Celebrating Eight Years of the Fujifilm X70
Eight years ago, the photography world was graced with the release of the Fujifilm X70. This camera, seemingly unassuming in its compact form, has proven to be a powerhouse that holds a special place in the hearts of photographers, myself included.
As we celebrate its eighth anniversary, I'm sharing my experiences and a curated collection of 100 random images I have taken over the years.
I was an early adopter of this camera, and, as you can see below, its been through some battles. However, it still works perfectly well, and I still enjoy using it.
What is the Fujifilm X70?
The Fujifilm X70 is a compact digital camera that was part of Fujifilm's X-series. Known for its high-quality image output and portable design, the X70 is popular among photography enthusiasts who desire a smaller, more travel-friendly option without sacrificing image quality.
Sensor: The X70 features an APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor
Lens: It has a fixed 18.5mm f/2.8 lens (equivalent to 28mm on a 35mm camera). This wide-angle lens suits various photography styles, including street, landscape, and general travel photography.
Image Processor: The camera uses the EXR Processor II, aiding in fast performance and improved image processing.
Design: The X70 boasts a compact, lightweight design, making it highly portable and ideal for everyday carry. It also features classic styling reminiscent of traditional film cameras.
LCD Screen: It has a tilting touchscreen LCD, which helps compose shots at various angles.
Manual Controls and Customization: The camera offers extensive manual controls and customizable buttons, which are highly appreciated by users who prefer more control over their shooting parameters.
Film Simulation Modes: Like other cameras in the X-series, the X70 includes Fujifilm's film simulation modes, which emulate the look of classic Fujifilm film stocks.
Connectivity: It includes Wi-Fi connectivity for easy sharing and remote camera control.
The Fujifilm X70 was well-received for its image quality, usability, and classic design, although it was later discontinued and succeeded by other models in Fujifilm's lineup.
Why I Love the Fujifilm X70
The heart of the X70 lies in its APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, boasting a (now) modest 16.3 megapixels. This sensor, I think, is a marvel in the X70’s compact frame, offering stunning image quality. The fixed 18.5mm (28mm equivalent) F2.8 lens is beautiful, providing the perfect balance for various photography styles, from landscapes to street photography.
What's most striking to me and many other photographers about the X70 is its size. It’s small enough to fit in a pocket yet robust in build and performance. The 3-inch LCD tilt screen is a feature I've grown to love (given that there is no EVF), allowing for creative shooting angles, especially in crowded streets or intimate gatherings.
The manual controls are intuitive (albeit a little crowded), a nod to traditional photography, yet it offers enough customisation to satisfy the modern photographer’s needs.
Why Do Photographers Love the Fujifilm X70?
I've always been drawn to the X70’s portability. It's the perfect companion for a photographer on the move, ensuring no moment goes uncaptured. The image quality is exceptional, given its age and technology; whether I'm shooting under the noon sun or in the subtle light of dusk, the colours and details captured are consistently impressive.
The user experience is another facet where the X70 shines for me. Its controls feel natural, allowing for quick adjustments - a crucial aspect in street or documentary photography. It’s a camera that doesn’t just capture moments; it makes capturing them a joy.
A Note on the Editing of These Photographs
These images have been edited using my latest edition, Advanced Lightroom Profiles & Presets. These versions contain a whole new suite of film-like profiles and presets and an entire library of AI Utilities.
Set 1: Random Photographs Taken on my Fuji X70
The X70 in Different Photography Genres
Street photography is where the X70 truly excels. Its discreet size and fast autofocus allows me to capture life as it unfolds on the streets unobtrusively and authentically. The wide-angle lens is perfect for encapsulating the hustle and bustle of city life in a single frame.
In personal and family photography, the X70 is also excellent - and I still use it. It’s easy to carry around on family outings or trips with friends. The tilt screen often comes in handy for capturing those low or high-angle shots that add a creative twist to everyday moments.
As you know, my primary income comes from Documentary wedding photography, and the X70 is a unique experience when shooting weddings.
Its silent shutter and reasonable low-light performance allow me to document the intimate moments of a wedding without drawing attention. The camera becomes a silent observer, capturing the essence of the day.
Footprint-wise, it’s smaller in width than my mobile phone!
Set 2: Random Photographs Taken on my Fuji X70
Will we ever see a Fujifilm X80?
I wrote about a potential Fujifilm X80 before and created a video, which I have included below. It’s long been established that the X70 didn’t sell well upon release. However, over time, I believe it has become an iconic camera and a much-loved one for Street Photographers.
Imagine an X70-style camera with an X-Trans V sensor. I can’t imagine them being able to squeeze all the other technology we routinely see now in the likes of the X-T5 and X-H2.
Still, I think it would be a dream camera: more dynamic range, slightly more tuned lens, better low light performance and autofocus, and new film simulations. It’s a sobering thought, and I believe, given the sales levels of the likes of the Ricoh GR ranges, it would fly off the shelf. Maybe Tokyo “will consider”.
We can only dream…..
Set 3: Random Photographs Taken on my Fuji X70
