Fujifilm adds to X Series

Fujifilm announces new camera and ultra wide-angle lens aimed at on-the-go photographers

Yesterday, Fujifilm announced the new X-S20, a compact mirrorless camera with twice the battery life of its predecessor, the X-S10. With a 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS sensor and 6.2K/30p video capability, the X-S20 is suited to professional photographers, vloggers and everyone in between.

If that weren’t enough, Fujifilm is also releasing the XF8mmF3.5 R WR lens, the X Series’ widest prime to date. The lens boasts an ultra-wide focal length of 8mm (12mm equivalent in 35mm format) that can capture a field of view that’s twice that of the human visual system.

The camera includes some familiar X Series features, like the X-Trans CMOS 4 back-illuminated sensor, along with AI-based subject detection and in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), both powered by the impressive X-Processor 5 engine.

Its advanced AF uses AI to detect and track humans, animals, vehicles and other moving objects, including drones, while the five-axis IBIS mechanism offers up to a 7.0-stop advantage. Both work in tandem to encourage handheld shooting, especially in low light environments.

The X-S20 also includes a new ‘Vlog Mode’, available on the dial and aided by the vari-angle monitor; more dedicated vloggers can attach a tripod grip and a microphone via the 3.5mm jack, too. The camera can record in RAW at 30fps, when combined with an ATOMOS HDMI device or Blackmagic Design’s Video Assist 12G.

Thanks to its lightweight, 491g build and large hand grip, the X-S20 should be comfortable during all-day use. It accepts a high-capacity battery that can produce approximately 750 frames per full charge – twice that of previous models. 

The new lens is also compact, measuring 52.8mm long, weighing 215g, and weather-sealed for reliable use in various conditions. It supports 62mm filters, aiding landscape photography and long exposures. It features a 121-degree diagonal viewing angle with 12 elements in nine groups including three aspherical and two ED lenses to control distortion and spherical aberration.

Today, Fujifilm released its free XApp, which enables wireless connectivity with up-to-date X Series and GFX System digital cameras. The app features live view, remote control and easy image transfer. Compared to Camera Remote, the XApp also promises smoother, more stable communications.

XApp’s user interface includes “Timeline”, “Activity” and “Backup/Restore”. “Timeline” presents photos in a diary format, while “Activity” displays image information like camera model, shooting location and more. The “Backup/Restore” function allows users to change and save camera settings, as well as configure a multi-cam setup.

The X-S20 costs £1249 (body only), while the XF8mmF3.5 R WR comes in at £799. Both camera and lens will be released in late June 2023. Learn more at the Fujifilm website.