August | 2024 | FUJI X WEEKLY

Impressions of the new Fujinon 16-50mm F/2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens

Posted on August 31, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

Just to be clear right up front: this is not a review of the new Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR kit lens. Someone let me use their copy for half a day while I was in Denver to lead a photowalk (thanks, Matt!), so this is just a quick impression after a handful of hours of use. Everything that I say about it should be taken with a grain of salt, since I don’t own the lens and only used it briefly. My goal is simply to help bring some clarity to those who might be considering it—I’m not certain if I’ll be able to accomplish that, but I hope so.

The Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 is Fujifilm’s successor to the much-beloved 18-55mm f/2.8-4 kit lens, which has been discontinued. I’m not a zoom-lens guy—I prefer prime lenses—but I do own the 18-55mm f/2.8-4, and it’s the only zoom lens that I use even close to somewhat regularly. I don’t use it all the time, but definitely more than any other zoom that I own. It’s an excellent kit lens, perhaps even the best kit lens offered by any brand. I was actually a little sad when Fujifilm announced that they were replacing it. I think the primary reason for its discontinuation is that it cannot fully resolve the 40mp X-Trans V sensor.

There’s actually quite a lot different between the 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 and the 18-55mm f/2.8-4. Some advantages of the 16-50mm are: optically superior, internal zoom, lighter, smaller (the lenses are the same size, but the 18-55mm extends when you zoom while the 16-50mm doesn’t), weather-sealed, wider focal length, and better minimum focus distance. Some advantages of the 18-55mm are: optical image stabilization, larger maximum aperture at the telephoto end, longer telephoto reach, and can be found cheaper used than the 16-50mm new. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s difficult to say that one is “better” than the other; however, if I had to pick one as better, it would be the new 16-50mm.

I was actually pretty impressed with the sharpness of the 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 lens. It’s tack sharp, with the crispness that one would expect from a prime lens. I didn’t notice any vignetting, either. The new lens is optically the winner; the old lens isn’t a slouch, but the 16-50mm is quite obviously the better of the two. Having the 16-50mm is like owning a whole bunch of prime lenses, albeit ones without impressive maximum apertures.

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 + Ektachrome E100 Recipe*

The difference between 16mm and 18mm is larger than the difference between 50mm and 55mm; however, my personal preferences is to have more telephoto reach. For me, I want 55mm f/4 more than I want 16mm. I almost never used 16mm during the short time with the lens, but you might use 16mm often and 50mm rarely. Toping out at f/4.8 at 50mm is odd, since it is a half-stop intermediate aperture. Half-stops were once common a long time ago, but they’re pretty rare nowadays. There’s not a significant benefit in depth-of-field, compression and bokeh (using that term incorrectly) from 55mm f/4 compared to 50mm f/4.8, but there is a difference nonetheless. For me, though, the biggest problem with f/4.8 is dust. You see, living in Arizona, I constantly battle a dirty sensor, and dust on the sensor won’t show at f/4 but it will begin to show at f/4.8.

The Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4 R LM WR makes the most sense when paired with the cameras that have the 40mp X-Trans V sensor and IBIS, which (as of this writing) are the X-H2, X-T5, and X-T50. My guess is that the majority of those who own the X-H2 and X-T5 are not using kit zooms (although I’m sure some are… I use the 18-55mm on my X-T5 sometimes), so that means the Fujifilm X-T50 is the camera that this lens makes the most sense for, in my opinion (I’m sure Fujifilm will release more models in the future that this lens pairs especially well with). For the models without the 40mp sensor but with IBIS—the X-H2s, X-S20, X-S10, and X-H1—you could go either way. Pairing this lens to a weather-sealed body is quite logical, so maybe that could be a deciding factor. For cameras without IBIS, I would recommend the 18-55mm f/2.8-4 lens, since it has OIS.

I have no intentions of purchasing the Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8. Don’t get me wrong: I would be happy owning it, but I’m also happy owning the Fujinon 18-55mm f/2.8-4, and I just don’t have a need for two kit zooms right now. But, if you’re trying to decide, I think the Fujifilm X-T50 and Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 combo could be an especially excellent lightweight travel kit. Also, the internal zoom of the 16-50mm is a major plus for those who will be using it with a gimbal, since you won’t have to rebalance whenever you adjust the focal length. The $699 MSRP is a bit steep (it’s the same price that the 18-55mm was), but if you buy it bundled with a camera body, it’s basically $300 cheaper, and for that price I think it could be worthwhile.

This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.

Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira

Photographs captured using the Fujifilm X-T50 and Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR:

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 + Velvia Film Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 + 1976 Kodak Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 + Kodak Portra 400 v2 Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 + Kodak Tri-X 400 Recipe*

Aerochrome v2 — Fujifilm X-T4 ES (Full Spectrum Infrared) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on August 29, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Yellow Bus* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

I’m in love with this Aerochrome v2 Film Simulation Recipe! It’s for full-spectrum infrared cameras like the Fujifilm X-T4 ES, and not “normal” cameras. You must have a full-spectrum X-Trans IV or X-Trans V model, which requires an expensive and invasive procedure from a third-party vendor; otherwise, the X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”) is a full-spectrum camera briefly offered by Fujifilm (it’s very difficult to find, but in my opinion totally worth owning). So if you have the right gear, you’ll want to try out this Aerochrome v2 Recipe today!

Not only do you need the “right” camera—a full-spectrum model like the Fujifilm X-T4 ES—but you also need the “right” filters. This Recipe requires three: Kolari Vision IR Chrome filter, Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green filter and Tiffen Yellow 2 #8 filter. The IR Chrome filter is intended for infrared photography, while the Yellow-Green and Yellow filters are for B&W film. I’m not sure if the order matters, but I have the Yellow filter first (closest to the lens), the IR Chrome next, and the Yellow-Green last (furthest from the lens).

*Architecture* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Aerochrome v2

This Recipe produces Aerochrome-like pictures, but it doesn’t behave exactly like the film. Even so, the fact that you can get this look straight-out-of-camera is amazing! If this was the only Recipe that I could ever use on my Fujifilm X-T4 ES, I’d be very happy. I do have an Aerochrome v1 Recipe that has less green and yellow hues and a more pronounced blue tint, plus I’m working on a handful of others, so if this isn’t the look that you want, there are (or will be shortly) other options. But this Recipe… it’s what I hoped to achieve when I purchased the camera a couple of months ago. Oh, and surprisingly, it’s excellent for night photography.

Filters: Kolari Vision IR Chrome, Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green & Tiffen Yellow 2 #8
Film Simulation: Velvia
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong
White Balance: Daylight, +7 Red & +6 Blue
Highlight: +2.5
Shadow: -0.5
Color: +4
Sharpness: 0
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -2
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Aerochrome v2 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T4 ES:

*Grass & Sand* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Driftwood Log* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Red Beach* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Red Rock* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Boards & Boats* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Vans* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Red Trees Behind Rooftop* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*House at Dusk* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Flowers in the front Yard* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Seaweed by the Rocks* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Girl Holding a Dead Crab* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Mayflower* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Boats in the Bay* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Tree behind Columns* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Parthenon* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Parthenon Pillars* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Patina* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Kids at a Lake* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Steps to the Water* – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Reflected Red* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*CSX Train* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Turning* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*City Trees* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Boats off the Water* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Little Dam* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Palm, Architecture & Moon* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Lily Pond* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Palms & Structure* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Kelp Washing Ashore* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Surfer* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Sidecar Dog* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Not Always Sunny* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Autumn in August* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Window with a View* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Lifeguard Tower 5* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Luke’s 32* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Cookin’ & Drinkin’* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Food Mart* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Broadway* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

Comparison:

Pushed Analog — Fujifilm X-T50 (X-Trans V) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on August 29, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Rainbow over Hoboken* – Hoboken, NJ – Fujifilm X-T50 – Pushed Analog Recipe

I created this new Film Simulation Recipe while on my four-city photowalk tour. I didn’t have any specific film in mind, but wanted something contrasty, colorful, and warm—perhaps vaguely reminiscent of a push-processed Kodak emulsion without mimicking anything specific. In fact, I didn’t even reference any photographs when I created this (which is unusual for me), just used my experience making Recipes to achieve the aesthetic that I was after. Since it is only similar to pushed film in a very generic way, I named this Recipe very simply Pushed Analog.

Pushing film is where you purposefully underexpose, and then increase the time in the developer to compensate. This Recipe might be more similar to ISO 100 film pushed one stop or maybe two at most (but probably not two stops). Pushing film increases the contrast and grain, and makes the images more punchy and gritty. The more you push, the stronger the effect. The warmth in this Recipe is similar to using a warming filter, such as an 81A or something similar, with daylight balanced film, which used to be common in the film era.

*Ciao & Church* – Boston, MA – Fujifilm X-T50 – Pushed Analog Recipe

This Pushed Analog Film Simulation Recipe isn’t for every subject or situation, and not everyone is going to like it. Some of you will love it, I’m certain; however, this is not an everyday option that everyone will appreciate. I found that it works best in sunny daylight, and can also be a good option for dusk or dawn. It’s so-so for overcast days, and not good for artificial light. You can get dramatic results, but you might not find every image to be striking. This Recipe is compatible with all fifth-generation X-series cameras, which (as of this writing) are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, and X-T50.

Film Simulation: Reala Ace
Dynamic Range: DR200
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong
White Balance: Fluorescent 1, -3 Red & -2 Blue
Highlight: +1.5
Shadow: +2
Color: +4
Sharpness: -1
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -3
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Pushed Analog Film Simulation Recipe on a Fujifilm X-T50:

*Upper Manhatten* – Hoboken, NJ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Richie’s Lemon Ice* – Boston, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Yellow Umbrellas* – Hoboken, NJ – Fujifilm X-T50

*P is for Parking* – Hoboken, NJ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Chimney between the Trees* – Salem, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Vines on the Building* – Salem, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Maria Pepe* – Hoboken, NJ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Two Motorcycles* – Boston, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Lost Shoes* – Salem, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Apartment Reflections* – Hoboken, NJ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Lego Brick*s – Boston, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Troupe* – Braintree, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Back Door* – Braintree, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Green Cans* – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X-T50

*Church Parking* – Salem, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*St Stephen’s* – Boston, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*W.B. Mason* – New York City, NY – Fujifilm X-T50

*Bova’s Bakery* – Boston, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*Paul Revere’s House* – Boston, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*John P. Felt House* – Salem, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*St. Anthony’s Feast Parade* – Boston, MA – Fujifilm X-T50

*New York from New Jersey* – Hoboken, NJ – Fujifilm X-T50

This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.

Fujifilm X-T50 in black:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X-T50 in silver:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X-T50 in charcoal:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 350 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

It’s Been Awhile… Still on the Road — It’s going great!

Posted on August 23, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Frank* – Hoboken, NJ – Fujifilm X-T50 & Fujinon 27mm – Kodak Tri-X 400 Recipe

I’ve been on the road almost all of August. I’ve traveled from the west coast to the east coast, and stopped at a few places in-between. It’s been an epic three weeks of travel, and I’m not home yet.

Because I’ve been so busy, I haven’t been able to publish anything on Fuji X Weekly (until today …briefly, anyway), answer your comments, or respond to your emails. I will get to them as soon as I have the opportunity—I apologize for the delay, and appreciate your patience.

I have so much content to share! I have many various articles and photographs to post, and I hate that I can’t just type it all out right now. Once I’m back home, I will busily get it all ready for publication. Expect most of it to be published throughout September.

Today, while I have a quick opportunity, I wanted to briefly shoutout both the Nashville and Philadelphia photowalks. These were the last two on the tour. It was so great to meet you all in your hometowns, and it was an honor to photograph with you. Those two photowalks, which were just two days apart, were such a great way to conclude the series.

41 people showed up for the Nashville photowalk. It was in the middle of the week, which I think made it a little more difficult for people attend. I’m so thankful to everyone who did make it out. There was a bit of a mixup in the meetup location, which delayed the start. Once we began… Broadway is such a busy road! I had never been to Nashville, and I had no clue that the there would be gobs and gobs of people on the sidewalks. Because of this, there were a ton of photo opportunities everywhere (literally every spot you looked), but also it was impossible to stay together as a group, and difficult to have conversations. Still, it seemed like everyone had a great time. A special thanks to Gabe Wasylko for co-leading the photowalk, to Fujifilm for all the behind-the-scenes work to make it happen, and The Pixel Connection for all your help and support!

Here are a few photos that I captured on the Nashville photowalk:

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 27mm +* *Velvia Film Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 27mm + Fujicolor PRO 160C Warm Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T4 ES + Fujinon 35mm f/2 + upcoming IR Recipe*

The Philadelphia photowalk was great… but we also got soaked. I counted 49 people, who came out despite the forecasted rain (apparently it’s not always sunny in Philadelphia…). I gave a short presentation on film simulations and Film Simulation Recipes, then we headed out with our cameras to tour the historic Old City district. As we were making our way back the sky broke open and it just poured. It didn’t last long, but those without weather-sealed gear (myself included) got to test out if the rain would really ruin our cameras. The X-T50 I had made it through unscathed. Anyway, thank you to all those who braved the weather to come along—it was so great to meet you! Also, a special thanks to Allan Ali for co-leading the photwalk, to Fujifilm for all the behind-the-scenes work, and Unique Photo for hosting!

Here are a few photos that I captured at the Philadelphia photowalk:

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 27mm + Pacific Blues Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 27mm + Nostalgic Americana Recipe*

San Diego was Epic — Nashville & Philadelphia are next!!

Posted on August 12, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Architecture Archway* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T50 – Pacific Blues Recipe

The Film Simulation Summer Photowalk in San Diego was epic… even if it got off to a rocky start. You see, the photowalk was at Balboa Park, which is typically a popular place, and parking can normally be somewhat challenging; however, the San Diego Zoo, which is also in Balboa Park, just so happened to get some Giant Pandas from China the day before, creating a panda-monium. Needless to say, parking was a nightmare!

Even so, somewhere around 60 photographers came out to the event, which is a very large group. A number of people showed up late (due to the parking situation), so it was impossible to get an accurate head count. I bet more would have been there had the parking situation been better, so I apologize to everyone who tried to come but just couldn’t find parking. Once we got going, it was a lot of fun, and I think everyone had a good time. It was great to meet everyone and talk cameras and photograph with you all. Thanks so much to everyone who braved the parking situation and came out for the photowalk—you made it epic!

*Tom* – San Diego, CA – Fujifilm X-T50 – Pacific Blues Recipe

This was a collaborative effort. It took a lot of people to pull it off. I want to shout-out Tom Baumgaertel (bewaremyfuji) who co-lead the photowalk. Tom is amazing! It was great to hang with him for the day. Thanks to Fujifilm for all the behind-the-scenes work, and also helping out during the walk. Thank you to Nelson’s Photo & Video for being a big part of it. I don’t know how many individuals it took to make this photowalk happen, but it was a lot!

Next up is Nashville on August 15th, which is this coming Thursday. There are only a few slots left, so be sure to register (click here) if you haven’t done so yet. Philadelphia is two days later on August 17th, and it is completely booked. If you are attending one of those photowalks, I will see you very soon!

Below are some photos from the San Diego photowalk that I captured on a Fujifilm X-T50:

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 27mm f/2.8 + Pacific Blues Recipe*

Below are some photos from the San Diego photowalk that Amanda captured on a Fujifilm X-T5:

*Fujifilm X-T5 + Fujinon 56mm f/1.2 + Pacific Blues Recipe – by Amanda Roesch*

Camera Makers are Trading Image Quality for Speed — Should Fujifilm join them?

Posted on August 7, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Skates & Hoop* – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Astia Azure Recipe

PetaPixel published an interesting article today entitled Camera Makers Are Increasingly Happy to Trade Image Quality for Other Benefits by Jaron Schneider. I found it fascinating, particularly in light of my Let’s talk Fujifilm AF article that I published a little over a week ago. When I typed that post, I hadn’t considered that there might be an actual cost to image quality in order to produce blazing fast cameras with extraordinarily exceptional autofocus.

In my article, I said, “Fujifilm’s autofocus is very good—fantastic, actually. However, Sony and Canon (and arguably Nikon) have a bit more fantastic autofocus system than Fujifilm (as you’d expect). I really don’t understand the complaints about Fujifilm’s autofocus. It is like complaining that a Corvette isn’t a Maserati, and calling the Corvette garbage because it isn’t more like a Maserati. If you want a Maserati, buy a Maserati! Otherwise, appreciate that you have a Corvette.”

*Corvette Abstract* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1 – Mystery Chrome Recipe

PetaPixel’s article essential states that the big three camera makers—Canon, Nikon, and Sony (a.k.a. Canikony)—are chasing faster camera processing, improved autofocus, and increased video specs at the expense of pure image quality. It might be that they’re so focused (pun intended) on those things that improving image quality for still photographs just isn’t a priority, so it remains stagnate from one model to the next. Perhaps they simply feel that image quality has neared the ceiling for the current tech, so there’s no need to push things further. On the other hand, the tech they’re using in some cameras to achieve speed plus autofocus and video specs is actually detrimental to image quality, particularly for dynamic range and high-ISO noise.

I’ve never even been inside of a Maserati or Corvette, but perhaps the Corvette, while not as fast or agile as the Maserati, offers a more comfortable ride for significantly less money, while still delivering a thrill. No camera is perfect, and each has advantages and disadvantages—what I can say for certain is that I’d choose a “Corvette” camera over a “Maserati” any day of the week. And I’m glad that Fujifilm is not compromising still image quality in pursuit of speed and specs. Jaron wrote, “One company that is finding its products suddenly becoming more compelling because of this: Fujifilm.”

*Hit* – South Weber, UT – Fujifilm X-T30 – Fujichrome Sensia 100 Recipe

I hope that Fujifilm doesn’t cave in to the negativity by some who would prefer that they simply become a part of the Canikony brands (Canikonyfilm?). In my opinion, Fujifilm should continue to blaze their own trail, and not concern themselves too much with what the other brands are doing. They need to continue to produce compelling cameras—trendworthy and timeless products—and do more to communicate with potential customers why their unique approach is desirable and maybe even preferable.

I really don’t want Fujifilm to pursue a path that leads to reduced image quality. Those who appreciate image quality above technical specs and extreme performance will turn to—and have already been turning to—Fujifilm as the Canikony brands ignore them. Those who prefer speed and specs above all else have three brands to choose from—for certain those things sell cameras (or else they wouldn’t be doing it), but those who actually need it are a very small percentage of the total customers. Most of those who buy those cameras do so because of marketing or hype or FOMO; however, they don’t need a “Maserati” by any stretch, and would be quite happy with a “Corvette” instead.

What is your opinion? Should Fujifilm give up some image quality in order to make faster cameras like Canon, Nikon, and Sony have been doing? Or should Fujifilm work more towards improvements in image quality instead? Comment below with your opinions!

Ektachrome E100 — Fujifilm X-T50 (X-Trans V) FXW App Patron Early-Access Recipe

Posted on August 7, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Garden Flower* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50 – Ektachrome E100

Several weeks back I stumbled on a review of Kodak Ektachrome E100 color reversal film (the current version), and I thought: That looks a lot like the Reala Ace film simulation. I took a guess at some settings, but didn’t put much effort into testing or refining them. I got busy with some other things (such as planning and preparing for a four-city photowalk tour), and neglected to do anything more. More recently, Fuji X Weekly reader Dan Allen messaged me with the same exact observation about Ektachrome E100 and Reala Ace, which made me revisit the project.

Dan actually captured some side-by-side photos with Ektachrome E100 and a Fujifilm camera using the Reala Ace film simulation; however, he couldn’t quite get it to match. Interestingly, the settings that he had come up with as the closest facsimile were quite similar to mine. It was thought that the particular scanner used likely played a role in the exact aesthetic of the Ektachrome images—one film can produce a variety of looks depending on how it was shot, developed, and printed, projected, or scanned, among other things. Being a slide film, E100 is inherently designed to be projected. While this Recipe isn’t an exact match to Dan’s Ektachrome slides (although it’s not terribly far off, either), it does share a lot of resemblance with some Ektachrome E100 images that can be found online.

Kodak introduced Ektachrome in 1946. I counted once, and there are over 40 different emulsions that have been called Ektachrome over the years, not including slight revisions or improvements to the same film. The “E” development process was invented for Ektachrome film… it began with E1; the E6 process that’s used today was introduced in 1977. Each different Ektachrome and development process produced a divergent look. Kodak discontinued Ektachrome in 2012, but in 2018 they brought back Ektachrome E100. Some have suggested that this new version is simply a revision of Ektachrome E100G, but I don’t believe that’s been verified—it may or may not be.

*Caution Light* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50 – Ektachrome E100

While Reala Ace can be made into a pretty close match to Kodak Ektachrome E100, there are some issues that prevent it from being even more accurate—I would love a +5 Color option, for instance. Skin tones aren’t perfect, either—it’s possible to improve that, but at the expense of other attributes. I also think DR-Auto would be a good option, but the camera doesn’t jump to DR200 quickly enough, in my opinion. This Recipe is not perfect, but after a lot of tries over the years, this is the most satisfied I’ve been with any of my attempts, and I think it’s convincing enough to be given the Ektachrome E100 name.

This is an App Patron Early-Access Recipe. If you are a Fuji X Weekly App Patron, you have access to it right now. If not, no worries, as it will eventually be made available to everyone, once it is replaced by a new Early-Access Recipe. It is compatible with all fifth-generation X-Trans cameras, which (as of this writing) are the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, and X-T50. I’m sure it can also be used on the latest GFX models; however, it will likely render slightly different (try it anyway).

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Ektachrome E100 Film Simulation Recipe on a Fujifilm X-T50:

*Corn Dog* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Window Succulent* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Airline Club* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Terminal Passenger* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Green Plant on a Red Desk* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Concrete Wall & Shrubs* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Empty Table* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Tommy Christie* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Sunlit Vine* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Backlit Bougainvillea Blossoms* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Bougainvillea Afternoon* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Water Feature* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Folding Chair & Empty Pot* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Flag Flanked by Palms* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Palm Trees & Blue Sky* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Summer in Arizona* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Beach Ball* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Poolside Table & Chair* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Josh after a Swim* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Sunset over the Desert Hills* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Sunset above the Treetops* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Fares, Flexibility & Feet* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50

*Union Station* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Sunlight through an Urban Tree* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Leaning Mailbox* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Parking Garage* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Circle K* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Printing* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Sleep in Arkansas* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*No Parking Any Time* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

*Red Spines* – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50

This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 350 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

PROvia — Fujifilm X70 (X-Trans II) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on August 7, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*O.K. Corral* – Tombstone, AZ – Fujifilm X70 – PROvia Recipe

Omar Gonzalez posted a hilarious YouTube video called Do You Suffer from Fujifilm Sim Depression?, a parody of pharmaceutical commercials, except that it’s about Fujifilm film simulations and not prescription drugs. It’s incredibly well done and funny! I don’t want to spoil it if you haven’t watched it, but the conclusion is that Omar likes the Provia film simulation. So watch the video if you haven’t yet seen it, and if you are suffering from “Fujifilm Sim Depression” let me offer you this cure: the PROvia Film Simulation Recipe. Perhaps someday Omar will see it and try it; if so, I hope he likes it!

Provia is one of the film simulations that I personally like least… it’s well above Sepia, but towards the bottom of the list nonetheless. Ouch. As it turns out, I was never meant to like it, yet it is the “Standard” film simulation on all Fujifilm cameras. This PROvia Recipe is my take on a “better” Provia, and is intended to not only look good, but also be versatile so that it could be one’s go-to Film Simulation Recipe (that’s why “PRO” is capitalized in the name). It is compatible with all X-Trans II cameras; those with X-Trans I and Bayer models can use it, too, but it will render slightly different (try it anyway).

*Car Care* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70 – PROvia Recipe

This PROvia Film Simulation Recipe was a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early-Access Recipe, but now it’s available to everyone. If you are an App Patron, you’ve had access to it for awhile. For those who are not, now you can use it, too. Perhaps it will even cure your Fujifilm Sim Depression….

Provia/STD
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlight: -2 (Soft)
Shadow: +1 (Medium-Hard)
Color: +1 (Medium-High)
Sharpness: 0 (Standard)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: Auto, -1 Red & 0 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 3200
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this PROvia Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X70:

*Sabino Creek* – Summerhaven, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Saguaro Behind Palms* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Palm Branches* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Green Ocotillo* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Gunfight Site* – Tombstone, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Reach for the Sky* – Tombstone, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Bird Cage Theatre* – Tombstone, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*One Way Alley* – Bisbee, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Cloudy Saguaro* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Prickly Pear Pads* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Sunlight Through the Forest* – Summerhaven, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Snowy Hillside* – Summerhaven, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Rainy Desert at Dusk* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Indoor Fireworks* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Used Bookmans* – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X70

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 350 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Denver was Amazing – San Diego is Next!!

Posted on August 6, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

The Film Simulation Summer Photowalk this past Saturday in Denver was a huge success! We had a ton of fun. The weather was perfect and the vibe was great. It was so wonderful to meet everyone!

The turnout was just incredible—almost everyone who signed up showed up, which is nearly unheard of for free photowalks (a 50%-60% turnout is more typical). Despite the lead time being so short—it was officially announced just days before the event—there were between 60 and 65 photographers that came out. The furthest away someone traveled for this photowalk was Italy(!!). I was blown away by the turnout, but I was even more impressed with the kindness and spirit of those who came—you all are awesome people!

It wasn’t without a hitch. A police officer approached us before we even began, and with an aggressive voice wanted to know what we were doing. I told him that we were just there for photography, and he was satisfied with that answer. Apparently someone (not from our group) had set off an alarm, and he was investigating that. He moved along and all was good, but for a moment I wondered if the photowalk was going to end before even beginning. There were a couple of other small issues that we had to work through. Overall, though, it just went really well. If the next three photowalks are only half as good as this one was, they will all be great!

Speaking of the next three photowalks:

San Diego is only four days way! We’re meeting on August 9th at 2 PM at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. It’s 70% full, but there’s still some space available for anyone who wishes to join us.

Nashville is on August 15th. Pixel Connection is having a popup event from 4-7 PM, and our photowalk follows that at 7:15 PM at the Cumberland Park Amphitheater. There’s still plenty of space available. If you know anyone in Tennessee or the surrounding area who might be interested in attending, please help spread the word.

Philadelphia is on August 17th at Unique Photo at 4:15 PM. This photowalk is 100% fully booked!!!

Click here for more information and to register for San Diego or Nashville. I cannot wait to meet you all in person. This is going to be epic!

I didn’t get to do a whole lot of photography at the Denver photowalk (I was too busy chatting, which was great!), but below are some of my pictures, all camera-made JPEGs captured on a Fujifilm X-T50 & Fujinon 16-50mm lens:

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm lens + upcoming Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm lens + Superia Negative Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm lens + Nostalgic Americana Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm lens + Kodak Portra 400 v2 Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 16-50mm lens + Kodak Tri-X 400 Recipe*

This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.

Fujifilm X30 — Fujifilm’s Forgotten Retro Compact Zoom

Posted on August 5, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

The Fujifilm X30 is an amazing and fun little camera. All it does is create wonderful pictures. It was quite surprising, and just blew away my expectations! I bet some of you aren’t even aware that this camera exists.

MPB is the sponsor of this article. They loaned me a Fujifilm X30 to try out for a couple of weeks. For those who don’t know, MPB is an online platform where you can buy, sell, or trade used photo and video gear. “At MPB, there’s something for everyone who wants to try something new, hone their skills, or pursue their passion—and it won’t cost the earth.” If you’re in the market for used camera gear, be sure to check out their platform—you can learn more about MPB here. Thank you, MPB, for making this article possible!

The Fujifilm X30 is a compact fixed-lens zoom camera with a tiny 12MP X-Trans II sensor. The third iteration in the series, the X30 was already a bit dated when it was released in 2014. With its discontinuation in 2016, Fujifilm abandoned the series altogether. The camera has a 28mm-112mm full-frame-equivalent f/2-2.8 lens, so it covers a lot of focal lengths. It has pretty good close focus capabilities and even optical image stabilization. There’s a lot to like on paper, but the 2/3″ CMOS sensor is just really small, and I think it’s hard to take a camera seriously with such a tiny sensor—especially when that tech is a decade old or more. That’s all on paper, of course, and real world use is what actually matters.

Despite the tiny sensor, the Fujifilm X30 is actually a similar size (just a tad smaller) to the Fujifilm X-E4 with the Fujinon 18mm f/2 pancake. The camera is not nearly as compact as I had expected. I had anticipated the dimensions to be more similar to the Fujifilm X70—perhaps even be pocketable—but it’s actually noticeably larger. In place of the usual Shutter Dial is a PASM Dial (which was common on Fujifilm’s lower-end models at the time); otherwise, the X30 looks and functions like many other Fujifilm X-series cameras. Because of the tiny sensor, it has significantly lower high-ISO capabilities than the APS-C models—I think it’s best to keep the camera at ISO 800 and below, but I did use ISO 1600 in some low-light situations and it was ok enough.

I programmed seven Film Simulation Recipes into the camera’s C1-C7 Custom Presets: Classic Kodak Chrome, Kodachrome 64, Pro Film, Lomography Color 100, Provia Negative, CineStill 800T, and Monochrome Red. This is a good set that covers most situations. Also, because each one uses a different White Balance type, the camera will remember the White Balance Shift for each. On the older cameras, which aren’t capable of saving a WB Shift within the C1-C7 presets, the experience is much improved if each Recipe uses a different White Balance type. I used Kodachorme 64 the most, and Classic Kodak Chrome second most—at one point or another, each of the seven came in handy.

*Fujifilm X30 – Classic Kodak Chrome Recipe*

*Fujifilm X30 – Lomography Color 100 Recipe*

The pictures from this camera are amazing! They have a ton of character—I especially love the lens flare. I think the photographs are the selling point of the X30. It doesn’t have a ton of resolution, so you probably can only print up to 11″ x 14″ and not likely any larger; however, the files are plenty large enough for web and social media use, which is how most pictures are seen nowadays. I could see myself using this as an everyday-carry. Just grab it while heading out the door on ordinary outings.

Once again, a big “thank you” to MPB for loaning me a Fujifilm X30. It definitely is “outdated” in 2024, but the images that it creates are surprisingly wonderful, which makes it worthwhile to own and use. I think this could also be an excellent option for someone just learning photography. Even though the X30 is an easy to overlook model—especially since compact zooms have largely been forsaken by the industry—the retro design of this camera and especially the nostalgic photographs that it makes are easy to love.

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured on a Fujifilm X30:

Previously in this series:
Fujifilm X-Pro2 — The camera that got away (again)
Fujifilm X-T50 + Fujinon 23mm F/2 = Interchangeable-Lens Fujifilm X100VI??
Leica Q2 from the perspective of a Fujifilm photographer

Up next: Close Up with the Fujinon XF 30mm F/2.8 R LM WR Macro

BTW, in the top picture the camera is sitting on Kyle McDougall’s book An American Mile. An excellent photoessay, and great for inspiration—I highly recommend it.

Two Days to Denver + Other Photowalk Updates

Posted on August 1, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

Hey, everyone! Soon I’ll be heading to the airport to jet across America to join you on some Film Simulation Summer Photowalks!

The Denver photowalk is only two days away—it’s coming up fast! We’re going to meet at Washington Park at 8:30 AM right in front of the Boathouse. Almost half of the slots have been reserved, but there is still plenty of availability; if you’d like to join us, just be sure to register (click here). Tommy Christie will be co-leading this photowalk. If you live in or near Denver, I hope to see you soon!

The San Diego photowalk is on August 9th at 2:00 PM in Balboa Park at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. It’s about 60% full, so don’t procrastinate if you’re considering coming (click here to register). Tom, better known as bewaremyfuji, will be co-leading this with me. It’s just over one week away, so it will come up fast!

The Nashville photowalk, which will be co-lead by Gabe Wasylko, is on August 15th—about two weeks away. The photowalk will begin at 7:15 PM at the Cumberland Park Amphitheater, which is right after a popup event that you are also invited to. Only about 20% of the slots have been reserved, so there’s still plenty of room for anyone in that area who wants to join us, just be sure to register (click here). If you know of any photographers who lives in or near Nashville who might be interested, be sure to let them know and help spread the word.

The Philadelphia photowalk is on August 17th at 4:00 PM. We’ll meet at Unique Camera, and photograph around the nearby Historic District. Allen Ali will be co-leading this with me. The Philadelphia photowalk is already about 85% full, so if you want to come, be sure to register ASAP (click here) so that you don’t miss out.

These four photowalks are going to be so much fun, and I’m looking forward to meeting many of you in person very soon. This is going to be epic! I can’t wait!