the best fujifilm camera for videographers in 2023?

[@johnstamw]

important reminder: just _my_ opinions based on _my_ experience :) hope this helps you out! _(see my response to Myron Hill for my XS20 thoughts)_ oh and check my free davinci powergrades: geni.us/ATmBco

[@Pusakafirdaus]

Where is your response to myron hill for xs20, i search it and can't find it

[@AlaudeGaming]

dudeee, your videos are such a vibe! thanks for sharing all this info in shut a simple and easy way to understand

[@johnstamw]

awh thanks so much!!

[@mentfles9161]

Thank you! Really great explanation, but above it, the comfort and welcoming of your presence really warms the experience of your content! I am thinking about xt 5. I want a more video-focused camera that can shoot photographs still. I would go for the xh2ds, but I find it out of my budget. Do you think xt5 is the right choice?

[@jdoldfield]

Great video John, the XT3/4 are still so versatile and I still use an XT4 for my professional work all the time. I use an XH2S as my main cam and even tho it has its quirks, it's still such an amazing camera to use and love the readout - i pair it with both a sigma 18-35 and zeiss classics and both produce unreal images for the price

[@johnstamw]

thank you!! I still love those cameras and the xh2s is incredible too. I bet zeiss classics make some gorgeous images.

[@johansphoto]

Can't beat the xs20 for value, a mini xh2s.

[@johnstamw]

It’s an amazing camera I couldn’t agree more!

[@6969SpAcE6969]

You have to consider overheating.

[@Huba_ha]

Nope, there's no overheating issues on xs20 ​@@6969SpAcE6969

[@jtchalatsis]

I can honestly say that the X-T3 has served me so well using it for video and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to start shooting videos professionally. The only thing that made me upgrade was the fact that it only records video to one card and I couldn't have that on weddings, but I've used it happily for many other professional projects both in LOG and Eterna and videos look stunning out of that camera! Also, if I may ask, what lens are you using for the talking head portion of the video? It looks wonderful :)

[@johnstamw]

That's awesome and I couldn't agree more, if they had firmware upgraded to allow dual video card record odds are I never would've upgraded until the H2S probably. And I really only use one lens: the sigma 18-35 with adapter. It's in my description and my previous video!:)

[@officialyashvirgaming]

@@johnstamw Which camera did you use for this KZbin video ? Thats what i wanna know and i will buy ? BTW is there any recording limit ?

[@danielthomas521]

This is going to sound crazy, but the footage from the xh2s literally makes me want to bawl my eyes out. It’s so stunning

[@johnstamw]

awh that's awesome, honestly the xh2s creates a beautiful image

[@tonnib]

For me, the XT4 with the Fujifilm 18-55 lens is a great combination. Although I am still attached to the XT3 and often use it in combination with a gimbal. All in all, if I learn a more to do color grading like you, I will be very happy.

[@johnstamw]

that is an amazing combination and I believe you're thinking correct! Get a camera/lens with a good file+image and then learn to color and make better films before upgrading the camera/lens!

[@officialyashvirgaming]

@@johnstamw Which camera did you use for this KZbin video ? Thats what i wanna know and i will buy ? BTW is there any recording limit ?

[@hafiz5156]

The XT-4 and X-S20 will be available at the same price in my country. X-T4 has dual SD card slots but the X-S20 has much better video autofocus. It is a hard choice for run and gun filmmakers. Thanks for the awesome video John! Your video reviewing the X-T4 is the best I've seen on youtube.

[@johnstamw]

Ah that's always tricky about making these youtube videos, different countries have such different pricing/availability! Personally, part of including the XT4 but excluding the XS20 is the dual card recording. I can work around imperfect autofocus (the xt4 served me professionally for 50+ weddings and it never caused me irreparable issues) but if in the tiny percent chance that I lost a card or it corrupted or anything happened and I lost the footage? There's nothing to do about that and that gives me nightmares. I'll take "imperfect" autofocus everytime personally, but as the pinned comment says just my opinion today! It may change and I'm just me:)

[@fleszvideos]

is that dual sd card for redundancy (does it mirror the footage on both just in case sd card fails) or just to extend available storage?

[@johnstamw]

@@fleszvideos yes xt4 offers redundancy

[@FilmScape4K]

@@johnstamwdual card is not that much of a deal. With the new app, you can transfer your videos and images to your phone on the go.

[@d66mo]

I can’t decide betwin xs20 and xt3 ? I have a really low budget so the xt3 might be good but xs20 is waaaaay better and smaller and thats important for me, the price is really accutate for xs20 ? And betwin xs20 and xt4 wich is better ?

[@thilipdhev]

Very helpful video. U gave exact information with a very crisp and for specific user needs. Thank you 😊

[@johnstamw]

thank you!!

[@thekidflames]

Beautiful breakdown, J. I am an X100V user and want to have something more suited for long form video, and was wondering if it was going to be the XT5 or the XH2S. Just got my answer. The X100V get beautiful footage in short bursts, but its limitations are well documented. Thanks for making this a fairly easy decision!

[@johnstamw]

Thank you!! Glad to help!

[@nate_thenotso_great]

Thank you for not overcomplicating the features, etc.

[@johnstamw]

happy to help!

[@ahsanrasheed2]

beautiful footage! one question. with the xh2s, do you have to use an adaptor with the sigma 18-35mm lens? i couldn't find one that is native to fuji

[@johnstamw]

search my channel for fuji adapter!

[@4defy772]

Can't agree with you more, XH2s is the cream of the crop!

[@johnstamw]

preach

[@wearetrackclub]

Really nice breakdown, John! Also love the colors in this video :)

[@johnstamw]

thank you so much! graded with my luts+powergrade:)

[@parmanduke]

Amazing footage from all 3 hybrid cameras. Honestly wouldn't have been able to tell if you hadn't described it.

[@johnstamw]

I'm glad you pointed out my purpose for the footage duke. I hope it demonstrates that after a certain threshold of image quality, a lot of our reviews are just talking about bonus comforts & yes they can make a difference, but the image you can get from a used XT3 today is incredible.

[@connect.johnpauldeleon]

Hello, What about for photos and videos? Thank you!

[@Mark-ql5ni]

Wow great advice and comparisons, thank you!

[@johnstamw]

thank you! glad it helps

[@jonary9669]

You got a new Follower Thanks man seriously

[@johnstamw]

wow, thanks for the kind words

[@katewintieproducer]

Hay John ☺️ this is an excellent video. Thanks for the comparisons. I’m a newbie, and have always enjoyed editing, so thought I would get my own camera to start making my own content and music videos. Originally I thought I’d decided on the sx-20, but after discovering the xt3, I really like the look of it and feel it might be more financially sensible to get the body, and then invest in a really decent lense. Do you have any advice on good lense pairings for the xt3 for music video/cinematic kinda stuff please? Any advice would be very welcomed 😊

[@johnstamw]

i'm so very late here! I'm sure you've already decided by now, so I'll just say that no matter what you choose, the Fuji is going to be such fun for you to explore creatively. it truly excites me to use my cameras still to this day! hope you're enjoying it more than anything else.

[@AbelOng-PMC]

Great in-depth video. I am now deciding between Sony (A7CII or A6700) & Fujifilm (X-S20 or X-H2) for my church photo/video work (one-man show). The XF18-120 F4 sounds like a great all-in-one lens for a one-man crew; had to simultaneously film videos and capture photos. Any advice?

[@johnstamw]

Oh man that’s really tough especially for church work. If I’m being completely honest, Sony full frame miighhttt suit that better? Imagining low light anyway. That lens is definitely good but at f4 not sure if it’d be the right fit. If budget isn’t an issue then 16-55 Fuji + XH2(s optional) would be a fun kit.

[@AbelOng-PMC]

@@johnstamw Thank you for your honesty. In my previous church, I had a chance to experience the Sony A7-3 & A7s3, Pana GH4 and the Sony autofocus for video is amazing. So now due to budget constraints, it will be a tough choice. Was looking at the Sigma 28-70 f2.8 / FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Lens for Sony & Sigma 18-50 or 16-50 f2.8-f4.8for Fuji

[@johnstamw]

@@AbelOng-PMC for Sony I’d go sigma I think and Fuji actually I’d go Tamron 17-50 2.8 I think right now my be the best value setup

[@AbelOng-PMC]

@@johnstamw thank you for your opinions, it helps me narrow down my choices.

[@iamjkiing114]

Great video, very informative. Thanks.

[@johnstamw]

thank you!

[@kenstreetcinema]

Thank you so much! I'm impressed by the image quality of your footage and you explaining those things very humble... I just subscribed. Coming from Lumix camera GH5 for videos specific looking to upgrade :) I might consider Fuji thank you so much

[@johnstamw]

awh thank you a lot. I think you'd enjoy fuji!

[@nino_1866]

Hey im really hesistating between the xs20 and the xt4. What do you think ?

[@eloyente_]

For video: xt4 or xs20? have you ever used the double card slot? And what about image quality?

[@johnstamw]

for wedding filmmaking I always always use the double card slot. Image quality is probably about equal in my opinion, though technically speaking the XS20 probably slightly better. Personally I would choose the XT4, however I also believe the XS20 is one of the best value cameras available today. It depends on your needs. For most people I think I would recommend the XS20, but again for my use cases the XT4 gets a slight edge.

[@eloyente_]

@@johnstamw oh I get it, thanks buddy I appreciate it

[@josefloresjr1968]

Hi! Question, do you know if you can use film “recipes” for video for any of the cameras you mentioned?

[@johnstamw]

Yeah you can definitely do that! I have some videos about that. However, some "effects" can't be applied in-camera with video like clarity, grain, color chrome, etc.

[@josefloresjr1968]

@@johnstamw could you please send me a link to one of those videos?

[@desireandfire]

Were the scenes on the xh2s shot in Oregon or Washington? So pretty wherever it is

[@BayAreaDrone]

Thank you for this video, this is one of the most useful point of view as I do videos professionally like you said. I'm in SF Bay Area and I see some of the views I'm familiar with from here to Oregon... I love it!

[@johnstamw]

Hey!! Delayed response here but yes I love those west coast views! glad the video was helpful!

[@timelinephotovideo7]

is there digital zoom while recording video in XT5 ?

[@johnstamw]

only in some recording modes

[@mikedharma9440]

Beautiful videos!!

[@JasonSturgess]

Can you share your fuji Video settings ? what focus mode do you use for weddings and landscape shots ect ?

[@johnstamw]

I do have a few videos like those! Not AF specific.

[@hejakma4682]

Nice video. When i compare the video stills at dpreview, the x-t5 seems to have worse 4K image than X-T3/4. Can you confirm this in practical use? Thanks.

[@CringePanda]

XH2S it is, then. Thanks!

[@tinfilms50]

Always love your video❤

[@johnstamw]

thank you lots!

[@kunji09]

Any plans to check out the XS20? I’m starting with that this summer and hopefully grabbing the XH2S next year after I start to establish my portfolio/reel

[@johnstamw]

I don't think that I will end up checking it out, but it looks like an incredible camera and that sounds like a really great plan!! (see my comment to Myron Hill, for more XS20 thoughts)

[@coopers_clickz]

great video, I'm probably going to upgrade as I do both photo and video although I could use a hybrid it makes more sense to have. bodies 1 for video and 1 for photo for the type of work I do, Im currently on xt3 and have been for years and still loving it, I use a gimbal with it but for what I shoot a bit of movement/shake doesn't matter too much as it works well for my type of content, however taking a gimbal is also so time consuming having to rebalance etc while shooting if you need to keep switching out lenses, do you know any cage/rig set ups that are really good for the xt3 for handheld shooting? as id probably use the xt3 for video and then xh2 for mostly photos but also some video (I should also mention I want of a more authentic feel to my work hence why I don't want buttery smooth gimbal footage all the time, in my work it has a time and place for it but isn't necessary so I want to get better at handheld) thanks in advance If you respond :)

[@johnstamw]

honestly, you could follow the recent XH2S minimal rig build that I did and I think you'd pretty much just need to swap out the cage is the only thing! I built it for the XH2S but recently swapped in my XS20 just for fun on a couple shoots and I loved using that build.

[@jonnyfarmer]

One of the benefits of watching this video is that I managed to finish my coffee before the end and you didn't. 😆 Thanks for this, if I can save the pennies I will be upgrading from the X-S 10 to the E-T 5, if I win the lottery then it will be the XH 2 AND XH 2s.

[@johnstamw]

here's my trick: it was my second cup 🤣 I think that's a great plan, pending the lottery victory

[@catherinekennedy4979]

Soo helpful - thank you!!!

[@johnstamw]

so glad to hear it!!

[@JaymesMedia]

What about the x-s20?

[@johnstamw]

I haven't had a chance to use the XS20 yet, so that's part of my not mentioning it, and I definitely feel it can be used for professional work. However, speaking as someone who even used the XT30 for professional work at one point, right now at the price point with the other used options available the XS20 just falls right in a slightly awkward spot where I'm not sure about recommending it! I think I would recommend the XT4 or save up a bit more for the XT5? Does that make sense? _this is all just my current loose opinion I'm open to changing my mind!_.

[@JaymesMedia]

@@johnstamw it does make as I have the h2s & T5. It’s definitely in a weird spot

[@johnstamw]

@@JaymesMedia I just took a peek at your channel dude! I'm stoked to watch some of these!

[@JaymesMedia]

@@johnstamw thank you bro, I really appreciate that. I’ve been loving the content you’ve been putting out for years now

[@SATMJOSHI]

Hello, last time i was so embarrassed. Watching lots of youtube reviews,i brought a camera which was told that it was best and showed amazing photographs and vdos in those youtube reviews..but i was so naive because those reviews were all heavily edited to look good,i am a normal editor so i don't know too much editing skill and presets etc. Thing is ,it would be so nice if all the reviewers teach us about those amazing editing tricks,skills just like how easily and freely they tell us which camera and lens are the best from others.

[@johnstamw]

hello! I understand what you mean I think. I would say fuji is a good system to get good looks straight out of camera with minimal editing, but if you need to learn editing I would say there are some great youtube channels out there for you!

[@matheusfersi062]

My main thaught is: If i save some extra money to buy more lenses going for a xt3, i can rely in the AF system from her? Because even if the xt4 had a new battery, my biggest fear is the autofocus, if you've noticed a big improvement from the XT3 to XT4 AF, you can help me taking this decision? BTW. if i'll go for the xt3, i will can buy extra batteries, a fujinon 23mm f2 and probably a 50mm, or even a sigma 18-50... But if i choose the xt4, i will take a body, 2 batteries, a cage and the good odd viltrox 23mm... What do you think? I mainly shoot gastronomic food videos, and some headshots... I'm used to work with my old sony a6500

[@johnstamw]

Hello! Before I advise here I’ll ask if you watched this video fujifilm might not be right for you kzbin.info/www/bejne/bp7YeouolNyNjK8

[@fleszvideos]

I am thinking of getting a camera for hiking to record my walks in 4k . I do a lot of open space walks, top of the hills, woodlands etc. I would take a photo occasionally as well Do you think XT3 would do the job? I know there are other smaller and cheaper cameras for that purpose like go pro , but I am interested in a really good quality video and from what I see xt3 delivers great footage.

[@johnstamw]

If you were to get the XT3 with the Fujifilm 16-80 f4 OIS lens I think you'd be able to produce very good videos!

[@MiguelGomez-sd1ic]

Hey man, totally off topic, where’d you get your hat and shirt, those are sick! 😅

[@Jgheiler]

How does the AF of the xt5 compare to the xh2s?

[@johnstamw]

that's a great question, I wish I knew the answer but I don't. My guess is the xh2s would be better because of the faster processing.

[@leaczz2036]

I have an XT-3 and i need to shoot in 4k for more than 30 min so i had a ninja V but for 40 min my file is 140 GB. Do you know how i could bring the size down ? My settings are : H.264, 100 mb, 4:2:2 10 bit. Are your files this heavy ? Thanks for your videos, they are awesome !

[@johnstamw]

I do have a ninja v dedicated video on my channel! Try that to see if it answers your questions!

[@leaczz2036]

@@johnstamw Okay thanks, i'm going to watch it !

[@kallepyoraniemi5552]

Why you dropped X Pro series from this list?

[@johnstamw]

it's not really video oriented

[@kallepyoraniemi5552]

@@johnstamw that’s true but it’s good for street and weddings. So it would be interesting to have it in the line.

[@mohammedasif1955]

Hi John, Is there any way to record the video externally as well for single slot cameras like xs20.

[@johnstamw]

I don't believe so, but i do hope someone invents that technology

[@Oleka8]

for the first footage with the xt3 sigma 18-35, does sigma make an 18-35 for the xf mount? or did you use and adaptr could u explain a little?

[@Oleka8]

as much as I could figure out, you can only attach the sigma 18-35mm cannon mount on an adaptor for fuji, I've had a talk with a guy from sigma repair service and they said they wouldn't recommend it all and that a lot of problems could arise, your focus might be off at all times if it focuses at all and stuff like it.

[@johnstamw]

See my last video posted:)

[@bunuel38]

Explainer in chief. Good job, Brandon Nimmo.

[@johnstamw]

🫡 thank you

[@bangerasiddharth]

Hi Fuji folks, I am a canon shooter, currently having an R6, i just want to venture out into fuji system for film simulations. would xt30 ii be a better buy or a used xt3?

[@johnstamw]

personally for the sake of ergonomics and build quality I would opt for the xt3

[@enekotartun]

Really helpful video. I am considering starting youtube channel with small documentary/storytelling videos just for my own amusement and about a topic that will interest very few people.. and I am captured by the Fujifilm colours. I was considering the XT5 because of its small form factor… but there are so little channels/videos about how to use the xt5 for video mainly. After watching your videos I think I will go for the xh2s… great video and fantastic reviews. Ps: One thing I have learnt during this process is to pay attention mostly if not only to people who review its OWN gear and use it as a main professionally or just as a hobby but who invest their time and effort on these tools. Fantastic channel, greetings from Basque Country

[@johnstamw]

thank you! that sounds like a wonderful idea, I have multiple friends with personal channels just for their own creative exercise and it's always a joy to see what they create even if it isn't "professional" or "for an audience/client". I believe for a hobbyist that the XT5 could be a more fun experience with it's unique styling/form factor, but there may be some video limitations if that's your primary focus so the XH2S is likely the better choice. However, don't hesitate to switch to the XT5 if the experience isn't what you expected. I'm happy to hear you found my channel/video helpful. Leave more comments if you have questions along the way! Enjoy documenting the beauty around you in Basque!l

[@jeremywenrich]

Good breakdown! I have an X-H2s primarily for video content creation. I’m strongly considering switching to two of these bodies for portrait and event photography. It is a potent hybrid camera.

[@johnstamw]

thanks jeremy! I think it's certainly an incredibly capable photo camera too!

[@chloescanlon1107]

XT3 or the XT5 for me. Can’t be doing with that stupid side hinged rear screen. To use the screen on a side hinged LCD camera, I have to use my left hand, find the groove, pull out, twist, re-align then look to the left of my lens axis as the camera points straight ahead, then to put it back in I have to do all the same again... aaand repeat. But if I want the option of a low angle or high angle I need to leave the screen out which is obtrusive and conspicuous nearly doubling the width of the camera. A side hinged screen is for two things only, shooting around corners and shooting yourself. The tilt is so much faster, unobtrusive and convenient, flick of a finger and it’s in and out. I understand why people think they want a side hinged but camera manufacturers now seem obsessed with only offering them (LUMIX S5/Sony A7S3/Fujifilm X-T4 and all the Canons) it’s a worrying trend now that seems driven by KZbinrs moaning about not having a side hinged screen as all they go on about is being able to see yourself. After shooting 300+ weddings I’ve never needed to shoot myself. Thanks.

[@johnstamw]

Agreed that I do not like the side hinged screen on a photo camera, or really in general I don't like the experience actually. Completely on your side there.

[@BuhdFrankDaTank93]

besides the 4k 120 and 6 k open gate , I dont see why the xh2 wouldnt work for you as all of your videos have a dreamy look to them, no whip pans are happening in them lol, I have an xh2 and 4k 60 is not great. My xt3 has better 4k60

[@johnstamw]

6k open gate is a big deal for my work, but yeah you're probably right lots of other cameras would cut it for me still!

[@FilmScape4K]

I wouldn’t use it for videos with the lack of sensor stabilisation.

[@johnstamw]

that's a good point

[@mex5341]

x-s20!

[@johnstamw]

It looks like an amazing camera! I answered this in more than a few comments:)

[@jaymills1720]

Got the xt4/5 and selling both. Beautiful SOOC image but AF is just not even remotely as good as Sony or Canon. For the prosumer/enthusiast it’s a deal breaker. Once they figure it out I’ll be happy to come back.

[@johnstamw]

Yup, don’t switch to Fuji for the af

[@Jgheiler]

Did you try the XH2s for autofocus?

[@jaymills1720]

@@Jgheiler no, but I’ll be selling it off. No Fuji for me till they can compete with Sony and canon. It’s so unreliable in crucial situations.

[@Jgheiler]

@@jaymills1720 Hi Jay, if you really like Fuji lenses and color, I would suggest renting an XH2s with the latest firmwear installed. It works like an ex stalker ;)

[@patrickxtran]

damn I was kinda hoping you had early access to the X-S20 so we could get your thoughts on it haha. Personally, I'm gonna go ahead and get it for the form factor and updated processor. It looks like an incredible value for the specs you're getting out of it

[@johnstamw]

couldn't agree more with you honestly!! would've been a blast to try it, but alas. My thoughts shared with Myron are why the XS20 didn't make this video. Who knows, maybe I'll have to update this video soon!?

[@spencerdavidjoseph]

i benefited from seeing your face. ❤

[@johnstamw]

you should start your youtube channel so i can benefit too:)

[@spencerdavidjoseph]

@@johnstamw hehe i don’t have much to say brother!

[@johnstamw]

@@spencerdavidjoseph just record your face so i can see it

[@spencerdavidjoseph]

@@johnstamw okay, i got you!

[@cow77cow]

Just bought two “like new” xt4’s with low shutter count in the last month. The two cost me the same like a xt5.

[@johnstamw]

that's exactly one of the points I was hoping I made it the video, the value is just amazing on the XT3 & XT4, especially if you can find some crazy XT4 deals.

[@Markplaats-x1h]

Dude, nobody needs 6k and certainly not 8k

[@johnstamw]

6k open gate is a game changer.

[@Markplaats-x1h]

oke... well, it's nice you got what works for you. @@johnstamw