The new Fujifilm flagship - The X-T3 revolutionizes video recording

All readers who have already read the last Fujifilm article know that I myself have a Fujifilm X-T20. As a video creator, the new X-T3 gives me so many new features that I would never have dreamed of. If you're interested in the Fujifilm system in general, then be sure to check out my review of the X-T20, where I explain why I switched to Fujifilm. The X-T3 has accompanied me on several video projects over the last few weeks and in this article I would like to introduce you to the Fujifilm X-T3 and share my experiences with you. The highlights of the entire Fujifilm X system have already been described in detail in the last article. In this article I will therefore only go into the major innovations of the X-T3 The article will also include some test images of the Fujifilm X-T3. A big thank you for this goes to Carsten Schr?der! Thank you very much for allowing us to show the photos in this article. The pictures were taken during his last trip to Mainz. The black and white series shows a synagogue. "What particularly strikes me about the X-T3 is the top quality at high ISO values. Up to ISO10000/12800 there is still a lot of detail and sharpness and the eye sensor/autofocus, which has been really good so far," he tells us.

The autofocus:

For me, the autofocus in video mode is of great importance, as I have to take care of the focus myself for low budget video productions. There are two options. Manual focus or a perfectly working autofocus. I have the Fujifilm X-T3 with the XF 23mm F2.0 on a gimbal and only used the autofocus. I was already satisfied with the AF of the Fujifilm X-T20, but the X-T3 goes one better. In terms of speed, precision and user-friendliness. The new phase autofocus is convincing both in poorly exposed situations and with fast movements. I didn't have to worry about focusing my video. That's what I want! The autofocus has also accelerated in photo mode and the X-T3 is now particularly easy to use with the new XF 200mm Lens: a perfect companion for sports and wildlife photographers.

The video functions

What I find particularly exciting is the performance of the Fujifilm X-T3 when filming. I think it's great how the market has developed here in recent years. The compact X-T3 system camera takes video recording to the next level. This is where speed comes into play again. My favorite feature: you can now record 60 frames per second at 4K internally on an SD card. But beware: this results in a small crop of 1.18 - this is hardly noticeable! Up to 400 Mbit/s can now also be recorded on the SD card with a color depth of 10 bits. The F-Log color profile from Fujifilm is also on board. These functions give you more options for post-processing. Nevertheless, you should try to expose your subject in the best possible way when shooting, as this will save you a lot of time and energy in post-production. The ETERNA color profile is available for all filmmakers who find complex color post-processing too time-consuming. With this profile, you can easily achieve a balanced film look. I personally also used the ETERNA film simulation for the film projects. The second camera was the X-T20 - in the "Natural" color profile. I could clearly see the difference in post-production and in the final video I almost exclusively used the shots from the X-T3, simply because I liked the ETERNA colors much better.

The exterior:

Like all cameras in the X series, the X-T3 brings with it a very chic and simple retro design. The dials on the top for ISO, shutter speed and exposure compensation not only look good, they also speed up the workflow when taking photos or filming. The camera is available in two color variants. Silver & Black. The Fujifilm X-T3 is very comfortable to hold for its compact size - for me this is less exciting when filming, as the camera is either mounted on a tripod or another camera system.

The lens system:

I personally like to use the 23mm F2.0 fixed focal length which is roughly equivalent to a 35mm lens on full frame. The 23mm, as well as other lenses, is also available in an older version with a larger aperture (1.4). Fujifilm often gives you the option of choosing between two lenses of a similar focal length. My favorite is the newer lens series - consisting of 23mm/35mm/50mm - with an aperture of 2.0. In addition, the lenses are more compact, lighter, weather-sealed and the autofocus is faster. The X bayonet is compatible with many other high-quality Fujinon XF lenses, covering all common focal length ranges.

Speed in photo mode:

The new processor is not only noticeable in video mode. The X-T3 can take 11 pictures per second in continuous shooting mode with a mechanical shutter. If the electronic shutter release is activated, 20 frames/s are possible. It is even faster with a slight crop of 1.25. 30 pictures per second can then be taken. The Fujifilm X-T3 is therefore also perfect for sports and wildlife photographers.

Fujifilm X-T3 - nice to know

Finally, I would like to list a few functions that I was impressed by.

Connections

As a filmmaker, I often need access to the connections on the left-hand side. Here you'll find the microphone input, headphone output, HDMI output and USB-C socket. Yes, that's right - USB-C! You can use it to charge the camera - this connectivity is particularly practical for all MacBook users. The cover for the connections on the Fujifilm X-T3 is removable. I think that's great, so the flap isn't always in the way.

Storage medium

The memory card slots are currently a hotly debated topic. The X-T3 comes with two SD card slots, so you can play it safe.

Viewfinder & display

The viewfinder of the X-T3 reaches a new level and in my opinion is more pleasant than the viewfinder of Sony & Co. The performance of the new processor brings a higher refresh rate and the image in the viewfinder looks very smooth. Try it out for yourself - you'll be surprised. As with the X-T2, the display can be folded up and down and to the side. Unfortunately, it can't be folded down completely, which many bloggers would have missed.

Pre-recording

The new flagship of the X series has a built-in function called "pre-recording". The camera takes photos before you press the shutter button. So you'll never miss a moment again.

Weather protection

Compared to my X-T20, the X-T3 is also splash-proof and dust-proof, as well as cold-resistant down to minus 10 degrees. The body is made of magnesium and makes a solid impression.

My conclusion

Although I didn't notice the X-T3 at all at first, I'm very impressed with the performance it showed in the test. The Fujifilm X-T3 really got lost among the many new products at Photokina, because it looks very similar to the X-T2. Shortly before my practical test, I read through the technical data again and was surprised, because I wouldn't have expected 4K 60p! In practice, it turned out that the function has changed the way I film. I didn't use 4K before because I preferred to film in 60 frames to have the option of slow motion later. Now I can do both. High resolution + slow motion. A common objection is that many monitors can't play 4K, but I say you can see the difference even if you export the video in FHD. I really like the sharpness and if the video ends up on a larger screen, then the quality is also taken care of. Low light is also great - I could hardly detect any noise! The high data rate, 10-bit color depth and the ETERNA profile give me more room for maneuver in post-production. In short: I can warmly recommend the X-T3 to any filmmaker who can cope with the APS-C sensor. The Fujifilm system offers even more video-specific cameras (X-H1 - with sensor stabilization) and lenses. Photographers will love the camera no less, as long as they can do without massive handling. You can find a hands on of the X-H1 here: Fujifilm X-H1 Hands On Finally, I advise you to take the camera into your own hands and, if possible, test it extensively, because in the end the X-T3 - like every camera - has to suit you and your workflow. I look forward to your visit to our D?sseldorf branch.

Order the Fujifilm X-T3 in the Foto Koch online store now: