Fujifilm Unveils X Half: A Digital Compact Camera with a Vintage Twist
Fujifilm is set to release a new addition to its X-series cameras, the X Half, a pint-sized digital compact camera with a fixed lens and an analog-inspired design. According to The Verge, the camera will be available in late June with a price tag of $849.99.
The X Half boasts an 18-megapixel sensor with a portrait-oriented design and a fixed 32mm-equivalent f/2.8 lens. As reported by The Verge, the camera’s focus on vintage film aesthetic is evident in its design, with a secondary screen dedicated to selecting one of 13 film simulations. The camera only shoots JPGs, not RAW photos, which is meant to provide a more straightforward, what-you-see-is-what-you-get experience.
Fujifilm’s definition of a "half-frame" camera differs from the traditional understanding of the term. Unlike the Pentax 17, which captures images measuring 18mm x 24mm, the X Half uses a 1-inch-type sensor measuring 8.8mm x 13.3mm, which is roughly half the dimensions of the APS-C sensors found in other Fujifilm cameras, such as the X100VI and X-T5. As The Verge notes, this technicality allows Fujifilm to claim the X Half as a half-frame camera.
The X Half is designed for casual, fun snapshots and everyday carry. Weighing just 8.5 ounces / 240 grams, the camera is small enough to fit in most small bags or oversized pockets. According to The Verge, the camera features a proper glass autofocusing lens with aspherical corrections, and it can even shoot basic 1080 x 1440 video. However, the lens has been described as having "some character," implying that it may not be the sharpest.
The X Half features a traditional optical viewfinder and a portrait-orientation 2.4-inch touchscreen. Once you’ve taken some shots, you can connect to a dedicated smartphone app (launching slightly after the camera) for extra functions. As reported by The Verge, the app allows you to create your own two-up diptychs, similar to a traditional half-frame camera. You can also opt for two videos or one picture and one video.
The X Half app also features analog-inspired functions, such as a Film Camera Mode that collects your next 36, 54, or 72 images and arranges them into a contact sheet. As noted by The Verge, the digital film strip will be branded with the film simulation you used. There’s even a faux film advance lever for making diptychs, and in Film Camera Mode, it forces you to use it between taking each shot.
In an effort to enhance the film experience, the X Half app allows you to add filters, such as a light leak effect, expired film look, or a ’90s-era time and date stamp to the corner of your images. However, since the camera only shoots JPGs, your chosen filter and film simulation are fully baked into the file, and you can’t undo or change them later in post-processing.
Fujifilm’s approach with the X Half is certainly unique, targeting younger photo enthusiasts who have been drawn to the imperfections and aesthetic of vintage film and aging point-and-shoot digital cameras. As The Verge notes, it remains to be seen how many will be willing to spend $850 on the camera compared to alternatives that cost a fraction of that. Nevertheless, the X Half promises to provide a fun and creative experience for those who appreciate its analog-inspired design.
The Verge provided the following statement from Justin Stailey of Fujifilm North America: "The lens has some character." This statement gives a deeper insight into what users can expect from the camera.
By providing a unique blend of digital technology and analog-inspired design, Fujifilm is hoping to capture a niche market with the X Half. As reported by The Verge, the camera is set to be released in late June, and it will be interesting to see how it is received by photography enthusiasts.
