Fujifilm Studio walk through and Q&A by a friend of the blog
1. Why X-Pro2 is not 4k-capable despite allegedly having the same CMOS in X-T2?
– Theocratically that’s possible, but due to additional heat build-up with processing 4k video files, and that 4k was not considered during X-Pro2’s design stages, 4k capability is only implemented in X-T2 citing better heat dissipation within the body design2. Why X-T2’s mechanical capabilities must be realized via the VPB-XT2 booster? How does that work?
– Implementing VPB-XT2 booster also increases system voltage as well, thus increasing the X-T2’s speed performance and heat dissipation capacity, as well as 4k video recording limit from default 10mins to up to 30mins3. Why a “thicker” body profile as compared to X-T1?
– Three main reasons:
a. The heat build-up from 4k video, a thicker body provides more space for effective heatsinking;
b. Addition of side-tilt monitor mechanism which again thickens body profile a bit;
c. Due to addition of big zoom XF lenses in the range, in order for better body/lens balance the the handgrip and overall weight have been revised4. Why not consider free-moving tilt monitor mechanism (as in Pentax K-1)?
– This has been considered but from pro photogs’ feedback, most want the monitor to be “balanced” (read: “in line with”, probably typo) with the lens for convenient image composition, and hence the addition of side-tilt mechanism only5. The new 23mm f/2 has WR design, so any plans on updating the rest of the lens lineup with WR?
– Our priority is to diversify the Fujinon lens range so as to make it more complete, then we’ll gradually update the lenses6. Any plans on producing video-oriented lens and accessories?
– Fujinon lenses have already been applied in the pro broadcasting sectors, but those are of professional (hardware) variants which means huge sizes and sky-high prices. With 4k video making way into the consumer sectors, having consumer-grade 4k lenses is a high probability7. What’s the X-T2’s target base? How to attract more users from that segment?
– Th X-T2 aims at not only existing Fujifilm customers but also other high-amateur APS-C users. We have faith in out products and believe good user experience will definitely attract more customers. We want more folks to try out the X-T2, so we’ve provided more demo units in various locations so as to take advantage of X-T2’s charm8. What’s Fuji’s future plans? Any “secret arsenal” in development, such as 35mm fullframe and med-format?
– Right now we’re still concentrating in APS-C, as, from a technological perspective APS-C yields balance between image quality and (hardware) portability.. X-T2 won’t be our last camera and we’ll look into possibilities with other camera (sensor) formats.