My 8-Month Journey with the Fujifilm XT5: A Versatile and Travel-Friendly Powerhouse

Eight months ago, I made the leap from my trusted Fujifilm EX4 to the XT5, and it's been an exciting journey ever since. From the mountains of North Idaho to the rugged Oregon coast, and now the sandy shores of Florida's northeast, this camera has accompanied me through diverse landscapes, each time proving itself as a reliable companion.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Fujifilm XT5 struck me with its nostalgic design—its retro aesthetics often lead people to mistake it for an old film camera. This is one of my favorite features, as it blends modern technology with a classic feel. However, despite its vintage charm, the XT5's build is thoroughly modern. It’s compact, lightweight, and—dare I say—almost too light. At times, the lightweight construction can make it feel a bit cheap, but don’t let that fool you. It’s sturdy and durable, and the reduced weight makes it a joy to travel with, especially on long walks or hikes.

Key Features and Performance

The XT5 is packed with features that make photography not just easier, but also more enjoyable. A few of the standout specs from Fujifilm’s website include:

• 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR Sensor
• 7-stop in-body image stabilization (IBIS)
• 425-point phase detection autofocus (PDAF)
• 6.2K/30P or 4K/60P video capabilities
• 2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF)
• 1.84M-dot 3-way tilting LCD touchscreen

One of the first things I noticed was how crisp and accurate my shots were. The fast autofocus is incredibly responsive, locking onto subjects quickly, even in challenging conditions. Whether I was capturing the towering pines in North Idaho or the crashing waves in Oregon, the autofocus rarely missed a beat. Combined with the bright, clear EVF and LCD screen, I’ve found it much easier to frame shots and adjust settings on the fly.

The Joy of Film Simulations and Recipes

One of the most exciting aspects of Fujifilm cameras is the built-in film simulations. The XT5 takes this a step further with its flexibility and range of built-in recipes, mimicking the feel of classic film stocks. From rich, saturated Velvia to softer, muted tones of Provia and beyond, these simulations add a unique character to every shot. The best part? You can easily find a variety of user-generated recipes online to experiment with different looks.

Travel and Weather Performance

With my EX4, I always had to be extra cautious around water or during inclement weather. But the XT5's weatherproofing has given me newfound confidence. Its weather-sealed body has held up incredibly well against misty mountain mornings, light rain on the Oregon coast, and the salty spray of the Atlantic in Florida. Additionally, the in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is a game changer. Not only does it help keep shots steady in low light or handheld situations, but it also allows me to push my creativity further without worrying about camera shake ruining the shot.

Fujifilm X App: Seamless Connectivity

Another aspect of the XT5 that has impressed me is the seamless connectivity provided by the Fujifilm X app. Transferring JPEGs from the camera to my phone is a breeze, making it simple to share images quickly while on the go. The remote shutter feature has also come in handy, particularly for low-light situations and long exposures. Setting up the shot on a tripod and triggering the camera remotely has become an essential part of my nighttime photography workflow.

The Lenses That Complete the System

Currently, I’m using a combination of the 23mm f1.4, 35mm f1.4, and 50mm f2 lenses, each of which has its own strengths and quirks. I’ll be diving deeper into my experiences with these lenses in future blog posts, but suffice to say, this lineup has proven to be a great match for the XT5. Whether I’m shooting landscapes, street scenes, or portraits, this combination offers versatility and stellar image quality.

Final Thoughts

The Fujifilm XT5 has been a fantastic upgrade for me. While the lightweight build may feel a little less substantial than some might prefer, the performance and ease of use more than make up for it. The system is intuitive, with a user-friendly interface that even beginners will find approachable. Yet, it offers enough customization and control to satisfy seasoned photographers.

I look forward to many more adventures with the XT5, and I’m confident it will continue to deliver exceptional results, whether in the mountains, on the coast, or anywhere in between.