Fujifilm has finally announced its first interchangeable body since 2006 - here are 10 key factors about the X-Pro 1
New sensor design
Possibly the most crucial piece of engineering on the X-Pro 1 is the redesigned sensor, which Fuji claims is capable of surpassing the quality of full-frame cameras. That's all thanks to a new colour filter array, inspired by the technology used in traditional film cameras, which Fuji says helps to dramatically reduce noise, even at high ISOs.
New processor
To cope with the sensor design, Fuji has introduced a new powerful processor called the EXR Processor pro. This apparently enables the X-Pro 1 to deliver high speed and high precision processing.
Viewfinder
The idea of a combined electronic and optical viewfinder was first introduced in the Fujifilm X100 and proved to be popular with users. It makes an appearance on the X Pro 1, allowing instant switch between OVF and EVF depending on what you need to do. It's designed to combine the best of both, such as a bright viewing image from the OVF and exposure compensation and other information from the EVF. It also has the capability to overlay such information on the OVF.
Vintage
Fujifilm had a big hit on its hands with the retro stylings of the X100, which it continued with the X10. It may be a general indication of the current trend for all things vintage, but sticking with the classic stylings is likely to appeal to all those that lusted after previous X models.
It has no flash
While some people may be disappointed to discover there's no flash on board the X-Pro 1, one can be attached via the hotshoe. On the other hand, neglecting to include one means the body size can be kept down, and with only wide apertured prime lenses currently available for the camera, available light photography may just be the order of the day anyway.
Retro outside, retro inside
Fujifilm has a rich heritage when it comes to analogue photography, so it makes sense to draw on that for its digital cameras. Not only has film technology inspired the sensor design, but a number of film modes are also available for recreating those classic looks of old. Multiple exposures can also be created, alongside images in the style of Velvia, Astia and Provia film beauties. Monochrome and Sepia shooting modes are also included for going even more retro.
Body beautiful
With a die-cast aluminium alloy body, dials, such as those for shutter speed and exposure compensation have been lovingly crafted from solid metal. Couple that with a synthetic leather finish and you have a camera that should be able to withstand the odd bump and scrape and is resistant to the odd splash or two.
Lenses
For the moment, only prime lenses will be available. Each boasting a fast aperture, these should be a big hit with traditional photographers and lovers of street and documentary work. The first three lenses are a 18mm f/2.0, a 35mm f/1.4 and a 60mm f/2.4 macro lens. These have also been styled to match the retro style and feel of the X-Pro 1.
Competitors
To the uninitiated, it would seem that the obvious competitor for the X-Pro 1 is the slew of compact system cameras currently on the market from Sony, Samsung, Nikon et al. However, looking at its stylings, its traditional controls and its relative size, it's perhaps fairer to compare it with an enthusiast level DSLR, or even the Leica M9.
Price and availability
The official prices have yet to be released, but we'd anticipate that this camera will be available a lot cheaper than the Leica M9, which in many ways is its closest rival. Again, availability hasn't been announced, but we'd guess that it won't be long, with so many compact system cameras already available to buy.
Read our hands on Fujifilm X-Pro 1 review.
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