Je rassure tout de suite ceux qui me connaissent, il y a encore un pas avant de me convertir à autre chose qu’un reflex, mais le Fuji X-Pro 1 vaut quand-même la peine d’être regardé de plus près ne serait-ce qu’à cause de certaines caractéristiques assez notables.

Le capteur

Fuji a décidé de faire un capteur à 16 méga-pixels (la taille idéale : au delà, ça ne sert vraiment plus à grand chose – je suis encore généralement très content des 12 MP de mon propre appareil) mais il y a apporté une chose en plus : un filtre passe-bas en moins.

Là où l’immense majorité des capteurs numériques utilisent un filtre-passe bas pour effacer tout risque de moiré sur les rayures et autres motifs répétitifs qui se combinent trop bien avec la régularité des capteurs, Fuji a choisi de s’éloigner autant que possible de la répétition d’une forme très simple dans la disposition traditionnelle dite « de Bayer ». Résultat : une répartition des pixels de chaque couleur qui est plus aléatoire (répartis dans une matrice de 6×6 un peu au hasard) accompagnée de traitements numériques pas forcément très complexes mais simplement nouveaux ou différents.

C’est exactement ce qui mérite un beau brevet bien dodu ! Une bonne idée qui permet de se débarrasser des risques de moiré au prix d’un peu d’intelligence et sans le filtre passe-bas qui réduit (marginalement, mais tout de même) la précision de l’image captée.

Un beau viseur

Le meilleur du viseur électronique avec un bel œilleton optique (comme sur le Fuji X100). Rien à dire : Fuji a tout compris. Il faut un viseur optique pour bien voir son image ; il est utile d’y superposer des informations numériques nombreuses et organisées pour aider le photographe.

Avec les objectifs qui conviennent le viseur s’adapte à la focale de l’objectif. Bien.

Les optiques X-Pro1 mises en vente avec l’appareil à partir de mars 2012 :

• 18mm f/2 R XF
• 35mm f/1.4 R XF
• 60mm f/2 Macro 4 R XF

On fait clairement dans la grande ouverture. C’est bien pour appareil ambitieux.

Monture X

Alors là, par contre, ça continue à m’énerver (mais c’est une idée tellement habituelle) de voir Fuji se lancer dans une monture d’objectifs parfaitement propriétaire. Parce que c’est techniquement possible et théoriquement un peu utile, on est obligé de se cogner de nouveaux objectifs et les clients devront attendre que la gamme s’augmente pour… ne jamais atteindre l’optimum.

Accessoires

Une poignée complémentaire (HG-XPro1) permet de gagner en confort de préhension. Un flash (EF-X20) apporte de la puissance lumineuse là où le Fuji X-Pro 1 n’a pas de flash intégré.

Images

Les fichiers produits par le Fuji X-Pro 1 peuvent aussi être au format RAW ce qui autorise plus de flexibilité qu’avec le format JPEG, ce qui intéresse beaucoup de (sinon tous les) photographes sérieux.

• Site officiel du Fuji X-Pro 1 (en anglais)

Vidéos promotionnelles

Press Release

Fujifilm is proud to announce the new model changes the rules in the new interchangeable lens system: Fujifilm X-Pro1. This camera is aimed at a professional audience and advanced amateurs and incorporates advanced technologies such as Trans-X’s unique sensor CMOSTM megapixel APS-C 16, a new X port for mounting the lens, a viewfinder and three hybrid optical the base.

X-Pro1 sets new standards in image resolution

For this camera, Fujifilm has developed a new CMOS sensor called X-TransTM CMOSTM which is able to provide a response similar to that of a sensor “full frame”.
The new array (CFA – Color Filter Array) opens the way for an ideal sensor that does not require an optical low-pass filter. This filter is in fact essential for the reduction of false colors and moiré generated by conventional sensors, but at the same time, also degrades the resolution. Fujifilm has developed a new matrix that is inspired by the CFA random arrangement of the grain in the film, eliminating the need for optical low-pass filter to solve the problems of false colors and moiré. In the matrix, RGB pixels are arranged in groups of 6×6 pixels with high aperiodicity (randomness).

Increasing the degree of randomness eliminates the root cause of the false color and moiré, a problem that occurs in conventional matrix elements during the filming of rows and other repeating patterns. The presence of a pixel R, G and B in each series of horizontal and vertical pixels minimizes the generation of false colors and provides superior color reproduction themselves.
The use of a matrix inspired by the film has necessitated a more powerful processor to process image data for this FUJIFILM EXR Processor Pro has created this project to optimize the potential of the Trans-X sensor CMOSTM providing high speed and high-precision image processing.

Fujinon XF for the best image quality

The Fujinon lenses used for television broadcasts and medium format cameras, have always been associated with high image quality. All the experience in the design of the optics has been used in the study phase of the objectives dedicated to X-Pro1.
The targets are launched with the machine, and three are part of the new XF series Fujinon: “XF 18mm F2 R”, “XF 35mm F1, 4 R” and “R XF 60mm F2 Macro 4″. These objectives are compact, very bright and offer precise control over depth of field effect and the possibility out-of-focus bokeh thanks to the design of the curved blades of the diaphragm. The slats are curved to create a circular image at all apertures, while the edges of each blade is carefully rounded for a sharper image.
The feeling of solidity and the precise mechanics of optics will satisfy the desire of photographers to capture multiple images with every shot.

FUJIFILM Attack “X-Mount” to maximize performance

Designed specifically to maximize the design “mirrorless” of the body, X-mount flange has a short distance posterior to the sensor plane, equal to only 17.7 mm. This means that the rear lens as close as possible to the sensor. The wide opening allows you to attach the lens deeper inside the body – up to about 7.5 mm from the mounting surface – minimizing the distance of “back focus” of each lens for high resolution to the edge of the image.

Hybrid Multi Viewfinder

FUJIFILM’s revolutionary hybrid viewfinder appeared first in the X100. With its ability to instantly switch between optical viewfinder and an electronic viewfinder, the viewfinder hybrid has added a new dimension to the pleasure of composing photographs.
The user may choose to use, depending on your mood or need, depending on the optical viewfinder for a picture as real as possible and have all the information electronically in real time. The advantage of hybrid viewfinder is the ability to combine the two technologies to get the ultimate in visual quality and functionality, allowing you to place the composition of images through a bright viewfinder and offering the ability to overlay important information for the release of photos. The change from a crosshair to another is easy, thanks to the switch on the front of the body of the X-Pro1.
When mounting a Fujinon lens on the X Series XF-Pro1 in the viewfinder magnification and size of the light frame automatically change to support its focal length. The viewfinder magnification, equal to 0.37 for x and 0.60 x 18mm lens for the 35mm and 60mm, allows you to compose the scene with the brilliant optical clarity and sharpness of an image. The X-Pro1 also gives the freedom to manually set the focal distance and switch to another magnification of the viewfinder.

Technology and careful design

The top and bottom made of aluminum alloy die-cast and hand enameled precise engravings on the top and the camera lens, point to the fact that all the X-Pro1 is built with attention to detail and uncompromising quality .
This attention to detail extends to dial in shutter speed and exposure compensation control, precisely machined from solid metal. In addition, the locking mechanism and the shutter switch exposure compensation set back, are designed to prevent accidental change of settings. The edges of the selectors have a knurled finish, knurled detail, for a grip and an excellent feeling.
The seal “Made in Japan” also present on the body of the new X-PRO1, confirming that each part of the building meets the highest standards FUJIFILM.
The lens hood with precision knurled aluminum, supplied with the lens is designed exclusively for Fujinon XF. The hood is compact and lightweight and offers excellent performance with a design that perfectly matches the style of X-Pro1.
The diameter of the aperture ring and focus of the three interchangeable lenses Fujinon XF is only slightly larger than the diameter of the objective to standardize the elegant design. The precise machining of the metal, the reassuring click each picture to the aperture ring and a comfortable pair of resistance when using manual focus, contributing together to improve the shooting experience.
The coating of X-Pro1 was designed to be weather resistant and provide a look of quality. The body of X-Pro1 was designed for the complete comfort of the photographer, the natural form of the eyepiece also provides excellent protection from light. The viewfinder you can use an additional lens (optional) for diopter adjustment.

Fujifilm continues the myth of the films

Further improvements have been made to the options Film Simulation Mode with the new “Professional Color Negative Film Modes” (Pro Neg. Neg Standard and Pro. Hi) designed for users who work in the studio with the X-Pro1. If you want to take the same scene in different film simulation modes, X-Pro1 offers the option of bracketing “Film Simulation”, along with AE Bracketing, Dynamic and ISO.
Fujifilm has also included the Film Simulation mode by which X-Pro1 simulates the color and tonal qualities of popular FUJIFILM emulsions. These include the colors of Velvia, the skin tones soft and natural look of the ASTIA TEST.
Pro1-X allows you to use special color filters to expand the photographic interpretation: to increase the contrast with the yellow and red filter, make brighter green and red filter with the deepest green. Just as professional photographers when selecting a filter paper and printing to complement their creative vision, now you can easily adjust the image quality with these filters. For those who wish to achieve a more nostalgic is also a sepia filter.
Through advanced digital processing, X-Pro1 is able to simulate the multiple-exposure technique: simply select this mode and the first shot. In the hybrid viewfinder or LCD you can see what the end result and then framing the precise second shot.

A series of exclusive accessories

The handle HG-XPro1 optional, helps balance the weight of the camera, allowing a more comfortable grip and offers a uniform look to the lines of X-Pro1.
The Flash EF-X20 option, to be mounted on the hot shoe is designed as a complementary accessory to the X-Pro1. A switch lets you choose between two modes: AUTO, which automatically optimizes the flash to daylight for outdoor and indoor shooting in low light; MANUAL for manual control. In addition, the built-in speaker, easy to use, it helps to soften the effect of excessive contrast created by the flash.
The leather case LC-XPro1 optional *, X-shaped to protect Pro1, is designed to allow quick access to the camera. Particular attention was paid to every detail: the red interior that contrasts with the black leather exterior, the accuracy of the stitching and the adoption of a magnet hidden for closure. This beautiful case is completed with the inclusion of a genuine leather strap and a protective cap bellows for different optics.
Filter Protector and Protector Filter φ39mm φ52mm optional protective filters are dedicated to the new XF goals. Super EBC treatment of these filters effectively reduces reflected light. The ring of the filter, made with a special process, fits the overall design of the optics.

Fujifilm and X-lenses Pro1 18mm F2 R XF, XF 35mm F1, 4 R and R XF 60mm F2 Macro 4 will be on sale from March 2012.

Key Features

• New CMOS sensor called X-TransTM CMOSTM
• New EXR Processor Pro
• Three Fujinon dedicated XF
• FUJIFILM Attack “X-Mount”
• Hybrid Multi Viewfinder
• Sensor Cleaning System Ultra Sonic Vibration
• RAW files
• Full HD video and stereo audio
• Shutter: Focal Plane Shutter
• “Made in Japan” extremely accurate
• Film Simulation Mode Advanced
• Range of optional accessories dedicated

Il y a là des gens qui sont prêts à placer des enchères à plus de 1200€ (certains sont allés au delà de 1500€) pour un appareil photo qui n’est même pas livrable.

Et on parle ici d’un appareil photo qui se vendra moins de 1000€ dès qu’il sera disponible.

Press Release

PHOTOKINA 2010, COLOGNE, GERMANY, September 20, 2010 – FUJIFILM Corporation is pleased to announce the new FinePix X100, a high-grade digital compact camera featuring an APS-C CMOS sensor, a Fujinon 23mm fixed focal length lens and a newly developed Hybrid Viewfinder, due for commercial release in early 2011.

The FinePix X100 is aimed at the professional photographer or keen enthusiast looking for exceptional quality pictures from a compact camera. It is designed to appeal to the millions of DSLR users who need a slim back-up camera for high quality in-fill shots when the use of a bigger SLR system is either inconvenient or impractical. Or, of course, it can be used as a professional’s only top-end camera, if size and versatility are the primary considerations.

Fujifilm has closely studied the current line-up of professional cameras and feels that there is a strong need for a compact high-quality (APS-C based) camera as a counterpoint to an SLR. Using the experience of working with generations of photographers using famous emulsions like Velvia, Provia, Astia etc., Fujifilm engineers distilled this knowledge into months of careful study to create the perfect compact-sized professional camera.

The priority for this model is picture quality, so it was decided to make the highest quality possible lens and sensor combination, built from the ground-up. The lens chosen is a fixed, prime F2 lens, made by Fujinon, manufactured to perfectly match the APS-C custom sensor. Added to this is the newly-developed EXR Processor, which combines all the latest image processing technology Fujifilm has technology built up over the years.

Other cameras on the market look to fill the need for the ultimate ‘compact’ professional camera, but the Fujifilm development team believe that, having listened to the marketplace, the FinePix X100 offers a number of technical developments that will set this camera apart from other contenders. The main technologies employed in this camera are as follows:

Hybrid Viewfinder (New Development)

The Hybrid Viewfinder on the FinePix X100 combines the window-type “bright frame” optical viewfinder found in high-end film cameras such as 35mm or medium-format cameras, and the electronic viewfinder system incorporated in fixed single lens or mirrorless digital cameras. By using integrating a prism for the 1,440,000 dot LCD panel image on the viewing screen in the reverse-Galilean optical finder, the Hybrid Viewfinder can show both the shooting frame and a variety of shooting data. Of course, it can also be used as a high-quality electronic viewfinder to compose or playback shots. With this ability to instantly switch between optical and electronic viewfinder images with simple “one touch” control. The new Hybrid Viewfinder offers users expanded freedom in the composition and enjoyment of photography in a range of challenging shooting conditions.

While digital compact cameras have become ever slimmer and more compact in recent years, composing and viewing shots on large, higher resolution LCD panels on the back of the camera has become the mainstream practice for today’s users. On the other hand, shooting with an optical viewfinder is the standard practice for conventional film cameras and the preferred method for large numbers of digital camera owners. Many prefer the finder to be as close as possible to the eye so the user can focus attention exclusively on photo composition to get a clear view of the subject without distraction.

While traditionalists prefer the clear, sharp view of an ‘optical’ finder, modern electronic displays, giving data like shutter speed, aperture, white balance, exposure correction and sensitivity can aid the photographer tremendously. The new Hybrid Viewfinder on the FinePix X100 aims to give the user the ‘best of both worlds’.

Conceptual diagram

Further specifications for the Hybrid Viewfinder are as follows:

• The reverse Galilean optical finder with a 0.5x magnification features all-glass elements made from high-refractive index glass and demonstrates low chromatic aberration and distortion.
• In optical viewfinder mode, the brightness of both the “bright frame” and text data is automatically adjusted according to the brightness of scene area, ensuring that shooting information is always easily and clearly viewable.
• Displayed shooting data is constantly updated according to changes in shutter speed, exposure, sensitivity and other settings.
• In electronic viewfinder mode, the photographer can preview the picture or playback the result with the “through the sensor” image review. Available with one-touch switching ease, this capability enables the user to preview and confirm exposure settings, depth-of-field effects, white balance, and macro shots.

12.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS Sensor

• The FinePix X100 features a custom CMOS high-performance sensor, internally optimized and developed exclusively for this model.
• Optimization of the angle-of-incidence in conjunction with the specially developed lens maximizes light gathering efficiency extending to the perimeter of the sensor for a sharper image with exceptional clarity.
• When shooting HD movies, the combination of the large-sized sensor and the large aperture F2 lens, lets users shoot a soft out-of-focus touch (bokeh) – a capability not available in conventional compact cameras.
• The ideal combination of a fixed focal length lens, high-sensitivity sensor (approx. 10 times the sensitivity of a conventional compact*1) and a high-performance image processor captures exceptionally high-quality images over the entire sensitivity range from low to high ISO settings.
• The high-speed CMOS sensor read-out and the EXR Processor’s enhanced focusing system contributes to the high-speed AF performance, while the combination of the optical viewfinder and extremely low shutter time lag enhance the pleasure of every shot.

• *1 Comparison with other FinePix compact camera models.

23mm F2 Fujinon (Aspherical) Lens

• The newly-developed lens offers a focal length of 23mm (135 equivalent: 35mm) and a widest aperture of F2. Made from molded glass, the lens contains 8 elements in 6 groups.
• The adoption of the non-collapsible lens structure with minimized lens length not only contributes to the compact size but also eliminates telescoping of the lens when the power is on. It’s ready to start shooting the moment you turn it on.
• Exploiting the merits of fixed focal length lens, this lens delivers sharp resolution of the total image from the center to the corners. In addition, the lens features not only the large F2 aperture value, but also an optical architecture that maintains a high degree of resolution even when closed by 1 to 2 stops.

FinePix X100 Lens Structure

MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) Curve

• The lens uses a 9-blade aperture diaphragm. A large F2 aperture and high-quality optics let users take beautiful photos with a soft out-of-focus (bokeh) effect.
• The lens enables macro shooting as close as 10 cm.
• Featuring a built-in ND filter (equivalent f-stop reduction of 3), the lens can enhance depth-of-field even in bright shooting conditions by enabling the aperture to be kept wide open. Shutter speed can also be reduced to capture waterfalls, or any shot where intentional blur is required.

EXR Processor (Newly Developed)

• When combined with the high-performance lens and high-sensitivity sensor, the newly developed EXR Processor achieves the highest definition, sensitivity and wide dynamic range image quality of any digital camera produced by Fujifilm.
• Throughout development of the processor, Fujifilm has re-examined every aspect from response to the circuit structure, and achieved a significant leap in signal processing performance for a more responsive and faithful reproduction of the image.
• The graphical interface (style and rendering of the LCD information) has been upgraded in the newly developed LSI to enhance the user experience and to improve the clarity of the information presented.

Design

• Inspired by the beauty and form of classic cameras from the past, the FinePix X100 combines all the latest technical digital innovations in a beautiful, traditional chassis which oozes class and prestige.
• The ergonomics of the design offer the perfect balance between compact convenience and user-friendly operation.
• The camera controls have been carefully thought out to give the photographer simple and speedy access to aperture, shutter speed, ISO etc, to allow maximum creative expression with minimum hassle. Custom modes can also be used for a one-touch change in settings.
• The upper control deck/bottom surface has been cast from magnesium alloy (semi-solid metal casting) to contribute to a high-precision camera body with high rigidity.
• All dials on the upper control deck are fabricated from metal. Adoption of traditional ’manual‘ dials lets the user confirm the position of the settings without turning on the power.
• Premium quality is evident in every detail. The chassis has been finished with high-quality leather accents and is a delight to use and a pleasure to hold.

• * Design and specifications may be subject to change without notice.

• Nikon passe son temps à répéter à qui veut l’entendre que 2010 sera une grosse année qui va déménager. Je comprends que cela annonce au moins un nouveau réflex numérique à court terme (ce serait le Nikon D700x, Nikon D700s, ou Nikon D800 selon radio-moquette). Cela semblait confirmé par une bannière sur le site LetsGoDigital. Mais c’est plus simplement un bricolage de graphiste à partir d’informations de presse pour le vieux Nikon D3 (via NR)
• Mais la conférence de presse d’hier ne nous a apporté aucun reflex (Coolpix S8000, Coolpix S6000, Coolpix S4000, Coolpix S3000, Coolpix P100, Coolpix L110, Coolpix L22, Coolpix L21, rien que ça !)
• Les gens se bousculent pour voir arriver le Canon EOS 60D, mais cela reste bien incertain. NL/DPR prédit des fonctionnalités comme : CMOS 18MP, 6.3 i/s, HD 24 et 36 i/s, Digic IV.
• Selon CR, Canon prépare un nouvel appareil réflex EOS dont le nom américain serait Rebel T2i (aucune idée du nom européen peut-être 550D ou 600D), avec vidéo, et écran LCD fixe résolution accrue.
• Enfin, Canon devrait présenter le très pro Canon EOS 1Ds Mk IV
• Samsung devrait étendre sa gamme NX, sans doute en ajoutant des objectifs (il faudra attendre pour un nouveau boîtier NX).
• Olympus et Fuji n’auraient que des appareils compacts.
• Radio Sony Rumeur n’émet plus rien, ce qui ne peut être indicateur que de deux choses : soit ils sont très forts à se protéger contre les fuites à propos du Alpha 750 (pas du tout impossible chez Sony), soit qu’il n’y a rien préparation (j’en serais vraiment surpris).

Alors, attendons encore un peu.

Selon PDN Pulse et un interview de Diane Rainey, Group Manager for Fujifilm’s Corporate Communications, « Fuji is not manufacturing a pro camera for this year […] However, we are continuing to support whatever’s out there right now« .

Ce qui se traduit à peu près par : « Fuji ne fabriquera aucun appareil photo pro cette année […] Mais, nous maintenons le support technique pour tout ce qui est disponible actuellement ».

OK. On ne vous lâchera pas tout de suite, mais ne comptez sur rien cette année…

Merci Frédéric.

Après avoir longuement attendu des nouvelles de la part de Fuji, nous commencions à nous inquiéter de leur avenir sur le marché des appareils réflex numériques. Les annonces de ce jour nous rassurent : Fujitsu et Nikon s’associent dans un partenariat plus étroit autour du développement des firmwares pour appareils photo en créant une joint-venture du nom de « Nikon Imaging Systems Inc. » qui sera exclusivement responsable du développement du firmware pour les appareils photo numériques Nikon.

En toute honnêteté, on pourrait tenir l’une des deux positions suivantes :

1. Fuji va déplacer quelques personnes de leur équipe interne vers une structure commune alors qu’ils n’ont plus besoin de ces ressources qui sont mises à la disposition exclusive de Nikon. [la fin des reflex Fuji à base de Nikon]
2. Fuji veut participer de manière plus intense à la plateforme photo qu’ils achètent à Nikon et leur implication devient de plus en plus visible. [une extension de la coopération Fuji-Nikon]

Même si aucune preuve définitive ne peut être extraite de l’annonce de presse dans l’une ou l’autre direction, je penche pour la seconde option qui me paraît plus réaliste. Fujitsu n’a plus du tout le choix de la technologie à utiliser pour leurs reflex. Alors, ils ont décidé de se plonger plus avant dans la coopération. Éventuellement, Nikon leur a même demandé de payer ainsi la technologie avec une implication technique et une participation financière supplémentaire, dans la cœur technologique de la photo numérique.