Fujifilm x100s, A Review

Before my trip to Europe I was looking into getting a different kind of camera. I was SO sick of lugging around my bulky DSLR that makes everyone look like a tourist. I also feel that DSLRs can be very intrusive especially when photographing in a quite place, shop, or restaurant. I googled mirrorless camera and the best reviews and results came from the Fujifilm x100 series. I decided to buy a used one in great condition, an older model the x100s for $489 at Adorama. The new version is the x100f which retails for about $1300.

I was a little reluctant to just rely on this camera at first, so I still brought my DSLR with a 24-70 lens with me on my trip. I also didn't get the camera shipped to me until about 2 hours before my trip so I did not have a lot of time to mess with it. I was quick to learn the new settings on the plane ride and eventually got used to the dials. They are pretty easy to use.

In Paris and Belgrade I used a mix of both of my cameras. When I knew I would probably be photographing something I needed to get closer or wider, I took my DSLR. When I took it out though I really hated using it. My shoulder started hurting yet again. I still had my Fujifilm on me at all times because it easily fit into my purse. I was even able to take photos at night with it, and I do not like to take my DSLR out at night.

A few notes about the Fujifilm x100 series:

- Love the vintage look of this camera, yet it is still digital.

- Super light weight! Fits in a small to medium purse.

- Fast focusing and shutter.

- The aperture knob was fun to use but sometimes it got stuck, I think just because it was older and used.

- It has one fixed focal point of 23mm. I think it is great for travel photos, the perfect distance!

- The photos are very sharp, and the aperture goes down to 2.0 which creates a nice blur!

- Indoor shots are not as great as my DSLR's. The ISO obviously has to be raised so the image of course looks grainy. 

When I got home, after loading and editing my photos I realized I could not tell the difference between a lot the photos I took with my DSLR and my Fujifilm. The only ones I could tell a slight the difference was that sometimes the coloring was more bluish/green on the Fuji. That is easily fixed in Lightroom.

After using a DSLR for years I think I have almost converted to a mirrorless camera person! I am still going to use my Canon for professional work such as events, portraits, etc. For travel photography though it really does the job. The most important thing to know about photography is that it is not what kind of camera you use, it is the person behind the camera that creates the photo.