We need to talk about the Fujifilm X-H1

Order the Fujifilm X-H1 in the UK From Wex Photographic: bit.ly/2Cqx9MC
The Fujifilm X-H1 was announced on the 15th February 2018.
In this video, I talk about what I personally see as the cameras strong features, and some of its weak spots too.
From a very personal point of view, I explain who I think the camera is aimed at and why I think Fujifilm brought the camera to market.
Head over to my Fujifilm blog at f16.click for more Fuji specific content and please subscribe and share and leave comments below. I try and reply to them all.....
Background Music Licenced from Epidemic #kevinmullins

[@jecottrelltube]

It's hard to believe that Fuji hasn't given you one for a longer period of time. You're such a great ambassador for the brand. I think your opinions are spot on.

[@robert7622]

Ambassador for a brand? So a salesman... Sounds admirable...

[@jecottrelltube]

Admirable? You bet. He does incredible work with Fuji cameras. He shares his knowledge and experience freely. He's honest and candid regarding the products.

[@kevin_mullins]

It's all good. The great thing about Fujifilm is that they have lots of photographers to choose from when doing testing etc. I've been incredibly lucky to be involved in some of the cameras I love (X100, XPro2 etc) so it makes sense for them to explore different opinions and testing platforms. The best thing is, as you kindly replied to Robert below, even as an ambassador - I don't just get stuff for free. If I want this camera, I'll have to buy it - and quite rightly so.

[@davidgonzalezforjas2325]

Thanks for the Video, and thanks for your sincerity....

[@footstepsphotography6770]

Twat. Kevin is always honest about the things he likes, and the things he thinks could be improved in the Fuji equipment he reviews. Your youtube channel seems to be doing just great Robert, lol.

[@klarion]

Love the XH1. Much more comfortable to handle and very quiet for special situations. I've got the XT2 for walking about too.

[@sjsphotog]

very good unbiased summary here Kevin. I agree with all your speaking points. Keep up the great work on your wedding/street photography.

[@ChristopheZ]

I actually bought 2 of them...sold my X-T2 and X-T20 ( kept my X-T1)...I bought it because of the IBIS ( for my 90mm and 56mm) and the grip

[@unbroken1010]

You ended up with two of the lenses that we're a little bit of a problem until firmware

[@eliaspap8708]

Coming from Canon DSLR, I think for me the XH1 is the perfect size and weight, I have big hands and prefer the grip from the XH1 oppose to the XT2, I think they have nailed it with this one. IBIS also means I can shoot with my 90mm lens indoors using low light situations. Did a very dark ceremony the other day using 90mm at F2 shutter 1/40 shutter @2500 iso, without IBIS I would have to stretch my iso to around 6400 and that means noise.

[@rmrpictures1]

Great points! As much as I hate flip out screens (and every-time a camera comes out without one everyone screaming about it) I totally agree this would have been the camera to put it on. I feel like from a stills perspective, Fujifilm has THE best implementation of a rear screen out there. Preferring the smaller size and not currently needing the video improvements, I'm curious to see what the XT-3 is going to be packing focus wise. Love your work and thanks for all your great insights from a working photographer!

[@kevin_mullins]

I totally agree. The LCDs are great generally and this is another option for people. I just wish this had a fully articulating screen. Other than that, for some people, I think it will be a killer choice.

[@PJ-ku5lp]

I honestly fear that Fuji will eventually cave in to this "I need a selfie screen" mentality all the reviews have... The current screen is very low profile and makes low-angle shooting so much more convenient/compact than a giant screen hanging off the side of the camera. Today if I want to sneak a shot with the camera against my chest, I can flip the screen up a tad and nobody's the wiser. To get that same angle on these other cameras, I have to flip the screen out to the side, turn it upward and it's suddenly a production. Likewise with a quick low-angle vertically-oriented shot. Right now, that screen works perfectly. To get that same angle on a screen that flips the other direction, you either have to put your control hand toward the ground (super awkward) or again, flip it all the way out, turn it around and back up. I get it that the KZbinrs all need to see themselves to frame their shot, but maybe this just isn't a camera for the vlogger? Can we just have a camera that caters to actual photography and filmmaking? Sorry for the rant.

[@PJ-ku5lp]

I should add, I really thought if they were ever going to put a fully articulated screen on a body, the X-H1 should have been it, and I would have been just fine with that. Instead/since they didn't, I'm all paranoid they'll take it out on the X-T line, making two half-assed attempts at a video camera. :(

[@kevin_mullins]

This is my point exactly. I'd hate to see a fully articulating screen on an XT2 or any kind of flip screen on an X-Pro range. I'm happy with the A range and possibly if it continues, the X70 range to cater for the selfies. That gives everybody options. The point I was trying to make in the video was that because the X-H1 was geared towards more professional filmmaking, it would undoubtedly benefit from a fully articulating screen. Not for selfies, but for basic monitoring of footage. As I mentioned, a lot of the serious filmmakers will use the HDMI out and use a proper field monitor but for many, an articulating screen on this camera would make a lot of sense. It's great, in my mind, that Fujifilm have made this camera. It's amazing and offers options for those that wanted a bigger body but were yet to move to the X-Series or perhaps found the X-T2 too small in the hand.

[@NeilShapiro]

I'm a X-T1 and then later an X-T20 user (coming from Nikons, D and FF)...Size is important to me, but so is IS given so many non-stabilized primes in the Fuji lineup. In fact I went with the X-T20 because I didn't want the more expensive X-T2 without IS. And it turns out I love the X-T20, among great performance is nice compact size (which makes it easy for me to carry both the T1 and T20). Yes, it has shortcomings. But now Fuji does this...it has what I want, it sounds great, but now bigger, and about the same price as the new Sony A7III, which is smaller, I believe, yet has a bigger battery, and incredible eye focus tracking. I don't think Fuji is keeping pace there, but I'll wait and see how things evolve a bit. Also, I guess I need to see one in person before I judge the size (I'm sure it's at least smaller than my Nikons).

[@roni910]

Neil Shapiro do you will move to A7iii?

[@danielmoore5667]

Great video Kevin. I'm looking forward to getting my hands on the xh1 for the studio and for its video capability. Like you, I really wish it had a fully articulating screen for video and vlogging. That would have been a no brainer for me.

[@kevin_mullins]

Thanks, mate. Hope you are well.

[@KenTheoriaApophasis]

you forgot EVENT photographers.....many of which are very LOW light shooters....however of course IBIS doesnt freeze subject motion, nevertheless helpful given the lack of great high ISO output from current SNR fuji firmware image processing

[@chirag4]

yes sir !

[@kevin_mullins]

There are all sorts of other photographers that fit the bill of course. I'm making a general point that I think the camera is not designed as an upgrade from XT/XP range - rather a completely new line for those that need this style. And a great job they have done of it too it seems.

[@IvanDoherty1]

You are right. Had my hands on it yesterday in their head office shop, it appears to be a new line in between X-T and GF, although I really think I will skip this. It seems to be a similar size to my Canon, which is why I got rid of it. May wait for the X-T, X-Pro upgrade I think. Its a great camera for some though, and yes, the AF is lightening quick, its up there with DSLRs, without question. Also, I like the LCD top-plate too, I have never really used the Exp comp button on any of my Fuji cameras.

[@slater1949]

Your thoughts on this new camera just validated what I was already thinking. No need to upgrade if you already have a X-T2. Smaller, lighter, don’t need IBIS or top LCD screen. Thank you for the video!

[@kevin_mullins]

Some people will love it for sure - but yea, for others, the XT2 is perfect. I'm guessing this is why it is a different lines, as opposed to "XT3".

[@justinkohl3818]

But my question is, if you were going to purchase the X-T2 at the end of the month and now this is coming out, would you still go X-T2? Or go X-H1? That's my dilemma.

[@kevin_mullins]

I would go for the X-T2 because the reason I left my DSLR's behind was because I wanted smaller, lighter cameras. The X-H1 is technically more proficient, but it's a different line. If you are happy with the size compromise, then it would make sense to go for the X-H1 I guess.

[@jeanchindeko5477]

What most people are often forgetting are the reason why they’re taking picture and the style of pictures they’re taking. Each camera is design for a type of shooter. So everyone need to choose the camera that feet they style, needs, and the new camera is not necessary the one for everyone. Also a new camera doesn’t mean that the previous one are not capable any more, and that need to be told and explain more. I appreciate that Kevin did try to compare the camera with other but instead describe the X-H1, thanks for that video.

[@slater1949]

Justin Kohl I’ve had the pleasure of using a Canon 6D and a Nikon D610 before buying my first mirrorless witch was a A7II. The DSLR’s are just excellent for portrait sessions but I also use my camera for everyday pictures of my two boys. Bought the A7 II, which has IBIS, and I was surprised at the weight that small camera carries. Add the battery grip..I might as well had stayed with the Canon or Nikon. When I first used the XT-2, I felt like the camera was designed just for me. Rent one or wait to rent both when the X-H1 is available to rent. Hand held shots at 1/20 second is doable with my primes. Hope that helps.

I mainly shot with the xf100-400 so this is the camera I’ve been waiting for. And it’s still a pretty small camera and I always have my x-t2 for street photography .

[@kevin_mullins]

Yup. Exactly. And I think you will really love it.

[@teashea1]

well done....... I switched from Canon and Leica systems to Fuji for the size and quality ---- but I am ordering an XH1 to use with my larger Fuji lenses......

[@calebe16]

It's funny that everybody talks about the flip screen as a "negative" but I really prefer the way fuji do. Ok, it is, for sure, a disadvantage that you can't see yourself while vlogging, but it doesn't seen to be designed for it either. Otherwise, while "behind the lens" I do prefer the way fuji does. While shooting with canon and that flip screen, I really don't like when I want some low or high angle and I need to make a lot of movements and also let the screen at the side of the camera making it awkward to compose and hang the camera. While in fuji, the screen keep centered and it's just ONE move to get any angle you want to.

[@calebe16]

ps. I'm not complaining. It's just an observation. Just a personal opinion

[@kevin_mullins]

It's a very valid point :-)

[@gman3447]

Yet another great review Kevin Many thanks.

[@ELTERRIBLE76]

Great vid.. I am a sony shooter and will going to switch to fuji.. But am worried that i will miss my a6500's great features.. Glad this cam has an ibis now.. Already pre order it.. Thanks for the review

[@gitithadani]

I was considering it too but I think it has a 1.7 crop factor for 4k video. And I also prefer the small form factor of sony a6500. And I got an almost new a7r2 for less than the price of the fuji. So I will for now stick to the sony system as it gives me also two sensor sizes and lots of features.

[@russellfernandes9607]

Wonderful crisp summary of the X-H1 👍

[@kevin_mullins]

Thank you, Russell.

[@Guairenito]

I think that this camera is a great option for event photographers (including wedding photographers). That silent mechanical shooter at churches for example will be awesome, plus that ability of switching quickly in between stills and great video capabilities, makes this camera very versatile for event photographers. Maybe photographers who are working very comfortably doings weddings with a X-T2 already won’t trade it for this new camera, but maybe somebody who will get his first Fuji for weddings will actually prefer this camera over the X-T2 for its extra versatility, maybe others that have already a X-T2 will love to get this new camera as a primary camera and keep the X-T2 as a second/backup body. It will all depend of preferences. I myself I don’t see why I wouldn’t feel comfortable shooting for example a wedding with this camera when I am very used of doing it with bigger DSLR bodies. It is just very nice to have a new other option from Fuji.

[@kevin_mullins]

Exactly. As I said in the video, this caters perfectly for those that want a DSLR sized X-Series camera. And there are many of them.

[@Guairenito]

Kevin Mullins yes sir, you are right. Nice video, thank you for shading your thoughts.

[@stanobert3475]

Thanks for your video! I am a good candidate for this camera. I do a lot of low light dance photography. The faster AF and the quiet shutter (for shooting in theaters) are very important features for my venue. The XT-3 won't be available until early next year and I need these features now.

[@kevin_mullins]

I don't think anybody has any idea about the XT3 so you areprobably right not wait around for that.

[@andrewpolitano]

Couple generations out of date spec-wise, but I'll be picking one up soon. It's got excellent stills seen from the XT-2 and adds some decent video features for those who need video but don't need GH5 level of video. It's what the XT-2 should have been and I'm glad I waited through that generation. However, I do have some questions. Since it's been announced that the XT-3 with a new sensor is coming, (without IBIS apparently, because of space issues), it makes you wonder why it exists at all. Shouldn't they have just waited and released it alongside the XT-3, included the new sensor and given us a larger battery system to go along with it? And why are we still locking users behind a performance paywall with that grip? I'm confused, but in need of replacements/upgrades so it'll have to do for now. When you mention the 'serious, serious, high-end video guys', those aren't the people that will be buying this camera. Those users will be buying Sony's or Panasonics because they already offer modernized and unrestricted access to performance perks offered by those brands. KZbinrs won't be buying this because of the lack of articulated screen and recording time restrictions. Why would you when there are obviously better options for that style of use? The XH is currently a line that ADDS SOME DECENT video capabilities, but still retains focus on stills. You also state that this isn't for wedding photography. You then state that this camera is all about power. Well, if I'm shooting an event or a wedding, IBIS, quieter shutter options and increased focus all help out there. Also, the balance of the 50-140 and 16-55, well.. a larger camera would help that whole situation out if we're being honest.

[@kevin_mullins]

Hi Andy - I'm pretty sure the XT3 hasn't been announced and I'm still working on the assumption that the T line will remain very different to the H line.

[@earlrogersjr3026]

Along with Fuji cameras I own Canon which are also capable of video which I have never use. How much less would be H1 had cost without the video capability?

[@unbroken1010]

How did it do with the Legacy lenses.. actually plan on using it for a lot of street photography in documentary shooting on city streets weather sealing very much help a lot of my other Fuji's are screwed up in some way like I'm the x pro 2 my ISO button just does not work anymore.. I feel like if I try to turn it it's just going to break

[@kevin_mullins]

TBH, I didn't try it with legacy lenses but no reason it won't perform just the same as other X cameras in that regard.

[@smalltalk.productions9977]

thank you for the insights, effort and sharing. thumbs up.

[@unbroken1010]

Just got one pretty cheap I've been warned about making sure I have the latest firmware the correct some of the problems I do have a 90 megabytye first second card which is not recommended for boost I don't 📷 that fast I don't know if it will affect my filming I'm kind of sticking with HD cuz I'm kind of new to filming

[@kevin_mullins]

As long as they are class 10 cards they should be fine. You will want UHS-II cards though for extended 4k filming.

[@richardseekins24]

I had a play with one in a camera shop who had a Fuji Rep on site. He said the X-H1 isn't aimed at video, more the pro level stills photographer.

[@kevin_mullins]

Richard S pretty sure there are plenty of pros using xt2 etc. It’s definitely aimed at those that want a bigger body and shooters such as sports and wildlife I think. And it is definitely the Fujifilm camera of choice for videographers. It’s head and shoulders above the XT2 in that regard.

[@richardseekins24]

I agree but due to the lack of swivel screen and limited filming duration the Fuji rep says it is primarily a stills camera that is also quite good at video. This camera will inevitable get crit for shortfalls in this area. I don't understand why video togs just don't buy a dedicated video camera in the first place?

[@kevin_mullins]

The limited recording isn’t really an issue in my experience. The camera will seamlessly move to the next clip and in post there is no break. But yea, the fully articulating screen would be nice for running and gunning though whenever I do any ‘serious’ filming I’m using a SmallHD HDMI monitor. But that screen would be a much nicer thing to have.

[@WoodyONeal]

"Those big long lenses"...of which their are two (50-140 and 100-400)...I would fully expect the XT3 to incorporate the same grip design in anticipation of the 200 f2. Just a hunch :)

[@kevin_mullins]

I’d be extremely surprised (and disappointed) if any future T line incorporated this design. It’s the reason, I’m guessing, this has been titled with a separate letter to accommodate the people who validly want a bigger body.

[@gaza4543]

Hi Kevin, Quick queston if you dot mind, The paper behind you and your chair. Could you tell me the name of that stock please? (if your know that is) seems to do really well with Black and white Photos. Many thanks in advance

[@kevin_mullins]

Those prints are actually from an exhibition I had in Japan. I didn't print them but they are amazing. They are on some kind of Hannemhulle paper I believe.

[@jonbuscall8901]

Good introduction to the new camera. Looking forward to trying it because I find the XT2 too small in my big hands! Just one question: what are you using to film your videos?

[@kevin_mullins]

Thanks, Jon - and you are the perfect person for this camera you. This is filmed on X-T2.

[@IvanDoherty1]

The grip is far better (deeper), BUT my little finger is still looking for something at the bottom!

[@Nice1Carl]

Can it auto focus when shooting 120p?

[@kevin_mullins]

Don't know. Check out the reviews from the guys who had it for a few months is probably the best way of finding that out. It would be great if it did. I'd also have like 60fps in 4k.

[@algarveTV]

I believe we are witnessing the death of the T2. Why? If you want really light go for T20 or X3 if you want specs and size (grip, etc.) why the T2 if you get more on the H1? For me also a killer because this anticipates what I think should have the future T3 - mainly IBIS and more video specs like Slow-Mo (should be 180fps).

[@kevin_mullins]

Possibly, but I'm not so sure. I think the T2/3 still has a lot to offer those that want a DSLR style body without the extra bulk. XT20 doesn't come close in terms of build quality nor filming. I'm not sure what the T3 will bring, but the fact that the H is a new line completely indicates to me the that the T range isn't done.

[@algarveTV]

I respect our insight, but just tell me Kevin what they could improve in the future T3 that isn't already in H1 or in a future H2? And if you're a serious photo and video guy you would choose the best (overall) camera available from Fuji, and both will compete with the same specs so you will be divided, and that wasn't happening till'now. Well it's my humble vision. I believe marketing spoken louder in here.

[@kevin_mullins]

There is a lot that could be improved with the T3 and there is nothing to say that some of the features that are in the H1 can't be implemented in a future T3. I can say quite confidently that a vast majority of Fujifilm users have come to the X-Series because they want smaller and lighter cameras. That has to remain for the T3, Pro2 etc. The H1 is aimed at those that want bigger cameras.

[@Sergei__v]

Size, battery life sucks on XH1, XT-20 lacks weather sealing and joystick and other great features, knobs and deals.

[@irenedp4947]

I have an X-T2 and a GFX. Don't think I need to upgrade the X-T2 to this one.

[@andrewatm216]

I really hoped that fuji would put an ARTICULATING SCREEN on this camera and that they would put the headphone jack in the body-without needing to get the battery grip for that. I was planning to get this camera mostly for video since i have an xt2 for stills. Without those 2 features, i will have to think abt if i want to geti it or just wait for the replacement of the canon 80D. Will see...

[@Smoothblue90]

Have you looked at the new Panasonic G9? The articulating screen you want. The headphone jack you want. The dual card slots you did not mention but may need for pro work.

[@psxdadz]

Kevin now that you can get it with the grip for £999 what do you think

[@HuntaDaKilla-b5i]

I am surprised that there is no battery update. Even more surprised that there is no flippy screen. Fuji camera are definitely a joy to shoot and look beautiful. But I do think are a little slow at keeping up with Panasonic/Olympus or Sony in the mirrorless world. I think they were the first to get dual slot UHS-II though.

[@kevin_mullins]

There is a flip screen, it’s just not fully articulating. I.e you can’t monitor video on it while filming in front.

[@ondroidv]

I've never really had a problem with the battery. I usually get to around 900-1000 clicks on one battery on High Performance mode by just switching it off when it's not up to my eye.

[@kevin_mullins]

Same here. I easily get 1,000 shots per charge on my X-T2. That said, the X-H1 will be lower, but by how much I don't know, just simply because it has more to deal with.

[@reinkaos3362]

If I don't have any Fuji x camera, should I go with this for weddings, events, portraits and idk like some reportage photography like protests. I have a bit of shaky hands and I would buy this camera for the ibis, grip and quieter shutter. Or should I get the x t2. Thanks

[@kevin_mullins]

It pretty much comes down to size I guess. If you are not necessarily interested in a small camera, then yes, the X-H1 looks like the better option. I like smaller cameras because they are more discrete and lighter but if that’s not of concern, then X-H1 would win for sure.

[@merlinalfonso6374]

They should have given it a bigger, longer lasting battery.

[@InMission]

I think the main thing the X-H1 is lacking is the completely Flip screen, why Fuji? Why?

[@tomislavmiletic_]

"They can't get any more pixels on that sensor". Well, Samsung had over 28 MP in his NX1 from 2015. So it's doable :-)

[@kevin_mullins]

Ah, you know what I mean. Any meaningful amount now. They are bouncing around at the top of the range. Yes, they can squeeze a couple more but that wouldn't be any reason to release a new camera.

[@InMission]

No kidding, Samsung pushed the boundaries and I really believe they would do a lot more for us consumers. However, if Nikon bought them out, what they are doing with that technology?

[@MrKikoboy]

BSI sensor - different beast...that may happen at Fuji in the future....

[@tomislavmiletic_]

Carlos Rosa Hard to tell, what's going on behind closed door. On the other hand, Samsung's problem, where they failed miserably is exact one that made a lot of heat for Sony - they had no descent lenses. To be precise, they had two out of 20 something...

[@gitithadani]

I agree - I have an NX 500 and its a beast of a BSI sensor. Excellent visual quality. And excellent touch screen. And love the form factor and the H.265 codec. Small files and low battery usage. So much scope to evolve but they closed shop. I got the sony a6500/a7r2 for ibis and the processor seems to work better with low light. But I've kept the samsung as I still get a lot from the sensor paired with good manual glass

[@m11mmh]

why do we need it

[@andrewpolitano]

Some people do, some people don't. That's a personal decision. The professionals that produce light video content as well as shoot events and corporate work will love it.

[@marcusnz232]

Not for me. The Sony A9 would be my choice if I wanted to change to a smaller body. I'd be even happier if we could move back to seperate stills and video cameras but I am not holding my breath.

[@jonallen4100]

Still not big enough, missed oppurtunity

[@kevin_mullins]

Maybe GFX is your destiny :-)

[@peterknight285]

Come on Jon Allen it is more than big enough with the grip. The X-H1 with the grip is as big as a D750 :-)

[@magnuseriksson8081]

I would love the GFX but it's​ not fast enough for me.

[@jonallen4100]

I can pick up a basket ball with one hand, the D750 is a far better designed and feel far more comfortable and takes better files, but that my opinion.

[@runninblue9415]

just say IBIS. s'easier ;)

[@kevin_mullins]

Your'e not wrong :-)