Fujifilm XM-1 is in my bag

   I have been using the Fujifilm X20 for a few months now and really enjoy using it. I've learned that this little machine has a soul. It behaves like a "big" camera. Heck, even has a hot-shoe that use to attach my Pocket Wizards.  If only it had a larger sensor.  I often dreamed that Fuji would come out with a model just like the X20 with an APS sensor with its marvelous fixed zoom, X20-Pro. I love everything about the design of this camera. I really needed a bit more resolution and struggled with acquiring another body that would require purchase of lenses. THEN, the XM-1 came out.
   Workflow is really important, but, image quality is paramount. I've always like the look from Fuji Cameras like my S3 and S5pro. But, my goal is to achieve a workflow akin to DSLR gear. The XM-1 has the APS size sensor found in the X-Pro1 and XE-1. So I purchased the 18-55 f2.8-4 lens with the body. I found myself using the screen often with the X20, so it didn't bother me that the XM-1 has no viewfinder, but instead, a flip screen. I'm short and now I can hold the camera above my head and shoot over a crowd to get a better composition. The White Balance is amazing on both of my X cameras.

I would've expected quite a bit of orange and yellow in the above photo, but this is straight out of the XM-1 camera. Skin tones are also normal looking in the original photograph.

   So, one more camera to backup my X20!  And by the way, X20 does macro really well!

Fujifilm X20 - testing continues with a portrait

While I was on facebook the other day, someone posted a photo of Charles Darwin with a quote by him written off to the side of the empty space of the image.  I couldn't help but think of my cousin Michael Ximenez and how similar they look.  I called him up and he agreed to pose for me.  I am recreating solely on inspiration. This is the third time of done this.

  I am using the Fujifilm X20 mirror-less camera, ISO 250, 1/125, f2.8 and a speedlight aimed at the ceiling.

I am regularly surprised at the detail of the images from this small-sensored camera. Under-exposed areas appeared a bit muddy, but when the exposure is correct the images look quite film-like. I think the acid test is to eventually make a large print, maybe 12x18.