X-E4 command dial

Erik Baumgartner wrote:

Don Davis wrote:

I know there are many threads bashing Fuji for various design decisions on the X-E4. This isn't one of them, but I am a little confused. The rear command dial was implemented on the X100 and X100S models, and then the front dial was added later. I use the rear dial quite a bit, and the front dial almost never. So, it seems strange to me to keep only the front dial. Is the idea to move everything the rear dial used to do to the front, or do most people already use the front dial more?

From an aesthetic standpoint, I would have thought that simplifying and cleaning up the look would have meant eliminating the dial on the front, not the back.

Either way, I can live with one dial, just as I did with the X100S. Just curious if you all see some logic I don't in this decision.

I use both dials, the front dial for almost every shot for exposure compensation (EC dial in “C” mode). I honestly don’t see the logic in removing any dials/buttons/features from a previous model that people have come to rely on. I have three Fuji cameras, all of which are set up as similarly as possible so I can pick up and use any of them without having to do any mental gymnastics adjusting to different control arrangements. I like(d) Fuji cameras especially because the external controls could be configured for various shooting scenarios without ever having to dive into a menu, but all that is out the window with these newer dumbed down and/or completely redesigned models. I get that Fuji wants to appeal more to PASM and novice shooters, but alienating their longtime core customers is just dumb IMO. The more Fujis become like other cameras, the more I want one of those other cameras.

I pre-ordered an X-E4 for a possible travel option. My X-T3 is my main camera body when I need it for that extra control. So hopefully the X-E4 will be more of a fun travel option. As one reviewer put it "How many buttons do you really need to take a picture?"

I think I will be able to get by with setting the EC to the front dial as you say (same as I do on my XT3), the ISO to the top plate function button, and the M/S/C functionality to the AE/AF button, if all of that is possible. Can't find a copy of the manual yet to confirm.

I usually use the AF/manual focus assist mode of focusing while holding a half press on the shutter, which can also often negate the need for M/S/C.