QUICK NOTE
Since Nov. 2017, I have had the opportunity to use Fujifilm's X100f extensively for event photography and photojournalism in a wide variety of settings, from 12 PM daylight to dimly lit venues. Ultimately, the X100f isn't a top tier camera, such as the X-T3, Sony's A7 Series, or Canon/Nikon long standing professional line ups, but the quirks and perks of the X100f comes with sentimental value.
Here is a full list of the X100f's specs from Fujifilm's website: https://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x100f/specifications/
'The Magnificent'
If you want to talk gear and technology, right of the bat, the X100f won't be able to compete, but the purpose of the camera isn't meant to be a dominate work-horse that you take on 100% of your shoots, though, it's 24 megapixel X-trans sensor is still powerful enough for decent amount of cropping and prints.
The 'soul' of the camera is it's tactfulness and quirks. The dials, nobs, and buttons feel spectacular in the hands. When you switch shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, it is very deliberate on the user's end. The camera slows your pace down, which is one of it's many strengths.
Many forget that photography is a form of art, "the study of light". The X100f is special in a way that it brings back the thought process of film photography within the world of digital photography. There's no true "auto" mode, rather you have to place the three exposure factors into "auto" for the camera to do its thing. This process of deliberately controlling shutter, speed, aperture, and ISO has built up my ability as a photographer to really take advantage of the technology being developed and introduced.
Putting Yourself Out There
When you bring out the X100f, you lock yourself with a fixed focal length of 23mm, and equivalent of 35mm in Full Frame terms. This message has been shared over and over for all fixed focal lengths, you learn to zoom with your feet. You adjust your composition by thinking where you need to be, rather than relying on zooming in and out.
The part for me that puts the X100f apart from simply using a prime lens on any ILC (interchangeable lens camera), is that it's fixed to the body. As the only tool, you are forced to learn how to shoot with it and make it work for you.
For street photography, you're stealth. For event photography, you're stealth. For any situation with the X100f, unless with other photographers who know of it's reputation, you are in stealth mode. This gives you the option to continue being in a stealth position when shooting or forces you to engage with the audience your capturing. Plus, the X100f is a great talking point!
Who's this for?
Primary target: Street Photographers
But honestly, this is for everyone wanting to further understand the technicalities and art of photography. It gives you a puzzle to solve with the end game of boundless rewards.
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