Let’s be blunt about this: the standard suspects on the prime of the imaging market appear to have all however given up on APS-C. Nikon has drip-fed some APS-C choices however is clearly hedging its bets on its full-frame Z-series. Sony? They’re solely centered on the full-frame area, with not a whiff of a brand new APS-C mannequin for the reason that A6600.
Canon, although, is starting to get up to the potential of the APS-C format in its mirrorless EOS R line, with the likes of the EOS R7, EOS R10 and EOS R100. However let’s face it – they’re enjoying catch-up. All of those giants, it appears, have been so mesmerised by the full-frame format that they’ve both deserted or simply flippantly flirted with APS-C.
After which there’s Fujifilm. Whereas the opposite large hitters are off chasing the full-frame dream, Fujifilm has been quietly – and well – carving a distinct segment, refining and redefining the probabilities of the APS-C format. This isn’t some late-stage pivot, however a sustained and constant focus that has now spanned years.
Within the palms of Fujifilm, APS-C isn’t simply alive and effectively; it’s thriving. Fujifilm’s lineup boasts cameras to go well with just about each kind of images you would possibly be into. Road images? The X100 sequence has you lined. Searching for versatility? You may’t go mistaken with the X-T sequence.
The current 8K-capable Fujifilm X-H2 and X-H2S fashions have even damaged new floor for the APS-C format for superior videography. It’s a transparent message to any doubters: Fujifilm isn’t simply main the APS-C race – they’re the one ones really working it.
Now, let’s additionally speak design. Fujifilm’s cameras are a visible deal with. They’re a heartwarming nod to the golden period of movie images, a retro-styled marriage of favor and substance. These are cameras that don’t simply produce lovely pictures; they’re lovely objects in their very own proper.
And it’s not all nearly appears – Fujifilm’s construct high quality is second to none. We’ve all put their cameras by way of their paces, and they simply carry on delivering, session after session, shoot after shoot. They’re workhorses that appear like present ponies – a uncommon feat in our trade.
In brief, whereas different producers chase tendencies, Fujifilm has been creating them within the APS-C world. Their unwavering dedication is a testomony to the flexibility, worth and viability of the APS-C format. It’s a courageous and resolute technique, and one which’s paid off handsomely.
In Fujifilm’s palms, APS-C isn’t only a format; it’s an artwork kind. And that’s the reason they’re the undisputed kings of the APS-C realm. The others would possibly be enjoying the sport, but it surely’s Fujifilm that’s setting the foundations.
However, after all, we will’t disregard the competitors. Canon, although a late bloomer within the mirrorless APS-C recreation, is exhibiting large potential. Their choices with the EOS R7 and EOS R10 counsel an earnest dedication to develop their APS-C choices. And let’s not neglect, that is Canon we’re speaking about: they’ve the monetary energy, R&D prowess and a monitor file of modern expertise cascading down from their skilled EOS R system and Cinema EOS fashions.
Whereas Fujifilm presently wears the APS-C crown, the problem from Canon isn’t one to be dismissed flippantly. Trying forward, we will anticipate a vigorous competitors that can solely serve to push APS-C expertise to new heights, which is a superb factor for images. Ultimately, competitors fuels innovation and advantages us, the end-users.
There’s an elephant within the room, nevertheless, once we speak about Canon and Nikon’s foray into mirrorless APS-C: their obvious scarcity of devoted APS-C format lenses. Each have begun to construct out their APS-C camera choices, however their lens choices for the format are, frankly, paltry.
Photographers know {that a} camera is simply nearly as good because the glass you set in entrance of it, and that is the place Fujifilm as soon as once more excels. The corporate presents a variety of high-quality lenses particularly designed for its APS-C cameras. In the meantime, Canon and Nikon customers are sometimes left adapting full-frame lenses, which might negate the dimensions and weight benefits of utilizing an APS-C physique within the first place.
Ultimately, it’s about extra than simply releasing a camera – it’s about offering a whole, thoughtfully thought of system to again it up. And up to now, it’s clear that Fujifilm stays the one producer really dedicated to constructing out not simply an APS-C camera line, however a full APS-C ecosystem. Canon and Nikon, it’s your transfer.
