Fujifilm X-M1

Category: Beginner, Serious

Type: Compact Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera

Beginner Classic. The Fujifilm X-M1 is a more compact and affordable version of the X-E1, targeted to beginner photographers. It inherits the beautiful retro design, the innovative APS-C 16MP X-Trans CMOS image sensor, and the X Mount that accepts the full range of interchangeable XF lenses. It is accompanied by a new line of cheaper XC lenses with plastic barrels but which do not compromise with the construction and premium glass elements used. The first of the XC lenses is the XC16-50mmF3.5-5.6 OIS kit lens.

The X-M1 does not have any viewfinder, optical or electronic, nor is an optional external viewfinder available. Instead, it has a 3.0-in. LCD with 920K-dot resolution that tilts 90° up and 85° down. The LCD is not touchscreen. You can display a live histogram and framing guide lines but not an Electronic Horizon Leveling Gauge.

Unlike its more expensive big brothers, the X-PRO1 and the X-E1, the X-M1’s body is mostly polycarbonate plastic but is nevertheless solidly constructed and has a feeling of quality. It also reverts back to using a more contemporary Mode Dial so as to make readily available AUTO and Scene Modes. It does, however, sports twin command dials that control the shutter speed, aperture and exposure compensation, depending on which shooting mode you have selected. The dials are beautifully designed with the right amount of resistance when turning them.

There is a built-in pop-up flash, and a hot shoe allows you to attach an external flash unit. The Shoe Mount Flash EF-X20 (sold separately) is a compact external flash that has a matching retro design. Also optional is the Hand Grip HG-XM1 (sold separately) for those who prefer a bigger handgrip. Other accessories include a Remote Release RR-90, Protector Filters and Leather Case BLC-XM1. There is also an M Mount Adapter to use LEICA M lenses.

The Fujifilm X-M1 boasts a quick start time of 0.5 sec. (when in sleep mode) and a shutter time lag of approx. 0.05-sec. Continuous Shooting is a fast 5.6fps at full resolution.

The X-M1 also offers the Film Simulation Mode popularized in its compact digital cameras to simulate the color and tonal qualities of its acclaimed film brands: PROVIA for a true-to-scene natural look, Velvia for vibrant tonality and saturated colors and ASTIA, for a silky soft look and beautiful skin tones. You can also shoot double exposure and a number of filter effects are also available in still photography.

Advanced photographers can use PASM modes and RAW for full control over exposure and image creation. The in-camera RAW Converter lets you view and edit your results without the need for your PC. Other practical features include built-in Wi-Fi (but no NFC or remote control), One-touch Movie Recording button, a customizable Fn button (doubles as Wi-Fi button in Playback), a Quick Menu button, and Super Intelligent Flash when shooting macro shots in dim lighting. Focus peaking is available when using manual focus. A number of bracketing functions are also available for the advanced photographer: Dynamic Range, Film Simulation, AE, and ISO.

The Fujifilm X-M1 is targeted to beginner photographers looking to move up to a mirrorless DSLR. Advanced photographers who are unwilling to compromise with image quality will also find the X-M1 a very alluring proposition. The X-M1 is available in all black, black/silver or brown.

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