Features
Image: There are eight colour modes to choose from, including Standard, Vivid and Black & white
Despite being one of the smallest high-end compact cameras, the XF1 uses a 2/3in (8.8 x 6.6mm) EXR CMOS sensor, which is approximately 25% bigger than the 1/1.7in sensors in most other high-end compacts. This gives a 3.93x focal magnification, which means the 6.4-25.6mm Fujinon zoom lens gives the same angle of view as a 25-100mm lens on a full-frame model. It comes equipped with image stabilisation for single or continuous capture, and has a handy design, which I will explain in the build and handling section.
Raw + JPEG capture up to a 12-million-pixel resolution is fairly standard for this type of compact camera. However, the XF1 uses a bigger sensor than most others, so the photosites (pixels) are physically larger, too, which should impact upon the sensor’s ability to collect light. In fact, the sensor is Fuji’s unique EXR-type and, in its High ISO & Low Noise and D-Range Priority options, it offers two modes that benefit the camera’s performance in low-level and high-contrast light respectively. In the EXR design, red, green and blue pixels are grouped in pairs rather than the Bayer ‘quad’ arrangement used in most other cameras. Each EXR mode then combines the pairs, in a process designed either to reduce noise or extend the dynamic range, and results in a 6-million-pixel image. For more on the EXR sensor, see our review of the Fujifilm X10 in AP 10 December 2011.
As well as PASM shooting modes, there are two custom settings, the company’s EXR auto mode, 16 scene modes and an Advanced Filter menu with options for motion panorama (120°, 180° and 360°), 3D and a two-image multiple exposure, among others. Drive modes include a ‘best-frame’ capture over 16 frames, and continuous high-speed shooting up to 10fps at medium quality, or 7fps at full resolution.
