Fujifilm X-H2 S + LAOWA Argus 33mm f0.95 CF APO

Fujifilm X-H2S

The FUJIFILM X-H2S mirrorless system camera, the new flagship model of the X series, expands the family of compact APS-C cameras with advanced photo and video features. The X-H2S marks the fifth technology generation of the camera system founded by FUJIFILM in 2012, whose models combine high image quality and compact design with unprecedented color technology.

At the

heart of the X-H2S is the 26.16-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HS sensor *1, which enables four times faster signal processing compared to the previous sensor generation *2

. It is

complemented by the X-Processor 5, which processes image information supplied by the sensor at an even higher speed.*3

The camera is equipped with a powerful autofocus system that enables reliable focusing of dynamic subjects even during continuous shooting at up to 40 frames per second and video recording in high-definition 6.2K or 4K formats. Other features of the X-H2S, which inherits the proven operating concept of its predecessor, include in-camera five-axis image stabilization over seven EV steps *4, a rugged magnesium body, and a wide range of connectivity options. Among other things, the camera is compatible with CFexpress Type B memory cards *5 and can be integrated into network environments via a separately available file transmitter.

This makes the X-H2S the ideal choice for all professional photo and video shooting. It is suitable for use in wildlife, sports and press photography, and especially for small shooting teams.

Fifth generation X-Trans sensor and X processor

The X-H2S is significantly more powerful than previous X series cameras. The reason for the performance increase is the use of two advanced components: the X-Trans CMOS 5 HS Sensor and the X-Processor 5. The new 26.16 megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HS Sensor is the first BSI and Stacked APS-C sensor to be used in the X Series. The abbreviation BSI stands for "back-side illuminated," and "stacked" means that the sensor is constructed from multiple stacked discs. This chip design provides considerable performance improvements. For example, the four times faster readout speed enables blackout-free continuous shooting at up to 40 frames per second*6 and again significantly improved autofocus. In addition, high-resolution moving images in 4K/60p quality can now be recorded without a crop factor. The videos are also less susceptible to the rolling shutter effect that can occur when shooting moving objects. The advanced X Processor 5 processes data twice as fast as the previous flagship X Series model. It delivers improved resolution performance at low sensor sensitivities, lower image noise at high ISOs, and significantly faster and even more accurate autofocus. The use of artificial intelligence results in highly accurate object-based AF tracking. The fifth-generation processor enables video capture in professional 6.2K/30p format with 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling. It also supports other video codecs. The camera is also compatible with fast CF express Type B memory cards. Despite the performance boost, the processor consumes less power, allowing for longer shooting times.

Fast Continuous Shooting with AF Tracking

The X-H2S offers high-precision automatic focusing, even with fast frame rates, and can shoot up to 40 frames per second with object-based tracking and continuous adjustment of focus and exposure. During continuous shooting, phase AF pixels are evaluated independently of image generation, enabling three times more autofocus calculations than the previous flagship model*7, resulting in lightning-fast focusing. The camera features an expanded buffer memory that, in conjunction with the electronic shutter, can now record up to 1,000 photos *8 in rapid succession when set to a continuous shooting speed of 30 frames per second in JPG mode or 20 frames per second in RAW mode.

Intelligent and powerful autofocus

The new image processor offers an object-oriented autofocus function with scene recognition and 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, airplanes and trains in focus. Thanks to this capability, the photographer can fully concentrate on the creative shooting process and composition of the image. A new AF algorithm results in significantly better prediction of subject movement. This leap in development allows the camera to track moving objects with high precision using Zone AF, even in low-light conditions. This makes the X-H2S ideal for demanding wildlife and sports photography.

Advanced Video

Capabilities

The camera can record high-definition video in 6.2K/30p format with lifelike 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling. It also offers the ability to record spectacular slow-motion sequences in 4K/120p quality to reproduce explosive motion sequences at extreme deceleration. With the new image sensor, the readout speed for video recording is shortened to 1/180 of a second, eliminating the annoying rolling shutter effect and allowing the subject motion to be recorded very realistically. The improved autofocus performance is also evident in video recording. AF functions for tracking fast-moving subjects are available when filming, as is the AF+MF function that allows seamless switching between automatic and manual focus. The X-H2S supports various video codecs, including three Apple ProRes codecs*9: ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422, and ProRes 422 LT. For workflow optimization, a proxy video with reduced data rate and resolution can be saved in parallel with the ProRes recording. The new F-Log2 mode allows the recording of videos with a dynamic range of more than 14 EV steps. This means that the recorded video material offers more creative scope in post-production than with the previous F-Log mode.
The camera body has been designed to quickly dissipate the heat generated by the sensor and processor. This enables significantly longer recording times of up to 240 minutes *10 in 4K/60p quality. The optional FAN-001 fan provides additional cooling to the housing and enables longer recording time even in high ambient temperatures.

Advanced features and ease of use

The X-H2S features new in-camera five-axis image stabilization. The sensor technology enables sharp shots at shutter speeds up to seven EV stops slower, offering a decisive advantage in many situations. For example, super-telephoto shots can be easily taken freehand in low-light conditions, such as twilight or darkness. The electronic viewfinder also contributes to the ease of use of the X-H2S. With 5.76 million pixels, 0.8x magnification and a refresh rate of 120 fps, it offers an optimal view of the subject. In order to track dynamic subjects optimally at all times, parallax errors or distortion, which often appear when the eye is positioned differently, are effectively suppressed. From its predecessor, the FUJIFILM X-H1, the new flagship model has inherited not only the particularly robust body, but also several popular features. For example, the upper LCD sub-display, on which the camera settings can be conveniently read. The contoured handgrip, which was already one of the features of the previous model, has been specifically redesigned at the request of users to enable fatigue-free shooting with larger lenses, even over longer periods of time. Based on qualified feedback from photographers around the world, there have been further improvements, primarily relating to the handling of the camera. Among other things, the product designers revised the tactility of key controls: for example, the pressure and release point of the shutter release button was optimized so that the release point can be controlled even more precisely in the half-pressed state. There is also now a separate video button, which simplifies filming in conjunction with the rotatable and tiltable LCD monitor (1.62 million pixels). In addition, the AF-On button has a new tap characteristic to make the function even easier to use. The shutter on the X-H2S is particularly durable, outlasting more than 500,000 exposures in internal tests. The X-H2S'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 uses.*11

*1 X-Trans™ is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation
*2 Compared to X-Trans CMOS 4 Sensor
*3 Compared to X-Processor 4
*4 Used in conjunction with the FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R
*5 CF express™ is a trademark or registered trademark of the CompactFlash Association
*6 Fast continuous shooting without viewfinder blackout is only available when using the electronic shutter
*7 FUJIFILM X-T4 mirrorless system camera
*8 After turning on the camera, which was previously completely off
*9 Apple ProRes is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries
*10 Measurement of recording time after cold start of the camera and in conjunction with the portrait battery grip VG-XH, equipped with three batteries, at an ambient temperature of 25° C and the following settings: "High Temperature" overheat protection and "100 Mbps" bit rate. The recording time depends on the battery charge level and the memory card used. In case of overheating of the housing, the recording will be stopped automatically.

A complete list of compatible memory cards can be viewed on the FUJIFILM website

.

LAOWA Argus 33mm f/0.95 CF APO for Fuji X

The LAOWA Argus 33mm f/0.95 CF APO is an extremely fast fixed focal length for APS-C cameras, making it equivalent to a 50mm 35mm lens. The impressive speed of f/0.95 allows very creative low-light shots as well as results with extremely soft bokeh. An Extra-Low-Dispersion glass, an aspherical lens and three UltraHigh-Refraction lenses serve to effectively minimize chromatic aberration. This makes it ideal for stunning portraits with outstanding sharpness and clarity. However, it is also very universal in other areas of photography. Filmmakers in particular benefit from the continuously adjustable aperture ring for silent aperture adjustment as well as the low "focus breathing". With many Oďlenses, small changes in framing occur when you turn the focus ring and shift the focus within the image - for example, from an object close to the front lens to one farther away. The Argus 33mm f/0.95 CF APO from LAOWA also shows its professional character here and convinces with this feature. The closest focusing distance is just 35cm. The robust metal housing of the lens is very compact despite the enormous speed, optimally suitable for the system camera. Filters with a diameter of 62mm can be screwed onto the front. Focusing and aperture adjustment is manual.