Fujifilm X100VI Revisit: Why this Compact Camera Inspires More Shooting and Delivers Outstanding Value
Summary:
After initially not connecting with the Fujifilm X100VI, the creator revisits it and now considers it an exceptional camera, influencing him to shoot more often. Key points include:
- The X100VI boasts an APS-C sensor, 40-megapixel resolution, and a high-quality fixed pancake lens, offering impressive image quality for daylight photography.
- A standout feature is its hybrid viewfinder, seamlessly switching between optical (OVF) and electronic (EVF) modes, which is praised for its practicality and design.
- Despite having technically superior cameras, the X100VI's enjoyable user experience makes it his preferred choice for going out and capturing photos.
- He uses Fujifilm's film simulation recipes for on-camera previews to visualize the final look, even when shooting RAW for post-processing.
- He notes that while its build quality might not feel as "premium" as a Leica, the camera's performance and output exceed its perceived value, suggesting it's "too cheap."
- The only minor ergonomic gripe is the easily activated on/off switch.
- Ultimately, the camera's ability to foster a love for photography and encourage active shooting is highlighted as its most valuable attribute.
Introduction [0:00]
- The video begins with a montage of scenic photographs, showcasing various landscapes and townscapes.
Personal Google Alerts and Camera Anticipation [1:01]
- The creator shares a personal anecdote about setting up Google Alerts for his name, which proved uneventful. [1:06]
- His second Google Alert was for the rumored Fujifilm X-Pro4, which he set up on December 23, 2022. [1:37]
- He notes that after almost four years, the X-Pro4 remains unreleased, leading to anticipation for its eventual quality. [1:54]
Re-evaluating the Fujifilm X100VI [2:10]
- After some time, the creator decided to revisit the Fujifilm X100VI, a camera he had previously used and didn't initially "gel" with, even creating a "mediocre" video about it. [2:10]
- He mentions that in the past year, he has been primarily shooting with the Fujifilm GFX 100S II, which he enjoyed. [2:28]
- The X100VI series has gained significant popularity on TikTok, driving up its market price, even for used models. [2:43]
- He paid close to retail for a used X100VI, reasoning he could resell it without loss if he didn't like it. [2:53]
- However, he now genuinely loves the camera on his second attempt and has no intention of selling it. [3:03]
Shooting Experience in Cornwall [3:40]
- The creator took the X100VI on a family trip to Cornwall, despite being explicitly told it wasn't a "photography trip." [3:40]
- He notes he had some time to take photos and also enjoy croissants. [4:08]
Image Quality Discussion [4:17]
- He expresses that in 2026, general image quality in modern cameras is excellent, especially in daylight, which is when he primarily shoots. [4:25]
- The Fujifilm X100VI features:
- He states that if desired results are not achieved, it's rarely the camera's fault, a point he frequently reminds himself of. [4:58]
Fujifilm Recipes and Post-Processing [5:07]
- He addresses questions about using Fujifilm film simulation "recipes" for JPEGs. [5:11]
- He primarily shoots RAW files because he finds significant joy and creative opportunity in the editing process, making the photos "his." [5:20]
- However, he utilizes Fujifilm recipes for previews on the camera's EVF and LCD screen. [5:40]
- This helps him get a more vibrant and less "dull" preview of what he's captured, motivating him for post-processing. [6:04]
The Hybrid Viewfinder: A "Genius" Feature [6:55]
- The creator highlights the hybrid viewfinder (OVF/EVF) as a truly "genius" and "phenomenal" feature of the X100VI. [6:55]
- Compared to traditional rangefinders like a Leica M, which offer an optical viewfinder with frame lines, the X100VI allows switching between: [7:09]
- This flexibility in viewing options enhances the shooting experience. [7:54]
Video Capabilities [8:05]
- The X100VI offers good video specifications. [8:05]
- The creator personally doesn't use it extensively for video, having shifted his video production to his phone (iPhone 15 Pro Max) and a DJI Pocket 3. [8:26]
- He points to another creator, Aeron, who produces excellent video content using the X100VI. [8:13]
Negatives and Ergonomics [9:05]
- Retro Aesthetic: He feels the camera tries "a little bit too hard" to look retro, wishing it had a slightly more modern appearance. [9:10]
- Accidental Power-on: The on/off switch, which surrounds the shutter button, is slightly "proud" of the body, causing the camera to accidentally turn on and take multiple photos when stored in his pocket. [9:25]
- This issue is exacerbated by having a soft shutter release attached. [9:51]
The "Hot Take": Fujifilm Cameras Are "Too Cheap" [10:00]
- The creator's primary argument is that Fujifilm cameras, including the X100VI and the GFX series, are undervalued. [11:10]
- He identifies himself as an enthusiastic photographer, finding joy in both the professional and hobby aspects of photography. [10:09]
- He notes that some photographers avoid Fujifilm because they perceive its build quality as inferior, leading to a misconception about image quality. [11:24]
- He contrasts the X100VI (around $1600) with a Leica Q3 (around $6000) or Leica M11-P (around $9000). [12:03]
- You could buy nearly four X100VIs for the price of one Leica Q3, and nearly six for one Leica M11-P. [12:12]
- This price difference often leads to a perception that Leica products are inherently superior in quality, including image quality, simply because they "feel" more premium due to their higher price and robust build materials (like titanium). [12:21]
- He argues that Fujifilm's relatively lower pricing and less robust-feeling materials, while offering excellent actual performance, create a "perception problem" that undervalues their capabilities. [12:38]
- He suggests that if Fujifilm offered a more premium-feeling (e.g., titanium body, more robust dials) and more expensive version, he would gladly purchase it, as he believes the camera's output deserves a more premium feel. [13:20]
- He concludes that for him, the "fun" factor of a camera is paramount, as it directly translates to how much he enjoys and engages with photography. [14:51]
- He illustrates this by choosing the X100VI over his technically superior Sony A1 Mark II for casual shooting because the Fuji is simply more enjoyable to use. [14:28]
Conclusion [14:59]
- The creator reiterates that the Fujifilm X100VI is a fantastic camera, regardless of any current online hype, confirming his positive experience. [15:09]