It’s easy to laugh at the idea of a selfie camera, but Fujifilm are expecting plenty of smiles from users of their new X-A3.
This is an interchangeable X-mount camera that has upgraded to a 24.2MP APS-C sensor from the previous 16MP Fujifilm APS-C version, providing a considerable boost in resolution.
However, potential buyers of the X-T2 and current owners of the X-Pro 2 need not despair; this is primarily intended to be for casual shooters interested in selfies, and many key features from the flagship models weren’t deemed necessary for the X-A3.
For example, the X-A3 uses a traditional Bayer color filter rather than the X-Trans one used in the flagship models, and it also lacks on-sensor phase detection. There’s no OVF, 4K, or the ACROS film simulation, but photographers who want those features can still opt for the more expensive Fuji flagships.
There’s a capable autofocus system with 49 points in single AF mode, and 77 points in the wide/tracking modes. The X-A3 also automatically switches on Eye Detection AF when the LCD monitor is swiveled upwards for selfies. The 3.0” LCD on this can flip 180°, and users can take photos by using the back dial.
Every ergonomic feature of this camera is geared towards selfie takers, so it’s a little strange that the X-A3 has RAW, even though naturally we can see why it has WiFi. Fuji likely just wanted to give consumers some extra incentive towards upgrading, and hence threw in some bonus features.
Regardless of its unashamedly brash targeting of a rather vain demographic, the X-A3 isn’t super expensive, costing just US$599.99 along with a XC 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS II kit lens upon release in October. It will be available in Silver, Brown, and Pink.
Fujinon XR 23mm f/2.0 R WR
Fujifilm will also be releasing a XR 23mm f/2.0 R WR, which will go on sale in September for US$449.95 and serve as a slightly cheaper alternative to the existing XF 23mm f/1.4 R, which is available for US$650.
The XR 23mm f/2.0 R WR is a 35mm equivalent prime that is weather-resistant, and should work perfectly with the X-Pro 2 and X-T2. In fact, it has a stepping motor that Fujifilm claims will provide focusing speeds as fast as 0.05 seconds when used with the phase detection AF systems on those two flagship models.
It’s built with a metal housing, and will provide both water and dust resistance; it should also work in temperatures as low as 14°F /-10°C.
The existing XF 23mm f/1.4 R is extremely sharp and well-regarded, and Fujifilm’s latest 23mm features 10 elements in 6 groups with a 9 bladed aperture. It is much smaller and lighter at just 180g, and should be a great option for X-mount users on the go.
