Cameras

Fujifilm X-T30 first look: Is it really built for the outdoors?

GadgetMatch’s youngest producers shared their thoughts!

Published

April 30, 2019

MJ Jucutan

Fujifilm invited the two youngest producers from the GadgetMatch team to a secret location to experience the newest mirrorless camera from the light and compact X-series, the Fujifilm X-T30. It was a chance to test and play around with the camera in the great outdoors.

Vincenz, a budding photographer, was eager to test out the capabilities of the X-T30. Meanwhile, MJ, an outdoor enthusiast, got thrilled to see how the camera fares as a companion to one’s travels.

Let’s see what these two producers have to say!

What’s your first impression upon seeing the camera up close?

Vincenz: Seeing it for the first time, you can already tell that it is a Fujifilm camera; their cameras really remind me of the vintage SLRs. The design is what makes the Fujifilm camera lineup “classic” versus other mirrorless bodies, especially if you rock the silver color.

I’m a non-Fujifilm user (and I’m using a DSLR to be specific); I’m surprised there is enough grip for me to hold on despite its compact size. Obviously, there’s so much difference when looking at it than actually holding it. Overall, it’s so handy and a breeze to shoot with.

MJ: What I love about Fujifilm is how their cameras scream style and creativity. Surely, the X-T30 is a good-looking camera reminiscent of vintage cameras.

Aside from being a stunner on any occasion, it matches my small hands. It’s easy to carry and it makes shooting a whole lot simpler for me. This camera is a relief; I don’t have to worry about straining my hands after a day’s worth of photographs and adventures.

How was your experience?

MJ: For someone who enjoys playing outdoors, the X-T30 was fun to use. At first, the controls got me confused. I kept forgetting how to navigate the camera. (The last time I used a Fujifilm camera was almost a year ago.)

If you’re scared of trying out a new camera, don’t worry; the X-T30 is easy to learn with its user-friendly interface. It only takes a few minutes to an hour (depending on your learning curve) to grasp the whole controls. You can start shooting right away.

This camera is a real treat, especially for travelers. It’s so lightweight and compact. You can bring it wherever you go. During our trek, I crossed a river and hopped onto slippery rocks. But I didn’t feel like I was carrying a camera. I was more focused on keeping myself safe rather than being anxious about breaking the camera.

The controls are easily accessible too, which is a plus point for people in search of their next travel camera. When you’re shooting landscapes and sceneries, there are moments that need to be captured quickly or else you’ll miss your only chance.

We took a river-crossing trip and the XT30 is so handy on trips like this. It’s easy to carry and it’s perfect for shooting on the go. @gadgetmatch #GadgetMatchLIVE pic.twitter.com/gBdT3yQNQv

— The MJ Jucutan (@mj_jucutan) April 28, 2019

Vincenz: Using it blew me away. This was my second time using a Fujifilm camera (X-H1 was the first one I used for a sponsored shoot), but I never really got into the system. Fair enough this time, I was able to learn X-T30’s dials and controls quickly.

I was still nitpicking even after learning the basics. Adjusting the ISO was tricky on my part. For some reason, it eventually “locks out.” Maybe there’s just some setting that needs to be adjusted. The touch AF was so handy when I tried capturing moving objects (specifically birds and animals). Plus, the Eye and Face Tracking made the experience a lot better when I shot human element/s in a composition.

I explored more of the camera’s features such as the film simulation modes with Fujifilm’s very own color profiles. It depends on what scene you’re shooting. It’s useful for instant color grading. I also tried the mechanical and silent electronic shutters, the exposure bracketing, the slow shutter speed, and more.

With Fujifilm’s Bluetooth-capable Camera Remote app, you can share your photos on social media in no time. The app is also helpful if you want to control the camera wirelessly. All I can say is, there are more things to discover if you’ll spend time with the camera.

What dismayed me, though, is the lack of optical image stabilization or OIS. Sure, it takes sharper photographs with its fast shutter speed, but it’s not that versatile when shooting video. What’s the use of 4K and having Cinematic F-Log option? I get it, though. Stabilizers and tripods are there. It just would have been better if had a built-in stabilizer, especially for adventurers who love packing light.

Is it really a good companion for your adventures?

Vincenz: I definitely wouldn’t hesitate to answer “yes” since I really enjoyed shooting with it. Generally speaking, people think DSLR cameras are for professionals while mirrorless cameras are for noobs. Well, that’s a biased remark because the quality of the output still depends on how you compose your shots.

What I can brag about this camera is how Fujifilm managed to fit in an amazing camera sensor. Plus, it has all the nifty features in such a compact and lightweight body. It’s a great adventure companion. But, if you’re looking for a vlogging camera instead, this isn’t the one for you.

MJ: Absolutely! While I need more time to actually test the camera on my travels, it’s promising even for the first time. For casual photographers and travelers, it’s a good companion that can capture your adventures in the urban jungle or the great outdoors.

It’s easy to carry. With its compact size, it’s pocketable in cargo shorts and oversized trench coats. It also carries the distinct Fujifilm design which makes it a perfect accessory to match your clothing style. Lastly, despite being small and fashionable, it can do its job in taking postcard-worthy photos and cinematic videos. At least for me, it has what I need.

Related Topics:featured Fujifilm Fujifilm X-T30 Fujifilm's X-T30

Cameras

Fujifilm launches new flagship camera for pros, 3 lenses

The GFX100 II

Published

September 14, 2023

GadgetMatch

Fujifilm has announced the launch of the new flagship GFX100 II medium format camera as part of four new releases.

Aside from the camera, there are three new camera lenses with different focal lengths to suit users’ needs.

GFX100 II

Available for PhP 459,990 (body only), the new medium format camera is designed to meet the high standards of professional photographers and videographers.

The GFX100 II has a large format sensor that is 1.7 times the size of a full frame sensor. It’s made to deliver enhanced image quality with rich tonal reproduction and sharp three-dimensional details.

It has advanced new features, such as AI-based subject detection autofocus and a high-speed image processing engine for better burst shooting of up to 8.0 frames a second.

For videos, the camera can record 4K 60fps 4:2:2 10-bit video and supports 8K at standard 30fps, the first for the GFX series. It offers optimized video format modes for different lenses.

There are more connectivity options as well, including Ethernet and HDMI ports. A separate Vertical Grip may also be purchased for PhP 31,990.

GF55mmF1.7 R WR

To complement the new camera, the GF55mmF1.7 R WR is a versatile large-aperture prime lens with a 55mm focal length (44mm in 35mm format) designed specifically for Fujifilm’s GFX series, priced at PhP 140,990.

It offers the benefits of a wide maximum aperture for a natural field of view similar to human vision. This lens excels in capturing images against blurred backgrounds. That makes it suitable for various photography styles like sharp portraits or creamy bokeh – both indoors and outdoors.

GF Tilt Shift Lenses

Lastly, a pair of GF tilt shift lenses will be made available by the end of October and November respectively for the wide-angle and macro variants.

The GF30mmF5.6 T/S is a 30mm wide-angle tilt shift lens that minimizes distortion and ghosting on landscape and architectural photography.

Its GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro counterpart is a mid-telephoto lens with a 110mm focal length. That’s for unprecedented control in producing distortion- and aberration-free images in products, still life, portraits, close-ups, and more.

The 30mm will cost PhP 250,990 while the macro will have a price tag of PhP 220,990.

Fujifilm has also announced new GF lenses, including an ultra-telephoto prime and a power zoom lens for expanded video capabilities.

Cameras

GoPro is back with the HERO12 Black

From action to fun cam

Published

September 11, 2023

GadgetMatch

GoPro has been relatively quiet over the past few years. Understandable since a pandemic happened and no one could really go out during that time. That also gave GoPro the time to regroup and come out with a camera that’s more than just for action, it’s also for fun. The result is the HERO12 Black.

The GoPro HERO12 Black is featured-packed in the way you can expect action cams to be… and then some. Some standout additions are the 5.3K and 4K HDR Video, wireless audio support for Apple AirPods and Other Bluetooth devices. You can even capture in 9:16 aspect ratio for Reels and TikToks. Below is a rundown of the key features.

Up to 2x Longer Runtimes

The HERO12 Black can continuously for 70 minutes 5.3K 60fps, its highest setting. It goes up to 95 minutes at 5.3K, 30fps, and over 155 minutes at 1080P, 30fps. These are all with HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization turned on.

5.3K Resolution + 8x Slo-Mo

Why 5.3K? GoPro says it delivers 91% more resolution than 4K and 665% more than 1080p. It can slow down to 8x slo-mo in up to 2.7K resolution. Like stills? You can grab up to 24.7 megapixel frame grabs and 27 megapixel photos. Capture 4K video at up to 120 frames per second for 4x slo-mo.

High Dynamic Range (HDR) Photo + Video

HDR delivers eye-popping high dynamic range photos and 5.3K+ 4K video.

Go Wide with Max Lens Mod 2.0 Accessory

This accessory has 36% wider field of view when capturing widescreen video. It also has a 48% taller field of view when capturing vertical video. It’s lens is now 2x more scratch-resistant with a durable hydrophobic lens coating that wicks water drops away.

Video Stabilization with 360° Horizon Lock

HyperSmooth 6.0 features next-generation AutoBoost. It automatically boosts video stabilization as needed, while maintaining the smallest cropping margin possible with imperceptible transitions between crop levels. HyperSmooth 6.0 also enables horizon-leveling even with full 360° camera rotation in the Linear + Horizon Lock digital lens or in all lens settings when using the Max Lens Mod 2.0 accessory.

GP-Log + available LUTs

GP-Log with available Look Up Tables (LUTs) allows professional users to have more control with post-production editing and color grading.

Wireless audio support for Apple AirPods + Other Bluetooth devices

You can now record audio straight to HERO12 Black from Bluetooth devices such as Apple AirPods. If you’re using a different one like say the Sony WH-1000XM-series, Samsung’s Galaxy earbuds, and many like it — it’ll work. Any bluetooth capable audio device will.

You can use it for vlogging, scene narration and issuing voice commands to control your HERO12 Black from a distance.

Versatile 8:7 Aspect Ratio

The 1/1.9” sensor enables market-leading versatility with its extra-large 8:7 aspect ratio. It can be cropped into vertical 9:16, widescreen 16:9, traditional 4:3 or full-frame 8:7 aspect ratios. It’s now also available across all video resolutions as well as TimeWarp, Time Lapse, Night Lapse and all Night Effects modes.

New Vertical Capture Mode

Capture vertical video with HERO12 Black mounted horizontally. It’s perfect for sharing straight to Reels, TikTok, and Shorts.

Night Effects with Still Images

Light Painting, Vehicle Light Trails and Star Trails enable pro-level capture with push-button ease.

Simplified Camera Controls

Updated “Easy Controls” for users looking for maximum convenience and streamlined “Pro Controls” for advanced users looking for maximum control and efficiency.

New Power Tools

Interval Photo joins a suite of Power Tools. It’s designed to help you capture video and photos in unique ways. Interval Photo enables photo-capture at fixed intervals, from every 0.5 seconds all the way up to every 120 seconds.

Timecode Sync

Sync an unlimited number of HERO12 Black cameras for easy multi-camera editing. This works with Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premier and other leading video editing apps.

1/4-20 Mounting

HERO12 Black’s mounting fingers now feature 1/4-20 mounting threads. This makes the HERO12 Black compatible with standard camera mounts and accessories.

Auto-Upload to the Cloud, Auto Edits + Unlimited Backup

Available for GoPro subscribers, HERO12 Black auto-uploads to your GoPro cloud account while the camera is charging. You’ll receive an automatic highlight video after the upload is complete. There’s no limit to the amount of GoPro footage you can upload to your GoPro cloud account and all footage is stored at 100% source quality.

Rugged, Versatile, Reliable

HERO12 Black is waterproof to 33 feet with no additional housing required and is built “GoPro Tough” to take a beating. GoPro subscribers enjoy “no questions asked” damaged camera replacement.

NEW Extension Pole + Waterproof Shutter Remote

As if all of that wasn’t enough, GoPro is also launching a new 48-inch-long extension pole that collapses to just 10 inches. A selfie stick of sorts.

It is designed to work with HERO12 Black’s new 1/4-20 mounting threads. Mounting fingers are also included to ensure compatibility with all GoPro cameras.

Included with the new extension pole is a detachable, wearable and waterproof Bluetooth shutter remote. The remote will be compatible with other GoPro products. They are the HERO11 Black, HERO11 Black Mini and HERO10 Black.

The all-new Extension Pole + Waterproof Shutter Remote will be available in October 2023. Visit GoPro.com to learn more

Price, availability

The GoPro HERO12 Black retails for PhP 24,990/ US$ 399.99. The Max Lens Mod 2.0 will be sold for PhP 7,490/ US$ 99.99. Meanwhile, the HERO12 Black Creator Edition will be sold for PhP 36,990/ US$ 599.99.

In the Philippines, you can now pre-order these and they will be available on September 14 at GoPro Official LazMall and Shopee Mall Stores and at GoPro Authorized Partners nationwide. The stores are as follows: Abenson, Camerahaus, Colours Foto, Electroworld, Henry’s Cameras, iBook, Inbox, Infomax, SM Gadgets, TechPro Unlimited, The Vault, Timeline, Urbangiz, and more.

Learn more at GoPro.com

Cameras

Sony releases the A7CR and A7C II in the Philippines

Along with the smallest and lightest wide-angle zoom lens

Published

September 7, 2023

Vincenz

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Remember the world’s first smallest and lightest full-frame mirrorless camera launched in 2020? Well, it now has new twin sibs! Meet the Sony A7C Series: the Alpha 7CR and Alpha 7C II (or just A7CR and A7C II to make it less of a mouthful).

For professional photographers and enthusiasts who use Sony, the A7CR and A7C II are two of the most anticipated models that follow the footsteps of the already very-capable yet compact A7C from two years ago.

Alpha 7CR: Compact Size, Extreme Resolution

As how I understand Sony’s camera naming scheme, “C” stands for C(ompact) and “R” is for R(esolution). By combining the best of both camera worlds, they’re able to create the A7CR.

Sony’s first full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor was the A7R IV announced in 2019 followed by the A7R V just last year. They then managed to put the same large sensor in a more compact form factor than what the larger-bodied cousin offers — around 29% lighter and 53% less in volume to be specific.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Just like any recent Alpha camera, the A7CR is powered by their in-house Exmor R CMOS back-illuminated sensor that’s well complemented by the newer BIONZ XR imaging processor for better detail clarity and utmost image quality.

The Alpha 7CR also features Sony’s new “AI processing unit” which was made first for the A7R V. This further improves the AI-sensing capabilities and algorithms when using the camera for shooting several subjects in complicated scenarios.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Inherited features

Other features from the A7R V were brought to the compact model. These include AI Real-Time Tracking, high-precision AF under low EV, Fast Hybrid AF performance, silent continuous shooting, and more.

Video recording isn’t compromised with its 4K at 50/60p support. That’s also with the inclusion of S-Cinetone, Log recording, and LUT support for better post-processing flexibility while recording. Active Mode stabilization is also handy in shaky handheld situations. This is also thanks to its 5-axis in-body image stabilization with a 7-step advantage in stills-shooting.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Battery is rated to last longer around 530 shots when shooting images and around 155 minutes if you do continuous video recording through its 3-inch LCD touch-enabled screen. Using its EVF (electronic viewfinder) slightly degrades its battery life. It can be charged through its USB-C port with the faster Power Delivery protocol.

Alpha 7C II: Full-Frame Compact with Versatile Power

As obvious as it sounds (and looks), Sony’s A7C II is the direct successor of the A7C.

The A7C II still has that 35mm full-frame sensor inside but unlike its twin, the second-generation A7C has a smaller 33-megapixel camera. Still, it’s a big step over its predecessor’s 24.2-megapixel shooter and the 26-megapixel-touting A6700 with an even smaller APS-C sensor.

Despite the bigger megapixel count, it’s actually 22% lighter than its older sibling at just 429 grams (versus 509 grams). It also has more Phase-Detection AF points at 759 for preciser shooting (as opposed to A7C and A7CR’s 693 points).

Although this isn’t a Sony “S” camera, which stands for S(ensitivity), the A7C II has the better ISO Sensitivity up in its sleeves: Up to 51,200 and expandable to 204,800 (the A7CR maxes out at 32000; expandable up to 102,400).

By the way, the A7C II is also equipped with the newer BIONZ XR engine as well as the revolutionary AI processing unit that newer Alpha models all possess.

The twin models of the A7C series also share similar feats.

Aside from its hardware and 5-axis in-body stabilization tech, there are more usable features like Real-Time Recognition AF, a more precise Subject Recognition, AI-based Auto Framing, burst shooting in RAW format, high-speed continuous shooting, and other high-quality video shooting features like S-Log plus S-Cinetone, and LUT support, Breathing Compensation when focusing, as well as 7K/6.2K oversampling.

Battery is rated to last a little bit longer than its twin with 560 stills and around 165 minutes worth of continuous video shooting — still by looking at its LCD instead of the smaller EVF. It’s also chargeable via its USB-C PD port.

World’s smallest and lightest

I’m not talking about the cameras anymore. This section is dedicated to the new G-Master lens in its typical lens model naming: FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

At just 547 grams with a length of 111.5 millimeters, this new GM FE lens makes it the lightest wide-angle zoom lens yet. That’s thanks to a new optical design contributed by an extreme aspherical (XA) lens. It’s also covered by Sony’s Nano AR Coating II which reduces ghosting and flares against strong light.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Additionally, the front lens has fluorine coating for easy dust and smudge removal. Its even outdoor-ready with its dust and moisture-resistant design.

Despite its lightness, it’s still packed with the latest XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors. This contributes to an extra fast, precise, yet quiet AF (Auto Focus) suitable when capturing snaps and stills.

Lastly, its wide fixed f/2.8 aperture means the lens can achieve photographs with shallower DoF regardless of focal length.

Pricing and availability

As expected, full-frame cameras will always come with a hefty price tag.

In the Philippines, the Sony A7CR retails for PhP 179,999 and is only available in a body-only configuration.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

There’s also an optional GP-X2 grip extension that helps the user shoot stabler and provides an additional grip and comfort even under longer periods of time — especially when a big, long, and heavy telephoto lens is attached to such small body.

However, the price of the accessory is yet to be announced and wasn’t stated during the time of this writing.

Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch

Meanwhile, the Sony A7C II is being sold in two configurations: PhP 129,999 for the body-only option and PhP 145,999 if you buy it with a bundled kit lens.

Lastly, the new FE 16-35mm F2.8 G Master II wide-angle zoom lens retails for a whopping PhP 139,900.

Pre-order Perks

Sony Philippines has also announced pre-order bundles for prospective buyers:

Buy an A7CR or A7C II = Get a Peak Design Cuff plus NP-FZ100 Battery Pack (worth PhP 7690)
Buy the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II = Get a Peak Design Slide (worth PhP 4,990)
Buy the FE 24mm F2.8G or FE 40m F2.5G = PhP 33,800 (from PhP 36,800)
Buy the ECM-G1 Shotgun Microphone = PhP 5900 (from PhP 8400)