Recently, I took a significant step in my photographic journey by selling all my digital Canon gear and switching to Fujifilm, choosing the Fujifilm X-T5 as my new companion. As an avid fan of analog photography, I was drawn to Fujifilm's outstanding film simulations and the ability to create the so called “film recipes”. Here’s my experience with the Fujifilm X-T5, a camera that promises to combine the best of digital photography with the soul of film.
The Fujifilm X-T5 pays homage to classic design and the aesthetics of analog cameras, with a robust construction and a compact body. Its size is similar to the X-T1, making it comfortable to hold and perfect for street and travel photography. It features manual dials for ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation, providing a tactile and engaging experience that strongly reminds me of analog cameras like my Nikon FM2n.
At the heart of the X-T5 is the new 40 megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor, which offers impressive resolution and extraordinary image quality. Paired with the X-Processor 5, this camera delivers fast performance and efficient battery management, allowing up to 740 shots per charge in economy mode. This sensor, combined with the advanced processor, also enhances autofocus, making it more precise and capable of recognizing various subjects like animals, birds, and vehicles thanks to deep learning algorithms.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Fujifilm X-T5 is its ability to emulate the look of analog film. With 19 film simulation modes, including classics like Velvia, Provia and Acros, the X-T5 allows you to achieve distinctive looks straight out of the camera. However, what truly sets this camera apart is the ability to create so-called “film recipes”.
Starting from the existing film simulations, you can modify various settings such as Dynamic Range, Grain Effect, White Balance, Highlights and Shadows, Color, Sharpness, and Clarity to achieve simulations of famous films like Kodak (including the discontinued Kodachrome 64), Agfa, Cinestill and Ilford. These film recipes are available not only for the X-T5 but for all Fuji cameras, greatly expanding the creative possibilities for photographers.
There is a thriving community of enthusiasts who create or improve these film recipes, producing simulations not necessarily inspired by existing films but also new aesthetic interpretations. The main community dedicated to this is FujiXWeekly, where users share their creations and improvements, offering a rich database of photographic recipes to explore and experiment with.
While not primarily a hybrid camera, the X-T5 still offers excellent video capabilities, including 6.2K recording at 30fps with 4:2:2 10-bit color. It also supports F-Log2, extending the dynamic range to over 13 stops, and allows 12-bit RAW output via HDMI to external devices like those from Atomos and Blackmagic Design.
The X-T5 features a 5-axis image stabilization system offering up to 7 stop of vibration reduction, making it ideal for handheld shooting in low-light conditions. Autofocus has made great strides compared to previous models, thanks to more phase-detection pixels and an improved prediction algorithm. This makes continuous autofocus (AF-C) more stable and accurate, even with moving subjects.
Using the Fujifilm X-T5 is a pleasure for any photographer who appreciates manual control and the feel of an analog camera. The manual dials and intuitive control layout allow you to adjust settings without turning on the camera. This design reflects Fujifilm’s “traditional” approach, valuing the tactile experience of photography.
The Fujifilm X-T5 represents a perfect fusion between the world of analog photography and modern digital technology. With its exceptional image quality, realistic film simulations, and engaging user experience, it is an excellent choice for those who want to relive the film era with the benefits of digital.
From now on, in addition to continuing to explore analog photography, I will publish articles about my experience with Fujifilm digital photography on film.andreabirra.it. The X-T5 has already transformed the way I take photos, and I can't wait to share this new adventure with you.
I'll leave you with the most significant shots from this initial period of use.
