Camera test 40
Photography News | Issue 50 | photographynews.co.uk
Performance: exposure latitude
Original image
-4EV
-3EV
-2EV
-1EV
0
+1EV
Raw latitude was tested by a nine- frame exposure bracket set with a 1EV gap between each shot. The X-E3 has a menu function to shoot autoexposure brackets of this range so this was used. In aperture- priority, the correct exposure for this scene was 1/100sec at f/10. The over- and underexposed shots were corrected in Lightroom Classic and exposure was the only item corrected during processing. I did the same test in different lighting situtions, too, from dull conditions to bright, sunny days. The X-E3’s Raws exhibited a good degree of exposure latitude. Severely underexposed shots can be recovered well with no resulting colour casts or tonal change. There is more noise on the _ 4EV and _ 3EV shots but it is finely patterned and
neutral and not offensive. Some work in post can reduce that. The resulting files taken at _ 2EV and _ 1EV look almost identical, with marginal gains in noise when compared with the correctly exposed image. With overexposure, no problem at all with the _ 1EV and +2EV Raws, and even the +3EV shot recovered very well. Very strong highlights in the +3EV shot can look slightly veiled so need more work in processing to ensure crisp whites – but it does depend on the scene. The +4EV shot can’t be recovered. In summary then, Raws from Fujifilm’s latest cameras have good exposure latitude qualities with plenty of potential for effective correction and contrast control when needed.
+2EV
+3EV
+4EV
Verdict
Images Underexposed -4EV and -3EV Raws can be successfully recovered with some noise, while the -2EV and -1EV look the same as the correctly exposed shot. With overexposure +3EV is the limit.
Features Great sensor, touchscreen, customisation potential and capable AF system Performance 24/25 Accurate AF and exposures, fine high ISO performance Handling 23/25 The focus lever is a lovely thing, touchscreen is a big plus too Value formoney 24/25 Offers plenty of bang for your buck Overall 94/100 An impressive, high-spec, compact camera at a good price Pros Image quality, high ISO performance, focus lever, touchscreen Fujifilm’s X-series system has gained good traction in the camera market and for very good reasons: the system comprises great cameras that are photographer-friendly, capable of high performance, produce excellent pictures and are supported by a quality, ever-expanding lens system. The X-E3 is the latest in the line and while it is not perfect, priced at £849 body only, it makes a compelling proposition for those wanting a high-performing, compact mirrorless camera. Recommended. 23/25
Images The X-E3 showed itself very capable of dealing with a wide range of lighting types Left Shot with the 50mm f/2 and an exposure of 1/200sec at f/2 at ISO 200 Above A tripod- mounted X-E3 fitted with a 55-200mm lens was used for this. The exposure was 1/7sec at f/11 and ISO 200. Right Exposed for 4.3sec at f/11 and ISO 200 using the 55-200mm telezoom.
Cons No lock menu item, continuous AF not so good
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