Welcome to the November/December edition of FUJIFILM Focus, your guide to all things Fujifilm! In this issue, you’ll find the latest products, interviews with professional photographers and a full Christmas gift guide. On top of that, there’s plenty of imaging inspiration to get you fired up through the winter months – and we’re featuring some of our favourite reader-submitted photos in Life As You See It!
Life As You See It
November/December 2025
Don’t miss… ● Photo ideas ● Portraits: the best Film Simulations ● Photos from our readers Also inside… ● Two months of fab photo ideas ● Your images ● Christmas gift guide
Reala Night An exclusive new Film Simulation recipe from street photographer Mr Whisper
Discover brand new X Series and instax™ cameras WHAT’S IN THE BAG? Full details on the FUJIFILM X-T30 III, instax mini LiPlay+™ and more
INSIDE: Advice, inspiration & ideas for everyone who likes picture taking and making
Life As You See It Showcasing great images made with Fujifilm products
Photos of Life – As Seen by Our Readers Welcome to the November/December edition of FUJIFILM Focus: a magazine dedicated solely to the wonderful world of Fujifilm. Available six times a year from the FUJIFILM House of Photography, each issue will bring you all the information on Fujifilm’s latest releases, alongside seasonal tips and tricks to help you get more out of your photography. In this festive issue, we shine a light on two exciting arrivals: the brand new instax mini LiPlay+™ and the FUJIFILM X-T30 III. You can read more about both on page 10, with a hands-on test of the X-T30 III on page 12. You’ll find festive decorating and gift-giving ideas for a personal touch to your celebrations on page 22, and a fresh Film Simulation recipe from Mr Whisper, designed for dark and moody evenings – see page 26. For those looking to keep their creative flame burning in the depths of winter, our page 6 feature explores creative opportunities for November and December, while our interview feature on page 14 sees X-Photographers Oliver Wheeldon and Imogen Forte discuss their top lens choices. Now, we’re showcasing a selection of your photographs – a big thanks to everyone who sent in their work. Want to see your images featured in a future issue? Email focus@fujifilm-collaborators.co.uk . If you have any thoughts about the magazine or requests for what you’d like to see in a future issue, contact us via the same address. For now, enjoy the read, have a wonderful Christmas and we’ll see you in the new year!
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Life As You See It
Graeme Youngson Strolling through London’s Chinatown, I noticed these two chefs preparing some food in the window. The interior of their restaurant appeared quite low-lit and added a sense of intrigue and mystery to the scene. Using an incredibly shallow depth-of- field, I focused on the window’s condensation, which I felt added to the feeling of impenetrability in terms of what specific task they were performing. I also thought that the out-of-focus lighting within their restaurant gave the image an aesthetic appeal. I liked the sense of contrast between being physically near to the scene but at the same time far removed from the activities taking place in front of my eyes. Website: photocrowd.com/photographer-community/62880
Made with: FUJIFILM X-Pro3 and FUJINON XF50mmF1.0 R WR
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November/December 2025
Life As You See It
Ivan Kristić I mostly photograph landscapes and architectural subjects on film. I’m from Osijek in Croatia, but am now based in Dublin. After years working digitally, I made the switch to analogue. I love the process of working with film, and always strive to create technically strong and creatively engaging images. My favourite formats are 6x9 and 6x7. This photo was made on Kodak Portra 160 with a FUJIFILM GSW690III, a 6x9 format camera, in Osijek. It shows the inside of the old OLT factory (Osijek Iron Foundry and Machine Factory), which is soon to be replaced with an apartment complex. The factory was once one of the largest industrial employers in the region and played a key role in Osijek’s growth in the 20th century. Today, it’s a reminder of its industrial past, even as it moves toward a different future. Instagram: @ivankristic
Chris Sargent I took this photograph in Interlaken, Switzerland. The town has a large, open park that is a popular landing site for paragliders. I got talking to some of the landing crew and they helped me position myself in the right spot to frame up the pilots coming in to land. I wanted to photograph the bright sunshine through the canopies. The FUJIFILM GFX100RF proved up to the task of tracking and focusing on the paragliders, and the large sensor gave plenty of resolution for cropping into the subject. Website: pixelstate.com
Made with: FUJIFILM GSW690III on Kodak Portra 160
Made with: FUJIFILM GFX100RF
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Life As You See It
IMPROVE YOUR IMAGES IN 2026 Every issue, our Life As You See It gallery offers a great source of photo ideas and inspiration, designed to get you out and about with your Fujifilm camera. There’s no better feeling than seeing your images in print, so why not make it your mission to get one on these pages in 2026? Find full details of how to submit images on page 2; we’d love to see what you’re making. One sure-fire way to improve your chances of being published is by sharpening up your photo skills on a course or workshop run by the FUJIFILM School. Available both at the FUJIFILM House of Photography and in other locations around the country, the School offers both classroom-based courses as well as photowalks and holidays. Whatever you choose, you are sure to be a better photographer afterwards. We’re finalising the calendar for 2026 events at the FUJIFILM School, so go to fujifilm-houseofphotography. com/whats-on and check out what we’ve got planned. Given that Christmas is just around the corner, it might also be the perfect time to drop hints about friends and family getting you some gift vouchers to spend on a course at the School. You can find further
details here: fujifilm- houseofphotography. com/vouchers or via the QR code. We hope to see you next year!
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November/December 2025
Inspiration
Looking for photographic inspiration? Here are some great opportunities to pick up your camera during the colder months What to Do in November & December
5 November: Bonfire Night Firework Photography
Fireworks against the night sky are a magical sight, and photographing the spectacle can be a fun and rewarding experience. Events will be taking place across the UK, so it’s worth doing some research to seek out the best vantage point for your nearest one and really make the most of the spectacle. Remember to make some test exposures for the actual event. The bright explosions will put any camera’s dynamic range to the test, so drop your ISO and leave plenty of headroom for those highlights.
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Inspiration
Mid November: Christmas Light Switch-On Nighttime Street Photography As the festive season begins, towns and cities across the country light up for the first time, a moment worth flagging for a spot of street photography. Christmas light switch- on events combine bright illuminations, lively crowds and plenty of atmosphere, a perfect opportunity to explore the creative side of low-light image making. While the illuminations will be the main attraction for most attendees, you can leverage a wide aperture to turn the freshly lit-up surroundings into a background littered with soft, glowing bokeh balls. For nighttime street photography, a fast-aperture lens offers a real helping hand, so you can make the most of available light while keeping ISO values manageable and shutter speeds down. The FUJIFILM X Series has a wide choice of fast primes that excel in these conditions, and auto ISO can be particularly useful when working in unpredictable light.
Low-Light Lenses
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15 November: Steve Irwin Day Wildlife Photography
Honouring the birthday of one of Irwin’s favourite animals (a tortoise from the Galápagos Islands named Harriet), Steve Irwin Day is an annual event that celebrates the famous conservationist’s legacy – and offers an exciting chance to explore your wild side. While there aren’t many crocodiles to wrestle in the UK (not that we’d recommend such an activity), there’s still no shortage of fascinating wildlife to seek out and photograph in its natural habitat. Something that’ll always help to bring your photography closer to the action is a longer lens – there are no shortage of options in the Fujinon line-up. Though whatever your equipment, the thing that makes a successful wildlife photographer is patience. Blending speed with power, the FUJIFILM X-H2S is perfectly suited for wildlife photography and enables an incredibly quick level of performance thanks to its stacked sensor. And for the ultimate range, the FUJINON XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR helps you make a close connection with your subjects, as well as providing all the coverage needed for a day in the field. The Ultimate X Series Wildlife Photography Set-Up
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Inspiration
The UK’s largest annual celebration of trees, National Tree Week marks the start of the country’s winter tree planting season. It’s the time to notice the quiet details of the landscape, such as frost on leaves, the way light filters through bare branches or the shapes and textures of newly planted saplings. So head out into the countryside, wander through the woodlands or explore familiar parks with fresh eyes. For photographers, it’s a chance to experiment with perspective and composition. Try framing individual trees against open skies or focusing on clusters to create patterns and depth. Fallen leaves, 22 - 30 November: National Tree Week Landscape Photography
winding paths and streams can all serve as natural leading lines, inviting the viewer to move through the image. Even green spaces in towns can reveal surprising scenes when approached with patience and curiosity. The right tools help bring your vision to life. A versatile zoom lens gives you freedom to frame both sweeping landscapes and intimate woodland details, while a wide- angle prime lens emphasises the scale of tree-lined avenues. Pairing these with a camera capable of subtle tonal gradations ensures that late autumn’s hues – from burnt oranges to muted browns – are rendered with all their depth and warmth.
X Series Landscape Lenses
28 November: Black Friday Grab Yourself a Bargain!
It’s that time of the year again! The day after Thanksgiving in the US gives you the perfect opportunity to grab a bargain with money- saving offers on selected Fujifilm products. Whether you’re keen to secure yourself an early Christmas present or buy something for the Fujifilm fan in your life to open on
the big day, now is the time to do it. Check out all of our latest promotions by going to fujifilm-x.com/en-gb/ promotions or scanning the QR code.
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Inspiration
Christmas magic returns to Covent Garden as the FUJIFILM House of Photography transforms its first floor into a whimsical winter wonderland. Covering more than 3000 square feet, this immersive grotto experience is designed to delight both children and adults, offering a warm escape from the winter chill and a chance to step into the spirit of the season. From the moment you arrive, you will be surrounded by festive decor, twinkling lights and snow-dusted trees that set the perfect scene for a family day out. Alongside plenty of time to explore and enjoy the magic of the setting, each 30-minute session includes a personal meeting with Mr Claus himself, complete with a special gift for little visitors. Santa’s Grotto at the FUJIFILM House of Photography is filled with creative touches and interactive fun. Expect games, crafts, themed photo opportunities and even an elf or two. Santa’s Grotto at the FUJIFILM House of Photography is bookable from Friday to Sunday in November and every day in December, from 11:00 AM to 5.30 PM, with tickets from £30. Scan the QR code to book! • There will also be a grotto at the PHOTO BY Fujifilm concession in Primark, Birmingham. Available on selected days from 14 November to Christmas Eve, tickets cost £17.99 per child which gives you a 15-minute experience including time to meet Santa! 14 November – 24 December: Santa’s Grotto Visit the FUJIFILM House of Photography
The shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice marks the turning point when daylight begins to return. It’s a moment to appreciate the passing beauty of winter landscapes: low sun, long shadows and frost-kissed fields. For photographers, it’s a chance to explore how light, time and motion can transform a scene. Long exposures can turn familiar landscapes into something rather ethereal. Flowing rivers and tidal waters become silky ribbons, clouds streak across the sky and 22 December: Winter Solstice Long-Exposure Photography
bare trees cast dramatic silhouettes. Even in urban environments, traffic can make streets glow and illuminated buildings or festive decorations brighten dark winter scenes. A few tools help bring ideas to life. A sturdy tripod allows steadier exposures and slower shutter speeds, while neutral density (ND) filters give flexibility to extend exposures during the day. Wide-angle lenses emphasise sweeping vistas, while standard or medium telephoto lenses let you isolate intriguing details.
The FUJIFILM GFX100RF suits all long-exposure photography. Its large format sensor records subtle tonal gradations, while the 28mm equivalent gives sweeping vistas room to breathe. 4.0-stop ND filtration makes extending exposures effortless and the Aspect Ratio dial encourages creative framing. FUJIFILM GFX100RF
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November/December 2025
What’s New… A pair of fan-favourite cameras have just got big upgrades! Read on to learn all about the brand new FUJIFILM X-T30 III and instax mini LiPlay+™
X SERIES
FIVE THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT THE FUJIFILM X-T30 III This versatile camera has received a massive boost in performance while retaining everything that made its predecessors brilliant
Now up to its third iteration, the FUJIFILM X-T30 has been impressing image makers since its release back in 2019. For six years, this retro- styled, stills-focused camera has represented an ideal jumping-in point for newer photographers, while simultaneously providing near endless utility for more advanced users. It’s always been a camera that’s designed to grow with you, and with the X-T30 III that remains the case, though with a fresh uplift in performance and some new tricks up its sleeve. The jump in performance comes courtesy of Fujifilm’s most powerful image processor to date – X-Processor 5. This also features in flagship cameras like the FUJIFILM X-H2S and GFX100 II, and enables advanced features like AI-powered subject detection while also giving access to the latest Film Simulations such as REALA ACE. The X-T30 III also comes with a new Film Simulation dial, letting users quickly cycle between their favourite analogue-inspired colour profiles.
The X-T30 III is available with the new FUJINON XC13-33mmF3.5-6.3 OIS kit lens. At 125g and offering a selection of commonly used focal lengths, the two form a potent pairing for everyday photography. New Kit Lens Like the FUJIFILM X-E5, the X-T30 III’s dial can be customised with your own Film Simulation recipes. On top of these improvements, the X-T30 III has maintained the incredibly portable profile of its Features ● 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor ● X-Processor 5 ● Updated Film Simulation dial predecessors – making it an ideal choice for everyday and travel photographers who favour something small and stylish.
1 Iconic Fujifilm Colours The FUJIFILM X-T30 III offers instant access to Fujifilm’s inimitable colour science, with 20 unique Film Simulations accessible from the tactile top-plate Film Simulation dial. This can also now be customised to hold three different user-created recipes.
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Powerful Imaging Performance Mixing the award-winning 26.1-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor with the powerful X-Processor 5, the X-T30 III offers 6.2K/30p video, high- resolution photos and AI-enabled subject detection algorithms.
● 378g body only ● 2.36m dot EVF ● Pop-up flash
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What’s New
INSTAX™
NEW instax mini
Say hello to the instax mini LiPlay+™ – the latest hybrid instax™ camera that brings a new dimension to how you make, print and share memories. Building on the popular original, it adds a front-facing camera to the mix, enabling a layered photo mode that blends images from in front of and behind the camera, creating a fun foreground-background effect. The updated instax mini LiPlay+™ smartphone app lets users print directly from their phones, remotely control the camera via Bluetooth and decorate images with frames, sticker icons or text overlays. Audio also takes centre stage, with the all-new instax Sound Print™ and Sound Album™ features allowing clips of audio and animated albums to feature in your printed photos – viewers need only scan the QR codes to enjoy the full experience. With its stylish Sand LIPLAY+™ A slew of new features encourage experiments with sound and vision
Beige and Midnight Blue finishes and smart design updates, the instax mini LiPlay+™ is as attractive
as it is inventive – an ideal companion for parties, gatherings
or everyday adventures.
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5 XApp Compatibility With the free FUJIFILM XApp, the X-T30 III can seamlessly connect to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth for instant file transfers. The app also enables remote control
Built for the Everyday Despite its improved specs, the X-T30 III has kept the same weight and dimensions as the X-T30 II – at 378g body only and 118.4x82.8x46.8mm – while also delivering a versatile
Timeless Aesthetic Taking inspiration from
vintage camera design, the X-T30 III features a tactile, dial-operated control system that allows
intuitive adjustments to exposure and Film
imaging performance thanks to its EVF and pop-up flash.
Simulation settings, and is available in black, silver and charcoal silver.
functionality as well as a timeline of all imaging activity.
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What’s New
X SERIES FUJIFILM X-T30 III: TESTED
Content creator and travel photographer
Jess Ellis explains what she loves about the X-T30 III
London-based travel creator Jess Ellis put the FUJIFILM X-T30
The X-T30 III’s lightweight body and reactive autofocus make it the perfect camera for a photographer who is always on the move camera – something that suits a beginner, but can grow with you as you get better. I definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to make more meaningful photos when they’re travelling. I was visiting a lot more and noticed things in a more meaningful way. I’ve gone on such a photography journey since then. The X-T30 III is for anybody who wants to make more photos and do it easily. It’s the perfect beginner camera. It’s easy to use right out of the box, which is the most important thing when starting out, but it also has so much flexibility for when you grow your understanding of photography. That’s very important to have in one III through its paces around Bath and the Cotswolds. As someone whose imaging career started on a phone, Jess now finds that a dedicated camera is far better for connecting with her surroundings. I first picked up a Fujifilm camera for that exact reason. I was tired of being on my phone. As a content creator, my entire job is on my phone, so when I’m out there making content I don’t want to use it – I want something more intuitive. My first camera, three years ago, was the FUJIFILM X-T30 II. I basically didn’t put it down. I enjoyed the places
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What’s New
Jess’s Top X-T30 III Features
Film Simulations and recipes are what make Fujifilm cameras special, and having them on a dial means the process is more intuitive. Alongside the built-in ones, I’ve figured out some go-to recipes. Film Simulation Dial
X-Processor 5
Probably the number one factor for each thing I bring into my process is that it needs to be lightweight, easy to use and not intrusive. If I can’t pack it into my handbag, I’m not making photos with it. Lightweight Design
XApp
Thanks to X-Processor 5, the whole camera just felt that bit faster. When you are out travelling and might want to photograph people in one scenario but not another, the autofocus needs to be very reactive.
This is essential. Being able to leave a job, sit on the Tube and transfer all my photos before I get to my stop – and have them ready to upload or waiting in Lightroom by the time I’m home – is invaluable.
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Technique
Frame by with professional image makers
Frame Talking equipment and technique
E very photographer has a handful of lenses that shape how they see the world. In this feature, we speak with two FUJIFILM X-Photographers about the optics they rely on and how those choice lenses influence their creative processes.
the right optic can unlock a new way of approaching your subject. To try any of the lenses
From the sweeping landscapes and stunning wildlife images of Oliver Wheeldon to the intimate, character-driven portraits of Imogen Forte, both creatives share insights into the various features they prioritise in their lenses, and discuss how choosing
mentioned and explore your equipment loaning options, scan the QR code.
MADE WITH FUJIFILM GFX100RF
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Technique
Q. Which Fujinon lenses do you prioritise in your kitbag? A. I create most of my work on a GFX System camera, and my favourite lenses are the FUJINON GF55mmF1.7 R WR, GF80mmF1.7 R WR and GF110mmF2 R LM WR. My go-to for day-to-day life, though, is my FUJIFILM X100VI with its fixed 23mmF2 lens. I wouldn’t have initially chosen such a wide lens for everyday use, but the X100VI is so light and intuitive that I’ve grown to love it. I’ve made some of my favourite photos on that camera. Q. What features and functionality do you depend on from these lenses? A. The bokeh on GFX System lenses is beautiful – rich and creamy but still incredibly sharp. The depth you get from large format imaging is remarkable, and gives portraits and still-life images a special presence. Q. If you could only bring one Fujinon lens for a job, which would it be? A. If I had to pick just one, it would be the GF55mmF1.7. This lens is wide enough for environmental portraits but still lets you move in closer for a more intimate feel, giving great flexibility. For projects that need a mix of framing options, I also love the FUJINON GF45-100mmF4 R LM OIS WR. I’m about to start a new street photography series and plan to use that lens. It’s versatile, lets me work at varying distances and means I can travel light. Q. Is there a Fujinon lens you’ve tried that changed or affected your approach to image making? A. Using a new focal length always shifts your perspective. When I started using the fixed 23mm lens on the FUJIFILM X100V, it completely changed how I composed frames. Before that, I’d used a FUJIFILM X-Pro2 with a FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R – the equivalent of a classic 50mm
Imogen Forte Imogen Forte is a London- based photographer whose portrait work combines traits like warmth and honesty with a deep sense of character. Website: imogenforte.com Instagram: @imogenforte
MADE WITH FUJIFILM GFX50S II AND FUJINON GF55 mm F1.7 R WR
“IF I FEEL CREATIVELY STUCK, I’LL CHANGE FOCAL LENGTH TO SHAKE THINGS UP”
– so switching to a wider lens made me think differently and include more of the environment. Sometimes, if I feel creatively stuck, I’ll deliberately try out a new focal length to shake things up. The FUJIFILM GFX100RF camera did that for me again. Its even wider fixed lens made me look at scenes in a completely new way. I love that it also lets you crop in-camera for creative variety and constraint. Q. What’s the Fujinon lens you’d most recommend to other portrait photographers? A. It’s a tough choice between the GF110mmF2 and the GF80mmF1.7, both stunning lenses that deliver beautiful results. If I had to choose one, I would say the GF80mmF1.7. It’s slightly more versatile and you can work wider or come in closer for a tighter crop. That said, longer lenses such as the GF110mmF2 are wonderful if you want to give your sitter space to relax before coming in closer. For pared- back portraits with limited visual distractions, the GF110mmF2 excels.
MADE WITH FUJIFILM X100V
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November/December 2025
Oliver Wheeldon
Oliver Wheeldon travels the world with a camera in hand, creating photos and videos with a focus on environmental and cultural themes. Website: parhelion.media Instagram: @oliwheeldontravels Q. Which Fujinon lenses do you keep close on your trips? A. Given that I often travel to remote and extreme locations, being lightweight and agile is key. But of course, lens choice comes down to subject matter as well. My primary three lenses for the last five years or so have been the FUJINON XF16mmF1.4 R WR, XF35mmF1.4 R and the XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR. I have found these a brilliant trio for video and photo work, giving me a focal range of 16-140mm with fast and sturdy kit. If I’m travelling somewhere with wildlife, I’ll add the FUJINON XF150- 600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR to my bag because its reach and Optical Image Stabilisation are unparalleled in its category. While it’s much larger than my main trio, it’s not as heavy as you might expect, and it’s so worth having to get photos that would otherwise be impossible. For more recent work in the Amazon rainforest and Namib desert, I explored macro lenses for the first time. In the Amazon, I used the FUJINON XF30mmF2.8 R LM WR Macro to get insect photos. It was amazing for filming leafcutter ants marching up trees, but I was less keen when working with tarantulas as the 30mm focal length meant I had to physically get quite close to them to achieve impressive photos. This informed my decision to use the FUJINON XF80mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro in Namibia for recording scorpions and lizards from a more comfortable distance! Q. What features and functionality do you depend on from these lenses? A. I’ve always been a fan of faster prime lenses to allow for nice, shallow
MADE WITH FUJIFILM X-T1 AND FUJINON XF16 mm F1.4 R WR
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Technique
MADE WITH FUJIFILM X-H2S AND FUJINON XF30 mm F2.8 R LM WR MACRO
“I’D NEVER CONSIDERED TELEPHOTO FOR LANDSCAPES BEFORE THE FUJINON XF100-400 mm F4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR”
amazing image quality brings great peace of mind.
depth-of-field for video. I have found the XF16mmF1.4 also works brilliantly for astrophotography if I’m somewhere dark enough. The autofocus with face detection or subject detection works very well on the XF16mmF1.4 and XF35mmF1.4 when recording videos handheld or on a gimbal, which is excellent since it allows me to film without worrying about losing my subject as we move. A key concern for me is also the ruggedness of lenses because the nature of my work often means hopping from cars to boats, climbing mountains or trekking in rainforests. Having lenses I feel confident will survive the journey while delivering
Q. Is there a Fujinon lens you’ve tried that changed or affected your approach to image making? A. From opposite ends of the scale, the FUJINON XF8-16mmF2.8 R LM WR and the XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR both really expanded my approach to photography. I’d never been able to use a focal length as wide as 8mm before, and I found the XF8-16mmF2.8’s lack of barrel distortion miraculous, even at the lower end of 8mm. It expanded my landscape, travel and astro work immediately. It’s also a tough lens, which is vital for my line of work. It’s survived sandstorms in Abu Dhabi and snowstorms in the Antarctic. Another lens that affected my approach when I first tried it was the XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6. I had never really considered telephoto as a viable option for landscapes before. However, with the XF100- 400mmF4.5-5.6, I saw the benefits almost immediately. There are often compositions with multiple layers of landscape that I want to photograph from a distance, and using a telephoto lens is a better way to depict the scale of a place. While wide lenses are amazing for showing a view, they also push things into the distance, shrinking an epic mountain into the background. Telephoto lenses, on the other hand, push you into the view, letting you find unique angles and moments of light in a vast place.
MADE WITH FUJIFILM X-H2S AND FUJINON XF150-600 mm F5.6-8 R LM OIS WR
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November/December 2025
Technique
What Makes a Great Everyday Camera? Explore which qualities define a top-class everyday camera – and how the FUJIFILM X half delivers them E very photographer wants a camera they can reach for without hesitation. A camera
that’s perfectly portable, easy to use and consistently rewarding. Whether you’re documenting daily life or experimenting with a personal project, the best option usually strikes a balance between spontaneity and creative control. But what makes a great everyday camera? Well, the answer is different for everyone, although certain familiar qualities keep showing up: portability, simplicity, creative freedom and the kind of character that makes you want to pick it up again and again. Read on to find out why the FUJIFILM X half offers a new take on everyday image making.
The unique half- frame format sets the X half apart from other digital cameras, along with its wide choice of aspect ratios
It Fits Into Your Life An everyday camera should be with you wherever you go. Ultimately, that means compact proportions, intuitive controls and a form factor that feels more like a complete creative companion than just a piece of equipment. Fitting the bill perfectly with its slimline design and simplified layout, the X half is purpose- built for life on the move. Weighing just 240g and styled with a classic rangefinder build, it slips easily into a bag or jacket pocket. Combined with its high-capacity battery (offering approximately 880 frames per charge) and USB-C charging, the X half is a camera you can bring anywhere and, more importantly, will want to.
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It Helps You See Differently A great everyday camera should do more than record – it should encourage you to look at the world in new ways. That might be by giving a fresh take on your surroundings or by creating a surprising visual pairing. However it does this, a camera that sparks curiosity is one you’ll keep coming back to. The X half is built with this idea in mind. Its unique 3:4 half- frame format stands apart from most digital cameras, which are traditionally designed around horizontal framing. Inspired by vintage half-frame cameras like the Fujica Mini, the X half flips that expectation and opens up a visual language that feels much more intuitive for many modern image makers. With 2-in-1 mode, the camera combines two images into a single diptych, inviting you to think in pairs. Whether you’re photographing moments that unfold in quick succession or setting up contrasting yet complementary images, the result is a natural sense of rhythm between frames. It is an approach that shifts your mindset, encouraging storytelling and revealing connections between photos that might otherwise have gone unnoticed.
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Technique
It Inspires You to Create The ideal everyday camera should encourage you to be creative. Just because something is easily portable
A big part of what makes using the X half so creatively rewarding is how quickly it helps you find your voice. A total of 13 built-in Film Simulation modes means you can experiment with specifics like colour, tone and texture straight out of camera, while additional in-camera looks such as SOFT FOCUS, LIGHT LEAK and COLORSHIFT provide even more expressive possibilities. Without the need for editing, every frame you make becomes an exercise in intuition and intent – and that helps keep the creativity flowing.
doesn’t mean you’ll be inspired to bring it with you; the camera that makes you want to create is the one that will earn a place in your routine. Thankfully, the X half puts the fun into photography. Its compact form factor favours instinctive image making, while the fixed 32mm equivalent lens is versatile and distinctive, perfectly suited to everything from close-up details to wide environmental frames.
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November/December 2025
Technique
It Makes Photography Fun Again The best everyday cameras do more than just deliver great results; they make the act of image creation feel like a pleasure in itself. That might come from physical controls that invite interaction or from a sense of anticipation as you wait to see how a photo turned out. Either way, there’s joy to be found in slowing down, embracing imperfection and leaning into spontaneity. With the X half, the tactile, analogue-inspired experience is an integral part of its design. The camera’s simplified controls make every decision feel deliberate, while its unique Film Camera mode introduces an element of surprise. Once you’ve selected your roll of film – picking a Film Simulation and a number of frames – you won’t see any of the photos you’ve made until you ‘develop’ the roll at the end, using the dedicated X half app. In the meantime, you’re encouraged into a more present, intuitive style of photography. Combined with the half-frame format and retro styling, the X half has a spirit that’s rare in modern digital cameras. It invites you to experiment, to try things just because they feel interesting – and to enjoy the process as much as the results. The best everyday cameras don’t just fit into your life – they enhance it. They help you to notice more, think differently and stay creative, even on the most ordinary days. For anyone looking to reconnect with the simple, everyday fun of photography, the X half brings everything together in a form that’s at once expressive and genuinely fun to use.
The X half is home to 13 built-in Film Simulations that allow you to experiment with colour, tone and texture straight out of camera
X half This Xmas ’Tis the season to be merry – and frantically search for the perfect present for a loved one. But what better way is there to celebrate the joys of Christmas than with memories that will last forever? The X half is an ideal gift for mixing traditional image making with unique, modern elements. It’s not only lightweight, versatile and compact, it’s also easy to use: the perfect choice for beginner and experienced photographers alike.
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November/December 2025
Ideas
SHORT ON INSPIRATION? Find new ways to fill your life with photography
Deck the Halls
Ready to add some Christmas cheer to your home? This year, make it personal. From sparkling tree ornaments to thoughtful finishing touches, it’s easy to turn your favourite memories into part of the celebration. Start with custom photo baubles – a perfect way to bring family faces or holiday highlights to your tree. Add a few snowflake photo decorations to Bring a personal touch to your festivities
the mix for a wintry, handmade feel that looks great strung along mantelpieces or windows. Don’t forget the wrapping – create your own personalised photo paper for gifts that are as meaningful on the outside as they are within. All available through your local PHOTO by Fujifilm retailer.
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November/December 2025
Ideas
Instant Christmas Cheer
Create a Custom Countdown
You may not have heard, but Christmas is coming up. If you want to heighten the anticipation for a loved one, then there’s no better way than with an advent calendar. To add a truly personal touch to proceedings, how about
Creating decorations with instax™
ribbons and other seasonal decorations to create a warm, personal display that’s full of life. Whether it’s family moments, winter landscapes or your pet in a Christmas jumper, these mini prints bring instant charm to any corner of your home.
Add a playful touch to your festive decor with instax™ prints. Using an instax™ printer or hybrid camera, you can easily turn your favourite phone photos into instant prints, perfect for hanging on the tree, pinning to a garland or slipping into a wreath. Mix them with fairy lights,
customising one with a special photograph?
All you need to do is pick a festive image that you think will bring a smile to the face of the recipient every day, and we’ll handle the rest. The photo will be printed onto a high-quality calendar filled with 24 Kinder® mini chocolates, resulting in an advent gift that’s sure to spark joy in the December lead-up to Christmas.
Send Something Personal
Skip the shop-bought designs and create custom photo Christmas cards. A personalised card adds meaning, with a chance to share a family portrait or festive photograph. Your local PHOTO by Fujifilm retailer can help design and print high-quality cards in a range of sizes and finishes, complete with your own message. So whether you’re sending greetings to loved ones near or far, consider a photo card as a thoughtful and personal way to stay connected.
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November/December 2025
Ideas
Christmas Gift Guide
Looking for gift ideas? Read on for a full spectrum of photo-themed options
Instant photos make for instant smiles – and with the instax™ range, there’s something for everyone on your list. From purely analogue cameras such as the sleek instax mini 99™ and the ever-popular instax mini 12™, to feature-rich hybrid models like the instax mini Evo™ and the brand new instax mini LiPlay+™, these cameras can turn any moment into a keepsake to be treasured. For existing users, a re-stock of instax™ film always makes a welcome Gifts from instax™
sight – and with all the different sizes of film coming in a variety of fun borders and finishes, you can match prints to the festive mood. Just make sure to check whether the giftee’s camera uses instax™ mini, SQUARE or WIDE film! Don’t forget the accessories either – from albums and display stands to stylish camera cases and straps, these presents can add the perfect finishing touch to what is already a firm favourite.
Turn a festive moment into a precious keepsake to be treasured for years to come
As a first step into photography or a fresh perspective for those who already love it, the FUJIFILM X half is small, stylish and simple to use, an ideal everyday companion. Its lightweight design and fun creative modes bring back the tactile, analogue joy of making photos, wherever you are. FUJIFILM X half
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November/December 2025
Ideas
Stocking Fillers
Small gifts sometimes make the biggest impressions, especially when they’re personal. From charming snow domes that turn favourite photos into festive keepsakes, to photo magnets that can brighten up a fridge, there are lots of small ways to spread some extra joy. Photo mugs are another classic choice, perfect for a cosy winter morning with a hot drink in hand. Each one is easy to create through your local PHOTO by Fujifilm retailer, adding a little personal touch that makes even the smallest stocking filler feel extra special this Christmas.
Picture Perfect
For presents that feel personal, look no further than PHOTO by Fujifilm’s print imaging range. With gifts ranging from beautifully made photo books to framed photos, there are myriad ways to thoughtfully tell a story or relive a milestone moment. For something bold, large wall prints make stunning statement pieces, presenting favourite images in vivid detail. You can even create custom calendars to help
start the new year with a smile – while an assortment of smaller frames and photo blocks make for touching gifts that won’t break the bank. Find your nearest PHOTO by Fujifilm retailer to explore options.
If you’re shopping for a photographer, thoughtful accessories can make the difference. Extra batteries and SD cards are understated but practical gifts that mean fewer interruptions and more time spent making photos. If you’re looking for something extra special, consider a new lens to expand their creative options – and don’t be scared to ask in-store for help if this isn’t your area of expertise! For experiences rather than more kit, FUJIFILM House of X Series and GFX System
Photography gift cards can be put towards FUJIFILM School courses and workshops, ideal for learning fresh techniques or mastering a new genre. Scan the QR code to explore gift voucher options.
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November/December 2025
Technique
SIMULATION RECIPE BOOK
Street photographer Mr Whisper shares the perfect Film Simulation recipe for low-light creations Reala Night
Designed to thrive in neon-lit cityscapes, Reala Night renders colours with punch while preserving subtle skin tones for portraits under artificial light.
Need some help with programming this recipe into your camera? Scan the QR code for a guide.
Settings
n FILM SIMULATION: REALA ACE n GRAIN EFFECT: None
n COLOR CHROME EFFECT: Strong n COLOR CHROME FX BLUE: Weak n WHITE BALANCE: Auto White Priority; R: -3, B: 5 n DYNAMIC RANGE: Weak n COLOR: +3 n SHARPNESS: +1 n HIGH ISO NR: +2 n CLARITY: 0 n ISO: 400 to 1600 n EXPOSURE COMPENSATION: 0 Got your own custom Film Simulation that you’re eager to share with our community? Get in touch at focus@fujifilm- collaborators.co.uk for a chance to feature in our next Simulation Recipe Book! Share Your Recipes
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November/December 2025
Deep Dive
Simulation Spotlight Delving into the world of FUJIFILM Film Simulations
A sensitive homage to seventies American colour photography, NOSTALGIC Neg. takes its aesthetic cues from the New Color Photography movement, a generation of image makers who broke from traditional black & white to play with the expressive possibilities of colour. Where many Film Simulations prioritise the accuracy or vibrancy of the image captured above all else, NOSTALGIC Neg. is more about mood. Its soft contrast, warm amber highlights and gentle, yellow-shifted greens produce a subtle vintage atmosphere without feeling forced. The result is a distinctive palette that softens the overall mood while maintaining natural tones and excellent highlight detail. In practical terms, NOSTALGIC Neg. performs well across a huge range of subjects. It lends richness to skin tones in the shadows or in mixed light, and brings cohesion to scenes that combine artificial and natural illumination. It’s also particularly strong within everyday settings – that could be on the street, in the home or in subdued daylight – and typically rewards a slower and more observational approach to photography.
Mood and atmosphere are at the heart of NOSTALGIC Neg.’s visual look, with its warm amber highlights and subtle vintage finish rolling back the decades
COLOUR
Instead of being based on any one film stock, NOSTALGIC Neg. is a new concoction designed to emulate the burgeoning colour photography scene of the seventies. As a newer Film Simulation mode, it’s only available on cameras featuring X-Processor 5.
MUTED
VIVID
HIGHLIGHT TONE
SOFT
HARD
SHADOW TONE
SOFT
HARD
CHARACTERISTICS
STANDARD
UNIQUE
Values based on PROVIA/Standard
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November/December 2025
What’s On More exciting events for creators, in-store and beyond
The Art of Seeing – A FUJIFILM GFX100RF Photowalk 21 November FUJIFILM House of Photography £30 Join Carl Hare for a creative London photowalk designed to help you take fantastic photos and see the city differently. From 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, you will explore iconic streets and hidden corners while playing about with composition, light and perspective using the FUJIFILM GFX100RF. A relaxed and inspiring experience for photographers of all levels.
Introduction to Food Photography 20 December FUJIFILM House of Photography £169 Learn how to make food look as good as it tastes in this creative, hands-on workshop with photographer Carl Hare. Through a day of guided lessons and practicals, you’ll explore lighting, composition and styling techniques that bring dishes to life. Ideal for beginners or anyone looking to refine their approach to food photography.
Introduction to Landscape Photography Workshop 9-13 February Glencoe, Scotland £1899
Discover the dramatic beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a four- night photography trip to Glencoe. Led by Carl Hare, this immersive experience combines expert guidance with breathtaking scenery, from misty moorlands to rugged mountain peaks. You’ll learn key techniques in composition, light and exposure while also enjoying hands-on tuition in one of the UK’s most inspiring landscapes. All Fujifilm camera equipment, lenses and tripods will be provided, ensuring you can focus fully on making unforgettable images.
Santa’s Grotto 14 November - 24 December FUJIFILM House of Photography From £30 Step into an immersive winter wonderland at the FUJIFILM House of Photography as Santa’s Grotto returns for another magical year. Families can enjoy a Christmas experience filled with twinkling lights, games and photo opportunities, plus a special meeting with the big man himself and a gift for every child.
More events are added to our calendar on a weekly basis. Make sure you check out our website to see what’s happening. Go to fujifilm-houseofphotography.com or scan the QR code.
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