What Happened to Fujifilm? Fujifilm's Firmware killed it's tracking Autofocus.

Join us in this candid conversation with Tom Wright as he opens up about his switch from Fujifilm to Canon and Nikon cameras. Discover why Fujifilm's autofocus firmware has become a deal-breaker for Tom, leading to unreliable subject tracking. 📉
🔍 Key Points:
Fujifilm's Autofocus Woes: Hear Tom's firsthand experience with the declining performance of Fujifilm's autofocus firmware.
Buyer Beware: Why Tom advises against the latest Fujifilm models and recommends sticking with older, more reliable versions.
Customer Service Frustrations: Tom's take on Fujifilm's lack of response and support regarding these critical issues.
Current Gear: Get insights into Tom's current camera setup and the challenges he faces with autofocus in photography and videography.
📷 Whether you're a Fujifilm fan or considering a switch, this discussion is packed with valuable insights and real-world advice from a seasoned pro. Don't miss it! 🚀
🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth camera reviews and photography tips!
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction and Background
00:00:36 What Happened to the Fujifilm's Videos?
00:00:53 What's Going Wrong with Fujifilm's Cameras?
00:01:26 Have Fujifilm Given any Updates?
00:02:10 Should I still buy a Fujifilm Camera Body?
00:02:37 What about the Fujifilm X100VI?
00:03:01 Did you Sell your Fujifilm Cameras?
00:03:25 Is Tracking Autofocus Important?
00:04:13 What did you replace Fujifilm with?
00:04:36 What do you think of the Canon R6ii?
00:06:41 Are you a Fuji Hater Now/ Should I sell my Fujis?
00:07:35 What do other Pro's Think? Ft. ‪@HVRIS‬
00:09:02 How Does Firmware 7.0 Perform for Video? Ft. ‪@HVRIS‬
00:10:09 How Does Firmware 7.0 Perform for Stills? Ft. ‪@HVRIS‬
00:10:43 Would you Use Fuji Tracking on a paid Job? Ft. @HVRIS
00:12:33 What else is out there? Ft. @HVRIS
00:13:29 Should a New User Choose Fujifilm? Ft. @HVRIS
00:13:53 What's Next for this Channel?

[@HVRIS]

Thanks for having on to discuss this issue! One thing I forgot to mention regarding video AF along with having to hire a camera operator; a lot of clients choose us to gain high quality production value but at the same time think that our cameras can track like an iPhone. This is unfortunately not possible with fuji cameras. I get very very nervous if a client said: "please focus on that hand holding a burger and follow it around". I would only trust Face tracking if the background is not busy and only 1 person is in the frame. So overall, if you shoot simple things. It's not worth switching. However, if you are looking to progress with the times and create dynamic content that is moving with the industries: 1) I hope you are patient like me to wait and see what Fuji does to fix this issue. 2) Or maybe rent a range of other brands and see fits your style before committing. Thanks again Tom! 👊🏼❤

[@bytomw]

Thanks for being on Harris. It was a pleasure to talk to you as always 👍🏻

[@ronald7482]

@@HVRIS We should to report Fujifilm about these issues. They that they are not aware of this

[@nandysullivan3005]

Fanboy will tell u using manual focus, and I'm only one man army must setup other things😅😅

[@nandysullivan3005]

​@@ronald7482not sure they care

[@AlexMedvick]

I need Fuji to be better. Their strengths are so big, but their flaws are devastating.

[@bytomw]

I really didn't want to sell my kit, I LOVED the image from the XH2s, but it's not reliable. If they get these issues ironed out I'm gonna be happy to get another one someday.

[@blabler2533]

Their strengths are already overtaken and their weakness is existing

[@art_means_artificial]

@@bytomw remember and don't forget. SONY for video, FUJI for photo

[@frmtheden]

I dont think their "Devastating" but they can be seen as an inconvenience. Ive come from A7III with 28-75 2.8 and I am now using XT50 with Viltrox 75mm and Really enjoying using this for concerts and events and the Eye Auto Focus has been pretty spot on.

[@amateurphotographer1096]

Yes indeed. I shoot professionally using canons. I love fuji colours and i really like to use the system to shoot weddings, but i can't take it seriously. Shame that they put a lot of emphasis on film sims and retro look.

[@edvard2942]

We all hope that with all of these complaints, they will finally test their firmwares properly and fix the issues

[@bytomw]

From your mouth to Fujifilm's ears! They completely ghosted me about a year ago now. I don't think I'll be the one to hear back sadly.

[@nandysullivan3005]

​@@bytomw the fan boy keep defending, make it worse

[@blabler2533]

They should just get sold off for being a useless waste of time. License off their colors instead to everyone and proceed to stop making anything else

[@-ksw-]

Fuji: sorry, can't hear you over all the sales. 😂

[@art_means_artificial]

@@bytomw remember and don't forget. SONY for video, FUJI for photo

[@MarkD3P]

Exactly my experience. I've kept my Fuji gear for now (X-Pro 1 and two XH2S's with an assortment of lenses) but have moved 95% of my professional work to Canon. I still vastly prefer the Fuji image, especially for video, but as a one-man-band they cannot be trusted to maintain focus, period. This is an issue I've dealt with since owning two XH1's. Fuji has never had any kind of reliability when it comes to autofocus tracking. So in my pro work (live theater and interviews) it's a Canon C70, two R6MKII's and two R7's. Their AF is practically flawless, they don't overheat (don't even need an accessory fan :-)) and the battery life is fantastic. I still prefer the Fuji image, but all the Fuji gear at this point is locked up in a big Pelican case. Fuji needs to do a complete, from the ground-up rework of their AF team and system. ASAP. Because people are realizing this is not being addressed.

[@bytomw]

Absolutely spot on assessment. Well said.

[@lionheart4424]

Thank you for making this video. I am a Fuji shooter too and its about time that we put pressure on them to develop a premium AF tracking when they charge premium prices for all their cameras (they don't sell an entry level model anymore). Its sad that there is so much conflicting discourse. Professionals agree that AF is borderline unusable for work, while hobbyst say that AF is better than ever. I wish more people made more AF tracking tests to actually prove whats going on.

[@bytomw]

I think the issue is that in camera the focus looks very confident. It sticks to the eye like glue… but when you get the files back you realise that it’s anything but. If you aren’t reviewing your images and editing right after I’m sure it’d be easy to miss focus issues. That said I hope they fix it because I really do love the cameras.

[@Iamtongue]

Ya Fujifilm’s af sucks 👍 thanks for speaking out

[@bytomw]

Thanks Man, been watching your vids for a while now and you're doing great stuff! I have sort of been dreading posting this, I know the community don't love it when you point out flaws with essentially every camera in the lineup. I wanted it to be good just as much as everyone else!

[@ronald7482]

Fujifilm said : With this version we are not aware of any further problems. Every Fujifilm user has to complain by Fujifilm

[@bytomw]

I really hope the next generation shapes up to be better.

[@sshapiro63]

I have a GFX 50S II, X-H2, X-H2S, and two X-T3 bodies. I'm thinking about dumping the X-H2 and X-H2S while I wait to see if Fujifilm resolves the autofocus issues. If they don't catch up to Sony, Canon, and Nikon, I will eventually transition away from Fujifilm X series but remain with GFX since I only use medium format for static subjects. I might keep the X-T3 bodies with some small primes for everyday carry, but I'm not going to invest in newer X series bodies or lenses unless Fujifilm makes substantives changes.

[@bytomw]

The GFX is really special. The third part lens situation seems to improve more and more and the 1.7 lenses they have been launching are frankly fantastic.

[@sshapiro63]

@@bytomw I agree, and my autofocus expectations for that platform are very basic. It's amusing that Fujifilm probably has the best medium format autofocus in the world.

[@TwinIonEngines]

I shoot wildlife and birds in flight with Fujifilm, currently on an X-T5. AF-C does work with the latest firmware, however you STILL need to perform 35 steps of settings to GET it to work RELIABLY and even then you'll get more misses than most other brands. While other brands just work great out of the box with more keepers. So... yes, its doable, but not fantastic still, they're getting better but man, still a struggle. I don't do video so I couldn't verify there.

[@bytomw]

It’s nice to know it’s possible but that level of intervention shouldn’t be needed for a camera aimed at professional photographers. Like you said I just hope they address it.

[@TwinIonEngines]

@@bytomw Completely agree, I do hope they streighten their stuff out eventually

[@lionheart4424]

What lens do you use for birds, and what settings do you recommend for BIF? I have an X-T5 and want to do bird photography but I have seen that the false positive green box is there for AI tracking on previous firmware versions.

[@TwinIonEngines]

@@lionheart4424 I have the XF200mm F2 with the 1.4x tele, the 150-600mm is my workhorse, and I adapted a Sigma 500mm F4 for a long tele prime quality. My custom AF-C settings are: Trackign Sensitivity 4, Speed Tracking 1, Zone Area Center. I have the camera performance set to Boost, I use Zone AF with the 3x3 grid, AUTO ISO, Manual shutter, manual aperture, Subject Detection turned on for birds, Daylight WB and ISO NR at -4. I usually shoot anywhere from 1/800 to 1/4000 SS and use the exposure compensation dial on the top to adjust my scene as needed.

[@DFitzell]

I have an x-t5 as well with a 100-400 and I’ve found the bird tracking works well. Images are generally pretty sharp as long as you’re not shooting past 300, gets a bit soft after that but the bird tracking works 90 percent of the time. Animal tracking is terrible though. You get the green box on the subject while shooting so you think it’s in focus until you review the images and you’re lucky if you get 50 percent in focus.

[@taimurchoudhry.]

I love Fujifilm cameras and a few years ago I had to sell my XT3 and all my gear. I have been thinking of buying an XT5 and a few lenses again. This autofocus issue has me thinking regarding going forward with my decision. Thank you for this video.

[@anthonystonehouse]

I sold all my Fuji stuff over a year ago due to the poor AF in the xh2. I thought they would have improved it by now rather than make it worse. They still sell a lot of cameras so I guess they are in no rush to fix it.

[@bytomw]

You’re right, when they sell out their years production capacity on day one with the X100VI it’s hard to imagine them giving this a 2nd thought. I’m hopeful but not holding on to these cameras while I wait.

[@77dris]

I'm so glad I got the R6 II when it came out. It's probably the least hyped camera to come out in the past couple years yet it does most things better than its competition... ie no 4k crop like the A7IV or S5II, faster burst modes, better photo AF, great colours, robust build, great battery life, fantastic EVF and LCD, perfect adaptation of older lenses. When most cams are released these days, KZbinrs go nuts for about 1 month after release (except for the R6 II). The XH2 and the S5II were two cameras that were touted as being the greatest things since sliced bread. But now seeing all the issues with XH2 autofocus (and noise levels) and the S5II having some autofocus issues as well (plus the crippled 4K), I have no FOMO at all.

[@RunKingFilm]

The problem with the external microphone (X-H2s) is still not fixed, as it works as expected after turning the camera on again, even though the settings are correct.

[@bytomw]

I hadn't encountered this issue, sorry you're having more problems!

[@andyphotoandfilm]

The way Fuji is handling this firmware issue is a big disappointment... For years they've been winning over photographers hearts with their strategy and now where they've reached a unique position in the market with the X100VI they seem to be resting on their laurels a little. I have already sold my XH2S because it made my life difficult on several jobs and my new Lumix S9 outperforms the autofocus of my XT5 😢

[@bytomw]

Honestly it’s nice to know that Panasonic are back in the game when it comes to focus. The S5ii is on my must try list at the moment.

[@andyphotoandfilm]

@@bytomw Aside from the annoying 4k60 crop, the S5IIX has been the ideal replacement for my XH2S.

[@noog6756]

That is so disappointing. I want the xh2s but if the af is worse than my xt4, why even try?? 💀

[@thomashegna1078]

Had the xt5. Could not rely on the autofocus. I had to shoot like I did “back in the day” with canon DSLRs. Tracking and multiple shots, hoping and begging that one of them was sharp and in focus. Resulting in a hard drive full of unusable photos from that 40mpix sensor that I also wasn’t too happy about. Thank god I didn’t sell all my canon gear for this experiment. Now using R62 and R8 for work.

[@bytomw]

This seems to be a familiar tale in the comments. So many wanted to have Fuji as a workhorse. So many let downs

[@ohnekaffeegehtnix2970]

It's sad to see that Fuji still has problems with their software. My last camera from this company was the X-T3 in 2019, which always froze when the aperture selection was set to the front dial and there was a backlight situation. I was always able to reproduce this error. The service department replaced the camera, but the error persisted. This one error and a few other unpleasant experiences with the hardware were the last straw, so I sold everything.

[@bytomw]

The XT3 is possibly one of the best value cameras to buy used right now, didn’t realise they also had issues with firmware.

[@SideshowBob44]

I sold my X100V because i got bored of the single focal length eventually and went to a a6700… wow the difference in autofocus is incredible.

[@bytomw]

It's pretty amazing how far the rest of the field has moved. Sony and Canon especially but even Nikon with the Z9 and later cameras.

[@jaywbus]

switched from xt5, to canon r5c, to sony, and landed with Lumix. maybe not sony level AF but very good.

[@bytomw]

I did the R5c before the XH2s and loved the files but that battery life was SHOCKING. Lumix is on my list to try ASAP, I'm holding out for a camera with a faster readout for video but the in camera LUT features alone make them work a good long look! I'd love to see how you get on with the Lumix (I'm guessing S5ii?).

[@blabler2533]

Panasonic is also bad. Watch camera conspiracies

[@Christo_glenn]

I have the XH2-S and I use mainly MF for my video work, so I don't have to worry about the AF... but, for stills I do rely on AF and I can say it's really far behind the competition. I'm going to say something controversial here...I think the footage of the XH2-S looks flat and overly digital. I don't like the way it renders skin and it just doesn't look organic at all. I understand that the camera doesn't have an OLPF and that you can soften the image in post, but there's still something about it that looks inorganic. I also notice that there are sharpening artefacts on the edges of high contrast areas that give a slight glow. This is the case with the in camera sharpening setting set to -4. I think there's some crazy sharpening in the processing pipeline that you can't disable. I know this is subjective, but it's what I'm noticing. The colours are fantastic, the dynamic range is exceptional, opengate is amazing, but everything else about it is lacking I still think Fuji has massive potential, but there are key areas where they lag behind that they really need to catch up on.

[@bytomw]

This is a really thoughtful angle, I personally liked how crisp the video felt for interview content but I like you turned the sharpening right down in camera. I know Kinafinity make a cinema camera using this sensor, maybe they have the OLPF on that? never really had a chance to look.

[@Jgheiler]

Great to see you on the Tube again! how does that 40mm F2 from nikon compare to the xf23mm or xf33mm of the fuji in terms of IQ? It seems like the lenses on the fuji would be better, but the camera in the nikon, being full frame and better AF, would make the images just as sharp and nice. What do you think?

[@bytomw]

I’d say the 40mm F2 is more of a budget lens. I really like it though and I plan on making a review on some of the lighter lens options soon! Long store short the 1.8 S line of primes are a better comparison to the LM lenses from Fuji and are EXCELLENT.

[@matthewleevisuals779]

I'm glad I didn't update to the most recent firmware on my X-H2s. I hope Fujifilm listens to their customers and reworks their autofocus from the ground up! For now, I will continue to stick with Fujifilm.

[@bytomw]

Absolutely no reason to move if things are working within your needs. Fuji still make cameras with amazing colours and they are otherwise a joy to use!

[@Brooksms]

Thanks for speaking on this. I'm probably testing what fuji has the hardest time with, shooting a dog running straight towards me. I've tried all of the settings I can find and it's so bad, hardly any of the photos are in focus. I get a lucky one here & there but it switches the focus to the grass by his feet nearly every shot. I've invested a lot into fuji..recently got the 50-140 and 90mm hoping the linear motor would help. Now I'm wondering if I should return them all and move on.

[@bytomw]

It's all down to how much you love the system and what you're willing to struggle with to keep it. For me the numbers didn't work.

[@bottledwaterprod]

#fujifilm would be unstoppable if they would just get more software engineers on the autofocus problem.

[@bytomw]

Agreed. It’s the only downside.

[@stanleygabrel1045]

I am not a camera manufacturing specialist, but there is a limited processing (computing) power available, and decision needs to be made where this power is being directed during design process. Sony cameras are good, but in order to achieve desired results everything needs to go for postprocessing. Maybe it's because most of camera processing power was used for proper autofocus and not enough was left for out of camera picture and video quality. As we know in Fuji out of camera performance is great and as a result subsequently other areas such as autofocus suffers. Fuji may have a serious problem on their hands. Just my 2 cents.

[@bytomw]

That's a solid theory and you might well be right, in this case though the cameras did focus accurately when first launched. At first they where on the 1.02 firmware and the camera was totally reliable for autofocus tracking, but it was slow, I'm guessing people complained it wasn't as fast as the competition so they worked to "speed up the tracking", The issue now is that the tracking is faster but the lenses don't keep up. Before I could get a feel for how quickly my focus would hit and allow time for that, now it's telling you that it's in focus and tracking but in reality it can't keep up Fuji also don't allow you to rollback firmware.

[@stanleygabrel1045]

@@bytomw Perhaps introducing artificial intelligence caused these new autofocus issues. Let's hope they will be able to fix it.

[@bytomw]

That's possible, either way I'm with you! A fix would be amazing.

[@eliaspap8708]

I updated to the latest firmware 7.0 on the XH2s and the results from yesterday’s wedding were not very good compared to what I remember previously, don’t get me wrong i got the job done but I had to take extra shots while changing from face detection to single point to cover for the inabilities if either wasn’t spot on. But there are action shots which you only get one take and some were ok but others were terrible and the problem is I don’t know how or why the algorithm goes wrong? Its so frustrating i am now looking at the Nikon ZF as well. I have really had enough of Fuji its not worth the grief, wedding photography is already stressful enough without having gear issues on also.

[@bytomw]

Your job is hard enough to be fighting with gear. I’d say Fuji still makes sense if you want to shoot them single point like a DSLR but otherwise it’s an exercise in frustration.

[@eliaspap8708]

@@bytomw thats what I mainly do but even single point is no were near as good as when i was shooting Canon. The Fuji files are amazing though once you can get sharp Images so there is always that hook that brings you back. I guess there is no perfect camera.

[@bytomw]

That’s such a shame. I was fine with single point but frankly used that mode so rarely I didn’t get a large enough sample size to draw any conclusions.

[@johnmacaspac410]

I used to be a big fuji fanboy. But their products, lack of innovation, lack of supply, and lack of performance pushed me to the edge of moving on to Sony for professional work. I still have my xt3, but it catching dust. Also, Tom, what's your frame rate? It's giving me British tv frame rate lol

[@bytomw]

Hahahah the video is shot at 24 frames per second. But that’s only because I had to record remotely. If I was only doing talking head video it would be 25p all the way!

[@MarkD3P]

Same question - almost - saw some strange motion blur. Was the shutter speed something other than double frame rate? Was it other than 1/48 shutter speed?

[@bytomw]

There was some optical flow on the clips to deal with a frame rate mismatch on the online recording.

[@77dris]

The Canon R6 II blows away the Fujis when it comes to dynamic range and ISO noise... by about 1-2 stops in both cases for photos. It's not even close. Also as far as colour goes, that's very subjective and I find a lot of people that complain, but they use Lightroom or Adobe Camera Raw and you have to blame Adobe for their profiles not the camera in those cases. If you are talking about video, then the colours are more subjective and Clog3 isn't quite as good for dynamic range as some of the others. But in 99% of cases even compared to Slog3 in real world use, the difference isn't really noticeable. That small difference isn't as big a deal as having reliable autofocus and a robust camera that is fun to use. Yes, to me the Canon cams are way more fun to use as I find the Fujis that I tried (at least the XT line) to feel like toys.

[@bytomw]

For stills you’re right about Adobe doing a poor job with their profiles, it’s why I almost never use them. But even with good profiles and capture 1 the canons colour is more homogenous than the Fuji. In video though the difference is stark. It’s not just the lower dynamic range. It’s the level of noise in the footage you have when you make use of that dynamic range (protecting highlights means underexposing other areas). Since moving back to canon I have needed to run NR far more often.

[@john26660]

This is all news to me. I decided a few months ago to not risk my Leica on walkabouts and bought my first Fuji, an XT5. I have had no issues with focus at all, but I do use single point AFC and AFS. It is taking great photos and the color science people always speak of is a real thing!

[@bytomw]

Those modes aren't effected, this is an issue with the focus tracking.

[@syrcular]

Great video, Tom! I really like your honest and to the point approach. You are absolutely right! Was actually waiting for you to comment on this latest firmware issue with Fuji. I’m a long time Fuji user but I also use Sony for professional work and recently started getting into Leica. My Sony (like your Canon) gear is incredibly boring but very reliable in general and Sony has finally started producing good color as of their latest offerings. They just work! So my Fuji gear has been sitting and although I have a nostalgic feeling towards Fuji especially when it comes to their colors and their glass, I’m actually quite upset at what they’ve been doing or lack of doing on their recent cameras and seriously considering selling off my remaining Fuji kit which is down to one X-T5 and a few X lenses and going over to the Nikon Zf for my travel/Fun/autofocus camera. I have been experiencing the inconsistent and unreliable autofocus tracking and it feels like steps backwards when using it alongside my Sony cameras. And after this last firmware update which didn’t really fix the issue as much as it hurts, I think I may be saying good bye to the system. Sure I could go back to single point AF from the old days but I feel like tracking actually worked when the camera first came out and their firmware broke it and it hasn’t functioned the same since. So yeah..still contemplating but feel like Fuji is in a bit of denial on it. My only hesitation with going Nikon is learning a whole new color science to master. But otherwise I like where they seem to be heading. If I do sell my Fuji kit, like you said I’d be happy to return to them if there was absolute confirmation that it’s been fixed but I feel like they are more focused on releasing more cameras.

[@bytomw]

This is exactly how I felt before selling, I moved canon into the mix as soon as firmware 3.0 messed it up in the first place but I held on to the fujis for far longer than I should have. I was pretty content with canon only for most of that time even for personal work but the Nikon has that fun factor the fuji has. On the colour grading side I'm at a bit of an unfair advantage because I teach post production and visual identity but I actually find the ZF files easier to edit than my canons, they feel really similar to the Fuji XT3 with very little tweaking to my eyes. Thanks for commenting, and keep us in the loop about what you do next!

[@55whiplash]

Thanks, I love my older Fujifilm cameras but this saves me the hassle and money. I'd prefer Fujifilm because of the images and colors, but having AF that doesn't work is crazy. They need to hire some decent software engineers, and fix this. I'll keep my X100VI order because I mainly want to use it for landscapes, flowers and street, but I guess I'll go Canon since the Z-6III is quite up to snuff.

[@bytomw]

I love older fujifilm cameras and I’m currently really enjoying the Nikon ZF, the Z6iii has a very slightly lower dynamic range at iso 100-800 but it gives a lot back for that trade off. I’d happily shoot with a Z6iii

[@marcoemmeph]

I have been pretty happy with my Gfx 100ii. Maybe because I've never relied too much on their tracking; I do use it from time to time and results have been encouraging. I am certainly not upgrading to any new firmware tho, that's for sure lol

[@bytomw]

I’d say that’s wise! Although honestly if you’re getting the results you want nothing else matters. I also think the expectation for medium format is different. We are using it in situations where we can have more control. I almost exclusively used my 50s with manual lenses and was totally happy using it that way, single point AF would have been fine for the applications I used it for.

[@marcoemmeph]

@@bytomw yea that's probably why. with the gfx, I don't care much about misfocusing from time to time. With the xh2s that's unacceptable, esp consideing how good the camera was at the beginning and how they made it worse wiith firmwares. This whole thing actually stopped me from buying one!

[@cameraman655]

Fujifilm seems to have lost all of its “mojo” over the last few years and does not seem to be terribly interested in seriously addressing these issues. I spent 40+ years shooting with Canon for both pro and amateur alike, switching to Fuji in 2016. Being a film shooter from the 70s up until my first DSLR (1D) in 2006, I fell in love with the retro designs of their offerings so I was willing to overlook their flaws, namely AF, assuming that in time, Fuji would fix these issues. Sadly, this does not to seem to be the case, to me anyways. While I am still getting a decent hit rate of 75%, this is still much below the 90% keeper rate of my now-gone Canon DSLRs. While I am not planning to jump ship at the moment, if this trend of “so-so” firmware upgrades and simply ignoring the biggest issue facing Fuji, I can not discount the possibility of moving back to Canon or even Nikon in the next few years.

[@bytomw]

I think fujis priorities have shifted. They sold out the X100VI in an instant and still haven’t fulfilled the orders they have for the camera. They could change nothing and still max out their production for a long time to come. In that camera I don’t mind no tracking, single point is part of the fun honestly but I can’t have that be my main cam. I think the GFX line is a hope for a solid pro offering in the future, I just need the AF to put accuracy over speed of tracking.

[@ChrisBoultonPhotography]

I was about to press the button on a few Fuji’s X series and also possibly the 100s ii but this is concerning. Even more concerning is that Fuji isn’t get back to you?!

[@bytomw]

It's been just over 12 months since the acknowledged the issue on the XH2s. Much as I love fujifilm's output I'd say it's time to look elsewhere if you need reliable tracking performance. The GFX 50 line and the 100 series cameras without the current tracking systems are slow to focus but wonderful to use. If you wanted a slower more considered option I love the early GFX line, it's worth testing!

[@ChrisBoultonPhotography]

@@bytomwps. Good to see you back. Love your considered, realistic approach and the subjects you address.✊

[@bytomw]

Thanks Chris, I’d been avoiding putting this out honestly. I have bags more videos lined up and another 3 interviews recorded and ready to go. I just needed to clear the air on this first.

[@Jgheiler]

What lenses are you using on the Nikon ZF? Any manual ones?

[@bytomw]

Not yet but I hope to get my hands on some voigtlander lenses.

[@firefeethok_tui2355]

How long will I have to wait for an actual fix? I want to buy a Fuji camera, but????

[@bytomw]

I have honestly given up and moved on.

[@birjub9647]

What really bugs me is that my fujifilm xt3's af is better and reliable than my xt5. The new update Ver 4,00 for the xt5 is still buggy theer is a bad pulsing issues where the af goes in and out with the Af-c, selective area mode and slight movements. With the Fuji 23mm f2 and 35mm f2. Also sometimes the Af goes completely off trying to focus if another subject enteres the frame and in the same point as the selected af area box. I hope fujifilm fixes this. Because we are in 2024 now such issues shoulds not occur in cameras at all. Tracking with fujifilm is BAD and now event the area AF is not reliable.

[@bytomw]

This is exactly how I felt about the XH2s after the 3.0 firmware.

[@MisAnkic]

AF should not be a problem nowadays at all. Sony a6700 af capabilities are better than their A1 and a6700 costs less than 1500 usd. That is why it is so frustrating for Fuji lovers, because with good af Fuji would be almost perfect system.

[@bytomw]

I think you’re right. It’s even more frustrating when you realise that Sony is making the sensors…

[@olasek7972]

No problem with autofocus on my XT5, but I only use it as an amateur. I only shoot stills.

[@sammy_sam_leonardo]

Great to see you back Tom!! Massive shame Fujifilm hasn’t fixed this issue, seemingly making it significantly worse since v1 firmware… really poor from them. I’ve stopped updating my X-H2 for the last year - although fortunately for me I mainly shoot video with manual focus so it’s not as big of an issue for me as it is for the vast majority people. But even I’m disappointed that if I wanted to shoot in a different way I couldn’t trust it.

[@bytomw]

If you’re able to work around the limitations for your project the sensor in the XH2 and XH2s are lovely. I think the XH2s is still my fav image from any camera for video. Everything feels very smooth and gentle in terms of contrast and the colours are still excellent.

[@50YearOldBiker]

I upgraded recently the XT4 to firmware 2.12 (latest) and now, at night, when there is dark, the WB custom 1 adjustment with the grey card, the camera freezes. Totally! And for unfreezing it, I do need to remove the battery. In situations where there is more light, the custom 1 adjustment works perfectly - inside the lit room etc. But not outside at night, and believe, I am from Scandinavia, and our nights are not pitch black 😊 Now I am wondering whether that bug came in with the firmware 2.12 upgrade, or it is something else. I do not recall such a situation before and I have worked with the camera during winter nights outside, doing the WB adjustments with custom 1 without any problem.

[@bytomw]

I'd say it's worth reaching out to fujifilm if you can. The bugs I have see have only been on the current generation of cameras.

[@carjac820]

Fuji has been very comfy with the success of the X100V that they’ve basically alienated the consumers that loved using their products. The Kaizen updates that has been the pride of the company is basically forgotten now and most firmware updates are just mostly bug fixes that is supposed to be a bare minimum to all companies.

[@bytomw]

On paper I think what they are aiming for with these update would be really nice! AF focus tracking improvements are a welcome update. That said I’m not sure what’s happening with QC that any of this gets pushed to users.

[@TheRem484]

So just to be completely clear, these issues are mainly found in AF-C mode in both video and stills correct? Has anyone had issues in AF-S on the new firmware update? My XT5 is still on firmware 2.10 lol and I don't know if I should update it or not. I mostly use AF-S as there aren't many tracking subjects that I shoot as a hobbyist other than my dogs from time to time. Fuji was the first brand I bought when I first started (X100F) so interestingly enough I'm not really used to having great tracking software in a camera. Recently I've wanted to get into wildlife - but I will most likely go with another brand if I go that route and keep my XT5 as a point and shoot when I'm not heartbroken about something being out of focus.

[@bytomw]

I only experienced issues with focus tracking. I wouldn’t use that in AF-S in most situations. But there are others in the comments that are saying that the newest firmware is causing them consistency issues even in AF-S. But just to make it clear I didn’t have those issues personally in my very limited use of those modes.

[@madfinntech]

I'm on the X-S10, my first Fuji system, and I was looking to update the X-H2s based on the early reviews, which said the autofocus was very usable. However, after these catastrophic firmware updates, it seems to be way worse than on my old X-S10, and that's not acceptable. I started to look elsewhere, sadly. I love Fuji colors, dynamic range, and easy noise reduction in Resolve with F-log. If Fuji can't fix the issue when I'm in a position to upgrade, I'm probably a future Lumix user.

[@bytomw]

It’s better if you’re planning to shoot AF-S or just use a single focus point, but if you want to track the subject it’s really in reliable and gives a lot of false positives.

[@Keckegenkai]

For someone that really doesnt want to leave Fuji theres the DJI Ronin lidar attachment that in my experience has a really good 'autofocus'. It adds alot of bulk and a bit of weight and it isnt cheap tho. With that you can also autofocus with manual lenses

[@bytomw]

You're right, it's kind of balancing the pros and cons of the system and working out if you really want to go to those lengths to get to parity with your competition. The Lidar system gives you some interesting options though, especially with manual focus lenses.

[@Keckegenkai]

@@bytomw Its also exceptionally good in low light situations due to said lidar. The only hassle is the already mentioned bulk and 3d priting a focus ring for your manual lenses. But after all that you get pretty much the best autofocus on the market

[@bytomw]

This makes me want to test it on a Komodo!

[@arielestulin9706]

you shouldn't have to rely on another system to have good autofocus.

[@Keckegenkai]

@@arielestulin9706 also true

[@robmcd]

I bought the XH2S thinking it would let me sell the R5 system but absolutely not. I’ll use Fuji for personal stuff but Canon for wedding photography. If the R6iii releases before Fuji can fix this I’m out. Or maybe id go an R3 not sure.

[@bytomw]

The R3 is a lovely camera honestly, the focus isn’t that much better than the R6ii but the whole body just feels right in hand.

[@robmcd]

@@bytomw thanks for your advice Tom, much appreciated. The R5 is perfect but 2500-3000 45mp images after a wedding is cumbersome.

[@bytomw]

I feel the same. For my use case more resolution usually ends up with clients asking me to export at smaller sizes, digital work doesn’t often need these massive resolutions unless you plan to crop a lot. I’d take a higher res sensor if I needed to for another reason (larger sensor or faster readout like in the Z9) but im not gonna seek it out.

[@robertkunc5662]

I switched to the Panasonic Lumix S5II for focusing. Best performance/quality/price ratio on the market. .

[@bytomw]

It’s on my list to try for sure. The in camera LUTs would be awesome.

[@robertkunc5662]

@@bytomw LUT is a super idea, plus color submission, IBIS, dual ISO, L-mount alliance, processing quality, ergonomics, dynamic rosah and price all add up to make good sense.

[@trym2121]

All started from CEO changes, camera division is just a mean to make the most margin now. Kaizen? Dead Making limited availability? Heck yes In every update, manual mode makes sense due to faulty tracking? You bet. I think Fuji is aiming toward Leica. Rare, not about function but about image quality.

[@bytomw]

That's super interesting! When did the CEO change over? I have seen a real shift towards advanced consumer features in the X-Line. It's a real shame too because at launch the XH2s was my fav camera ever.

[@bigd7696]

Almost the same journey as yourself. X-T20, X-H1, X-T4, and until just before firmware 7 I sold my X-H2S for a Canon R6MII. I bought the X-H2S for the promised autofocus that never came. I shoot stills and anything that moved was rarely in focus no matter the lens or setting used. LOVE the results from the R6MII, miss a lot of what the Fuji offered.

[@bytomw]

That sounds pretty much exactly how my experience with the XH2s went.

[@phcib2195]

Fuji XT2, XT3, and Six Fuji Lenses after years of use, Sold all of it and moving to Canon or Nikon or Sony....

[@bytomw]

I don’t blame you. It represents a better investment at the moment.

[@emmfdez812]

Why your video looks so blurry?, it's the frame rate you choose?

[@bytomw]

It’s a frame rate mismatch. The call recording was in a different frame rate to the rest of the footage intakes in by the remote recording software). It’s fixed for future videos.

[@danielbzo]

just commenting here to spread this video as far as possible!

[@bytomw]

I appreciate you.

[@stoke1863]

im glad people are now telling the Truth about Fujifilm, I have just swapped from XT-5 to Lumix s5II and its been a great experience

[@bytomw]

I have been talking about this for the last 12 months personally. I’m really glad you donned a system you love!

[@toddcampbell305]

Has anyone tried it with the stabilisation turned off? Could be something to do with the sensor moving?

[@bytomw]

Not sure that I specifically did that to test. This might be the case but the sensor would only normally move in line with the focal plane. You wouldn’t normally expect to see that effect focus.

[@michaelhall859]

I dont get what everyone is complaining about, I have no issues with autofocus and it's actually improved with this latest firmware... Multiple videos also backing this up... Maybe you have a lemon

[@bytomw]

I’d keep watching it’s not just my camera, also fujifilm confirmed this was an issue.

[@blabler2533]

Cope shill

[@michaelhall859]

@@bytomw I watched the whole vid mate.... My point is I'm not seeing any issues (and a lot of other reviewers have reported the same).... Can't be every camera then can it (hence why I'm asking if you possibly had a lemon)... It happens unfortunately

[@jcar4522]

Sometimes a think depending on where the camera was made, it could be a lemon...

[@carjac820]

@@michaelhall859Survivorship bias mate. Just because it didn’t happen to you doesn’t mean it is not a problem. If Fujifilm themselves said so it’s basically a huge problem.

[@SummersSnaps]

I do shoot professionally with 2x XH2S's, both video and stills, and I do live in AF.C with Subject Tracking (Face/Eye). I have sat on f/w 5.03 for quite some time now, old enough to know it is risky to simply jump on the latest f/w, sadly the consumer is the beta tester in todays modern tech climate. What I will say is I tend to be able to deliver what the client wants and in doing so see repeat business. My local theatre I am pretty much the go to now for much of their work be it orchestras or drama. In practical terms what I do need to do is take A LOT of images. My default is AF.C, ES, 10fps. The culling takes the most time but because the colours and styles are pleasing and I do not find I spend long on the actual edits, literally sometimes 10-15secs per still (other times a little longer like a minute or two). I think my line of work lends itself to being a little spammy with the shutter anyway. Anyone that has shot public speaking, trying to find a pleasing talking moment will know how difficult that is to time with a single shot, faces can look contorted often, more is better and helps guarantees keepers. But that doesn't mean I enjoy the process of reviewing the work and finding some moments spoiled by the AF hunt. It feels like Focus Priority is becoming more and more like Focus Release, ringing the shutter prematurely at the expense of not really having proper focus (false positives). I completely agree with you. It's about serviceability, I'm scraping by at the moment, and in my line of work I genuinely need that 9ms read out to avoid banding at shutter speeds I require (I would be interested to hear how the R6II behaves in this regard as that is the camera that has piqued my interest also, being 14ms it seems to be the fastest readout camera from a single non-stacked camera floating around?). The biggest problem as I see it is the attitude of the company, taking way to long to address 6.0 and the fix not really a deep enough fix. If Edvard can prove 1.03 is better, then they have a lot of work to do to get us back to (at least) THAT performance level without losing the features that came along the way. My trust with the brand is shaken, and I do not feel like continually investing into a company that seems to have a roadblock to AF. I've been here before with another brand and it doesn't end well. The brand must be able to make genuine strides in AF performance to stay relevant. I think Fuji are sitting right at the back of the pack and they are riding on the success of their colours and designs to stay relevant, something I see as being a bit of a fad and short term momentum. I think my investment with the brand is done. I intend to roll my units back to 1.03 and then just shoot the things till they die. But my research now lies looking at other cameras and that always feels a bit of a shame..

[@bytomw]

That last line hit hard. That’s exactly why I have avoided making this video. I wanted for it to be a solved problem so I could keep using them. It’s not and I’m not sure it’s going to get better much as I’d like it to. Happy to test the R6ii though! I’m a bit of a stickler for full mechanical shutters and avoided the Nikon Z8 because of that but if you let me know how to test for a real world condition you see I’ll give it a whirl if I get a chance. That said stacked is the way when it comes to low/no banding. The Nikon Z6iii or Z8 might be a smarter move (or a used Sony A9 series camera if they work better for you)

[@SummersSnaps]

@@bytomw Yeh, it is the reason I sought out the XH2S's, it kinda sits in a very unique place among the options out there. Owning two of them was affordable whereas two R3's or something... completely out of my budget :( It could be I can start a kind of transition, keep one XH2S and add a r6II to the bag... Testing wise, should be pretty easy. The only things that are needed is scenes with strong artificial light sources, you should be able to trigger the issue in your own home under your own lamps and lights. You must be in ES mode and you must shoot at shutter speeds above the flickr, which tends to be higher than 1/50 or 1/60. I tend to shoot at 1/250-1/500 (in order to freeze the subjects playing their instruments or whatever sufficiently). Sometimes I can see 1/320 is giving me a little bit of banding during the shoot but shifting up (or down) to something like 1/400 clears it. It just depends on venue and what lights they are using on the day. I do note that Canon R6II has a specific mode to help address banding, they call it 'High-Frequency Anti-Flicker Shooting', you can auto detect a scene and it will slightly offset the shutter speed to try and match the frequency better. Fuji has this feature also, but I have never felt the need to use it with the XH2S (as natively it is mostly avoided anyway). When I discover a shutter speed that is causing some banding with the XH2S, if I enact that feature it can sometimes help eliminate it, or make it worse (lol). So I tend to leave it off (as it gives weird shutter speeds like 1/256.2 and makes going up and down shutter speeds of bigger magnitudes annoying, you have to toggle the feature off first and then put it back on etc). But yeh, curious to know about the R6II in this regard. If it only slightly lags behind the XH2S for readout speeds, I might be able to get away with it... the R6II looks to being incredibly value rich for its current pricing.

[@adamhlavin2463]

I absolutely understand your move and opinion about the situation. I traded the X-T5 for X100VI and am completely okay with using it just with single point autofocus, i must admit it adds little bit a vintage feeling for that camera.😅Love it. But to tell you the truth, I can't imagine buying any X-T5 or X-H2 camera for professional work right now. Photography is just my hobby so I am okay with it. I didn't know that GFX cameras are also affected by this. That's HUGE problem considering their price. However, even if this problem persists, I think their next line approximately in 2026 will solve it and I can see myself getting that camera. Because Fujifilm colors are truly special.

[@bytomw]

The X100 series is a digital Contax T2 in my mind, I absolutely loved using mine in single point and one shot AF! It's a lovely little inspiration machine, the frustration is that they are so good you really want to use them for work and as long as you don't mind the single card slot or the more limited focusing system they are incredible even in professional environments. I'm waiting for them to fix this, the GFX line is absolutely in my future. The 50s is the nicest camera I have ever used in terms of IQ and it's worth being more considered with the focus system or even manually focusing to get those results.

[@adamhlavin2463]

@@bytomw I agree. Every single day I am impressed when I see pictures from 50S. And Fujifilm GFX fixed lens camera is coming in 2025! That's gonna be really huge (although it means that it will probably have the same AI chip 😶).

[@bytomw]

If they make a compact GFX 50 with a fixed 55mm 1.7 that thing would be perfect! I'll manually focus that if I had to!

[@koma7252]

wasn't the consensus about the firmware on newer Fuji cameras to run default? To keep the 1.0 version that comes with the camera and never upgrade?

[@bytomw]

That's great advice for people that haven't already upgraded, fujifilm don't allow a rollback on firmware. If you went past 1.02 you're gonna have to hope they sort their firmware out or hack the camera to rollback and potentially void the warranty.

[@eduardolee4180]

My goodness the unit you're testing could be defective. I have been testing my Fuji XT 30 ii XT5 XH2S XS 20 up until yesterday I could say that the autofocus tracking is the same as my Sony A7IV a7C2 a7600 a6400 and my Nikon ZF.

[@bytomw]

Im really glad you’re enjoying your cameras. I had two XH2s they showed identical behaviour. The problem has been acknowledged by fujifilm.

[@gaza4543]

Sold everything like you moved to canon and after the way they handled this I wouldn’t go back to the brand. I don’t want to be used as beta tester, it’s my name my career if a shot is missed and I’ve missed loads because of these firmwares. I just about made the transition viable by buying second hand and risking grey market (worked out). I wouldn’t recommend Fuji to anyone now. If you want a hipster camera get a Nikon zf as you say it won’t lie. Is you want a camera for pure video get a lumix. If you want colour canon

[@bytomw]

Totally fair comments. I’m feeling that exact frustration (and bought that same hipster camera). I’m happy with where I landed but you lose so much money switching systems. It’s a nightmare.

[@gaza4543]

@@bytomw I say hipster in jest no disrespect there. The zf is a lovely camera and well made. I buy everything second hand for that reason. The depreciation is huge. Certainly with bodies. Canon lenses I’ve never seen depreciation like it. 50mm 1.2 rrp 2300 preowned price around 1400. I can safely say I’ll not be buying canon glass at rrp. Well to be honest I wouldn’t even buy bodies. There are so many that are bought with intention that live out there lives at the back of the cupboard with a couple of thousand shutter actions I’ll give them a new home when they come up. I’m all that concerned about the lastest and greatest. Hope your new system works out for you. Looking forward to that new content

[@vidthreenorth4007]

For video I chose Sony and Panasonic. I slightly prefer the Panasonic look (including colors and stabilization), but maintaining focus is Sony's hallmark.

[@bytomw]

This is very true. I don’t love working with Sony files but they are industry standard now for most types of video and you can absolutely get what you need out of them.

[@AufKohleGeboren]

Still can remember when I got the X-T5 brand new, my first try was shooting my son going down the hill with his sleigh. With the new 33mm, a new lens with linear motors. Almost none of the shots had even soft focus, most of them were totally out of focus. Now we are on firmware 4 and it is still almost as bad, thankfully not as bad as with the previous firmware. I’m thankful I don’t rely on it for work and that I don’t do video. But even as a passionate hobby photographer, I take my Sony A7IV with me when I don’t want to have to think about autofocus. It’s a shame, cause the Sony doesn’t inspire to go out and shoot. But sometimes it’s more about reliability than passion. Even as a hobbyist.

[@bytomw]

Very very well said.

[@joshuachubbphotography]

This is why I’m sticking with my xe4 for now

[@bytomw]

I’d say that was wise and honestly I think that camera is super underrated.

[@georgebarrientos8826]

I bought into the Fujifilm system with an XT-3 years ago together with several lenses. The issues being aired now became clear to me in use very quickly. I sold everything Fuji, took the loss, and haven't looked back. The trouble is that I saw every KZbin I could find back then on the system before purchasing and nether a hint of this issue which has clearly existed for a long time. Why now?

[@bytomw]

It only affects the new generation of cameras. The focus issues were introduced by trying to speed up the focus tracking beyond what the af system could keep up with.

[@fotogmike5887]

I'm a bit confused. Are you speaking mainly about AF tracking for video? I don't do video myself, but I've seen that there are videos about problems with Fuji's AF system for video. As a STILLS shooter, I'm thrilled with the AF tracking on my X-H2S. For fun I use it to shoot soccer, basketball, and a little bit of volleyball. My main paid work is dance photography shot in studio, and that doesn't require tracking. I do portraits, too, and I haven't had trouble with the focusing for that. I'm sorry to hear that the video folks--and the fellow that you interviewed (who talked about trouble shooting stills)--are having problems. Good luck to you both!

[@bytomw]

This video is a follow up to a video I made about a year ago that specifically addresses stills. This ain’t to diminish your enjoyment of the camera at all, the issues are when you’re using the subject tracking features in video or stills. I’m really glad it’s working well for you 👍🏻

[@fotogmike5887]

@@bytomw Thanks for the response!

[@jmlec54]

I do bird photos and videos with the H2-s and the xf 150-600 mm. Yes, the autofocus has gone worse with the various firmware updates, to such an extent that it regularly wrecks my work. I no longer trust Fuji equipement. I use Canon or Sony for reliability. It seems Fujifilm software engineers have no clue how autofocus works.

[@bytomw]

It’s such a shame that it’s gotten like this.

[@AlexYamil]

I just changed to Nikon. I shoot sports mostly and af was a hit and miss most of the time, Had to use single AF.

[@bytomw]

This seems to be the case for so many people. It’s such a shame.

[@thepan]

Crazy how, even before the firmware AF issue, the current AF performance in every Fujifilm mirrorless cameras from entry to pro lines are still far less reliable to Sony's decade-old AF performance in the entry level a5100. After the firmware fiasco, it's even worse. I've cheated in my work many times since the firmware update to my office's X-H2S & X-S20, and had to throw down my Sony a5100 without telling them. Almost killed my career. I really wanted to like Fujifilm & was considering to move from Sony to Fujifilm. But the AF, man, I'd take a "boring" but reliable a5100 anytime if I have to. A camera from 2014.

[@bytomw]

You’re right. It was slower and needed a little more work but it was at least consistent. You could rely that with work it would give you accurate results. Boring and reliable is under rated for paid work.

[@shang-hsienyang1284]

Canon R6II is the best camera right now under US$3000. I recommend anyone to buy it. The biggest problem is 3rd party lens selection. I dislike the grip of the Zf, but I would pick it any day over Fujifilm. The best apsc camera for me is the Sony a6700. Largest selection of lenses, great autofocus, acceptable IBIS.

[@bytomw]

I’d say all of that is fair. I’m enjoying the ZF a lot right now and the grip isn’t substantial but the Nikon first party grip helps a lot with that.

[@GAGPalia]

Z6 III has come out give it a look

[@shang-hsienyang1284]

@@GAGPalia I have not tried the Z6III in person, but I prefer R6II's LCD, symmetrical cards slot, and its focus bracketing doesn't block the viewfinder when initiating. Its sensor read speed is comparable to Z6III as well. Still, I need to test the real thing before coming to a conclusion.

[@Mocha_122]

I considered getting the GFX 100sii but I think I'll just get the X2D instead.

[@bytomw]

I still love the GFX line but if you want cameras that don’t have these bugs and that sensor I think your only options are the GFX 100 and 100s

[@Thisnotmysandwich]

I only use manual focus on my fujis. I mostly do street and landscape so I don’t have the need for the time being.

[@bytomw]

They are perfect for that use case! It’s all about knowing what you need from your kit!

[@frankm0023]

I have the x100vi and have not updated the firmware. no need for me its been fine since day one. Two years ago on my x100v a firmware update was done and it took it out. Fortunately, I had the extended warranty, Sent it in and Fuji found the motherboard was toast. After 2 weeks came back perfect. So the x100vi Stays as is.

[@bytomw]

So the X100VI has had this firmware since launch but the issues are solely around AF-C with tracking enabled. The cameras says an image is in focus when it’s front/back focused or tracking another object in frame. That said if you’re not having problems with how you find the camera in practical use I’d say that’s a win. None of these issues matter if in practice you’re still getting what you want from the camera. The X100VI is lovely.

[@frankm0023]

@@bytomw It's a keeper.

[@josecolon8143]

I shoot Canon but I also have Leica and Fuji. My Fujis don’t have any of these so mentioned issues! Am I the only lucky one?

[@bytomw]

So much of it is down to how you use the camera. If you aren’t using tracking AF you’re fine from a focus point of view. But if you’re saying the tracking is reliable I’d say you are very very lucky.

[@josecolon8143]

@@bytomw I’m going to borrow another XH2s, now I’m curious! Great video 🫡🫡🫡

[@matt88169]

It’s first gen AI tracking plus the stable of video friendly lenses is much smaller. A 50-60% hit rate is pretty good for a first crack. With more processing power and more updated lenses, I think the future is bright. I’m not spending twice as much for cameras that offer somewhat better tracking. That would be awful

[@bytomw]

That's a good way of looking at it, I hadn't thought of the AI tracking as a new thing (usually companies just relable their current tech as AI and hope we don't notice). But this was meant to be their flagship camera system, if their AI dropped the hit rate from around 95% in firmware 1.02 to about 50-60% on firmware 3.0 this seems like they should have either made it optional or launched it on a less professional focused camera? In the end I can deal with slow but accurate but false positives will ruin jobs really quick. And again if you don't need focus tracking it's all workable if not optimal.

[@matt88169]

@@bytomw I'm not aware of any testing on the XH2S or any other 5th gen Fuji camera that showed a 95% hit rate for subject tracking, let alone a 95% hit rate for a particular subject (humans/birds/planes/trains/cars). The website RTings has a repeatable AF methodology that seems reasonable enough - though they do not test EVERY lens nor EVERY focus setting and mode. The 5th gen cameras have a pretty good showing for "perfect" focus results - about 50-78% depending on the camera. More expensive FF cameras do better, but it tops out at about 80%. So frankly I'm not sure what the panic and scandal is all about. I miss plenty of shots with my XT-3. With AF-C + single point, the hit rate ranges from frustrating to 100% (lens dependent, also). We can be out of focus for all kinds of reasons - testing needs to be controlled AND repeatable.

[@bytomw]

That number was my keeper rate for stills on launch. Not expecting it to be a scientific method. Just speaking from my own experience and that of other professionals I know using the system for work. I A/B tested it on jobs against the R5 and R6 and for how I worked I could easily get a higher hit rate than 78%. I don’t need perfect focus I just need it to tell me when it’s not acquired focus.

[@matt88169]

@@bytomwin theory setting the AF-C to “focus priority” rather than “shutter” priority does just that-the camera will not fire unless it has acquired focus. If you, however, turn on AF+MF (so you can manually focus at any time in any mode, focus priority is overridden (the camera takes the shot whether or not it has confirmed focus). This stuff is in my manual. Subject tracking modes ignore these rules, from what I understand, but I still do better when I use single point to place the box about where I think I want it. When and if face detection drops, the AF-C box will hit the target with my chosen settings, increasing the chance of a hit. I’m not asking for “science” so much as full disclosure-so I don’t waste my money on bad products or my time on people who are interested in clicks, not helping or educating others. FWIW I have days when I have 80-90% hit rates because my hands are steady, light is good, whatever. I have days where settings I’ve tried before leave a very high percentage soft or OOF. I don’t care what my hit rates are-the question is how bad I want the shot and whether or not I get it. There are myriad reasons shots can be missed, as you must know, so a little rigor doesn’t hurt. Cheers.

[@dariussfitzgerald]

Is there a way to downgrade firmware?

[@bytomw]

There is but it's not easy, you have to actually hack the firmware file to force the camera to downgrade and honestly I wouldn't recommend it. I haven't got first hand experience and I have no idea how this would effect a warranty There are instructions on how to do it on youtube though!

[@jcar4522]

Yes, there is a way. If you have no other way, its a real sollution. I have done it and its not hard. Here were are to help if you really want to do it :)

[@dariussfitzgerald]

In a weird way this is an encouraging video because I’ve never liked focus taking.

[@bytomw]

It’s all about knowing what you need! If tracking isn’t an issue for you they are just amazing little fun cameras with kick ass colour.

[@robj1366]

I am about to buy a XH2S and 150-600 for bird photography (stills only) are the firmware issues impacting the bird auto focus ?

[@bytomw]

Any tracking AF of any kind.

[@bytomw]

Although in fairness I don’t know any bird photographers I could ask for definitive confirmation

[@degeneraturat]

For standing still birds it's fine. For birds in action, it's AFC lottery. You can have sequence of bird flying parallel to your camera, you are following him as he glides, and where there is not much difference between frames, but AF can jump from focus, to out of focus, to soft focus, than back to focus and so on.

[@robj1366]

@@degeneraturat Thanks for the info ... was it better in previous versions of Firmware ?

[@jayzn1931]

I have tested the X-H2 on FW 3 with bird af for over a week now and it is pretty good. Birds in flight with sky in the background is nice. Busy background I haven‘t had luck but I shot really fast birds, I don‘t blame the camera. Birds in trees is pretty awesome as well, if you have a decent view on them (which you should for a good photo). The eye box tends to drift off sometimes, merls sometimes show a green box but the AF misses completely. Coming from the X-T4, I am very happy with the results! X-H2S with FW 7 is even snappier and gets a higher burst rate in focus priority, both cams set to 15fps. Both have some false positives in terms of focus acquisition and they detect subjects where there are none sometimes. I don‘t know if this is any different on Canon or Sony. I have to say it recognizes a lot of different animals and birds, even insects, so overall for that stuff I can really recommend it! I might update the FW on the H2 in a few days and test if anything changed.

[@PC-oz7tz]

Super info...thx!♡

[@bytomw]

I’m glad it helped 👍

[@stkuj]

Why would I want a camera that doesn't focus on level with their competitors for the same $$$? I left Fuji over 4 years ago. Yes - they have fun jpegs, but I don't consider them for pro work. Personally, I don't like Canon, but you do you. I'll take Sony and Nikon all day long. BTW, if bullet proof AF tracking, easy to color grading and a huge ecosystem is something you want - IMO Sony would be best.

[@bytomw]

I'd agree on everything you just said apart from Sony being the best option ;) It's personal preference at that level though.

[@Aaditya1ad]

It was one of your video that made me lean towards consider fuji and it one of your videos that cautioned me 😅. I waited a long time for them to fix this, Fuji is too stubborn to revert software back to something that worked and have failed to inspire any confidence. Such a shame that we all wanted them to succeed.

[@bytomw]

Honestly if I can save people from wasting money the videos are worth it. I’m as frustrated as everyone else. I really loved the XH2s at launch and I wish it was still as reliable today. For all our sakes I hope they fix it soon.

[@hipabroad]

Happy to have stuck to my X-T4 then haha

[@bytomw]

Love that camera. The XT3 and XT4 are absolute gems.

[@matango1979]

Weird that you can't even roll back the firmware.

[@bytomw]

Agreed. It’s frustrating. There are ways of hacking the firmware file to make the camera roll it back but I don’t recommend it and I’m not sure how it would affect your warranty.

[@ghostofgw7781]

Tracking AF and Fujifilm dont fit in the same sentence we all know that. But Fuji has his own vibes it can be a love and hate relatioship.

[@bytomw]

I think my frustration is that when they first launched the XH2s it did track really well! It wasn’t going to win any speed awards but it was accurate. But you’re right about how the situation is now. There are still reasons to own and love fujifilm cameras but you’re working around a list of limitations that’s longer than you’d think.

[@tm_vis-rc]

great video, and i use my xh2s for cinematography of rc cars. and i agree, its hit or miss with the autofocus tracking. But when it focuses, with the viltrox 27mm f1.2, wow amazing images/videos. But yeahs its a big shame this AI implementation of focusing is trash. For still photography, and its so good. Hence i cant sell it. Again, thanks for the great video and im a new sub :)

[@bytomw]

I have heard a few people having a better hit rate with 3rd party lenses, I know they bypass the focus character settings (not sure why) maybe that helped with performance? Thanks for the sub!

[@StarLightDotPhotos]

It’s funny because my GFX 50s is too slow to use autofocus with anyway.

[@bytomw]

I don't mind slow honestly, it's the false positives that the new firmware is giving. Slow means I can be mindful and get the shot, fast and inaccurate is literally useless.

[@StarLightDotPhotos]

@@bytomwin the GFX 50s’s defence I’ve only used EF lenses with an adapter, so native GF lenses might be usable.

[@bytomw]

The only native lens I used on a regular basis was the 55mm 1.7 and it was stunning.

[@laurapeter3857]

Sold my Fujis for a Canon 6dII. The Canon DSLR has better AF than Fuji. 😂

[@bytomw]

Thats such a shame, the 6D launched in 2017 😱

[@simonehughesphotography]

Switching to Nikon for this reason. Love Fuji but it's AF is so unreliable

[@bytomw]

Sad but true. That said I’m really enjoying the Zf so far!

[@IJAY2509]

To be Honest, if u Shooting stills-Landscape or anything else with little to no moving objects fuji is fine. for everything else get away from fuji. im using my xh2 and xh2s and im going to sell my xh2s asap when sony announcing their alpha 7 mk5. Ill keep my xh2 for my everyday shooting or street photography but everything like weddings or some other events i will look forward to more reliable like sony. Canon is no option for me because their lense-policy is IMO not customer Friendly.

[@bytomw]

It's such a personal choice when you move systems, testing new gear out is honestly a large part of making changes that stick. Sony make some amazing choices.

[@phil488pista9]

I just don't like Fuji Film as a company.

[@bytomw]

The frustrating this is I really do like them!

[@al3hosixone290]

Pal2tech says the other way round

[@bytomw]

That’s Great if he isn’t seeing problems. It’s not been my experience or that of any professional I have talked to about it. It recommend watching Edvards videos if you want a direct AB comparison with the competition.

[@jcar4522]

Pal2tech is actually Palpatine. Why do you think his name is Pal? He is the real lord master sith.

[@BobsChoice-dq2ps]

I must be missing something because my XH2 works great for vid or stills, I shoot a lot of wildlife when I am not doing my commercial work. The update improved it a bit.

[@bytomw]

If it works it works! I will say that puts you in a very lucky position. To clarify it is only the tracking focus that’s unreliable. It’s giving false positives showing focus confirmation and then the final files are front or back focused and in some cases focused on a totally different subject. I’m fine with slow focus. It the fact it shows confirmation is the issue to me.

[@BobsChoice-dq2ps]

@@bytomw I understand I use it often

[@ourholm]

You say you are using Canon R6ii to film this video but your face is going blurry many times during this video. It's distracting and proof Canon is not doing tracking on your face well at all! So your statement that it's totally reliable is not true. Your words means nothing.

[@bytomw]

If the canon is as bad as you say and I’m saying it’s reliable imagine how much you’d hate the Fujifilm in the same situation. For what it’s worth this was recorded over USB in webcam mode and most of the cameras tracking features are disabled.

[@mostlymessingabout]

Fujifilm build is just crap. My camera broke

[@bytomw]

That sucks. I honestly really like the feel and build quality of my cameras, I hate to hear that yours were low quality.

[@asafoadjei1]

FUJI AS A JOKE CAMERA COMAPNY HAVE MONEY FOR GFX GRANT PROGRAMME FOR SO MANY YEARS BUT CANT AFFORD TO IMPROVE THEIR AUTOFOCUS.

[@bytomw]

Honestly I want to see fujifilm do well. If they fixed this element of their cameras they would be nearly perfect for a lot of shoots, the GFX line especially is something really compelling to me. That said I fully understand the frustrations.

[@asafoadjei1]

@@bytomw I just do not know what is hapenning to them. Whatever decision they come up with offlate seems it is a step in the wrong direction. What is Kaizen if you do not listen to your customers, and always releasing half baked cameras. And at this point I can say they are robbing people in day light with their marketing by saying the aufocus is usable.

[@bytomw]

I get it. Honestly the frustration is understandable! I wish we could just have the “slower” focus from 1.02 and the big fixes from the newer updates but it’s down to Fuji to make these things happen or not. I really didn’t want to make this video, but it’s been a year now and people have been asking me since then.

[@Iamquiroga]

I did the same unfortunately. I sold my XH2s I got a X-S20 because I have a lot of lenses but soon I’ll be with Sony

[@bytomw]

It's upsetting because we WANT these cameras to be reliable. The colour from the XH2s is really something special.

[@RandumbTech]

I left Fuji a few years ago for Sony and never looked back. I briefly owned the X100VI and I couldn’t believe how bad the AF was compared to Sony. If you rely heavily on AF (I am) you will be thrilled with Sony. And it’s super easy to get the footage to look like Fuji if you want to.

[@Iamquiroga]

@@RandumbTech What Sony camera do you recommend X-S20 range

[@Quattro5081]

@@Iamquiroga Probarly 6700

[@RandumbTech]

@@Iamquiroga Yes - 6700 would be a PERFECT intro camera to the Sony mirrorless system. It's very affordable as are the lenses and takes amazing IN FOCUS images and video.

[@zurrizurzur]

good, i hope they remove it completely in future updates so we give birth to more thoughtful photographers

[@bytomw]

You already have the option to not use the tracking if you don’t want to/need it.

[@rdtstudios]

It’s annoying when this KZbinrs complain about Fuji’s AF problems in video. First of all everyone who knows and do video would not buy Fuji for videos, Fuji is a Photography first camera system. So quit complaining if you want to do video get a Sony system and be happy.

[@lionheart4424]

Your argument is invalid, the whole purpose of the X-H line is to appease to videographers. A whole bunch of marketing material for the GFX100 was about filmaking specifically. There is NO EXCUSE to allow Fujifilm to keep their mediocre AF tracking, they must improve.

[@bytomw]

This kind of tells me you didn’t bother watching the video. I disagree with your conclusions anyway but here’s what you would have learned if you watched the video before commenting. 1. The cameras were tested and the AF worked perfectly until firmware 3.0 on the XH2s 2. You can’t rollback firmware without hacking the files 3. I did move back to canon the second this became a problem (although I held onto the Fuji system for a long time after that).

[@bytomw]

Well said Lion Heart.

[@MrSharma786]

So according to this mentality, fujifilm shouldn’t even offer video capabilities in their cameras. If they offer a ton of video features, they’re meant to be used by the consumers not ignored by them.

[@tnglator]

How are you liking the nikon colors and editing? Wanted the xh2s but im thinking z6iii now from your vids. Never shot nikon

[@bytomw]

I really like the ZF, the colours feel similar to the XT3 to my eyes with a little bit of work. Overall I’m really enjoying it for personal projects, haven’t tested it on a job yet but that’s what the canons are for.