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Getting back into photography, xf35mm 1.4 looks great, but I can't really choose a body

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SimonV

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Having gone the route of Canon 5d2->Fuji X100->Nex-5n->Sony RX100 and kinda lost interest in active photography a couple years ago, I've started to feel some interest in photography coming back.

I've been looking at the Fuji 35mm 1.4, and really like the look of the photos it can produce. I'm having problems choosing a body for it though. I haven't been following the market for years so I feel a bit lost, and even though I've done some research I feel like there's always something different hiding behind a corner that would be a better deal than what I'm currently looking at. The specs comparison tool is good but doesn't really tell much about the experience of shooting in the field.

These seem to be my choices:
  • X-Pro 1
  • X-E1/2
  • X-M1
As far as I understand, the X-E1/2 are better than the X-Pro 1 as they have a better sensor? From what I've heard though the X-Pro 1 is very good in low light. Also, What is the difference between X-E1 and X-M1? I'm most interested in the photo quality of the sensor together with the xf 35mm 1.4. If the image result is the same, I can live without some of the features of different bodies. I like the look and design of the X-Pro 1 but if the X-E1/2 beats it in every other way I'm prepared to sacrifice aesthetics.

I really like the 35mm equivalent focal length, so I fear the fuji 35mm might become a bit tight at about 50mm equivalent (I don't hate the 50mm either). Seems though that at my price point I can't expect to get a decent 35mm equivalent at 1.4. The closest is probably 5d1 + 35F2, and while the 5d classic isn't by any means bad, it's a bit clunky nowadays + I don't want to invest in CF cards anymore.

I own a Sony Nex-5n with a 8mm Samyang, which produces great photos. There just doesn't seem to be anything resembling the fuji 35mm 1.4 I could get for the Nex. I had the Sony 24mm Zeiss for a while, and it was incredibly good, but I can't justify the cost right now. Would it be possible to use an adapter for the 8mm Samyang on a Fuji X-body without hassle so I could get rid of my Nex body? Or just try to trade it for a Fuji version of the same lens?

Any advice on the topic would be greatly appreciated!

TL;DR: I want to get the xf 35mm 1.4, what's the main differences between X-Pro 1, X-E1/2 and X-M1, will the IQ be the same? Or are there smarter alternatives from other companies?
 
SimonV said:
Having gone the route of Canon 5d2->Fuji X100->Nex-5n->Sony RX100 and kinda lost interest in active photography a couple years ago, I've started to feel some interest in photography coming back.

I've been looking at the Fuji 35mm 1.4, and really like the look of the photos it can produce. I'm having problems choosing a body for it though. I haven't been following the market for years so I feel a bit lost, and even though I've done some research I feel like there's always something different hiding behind a corner that would be a better deal than what I'm currently looking at. The specs comparison tool is good but doesn't really tell much about the experience of shooting in the field.

These seem to be my choices:
  • X-Pro 1
  • X-E1/2
  • X-M1
As far as I understand, the X-E1/2 are better than the X-Pro 1 as they have a better sensor? From what I've heard though the X-Pro 1 is very good in low light. Also, What is the difference between X-E1 and X-M1? I'm most interested in the photo quality of the sensor together with the xf 35mm 1.4. If the image result is the same, I can live without some of the features of different bodies. I like the look and design of the X-Pro 1 but if the X-E1/2 beats it in every other way I'm prepared to sacrifice aesthetics.

I really like the 35mm equivalent focal length, so I fear the fuji 35mm might become a bit tight at about 50mm equivalent (I don't hate the 50mm either). Seems though that at my price point I can't expect to get a decent 35mm equivalent at 1.4. The closest is probably 5d1 + 35F2, and while the 5d classic isn't by any means bad, it's a bit clunky nowadays + I don't want to invest in CF cards anymore.

I own a Sony Nex-5n with a 8mm Samyang, which produces great photos. There just doesn't seem to be anything resembling the fuji 35mm 1.4 I could get for the Nex. I had the Sony 24mm Zeiss for a while, and it was incredibly good, but I can't justify the cost right now. Would it be possible to use an adapter for the 8mm Samyang on a Fuji X-body without hassle so I could get rid of my Nex body? Or just try to trade it for a Fuji version of the same lens?

Any advice on the topic would be greatly appreciated!

TL;DR: I want to get the xf 35mm 1.4, what's the main differences between X-Pro 1, X-E1/2 and X-M1, will the IQ be the same? Or are there smarter alternatives from other companies?
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The biggest mistake anyone can make is me telling you how to spend your money. Just because you feel empty with out a camera. This is what I would do and questions to ask the point being even if I gave you a free camera that would not change your lack luster interest in photography.

Photography is either an art form or just a way to record memories. For that just use your cell phone or stick to a p&s camera like the Canon G16, Panasonic LX-100, FZ-1000 or Sony RX-10, maybe the Fuji X30.
  • In the past year how many pictures have you taken
  • Would you take your camera to a wedding or a generic party as a guest
  • Do you like to edit your pictures and make the occasional prints to frame
The smart move is to not be emotionally attached to camera gear and just sell it. It is $100 bills just collecting dust decreasing in value every day. Their is nothing wrong with selling everything and just waiting for 6 months to see. At that point maybe a p&s camera is truly all you need. Take a picture and move along once every Three months or so.

Just saying Fuji is one of the most expensive camera systems and you lose 50% of what you paid new pretty fast.

You should decide for yourself and or go in person or call a professional camera store. Actually call two or three to get some competing advice. Look at YouTube videos etc.

Unless you use the camera to its full potential you are wasting your money because any camera can shoot in Auto program mode.
 
Not to complicate matters anymore, but have you looked at this?

Loading…

www.bhphotovideo.com

I looked very closely at both the Fuji 35 and the Zeiss 32 for my use. After much research I opted for the Zeiss lens and I have not regretted it one bit. It's a stellar lens.

Just a thought...
 
Get the X-E1 with kit 18-55 lens.

There are incredible deals going on. With the latest firmware this is a great package.

This kit lens will pair nicely with your 35.

The X-M1 has no viewfinder. That is a big negative for me if I was choosing my first Fuji camera.

The X-E1 will get you accustomed to the Fuji cameras(from the selection you gave) and you can upgrade in a year to a new model body.

The 18-55 lens will stay with you long after the body probably.
 
SimonV said:
X-Pro 1
  • X-E1/2
  • X-M1
As far as I understand, the X-E1/2 are better than the X-Pro 1 as they have a better sensor? From what I've heard though the X-Pro 1 is very good in low light. Also, What is the difference between X-E1 and X-M1? I'm most interested in the photo quality of the sensor together with the xf 35mm 1.4. If the image result is the same, I can live without some of the features of different bodies. I like the look and design of the X-Pro 1 but if the X-E1/2 beats it in every other way I'm prepared to sacrifice aesthetics.
Click to expand...
You need to do a little more research. Basically the same sensor in all X trans bodies. The XE2/XT1 have both contrast and phase detect pixels to assist in AF but IQ is similar throughout the X trans range. Processing engines slightly better in latter models - in practice you'd probably not see the difference.

FWIW I'd try both X-Pro1 and X-E2 mainly to see the difference in feel. I have both XP1 and XT1 but my favorite to use is the X-Pro1 especially with primes and using the optical viewfinder not available on the others. The XT1 comes in handy for the especially the long zooms when the OVF is of no help and for faster AF. The XPro1 feels Pro whilst the XE1/XE2 and the XT1 disappointingly feel like empty plastic boxes until you have a lens fitted.

You really do need to handle them for yourself once you have the technical differences under your belt.
 
I have the Xa1 with the 35 1.4 Combo, Got these after many entries on this forum suggested they were possibly the best ' bang for buck ' combo. The Xa1 can be got for £120 and the 35 1.4 avg @ £286 So for an outlay of £400 you can get quality images equal to Xpro1 X100 and you would not loose a fortune if you wanted to sell. Must say though you would not have a view finder , but I found I quite got use too shooting hip high and above my head when required. not a problem. Just my 2- penny worth.
 
Start with the lowest priced body, then if you like the system you can keep it as a spare body. Just a thought.
 
Thanks for all the answers! Reading these and after doing some more research, I went for the X-M1. I've tried the X-E1, and while it seems good as well, I found some of the features on the X-M1 better for my needs, and the lower price was an important factor at this time. I've noticed my current shooting style does not require a viewfinder, the articulating screen is much more useful to me. Wi-fi is a plus, mostly while traveling, although something I could do without. Functionality seems quite decent to me, after coming from the Nex-5n and RX100 it feels really good :P.

My main interest was in the 35mm lens, and from my first impressions it's pretty much everything I expected from it. Having used a fair amount of different gear in the past, it seems like it will be one of my favorite lenses along with the 135L, 35F2 and 24mm Zeiss. Camera bodies age much faster and decline in price quickly, so I figured I can upgrade that later if I feel the need, and maybe pick up an xf 23mm 1.4 along the way.

Thanks again for the advice, I feel my decision was a good one!
 
jrk said:
Not to complicate matters anymore, but have you looked at this?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/970835-REG/zeiss_2030_678_touit_1_8_32_e_lens.html

I looked very closely at both the Fuji 35 and the Zeiss 32 for my use. After much research I opted for the Zeiss lens and I have not regretted it one bit. It's a stellar lens.

Just a thought...
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Gotta second this. Much more robust build quality, quieter a/f (the 35 is very noisy and prone to aperture chatter) superb microcontrast and detail, and a 3 year warranty (US). Fantastic lens; if there was a Nikon F Mount in this lens I'd snag it in a heartbeat.
 
The IQ from all 4 cameras is virtually the same. They all have a 16mp X-trans sensor.

X-M1 - no viewfinder - deal breaker

X-E1 - lousy EVF - deal breaker

X-E2 - much better EVF - built-in flash - faster AF. It is probably the best choice if you mostly shoot zooms (assuming you don't want to spend the bucks for the X-T1).

X-Pro1 - the hybrid optical viewfinder is fantastic. If you are mostly going to shoot with primes between 18mm and 60mm then the XP1 is an easy choice.

Your post indicates that you would be happy with a 35mm equiv. lens. if that is the case my recommendation would be the 23mm 1.4 instead of the 35. Both are superb.

You should also consider the X100s /X100T. The X100s(T) is an absolutely Brilliant camera. Many believe it to be the best digital camera they have ever owned. Some consider it to be the best digital camera ever made.
 
MrFlash said:
The IQ from all 4 cameras is virtually the same. They all have a 16mp X-trans sensor.

X-M1 - no viewfinder - deal breaker

X-E1 - lousy EVF - deal breaker

X-E2 - much better EVF - built-in flash - faster AF. It is probably the best choice if you mostly shoot zooms (assuming you don't want to spend the bucks for the X-T1).

X-Pro1 - the hybrid optical viewfinder is fantastic. If you are mostly going to shoot with primes between 18mm and 60mm then the XP1 is an easy choice.

Your post indicates that you would be happy with a 35mm equiv. lens. if that is the case my recommendation would be the 23mm 1.4 instead of the 35. Both are superb.

You should also consider the X100s /X100T. The X100s(T) is an absolutely Brilliant camera. Many believe it to be the best digital camera they have ever owned. Some consider it to be the best digital camera ever made.

--
MrFlash
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I have to disagree.

The X-M1 is perfectly usable with the LCD and anyone who has ever used a P+S or smart phone to take pictures knows how to take photos are arms length. It takes exactly the same quality photos as other X cameras costing far more. For someone who doesn't mind using the LCD to compose the X-M1 is a great way to enter the Fuji X world. Perfect as a second body once you upgrade too.

How can you rag on the X-E1 EVF and then extoll the virtues of the X-Pro1 hybrid? The EVF on the X-E1 is superior to the EVF on the X-Pro1. The X-E1 is currently a tremendous bargain when paired with the kit zoom. Major bang for the buck.

X-E2 has virtually no advantages over the X-T1. The X-T1 has many advantages over the X-E2 and the added cost is reasonable compared to the jump from X-M1 or X-E1 to X-E2. The X-E2 is perhaps the worst choice (though a great camera still) for an entry model IMO. Either go whole hog (X-T1) or bargain (X-M1 or X-E1) or if you really like the hybrid viewfinder then the Pro1. The X-E2 is currently over priced for what it delivers. It is still sold at a premium but is ready for an upgrade.
 
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You can't really disagree - the lack is of an EVF is a deal breaker - at least for me. Squinting at a little screen in bright sunlight, trying to see what you are taking a picture of is not for me.

Agreed the X-T1 is a superior camera to the X-E2. The poster did not mention it as one of the options he was considering.

I still own an X-E1. I toss it in the suitcase when I'm traveling to serve as an emergency back-up. I don't sell it because it isn't worth much. There is a reason it's not worth much.

I can honestly say that the X-E1 is the only fuji body that I have owned that I really didn't like. (and I've owned them all except the X-A1) The EVF is so slow and streaky that it actually makes me queasy to use it. The EVF in the XP1 is lower resolution than the one in the X-E1 but it is much faster making it more enjoyable to use. Additionally, the optical hybrid viewfinder means you don't need to use the EVF except for special circumstances.

Prior to the X-T1 I had not owned or tried an EVF that I was willing to use full-time. The EVF in the X-E2 is not as nice as the one in the X-T1 but its refresh rate is fast enough to make it useable, I can't say that about the X-E1.
 
SimonV said:
These seem to be my choices:
  • X-Pro 1
  • X-E1/2
  • X-M1
Click to expand...
Get the X-A1, best jpeg quality. Beautiful with 35mm combination.
 
with lots of gear but no idea said:
I have the Xa1 with the 35 1.4 Combo, Got these after many entries on this forum suggested they were possibly the best ' bang for buck ' combo. The Xa1 can be got for £120 and the 35 1.4 avg @ £286 So for an outlay of £400 you can get quality images equal to Xpro1 X100 and you would not loose a fortune if you wanted to sell. Must say though you would not have a view finder , but I found I quite got use too shooting hip high and above my head when required. not a problem. Just my 2- penny worth.
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Absolutely agree ...

That is why the X-A1 makes so much sense. It sells for very little money, yet has IQ equal to the other models in the Fuji line-up.

This coming year may well find significant changes in Fuji bodies - upgrades, sensor changes, firmware. Who knows. Getting used to handling Fuji files and building up a collection of lenses is the way to go ... Later, the X-A1 can be the small back-up cam to use with the main camera of choice ....

-

Regards
Rich S in Brittany (britcam)
 
MrFlash said:
I can honestly say that the X-E1 is the only fuji body that I have owned that I really didn't like. (and I've owned them all except the X-A1) The EVF is so slow and streaky that it actually makes me queasy to use it.
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Unless you haven't done the firmware upgrades, I can only conclude you have a faulty EVF/

Stuart
 
StuartBell said:
MrFlash said:
I can honestly say that the X-E1 is the only fuji body that I have owned that I really didn't like. (and I've owned them all except the X-A1) The EVF is so slow and streaky that it actually makes me queasy to use it.
Click to expand...
Unless you haven't done the firmware upgrades, I can only conclude you have a faulty EVF/

Stuart
Click to expand...
Did all the upgrades. It's awful. The X-E2 needed some updates before it's EVF got fast. The X-E1 has a slow processor. Can't fix that with firmware.
 
I have the X-E1 and X-M1

The EVF on the X-E1 does lag a bit in lower light it's far from lousy though overall (quite usable decent resolution) that's the main flaw

The X-M1 has a few bits the X-E1 does not like face detection, high res swivel LCD smaller body and the usual smattering of scene modes etc etc. But it has no VF, it has no sweep pano (odd for that type of body) no level gauge and less direct controls (like AF/MF etc) the PASM dial v the shutter dial might not bother most

The X-E1 got a lot of firmware updates some things can't be fixed it's more robust in build and a bit larger though far from massive. If you're in any way shooting longer focal lengths skip the X-M1 the lack of VF is a major problem (it's OK with the kit lens or shorter length lenses) if you plan on using other lenses with an adapter then skip the X-M1 also it will work but you'll have far more problems with camera shake (lack of VF problem comes back to haunt it) and you can't set the min shutter speed above 1/125s

Jpeg processing is better on the older generation bodies more DR smoother contrast, less NR and more pleasing Fuji screwed up big time on the newer bodies (you can adjust the shadow tone it helps but it's not as good) ditto with NR Fuji's older processing is better. Shot in raw the cams are all pretty close nothing in it

IQ wise it's a wash

Much as I like the X-M1 the lack of any kind of VF is a massive downer for some types of shooting.

The poorer jpeg processing on the newer bodies is a turn off to me (not a deal breaker but annoying) X-E1 is back to basics solid cam well made no real gimmicks as such but covers what you need. X-E2 irons out the kinks but costs more I'd wait for a price crash on that body
 
MrFlash said:
You can't really disagree - the lack is of an EVF is a deal breaker - at least for me. Squinting at a little screen in bright sunlight, trying to see what you are taking a picture of is not for me.

Agreed the X-T1 is a superior camera to the X-E2. The poster did not mention it as one of the options he was considering.

I still own an X-E1. I toss it in the suitcase when I'm traveling to serve as an emergency back-up. I don't sell it because it isn't worth much. There is a reason it's not worth much.

I can honestly say that the X-E1 is the only fuji body that I have owned that I really didn't like. (and I've owned them all except the X-A1) The EVF is so slow and streaky that it actually makes me queasy to use it. The EVF in the XP1 is lower resolution than the one in the X-E1 but it is much faster making it more enjoyable to use. Additionally, the optical hybrid viewfinder means you don't need to use the EVF except for special circumstances.

Prior to the X-T1 I had not owned or tried an EVF that I was willing to use full-time. The EVF in the X-E2 is not as nice as the one in the X-T1 but its refresh rate is fast enough to make it useable, I can't say that about the X-E1.
Click to expand...
 
Get the X-E1, best JPG at high ISO of all Xs.

Other than that get the X-E2 or X-T1.
 
I have an X PRO 1 and its great camera! For the price you can't beat it. The images are amazing and i would not sell it even if the new X PRO 2 would come out soon.
 
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