Boost mode with reduced blackout time, shorter shooting interval time and a briefer shutter release time lag. As well as boosting the X-T2’s movie recording potential to 30 minutes in 4K and Full HD, the grip will also interest videographers, because it offers a headphone socket for audio monitoring during video recording. Handily, the grip also doubles as a battery charger, using the supplied AC adapter, and two cells can be charged simultaneously in about two hours. It also duplicates several key features of the camera body including the shutter release, focus lever, the Q and Fn buttons and command dials. Finally, it’s dust- and moisture-resistant so less than perfect conditions are water off a duck’s back for the X-T2 and VPB-XT2 pairing.

Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes are widely used in still shooting and the X-T2 enables them to be used for video recording too. No less than nine settings are available for the creative videographer to take advantage of, removing the need for post-production. For example, use the ACROS Film Simulation mode for moody monochrome recordings with deep blacks, sparkling highlights and smooth mid-tones, or try Classic Chrome for subdued yet rich colours, and for a larger than life rendition Velvia is the setting to use. Footage shot in a Film Simulation mode can be fine-tuned with Highlight Tone, Shadow Tone, Colour and Sharpness adjustments so images can be personalised for a very individual look to suit the mood you are aiming for. Settings including aperture, shutter speed and exposure compensation can also be adjusted during video recording.