Fujifilm X-H2 + Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN (C)

Fujifilm X-H2

The mirrorless system camera FUJIFILM X-H2 is the new flagship model in the award-winning X series, whose APS-C cameras combine the highest image quality and compact design. Like its recently introduced sister model, the FUJIFILM X-H2S, the X-H2 represents the latest in camera technology. It is exceptionally powerful and is designed in every way to meet even the most demanding professional requirements. While the X-H2S is distinguished primarily by its enormous speed, which is evident, for example, in its lightning-fast data processing and precise AF tracking of moving objects, the X-H2's advantages lie in its very high sensor resolution and outstanding detail reproduction.

At the

heart of the X-H2 is the new 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor *1 , which is optimally matched to the fast X Processor 5. The camera offers the highest resolution in the X series to date, for both stills and video. As such, it is the world's first *2 APS-C camera capable of recording 8K/30p Apple ProRes quality video *3 directly to the memory card.

The X-H2 offers many advanced features, such as ISO 125 as the lowest standard sensitivity, a fastest shutter speed of 1/180,000 sec. with electronic shutter, and the Pixel Shift MultiShot function. It also has numerous features and interfaces that make professional-quality photography easier than ever. These include Scene Recognition AF based on Deep Learning technology, which identifies and tracks various subjects (such as. animals or vehicles), built-in five-axis image stabilizer that provides a shutter speed advantage of up to seven stops (EV) *4 , a 5.76 million-dot electronic viewfinder with 0.8x magnification, and a memory card slot for CFexpress Type B cards *5 , all of which allow the X-H2's technological potential to be fully realized.

High-resolution X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor and

X-processor

5

The 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR rear-exposure sensor features

an improved image-processing algorithm.

The 40.2-megapixel rear-exposure X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor features an improved image-processing algorithm that enables very high resolution without noise, resulting in superior overall image quality.

An enhanced pixel structure results in a larger amount of light on the sensor, so that ISO 125 is now available as the standard sensitivity and no longer needs to be selected over the extended ISO range. The new sensor can also be driven with extreme precision, allowing ultra-short exposure times. For example, the fastest shutter speed of the electronic shutter has been increased by 2.5 EV steps from 1/32,000 sec. to now 1/180,000 sec.

The new sensor opens up new creative possibilities, especially when shooting in bright environments. This means that it is now possible to achieve the attractive bokeh effect with the aperture open on sunny summer days or on the ski slopes, as well as to freeze fast movements with ultra-short shutter speeds in maximum sharpness.

Ultra-high-resolution photos and HEIF image format

With the "Pixel Shift Multi-Shot" function, the camera captures 20 high-resolution RGB images in succession in raw format, with the image sensor being shifted minimally after each exposure. The resulting individual photos can be combined into a single image file with a resolution of 160 megapixels using the free "Pixel Shift Combiner" software.

The

function is particularly interesting for photographic documentation and digitization in the fields of art and culture, as well as for high-quality still life and product photography. The

X-H2 supports the HEIF image format, which delivers 10-bit image files that are up to 30 percent smaller than standard JPEG files

. With the

integration of these two features, FUJIFILM underscores its reputation for delivering the very highest quality images directly from the camera.

Professional 8K-quality

video

With the X-H2, ultra-high-resolution motion capture becomes the professional standard: the new sensor allows video to be recorded in the pioneering 8K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit format. The X-H2's camera body is designed to quickly dissipate the heat generated by the sensor and processor. This allows up to 160 minutes *6 of 8K-quality recording without interruption. The

8K sensor also offers many advantages in 4K workflows

.

For example, the camera draws on the detail of the 8K data during internal oversampling to generate a 4K image of superior quality, and the

X-H2's digital zoom function *7 also takes advantage of the high resolution of the 40.2-megapixel sensor. This allows you to zoom into the image at up to 2x magnification when shooting 4K. When paired with the XF18-120mmF4 LM PZ WR, the camera seamlessly switches to digital zoom after reaching the maximum optical focal length to effectively double the focal length.

Efficient post-production

The X-H2 supports three Apple ProRes codecs: ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422, and ProRes 422 LT. When recording video up to 4K resolution, proxy movies *8 (ProRes 422 Proxy) can also be recorded in parallel at a low bit rate. Because these have a smaller file size, they lend themselves to efficient workflows with reduced post-production workloads.

12-bit RAW video files can also be recorded when combined with a compatible external HDMI recorder from Atomos or Blackmagic Design

.

These can be saved as Apple ProRes RAW or Blackmagic RAW in up to 8K resolution at frame rates up to 29.97 frames per second.

In

addition to the familiar F-Log, the X-H2 also supports F-Log2, which offers an expanded dynamic range of more than 13 stops, providing more creative freedom in video editing

.

Intelligent autofocus for maximum detail

The X-H2 features an innovative autofocus system that allows the person taking the picture to focus entirely on the subject and composition. She can trust the camera to focus reliably and precisely on the subject, with

the

X-H2's powerful X-Processor 5 providing object-oriented autofocus with subject recognition based on artificial intelligence. Developed using Deep Learning technology, the algorithm not only detects and tracks people's faces and eyes, but also reliably keeps animals, birds, cars,
motorcycles, bicycles, planes and trains in focus.

The 40.2-megapixel sensor has more phase-detection pixels than previous models in the X series, resulting in even more precise focusing in AF-S mode, for example in landscape or portrait photography. In addition, the X-H2 (like the X-H2S) features a new AF algorithm for predicting object movement, which enables even more reliable focus tracking in continuous focus (AF-C).

Since 8K videos require especially precise focusing, the VideoAF algorithm has also been optimized. In addition, there is a new focus indicator that facilitates manual focusing while filming and can be used in combination with the FocusPeaking function.

Top features and high ease of use

The FUJIFILM X-H2 is equipped with built-in five-axis image stabilization (IBIS). This enables sharp shots at shutter speeds up to seven EV stops slower, providing a decisive advantage in many situations, such as low light. The

X-H2's electronic viewfinder offers a high-resolution viewfinder image with 5.76 million pixels and 0.8x magnification. The high frame rate of approximately 120 frames per second ensures a natural display of even very fast movements. The viewfinder image is also optimally corrected and free of parallax errors and distortion that otherwise typically appear with changes in eye position. The

X-H2 is built to withstand the rigors of everyday professional use

.

Like the X-H2S, it features a weather-resistant body that is sealed at 79 points to prevent moisture and dust ingress and is fully operational in cold temperatures down to minus 10 degrees Celsius.

Additional ease of use is provided by the sub-display on the top of the camera, the rear LCD monitor with 1.62 million pixels, the individually configurable AF ON button and the separate video recording button. The X-H2's dual memory card slot supports CFexpress Type B cards in addition to conventional SD cards, allowing the camera's full potential to be realized in continuous shooting and video recording, among other applications. *9

In addition, the X-H2 (like the X-H2S*10) is compatible with the FT-XH File Transmitter, which allows wired LAN and wireless LAN tethered video recording. Up to four X-H2s and X-H2Ss can thus be controlled via a browser application. For example, the recording parameters for each camera can be checked and adjusted, and video recording can be started and stopped synchronously for all cameras. It is also possible to save, copy and load camera settings. *11

*1 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.
*2 As of September 8, 2022, according to FUJIFILM.
*3 Apple ProRes is a trademark of Apple Inc. and is registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions.
*4 In combination with the FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R.
*5 CFexpress™ is a trademark or registered trademark of the CompactFlash Association.
*6 Maximum recording time at an ambient temperature of 25 degrees Celsius and camera settings: auto shutdown temperature "High", H.265 4:2:0, 200Mbps bit rate, and the VG-XH vertical battery grip with a total of three batteries installed. The recording time depends on the remaining battery charge and the type and capacity of the memory card used. If the unit warms up, recording may stop automatically.
*7 Digital zoom is available in three video modes: 4K HQ, 4K DCI HQ, and Full HD.
*8 Proxy function is not available for 8K/30P and 8K/25P recording.
*9 For a list of compatible memory cards, visit the FUJIFILM website.
*10 An update to the latest firmware is required for the X-H2S to use this feature.
*11 Camera settings can be saved to and reloaded from a computer or tablet

Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN ©

The SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary covers the focal length range between 27 and 75mm (equivalent to 35mm format) - and does so with a consistent F2.8 aperture, making it ideal when you want to crop the subject in portraits and close-ups against a blurred background that won't distract from the subject in focus due to the attractive, soft bokeh.

With three high-precision, bright-molded aspheres and a reduction in the number of optical elements overall, the lens achieves superior image quality at a low weight. In-camera optical noise correction further helps eliminate aberrations such as distortion and vignetting. This performance is made possible by advanced lens development technology at SIGMA's sole manufacturing facility in Aizu, Japan, where all SIGMA lenses are produced.

Exceptionally lightweight and compact - ideal for mirrorless cameras

The SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary is remarkably lightweight and compact, making it a fitting complement to mirrorless APS-C cameras. It is the perfect standard zoom, ideal for everyday use and up to a wide range of shooting situations. The lens is currently the smallest and lightest in its class*, with a maximum diameter of 65.4mm, a length of 74.5mm and a weight of 290g*, while maintaining a constant aperture of F2.8.

To keep the weight down, SIGMA has constructed the lens using specially selected materials. The lens barrel is made of TSC (Thermally-Stable-Composite) polycarbonate, which is slim and robust and, most importantly, has a thermal conductivity similar to that of aluminum. This ensures high reliability and smooth operation under changing temperatures. For some internal components, SIGMA made a conscious decision to use metal, as these parts require less material while providing greater strength. As a result, the lens is designed to withstand more intensive use.
*As an autofocus Zoom lens with a continuous aperture of F2.8 for APS-C (as of October 2021, from SIGMA).

Suitable for a wide range of shooting situations

The SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary has a fast and nearly silent autofocus that makes it recommended for a wide range of photographic applications, including shooting in quiet environments and capturing video and photos that require fast focus tracking. This is achieved by using a stepper motor to drive the focus. Since the lens is small and lightweight, it can be used very flexibly in situations that require high mobility, or when shooting from hard-to-reach shooting positions, gimbal shooting, one-man video recording and vlogging.

A wide range of uses was a priority in the development of the lens, and SIGMA has chosen a design with a closest focusing distance of 12.1cm and a maximum magnification of f/2.8**, making it ideal for close-up shooting. Together with the extremely compact full-frame SIGMA fp camera, this results in a total weight of just 712g - so the lens can also serve as a "back-up" on a full-frame camera in crop mode, for example, if the weight of the equipment needs to be minimized.

The 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary, which combines compact dimensions, light weight, high performance, and great speed, handles a variety of tasks primarily with entry-level mirrorless models, both in photography and video recording, but also with full-frame cameras.

**

The specifications for magnification and closest focusing distance apply to the shortest focal length

.