FUJIFILM India has unveiled the “X half” compact digital camera (Model name: FUJIFILM X-HF1), the newest addition to its X Series. This camera draws inspiration from classic half-frame cameras, aiming to offer new creative possibilities and photographic experiences. The company states the X-HF1 leverages FUJIFILM’s color reproduction technology to deliver images from a compact, lightweight body.
Key Takeaways
- The FUJIFILM X-HF1 is a new compact digital camera in the X Series, inspired by half-frame cameras.
- It features a 3:4 aspect ratio rear LCD monitor and optical viewfinder for vertical composition.
- The camera can create “2-in-1” compositions, combining two vertical images or movies in-camera.
- It includes 13 Film Simulations, including “REALA ACE,” and new filters like “Light Leak” and “Halation.”
- A “Film Camera Mode” simulates traditional film photography, requiring users to “develop” images via a dedicated app.
- The X-HF1 weighs 240g and features a 1-inch back-illuminated sensor with a 32mm F2.8 prime lens.
- A new “X half app” allows for viewing, sharing, and printing images, including those from the “Film Camera Mode.”
A Nod to the Past, a Leap into the Future
Mr. Koji Wada, Managing Director of FUJIFILM India, expressed enthusiasm for the new launch, stating the company’s commitment to delivering products that embody their purpose of “Giving Our World More Smiles.” He described the X half as “a celebration of visual storytelling in a format that feels familiar yet forward-looking,” expecting it to “ignite a new wave of photographic curiosity across generations.”
Mr. Arun Babu, Associate Director & Head of Digital Camera, instax & Optical Devices Business, FUJIFILM India, emphasized the camera’s role as a “tool for self-expression.” He highlighted its “intuitive design, iconic film simulations, and playful modes like 2-in-1 compositions and Film Camera Mode,” suggesting these features will encourage users to “slow down, shoot with intention, and enjoy the creative process.” Babu also noted that the X half brings Fujifilm’s color science to a new audience that values both aesthetics and authenticity.
Redefining Composition and Storytelling
The X half introduces a rear LCD monitor optimized for vertical composition, allowing for vertical shooting and movie recording at a 3:4 aspect ratio. A standout feature is the “2-in-1” capability, which enables users to combine two still images or movies into a single composition directly in-camera. This feature aims to provide richer storytelling possibilities than single images alone. This 2-in-1 composition divides a 3:2 screen centrally, placing two 3:4 vertical images or movies side-by-side.
The camera’s optical viewfinder is designed to evoke the feel of film cameras, aiming to recreate and enhance distinctive rendering capabilities. It includes popular “Film Simulation” modes and the “Grain Effect,” which reproduces the unique grain texture of film photos. New filters, such as “Light Leak” and “Halation,” further broaden creative expressions.
Compact Design Meets Classic Appeal
Weighing just 240g (including battery and memory card), the X half boasts a lightweight design. Its compact size and touch controls on the rear LCD are intended for ease of use and portability. The design maintains the quality of the X Series while incorporating elements that evoke classic cameras, such as an aperture ring and a frame advance lever on the top plate. This aims to deliver a tactile response reminiscent of traditional analog photography. The new interface allows users to change shooting settings and film simulations through swiping and flicking gestures on the two rear LCD monitors.
The camera’s optical viewfinder allows users to shoot up to 880 frames on a single charge, promoting extended use without frequent recharging.
The “X half App” and a Return to Film
A new dedicated “X half app” is set to enhance the viewing, sharing, and printing experience. Pairing the camera with Bluetooth mobile devices allows for seamless transfer of still images and movies to smartphones, offering various viewing formats. Users can also send images directly to instax Link series smartphone printers, including instax mini Link2, instax mini Link3, instax SQUARE Link, and instax Link Wide.
A significant addition is the “Film Camera Mode.” This mode simulates the experience of film photography. Users select a film simulation and a specific number of shots at the start, and critically, they cannot review images until all shots are taken. After each shot, users “pull the frame advance lever” on the camera’s top plate to prepare for the next exposure. Once the selected number of shots is complete, image data is transferred to the “X half app” for “digital development,” viewing, editing, and sharing. Contact sheets are also saved after this digital development process. This mode can be canceled at any time by double-tapping the sub LCD monitor, allowing access to captured images up to that point via the app. It is important to note that images taken in Film Camera Mode cannot be printed directly from the X half to an instax™ Link series printer.
The app will also allow users to view still images and movies as if appreciating a gallery or album, directly upload images to social media, and order photo products. Initially, the photo product ordering service will launch in Japan and expand globally.
Core Specifications and Creative Features
The X half features a 1-inch back-illuminated sensor and a 32mm F2.8 (35mm equivalent) prime lens, aiming to provide clear image quality within its compact design. FUJIFILM notes that the focal length is identical to their One-Time-Use camera “QuickSnap,” potentially appealing to “QuickSnap” enthusiasts with a familiar angle of view.
The camera comes equipped with 13 Film Simulations, including “REALA ACE,” which combines faithful color reproduction with dynamic tonal expression. This allows users to select different “photo films” for various subjects and scenes. While comprehensive, the X half does not include PRO Neg. Std, PRO Neg. Hi, ETERNA BLEACH BYPASS, MONOCHROME, or MONOCHROME Ye/R/G film simulations.
Beyond film simulations, the X half incorporates three new filters inspired by film photography: “Light Leak,” “Halation,” and “Expired Film.” Additionally, it includes eight popular filters from the instax series. The “Grain Effect” adds a natural grain to images, mimicking film-like textures, and various film grain textures can be applied to both still images and movies. A new “Date Stamp” function allows users to imprint dates in the bottom right of images and movies, similar to classic film photos.
The ability to create 2-in-1 images that include movies is exclusive to in-camera functionality; the app only supports 2-in-1 compositions with still images. The app does offer simple editing for 2-in-1 images, including changing dividing line colors and sizes or swapping left and right images.
