Fujifilm X-T1 review – Dynamic range
At the time of testing, the X-T1’s raw files were not supported by Adobe Camera Raw, so we processed them using Silkypix Raw File Converter EX software. In high-contrast images, it is possible to retrieve highlight detail from bright areas, while it is also promising that a good level of detail can be retrieved from shadow areas. This does come at the expense of extra noise, but no more than could be expected, and it can be taken care of using noise-reduction techniques.
The camera’s dynamic-range function works very effectively, although it’s worth noting that the DR200 mode is only available for use at ISO 400 or above, whereas the DR400 mode can be used at ISO 800 or above. Comparing three shots taken in high-contrast conditions across the dynamic-range settings revealed DR200 and DR400 have the greatest effect on highlights and shadows. In our DR100 shots, we noticed areas where highlight detail had been lost in the sky, but in our DR200 and DR400 images there were no signs of any highlight clipping. The uppermost DR400 setting also impressed by preserving excellent detail in the darkest shadowed areas of an image, without having a detrimental effect on image quality or sharpness. In scenes where there’s high contrast, it is advised to use DR200 and DR400 modes, or for hassle-free dynamic-range control it could be left set to the DRAuto setting.
In addition, the X-T1 provides highlight and shadow tone options with soft to hard settings offering -2 to +2 adjustment. When used appropriately, these can also make a difference to the overall tonality of an image.
