Fuji XE4 - The Honeymoon Phase is over.....
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- čas přidán 3. 08. 2024
- It's been 5 months and the initial excitement has died down, since then I've filled that void plenty of frivolous spending elsewhere and got some time behind the Fujifilm XE4. It's a camera that people seem quite apprehensive about, one that's been catching a lot of flack on the interwebs (and plenty of praise too). So how do I feel now that the honeymoon phase of a new digital camera has come and gone?
(spoiler: I still love it)
I'm posting a bit more on the gram so check that out @zachary.pavone
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Couldn't agree more and the XE4 actually brought back that real experience of photography, so to speak the essence. Using all kinds of pro cameras for my professional everyday work, this little camera has really slowed me down in a good way. Enjoyed watching your video 👏🏻
You've summed it up well, focusing on the subject makes more sense than constantly trying to figure out which setting is best for the situation. It is important to me that the camera system is light and relatively compact. I use aperture and shutter priority as a matter of course, because there are only a few extreme situations where you have to intervene sensibly. The goal is to spend more time with the subject than with the camera.
What a pleasure to hear, finally, someone sensible, next to all the crank stuffing on CZcams
I just found this video. I’m 61. The cameras I own - and have held onto for nearly 20 years - are film cameras. Nikon F3 & Voightlander R2m. I’ve also owned a few digital Olympus, Nikon, and most recently a Sony a7r II.
I love what you said. “…more buttons than the space shuttle…” The Sony I disliked the most. While it was capable of taking the most sublime images. No camera took me farther away from the simple pleasure of the kind of photography that I’ve been doing since I was young.
A year ago, I put it away and went back to my Nikon & Bessa. The Sony became an extravagant negative scanner. The post production has been awkward but the film shooting experience is so much fun.
Yesterday, I sold the Sony and bought an X-E4 with a 23mm f2 Fuji lens and an adapter to use my Voightlander glass.
Again, thanks for the video. It confirms what I’m feeling in my bones about my photography.
Head over to fujixweekly and discover the delights of custom recipes for your X-Trans IV camera and jpeg only shooting. :)
Thank you so much for this! I have been eyeing the XE4 for the longest time now and your video might be the last push I need to finally purchase one.
Your comments about comparing it to the xt-10 were exactly what I needed to hear. Having a hard time deciding between the two. This helped. -Subscribed
What a real and insightful review, so good man!
Thanks for the excellent review by someone who has used the camera for an extended period. I just received mine a couple of days ago and it seems like it will be a winner. I appreciate how closely I can set the menus to the X-T4 and will be able to go back and forth without too much adjustment to my thinking. I value how I went through the controls and settings looking how to best use the camera in a way that minimizes rather than complicates its operation, yet provides just as much customization as I would normally use. I was brought up with film and so still concentrate on framing, context, lighting, and what makes a photo interesting.
Love your B&W shots.
Last year there was a very good special offer on an X-Pro3 and I bought it, found out that I never used the OVF, and thought that it would be perfect with only the EVF. That really is the description og the X-E4. I also have the X-S10, but I have no problems with the ergonomics of the X-E4. With small primes like the 16/2.8, 27/2.8 and 50/2.0 I actually prefer to use it without the thumbrest or grip.
I've wanted an x-pro 3 also, but the xe4 has a better sensor, I believe.
This is rare! I finally found some1 who made the exact same decision as me! I went from a Sony A7R III to a Fuji X-E4 and I don't regret it to this day. I honestly don't mind the ergonomics or lack of buttons. Just gotta get used to it :)
Just sold my A7III for a X-E4
I am feeling very much the same as a hobbyist. I've been overwhelmed with the functionality of a full frame camera that I got on the cheap. The purpose for me is to explore my creativity and the tool shouldn't get in the way of that. Expensive kit to develop too.
What a refreshing take on this camera thank you
I like your approach to photography. Really enjoyed your observations!
Dude, you made the video I'm too lazy to make :D I downgraded from xt3 and use the xe4 with 18 f2 and 35 f1.4 - love the combo!
My tip for el cheapo wrist strap: shoe laces, black, flat, waxed - self hook a loop through the eye lid and fix with a knot at your tight length and cut excess. I leave the cam hanging then and just need to lift my arm for the cam and thumb rest to fall in place. No need for extra grip anymore ;)
Great rant. Totally agree!
Awesome video man! This sums it up well. Just got an xe4 (again) after many changes with cameras and upgrades and downgrades. Thinking I’m missing something now with the small minimal option but this has put my mind at ease a bit. Cheers!
Totally agree, good points. The missing dials are not a problem! I'm also glad that I bought it and didn't listen to the people that criticized the missing dials. I think it's easier to do a review just criticizing the gear without actually using it for a month or two.
Well said, the extra buttons don’t make you a good photographer. The nice form factor enticing you to bring it along with you wherever you go. With that, you get to take more beautiful photos you never thought you could. Another happy owner of XE4 here.
Having a camera with all the bells and whistles is all well and good but I'd argue that 90% of them never ever get used.
I too like shooting film and the camera's are a joy to use because of their simplicity. I guess it's why I have the XT3 and X20.
I'm still using my old (& battered) X20. Do you think the XE4 would be a good upgrade from that camera?
10:20 I love the feel and fit in my hand of the XS-10 it gives me that same feeling you're describing of the XE4 for yourself. In any case I totally agree with the sentiment; there's something I've yet to be able to perfectly describe about the right camera just making you enthusiastic to go shoot. I got that from the couple of times I messed with the XE4 too. Great shots and explainer mang
I have been shooting film for years and I am very close to buying an xe4. Might wait for the xe5 but you are right, alot of modern digital cameras are overly complicated. Most of the best images in history were taken on film cameras. Liberation through limitation (a leica thing) but thank god fuji make an affordable alternative thats honestly cooler in my eyes because the film simulations
I have been shooting with Leica rangefinders since 1968. I looked hard at Leica digital, but cost and technical issues prevented me from going that way. Research led me to Fuji X and I pre-ordered the X-E3 at launch. Since then I've added the X-E1, X-E2s and X-H1.
Fuji X-E cameras are almost exactly the same size as my Leica M3 and has a very similar handling experience. In my personal and professional photography career I've used everything from 8x10 view cameras to Minoxes, including Hasselblad, Mamiya, Sinar, Nikon, Canon and Leica. Nothing has been more fun to use than my Fuji cameras and photos I've taken with them rank with the best photos I've ever taken.
Nice video dude! I could resonate cause I just switched from the a7ii to the xe4 for the exact same reasons
Good choice for pure passion of photography, like firm camera!
Agree 100% I love the xe4 with f2 50,23.
Im glad to see it isn’t just me who thinks modern cameras can be too complicated.
I bought an X-E2 as my first foray into Fuji. Then wanted to upgrade. Went to an X-T3 and found that I preferred using the X-E2. Sure, the X-T3 was way better in every way but I felt I was always thinking about fine tuning the settings to get a better image - dynamic range, continuous autofocus settings etc. I wasn’t focused on the important things, composition, perspective etc I was too busy fiddling with settings. So I’m have been looking at a used X-E3 or X-E4…the autofocus on X-E2 is just not really up to what I need in capturing random family moments that I often shoot. I am also going to start shooting raw more often so I’m not thinking about which film sim looks better.
You have helped me realise I’m not crazy and it’s ok to ‘downgrade’.
We’re just so deeply conditioned to think upgrading is the only solution, it’s a shame because we tend to reach outside of our means way too often for things we wind up never using and could’ve used the extra funds on things that count like better lenses. Imo the x-e4 can barely be considered a downgrade, more like a lateral move, sure you’ll lose some things but you’ll get the latest guts that are on par with the xpro 3 and x-t4 in a lot of ways despite not having a lot of stuff those cameras have. Autofocus is one of those things, and definitely a good reason to make a decision on a camera. I for one, really don’t like using manual focus on digital cameras, so AF is something I keep in mind.
Good job on this video. The X-E4 did get a lot of hate but it’s nice to hear some positivity for it.
Great video! I agree with all points.
I completely agree! I've been shooting film for the last 10 years and I finally decide to add the fuji xe4 into my photography, and it's been such a refreshing experience. I think Fuji has done a wonderful work to blending the analog camera dials to work with the digital.
Indeed. Center point AF, turn off face detection, choose your favourite metering mode (center weighted or matrix), and you're back in the early 80's. I went from film to digital, and apart from the speed of having a finished result and the price, I've been looking back fondly all that time. Leica, Epson's RD1, all too expensive for me back then, the Pen-F and Panasonics a good try.... but Fujifilm brought it home with the X-pro, X100 and X-e1. I've been shooting the XE1 for over ten years now. I recently bought an X-T series, but I'm selling it again after two weeks because I'll never use 99% of it's functions, and the X-E shape and functionality is like muscle memory.
Great points
excellent presentation. thanks
Nice take. I ordered one earlier today with the 27mm and my favorite fujinon 23mm 1.4 which I'm planning to use near exclusively.
Hi Zachary, thanks for yr ‘rant’, haha !! No, I thought it was great n I really get your point. So many digital cameras hype up the tech features, but all I want is to capture what I see. Like u perhaps I get bogged down in the number of decisions we seem to b asked to make before we press the button. And then the ‘moment’ is gone .. I look forward to your review of the XE-4; prhps with some more lovely images ?! Thks mate.
Nice review! I think you made the perfect point about simplicity. Look, it doesn’t has to do with any particular camera… you, as a photographer, decide how to use the camera and how much of control you keep. That’s also true for Sony A7, or Canon R5 or Nikon Z7 II… And there is nothing wrong in going full manual on semi auto either but in fact, having a camera that can handle exposure well it’s a win for the creative process. I am using Canon DSLRs for years and I used to shoot in manual, especially for street photography but after I bought my 800D with its Digic 7 and Dual Pixel AF, I found it way better to use it on Aperture Priority. That way, even if I want to change shutter speed I do it by changing my ISO.
As for X-E4, it is on my list for the future (along the X100V) because I am planning to go mirrorless sometime soon and I don’t want a full frame Canon… RF lenses are very expensive and I feel more familiar with APSC sensors and focal length. The main reason is the simplicity!
You are more professional than you think you are :) Love this review.
Thank you a lot for this review! I've had a Fujifilm X30 for 6ish years and love it, but want to upgrade and the X-E4 seems to be just perfect. I also want the more analog experience so I this camera will be it!
at last a great review of a great camera
I recently bought my first ever digital camera after over 30 years of earning my living using a Linhof 5x4 with a bit of Hasselblad SWC, a trio of Nikon F3's and Fuji 6x9 and 6x17 thrown in when required and I find the sheer amount of options, levers and dials a serious impediment to taking actual pictures ...... and that's after buying a Panasonic GX9 with a 20mm lens as my gateway into the medium ..... it's hardly top of the range when it comes to features, but by trying to please everyone, they make the experience more difficult than it ought to be.
A camera is just a tool that allows you to make something and tools either come readily to hand and don't impede or they get left in the box ...... just look at the classic pictures taken using large format or early rangefinder cameras ...... simple tools but great results.
I think people underestimate how much you can do with the screen gestures too. I swipe up for photometry, down for focus mode, right for af mode, fn button for iso… and the fact that the viewfinder is on the side leaves the touchscreen within thumb’s reach to move the focus point by swiping on the right half of the screen, which is imo better than using a d-pad.
Having the same x-pro sensor, I wouldn’t switch… tbh. The thing is a beast.
100% honest I haven't even begun to dive into screen gestures and even then I haven't felt restricted. You're comment has me considering giving them a shot, especially utilizing the touch screen for the focus point more often.
I use the Q button on top for switching between the JPEG film simulations. Until I went on a photo workshop and learnt the power of photometry and switched the button to that. But your tip has changed that. Back in are the profiles for the Q button and the swipe gestures have been set up. Thanks Jordi
Thanks for sharing, I've been looking at this one and the X100v. I think I'm going to pull the trigger. Absolute armature here.
Awesome!
I miss the days when I used a Pentax K1000 and ME. Way less distractions ;) I love your comment about simple digital camera vs. the opinion that it makes it to much of a phone. I'm far more in the moment taking pictures with a camera in my hand vs. my iPhone 13 Pro Max. I don't get the same experience from an iPhone than my XH-1 or XPro-3 even ignoring the bells and whistles on them. I am looking for a third, simpler camera and this might be it!
Great video and agree fully
Exactly !
I think was a bit of adaptation - a soon as I got the camera I felt that wasn't right - I wasn't sure if I was annoyed with size, or some buttons missing. however I decided to give it a try and keep using it - with fewer buttons open the possibilities to try new things and experiment more, instead of just set up as my old fuji - I'm happy with my decision too, I'm glad that you're enjoying as much as I am =)
Well said!
Honest and very nice review / Ulf
Well said.
I've got the x100v and I'm thinking of getting the x-e4 instead because of the lens interchangeability. I'm using the wide converter with x100v but it's super soft shooting wide open, almost like the old x100t with it's regular 23mm f/2 lens. I'm on the edge with this one.
Bought the Fuji X100V, but wished I had a 50MM lens option. Looked at Sony A6600 but it's not a sexy looking camera. Bought an old Leica M240 but didn't enjoy the OVF line-up focus system. Then I discovered the XE4 and I think this is the one. Perfect size. Interchangeable lenses. Looks like a classic rangefinder. Thanks for video!
@Jack Burton I was looking at the Fujifilm XF 56mm F/1.2 R lens, as I’m looking for a great depth of field. CZcams reviews are positive. But the Fuji 50mm F/2 sounds great too.
I enjoyed your video. I had a Fuji X100s but had to sell it as I needed the cash at the time. The one thing I did not like about that particular camera was the D PAD. I could not find my way around the camera or settings. But now, I am re visiting the Fuji system and the X-E4 is on the top of my list. The X100V is nice but is out of my budget.
Never missed one feature
I came from a Sony A7III, initially wanting to try full frame. I was hoping to shoot again professionally. But then pandemic came and it sat in my closet. So I cut my loses and sold it. I didn’t shoot much with it. Almost 2 years since and I’m thinking the past few months of going back to fuji to be able to capture my kids as they grow. I also came from fuji xe2 back in 2013 and captured my best photos with that camera. The form factor and the simplicity of features (or lack of) works better for me so I can just shoot more. To sum it up, we’re sort of in the same realization. Cheers!
Good!
💯 agree. People constantly say get the XS10 instead but it really is just blah, cold and lifeless. I learnt and grew up shooting film. I wanted a less is more camera like the XE4.
What a fitting video for me! I am thinking about switching from a7ii to the xe4 (or possibly the x100v) - because of my experience shop to my film on the ae1 . How do the small fujicron lenses compare to cheaper e-mount lenses, like the Tamron 35mm?
Interesting narrative way of letting people know the experience felt using this camera.
Use and sold a Fujifilm X100T.
Kind of enjoyable.
I say follow him with no regrets.
Thank you for making this video.
Less technological advantage than Sony ZVE-10
Follow him, he has no regrets.
I like your manner and presentation style. Tge images you showed were wonderful. I admire your ability to not allow others to determine what should be fun and satisfying for you; in fact, I don’t get why they have the need to ‘advise’ you. Keep enjoying what YOU enjoy.
Great video !
I have Sony's for 10 years. I also had an A7II (for 6 years) and went back to APS-C for street photography.
About a year ago I bought a used Ricoh GR3 and I certainly understand what you say about connecting to a camera and feeling that it works for you and not the opposite.
My dilemma is if I should buy the X-E4. It's not a rational thing. More of a wishful thinking ...
Great review Zachary! I share your sentiment regarding newer, sometimes overcomplicated tech, vs the simplicity of old-school analog that provides everything you need to make great photos. I often find myself bewildered and confused with all the options, dials, and buttons on newer cameras, especially when I have not used them in a while.
With an old analog camera, you can just pick it up, make some simple adjustments, and capture memories. I would even go as far as to say that modern tech (in my opinion) has completely turned me off of photography at times, due to over-complication.
Thank you for your honest approach in your review. I have had my eye on the XT4 for some time now. Maybe its time to take the plunge:)
get the x-e4 instead - way enough for everything
I’ve just sold most of my Fuji gear because for a fair bit the stuff I do I need a big megapixel camera.
I got a good used Sony A7R IV plus some very nice glass. Today I got shots of a helicopter using a 70-200 f4 that I can crop heavily and still print a really large good image. That wouldn’t have worked on the X-T 4.
After I’ve bought a macro lens for the Sony, my next purchase will be the X-E 4 as a pocketable powerhouse.
The whole thing is horses for courses and what you shoot. I’ve come to believe that the starting place for camera purchase decisions isn’t the body. It is the lens ecosystem.
what third party grip is that? I like it. Also, I like how clear your thoughts are. Like the point on dials and features increase options/possibilities but not ability.
To sum up this camera is as good as any. A photographer can adapt to changes and not a problem without the selector switches.
I can understand your point, but they already create a lineup for this simply shooting experience - XA series. XE series, as they promoted, should be a compact, rangefinder style with semi-pro control.
for this people is never enough
Loved the rant lol. What's crazy is that I still currently have a sony a7 ii, but might still keep it and still buy this camera only cause I've invested too much in glass for it lol
If I didn't need the cash, the a7ii would have been great to keep around to use with vintage glass!
A good piece of photography gear is whatever motivates you to go out and shoot. Simple as.
I just wish they would have brought the pop up flash back.
Interessting video and real geat pictures. Where i can see more of them please? 😉👍🤔
Have you shot any photos in a humid environment or rainy days? If so how is it holding up? Thanks for the great video
Hi, could you please help me? For traveling I am not sure which lens/es I should take with me to cover full focal range!? 18-55 or 16-80+70-300, adding 10-24 too, or only 18-135?
Nice video buddy. Have you used any of the 'bigger' lenses on this camera like the 33mm 1.4 or 23mm 1.4? would like to know your thoughts on that as i'm contemplating buying one to use those type lenses on it.
The only big-ish lenses I use are the 18-55 kit and a viltrox 33 1.4, which are about the same size overall. It’s fine, no issues when you have the grip and thumb rest attached. I tend to stick to the 27 2.8 and 18 2. Definitely wouldn’t be using some massive zoom lenses on this little camera.
If I ever go back to Fuji for any reason you're making me lean towards an XE body.
dont sleep on these little guys, they don't call them the baby x-pro's for nothing!
As a user of multiple Fuji cameras, my main issue with the X-E4 is that unlike other models, changing customs profiles changes not just image settings (film sim, WB, etc.), but also AF, auto ISO and even adapted lens name. This defeats the purpose of having custom profiles.
Hello, is this the case with the xe3? Thank you
@@nisiov9724 Thankfully, no.
What brand grips did you go with?
Does it overheats for video?
what lens did you use for that macro images ? they are amazing !
The Laowa 65mm f2.8, I use it to scan my film too, incredible bang for your buck macro!
I have a question about the Fuji XE4. I shoot portraits, headshots and documentary style family shoots, professionally. Occasionally a small wedding or an engagement shoot.
I have a Fuji XT3 and an X100V. Love both, but I’ve especially fallen in love with the rangefinder style of the X100. So much so, I’ve considered getting a XPRO 3. However, it would require me selling my XT3, and I am thinking a better option would be getting an XE4 as a small “backup” to my XT3. Would you recommend the XE4?
I’d say overall if you don’t mind the more minimal control set up and what you’re looking for is essentially an x100v with interchangeable lenses then the XE4 will do the job. There’s also the xpro-2 to consider, prices on those are close to the XE4. I’m not sure how well these cameras do in your shooting situations (except for doc style family stuff, they’re great for that) but if you’ve made the x100v work then another Fuji rangefinder style camera will as well.
Hey, great vid. My first camera was a Canon AE1 from the late '70s. I've been thinking about the xe4, but am hesitant because of it's lack of aperture priority. Do you have a work-around?
The XE4 definitely has aperture priority and most X mount lenses have physical aperture dials too.
Do you have any issues with it using manual focus lenses?
Nope not all, works just fine!
Good you didn't go by naysayers. There are some famous ones here but will not name them
The XE1/2 were mini Xpros without OVF.
With the XE4 Fujifilm has completely turned away from the original concept.
All xtrans cameras are capable.
IMO the XE4 is too much P&S in concept - I like having a back AF and focus mode button.
Going into the menu is fiddling. Missing a button is not adding to the experience.
The XE4 is a piece of tech, they all are, but try an XPro instead and talk again.
That said, feel happy and enjoy, but horses for courses.
@Jack Burton I did, but that’s not the original point.
What's with the hat?
why are you ruining your photos with a samyang lens? this makes no sense to me.
Except he clearly isn't.
totally agree with what you said! finally someone said it!
Well said.