Thursday, January 14, 2016

Fujifilm X70: Ricoh GR Destroyer?



I love my Ricoh GR. I bought the original GR-1 back in 1998 for my honeymoon and I've never looked back. It was so good I started using it for some commercial and wedding work. I currently own the GR Limited Edition and it is my EDC (Every Day Carry). It is also so good that I can still use it for some of my commercial work. No other camera has come even close to replacing it, except for maybe the Fujifilm X100T. However, due to the size of the X100T, I always stuck with my Ricoh GR. This is because as my EDC, it has to be small enough for me to carry with me when I go out for dinner, to a concert, to a wedding (without looking like I'm trying to take over), or even going incognito for some serious street photography. No camera has come close... until now. Can the Fujifilm X70 topple the king of the compact APS-C sensored camera? Let's find out



The first question to ask is, who is this camera for? It's for anyone who has ever thought of buying the Ricoh GR. It's a quirky camera and it appeals to a very small portion of the market. No zoom, no image stabilization, no fancy bells and whistles. This is why the GR has been around for almost 20 years. It's simple yet powerful. When reviewing the new Fujifilm X70, it appears as if Fuji was targeting the Ricoh GR because so many of their features are similar. Here is a list of familiar features of both cameras:


  • compact point and shoot camera with large APS-C sensors
  • no built in EVF and only optional hotshoe optical viewfinder
  • fixed focal length lenses with no image stabilization
  • 28mm equivalent focal length at f/2.8 with a 7 element in 5 group design (with 2 aspherical elements) with 9 blade aperture ring
  • same f/2.8-f/16 aperture range and same 10cm close focus ability
  • similar mechanical leaf-shutter with maximum 1/4000th sec speed (electronic goes higher)
  • right hand operation with high customization of button layout and quick controls
  • flash hotshoe and built-in flash

You can see some of the key elements that make these two cameras very similar and why someone who is currently looking at the Ricoh GR would considering buying the new Fujifilm X70. Here are some key differences between these two, most of them siding the advantage to the Fujifilm. The X70 has these features that the Ricoh GR does not have:
  • LCD with touch screen for focus point selection, focus and shoot, and image viewing
  • articulating LCD screen with full 180 degree selfie mode
  • actual aperture and focus ring surrounding the lens, dedicated shutter speed dial
  • fully customizable 4-way rear controller
  • full strap lugs instead of the small point-and-shoot strap connector loop
  • microphone input (2.5mm) and full 1080P 60fps video (but only 14 min recording time)






These are just features, but there's more to the new X70 that will make this a possible classic, especially for those who already own a Fujifilm camera. Since it is using the exact same sensor and processor that is currently in the X-T1, X-T10, X-T10 and X100T, you can expect the same performance from the X70. This means superior jpegs compared to the Ricoh GR, better high ISO performance, faster and better control autofocus, precise manual focus control with focus peaking, zoom in, proper focus scale in both AF and MF mode. 

Like my review of the new X-Pro 2, the X70 is only a pre-production model and I could not test every feature, nor was I certain about the overall performance. What I did test was very promising. Please watch my latest YouTube video where I compare the new Fujifilm X70 with the Ricoh GR and other Fujifilm cameras. Also check out my alternate article with images on FujiLove Magazine. Thanks for visiting and happy shooting:










78 comments:

  1. The strap mount of the new Fuji would be more of a downside to me for a camera that should be pocketable like the GR. They at least look like you'll feel them in the pocket.

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    1. yes and also the GR lens has a built in cover so it is definitely more compact than the X70.

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  2. edit: Is there any information about the weight?

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    1. Founds the answer.
      Fuji: 44mm depth and 340g with battery
      Ricoh: 34mm depth and 250g with battery

      I think for someone who wants a pocket able camera that's still quite a difference. This is definitely an interesting camera, but I think the GR has still it's benefits when someone wants an all day camera for the pocket or uses it as a second camera.

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    2. according to my test (check out my YouTube video on X70https://youtu.be/m3PJJGJdtvs) there's a 100g difference in weight, which you can feel immediately. For its size, the X70 is quite heavy.

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    3. GR seems more pocketable until you realize it collects dust in its sensor while in your jeans' pocket.. and I found the banding issue in some JPG outdoor pics although some said it's got to do with the lens/vignet correction. Anyway i sold the GR since i think it is not that versatile for taking people pics, day and night. My Fuji x100T does that beautifully with its fill-in flash metering. It is not as sharp as the GR, though. Hopefully x70 will share the same character of its bigger brother in this metering regard. Looks like x70 lens is a tad sharper than x100T from the online pics. Thanks for the video review, BHT.

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  3. Hi! Great first contact!
    Does X70 has OLPF? GR doesn`t, right?

    Regards! Nice work!

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    1. Neither the GR nor the X70 have an optical low-pass filter. The Fujifilm doesn't need it because it does not use the Bayer RGB colour pixel layout that causes moiré and false colours. the GR does use a Bayer layout sensor so there are times where you can see the moiré if you're not careful. You can remove it in-camera or in post processing.

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  4. The only downside for me would be the price: $799 is a little too much for this camera but hey, this is Fuji and the price for premium cameras!

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    1. it is kind of pricey yes. For cheaper you can get a Sony A series with an APS-C sensor as well, but you tend to pay a bit more for all-in-one compacts.

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  5. Cool cool, i was actually thinking to update my x100 to GR, as i am tempted by its size, but the jpegs from Fuji are just so tasty. Hopefully they will support the tele-converter and wide-converter. And... man... I do understand that most people buying into Fuji don't really care about video, but its so behind on that... I mean... Dare I even talk about GH4?...

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    1. Because of Fujifilm's non-Bayer sensor layout, video performance is tricky at best. It has serious colour moiré issues as many reviewers have pointed out. Even the new X-Pro 2 has the capability to record 4K video but Fujifilm decided to suppress that feature (for now). My guess is that it either looks horrible in 4K, or as Fujifilm officially commented, they wanted the camera to be a photographic tool and not a video camera. It seems like an unusual statement, but considering how well Fujifilm is doing, I guess the majority of their customers agree. GH4, and even the G7 are amazing video cameras as well as photographic cameras. Thanks for your comment.

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  6. Love your Reviews!!! As for these two cameras I am also quite intrigued... I love my X100T but the GR is so much more compact that you can carry it everywhere. Assuming a slightly better IQ on the X70 I will try it but (as mentioned in a previous comment) the lens cap does interfere with the idea of ultimate EDC.

    One thing that should work great for street photography is the touch screen for focus and shutter!

    Keep up the great work!!!

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    1. Thanks for commenting! I have written an alternative article for Fujilove Magazine here: http://fujilove.com/pre-production-review-fujifilm-x70/

      The IQ is equal to the X100T since it uses the same sensor and processor (but different lens), but if anyone has compared the GR to the X100T, there will be an IQ difference. I have always felt the GR had a sharper and nicer rendering lens than the X100T, especially for black and white photography. However, the X100T always had better high ISO performance. With the new X70, the lens is very very good. Once I get a production model, I will put the X70 head to head against the GR.

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  7. Hi, great review.
    There's lots of online discussion at the moment in various forums saying that it is not possible at all to turn off the lcd screen (only to turn off its touch ability). Are you able to confirm/deny this? Thanks

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    1. I will know soon once I receive my production model. Even at all the Fujifilm events around the world, they are only showing pre-production models so nothing can be confirmed 100% at this time. Follow me on Twitter as the most up-to-date info on the X-Pro 2 and X70. Thanks for your question.

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  8. Unfortunately Fuji has only given us another alternative, but not the best street camera.

    Size and weight matter here, but they'd mite going for the GR. GR's pop up flash is less likely to be blocked by a finger. Its bland looks are perfect and not attracting attention like a cute nostalgic camera. Fiddling with a lens cap or the aperture ring (using another hand) on the X70 is not the best for quick reaction situations. The snap focus is still better, I'm afraid.

    Not taking anything away from the great tilting touchscreen feature in the X70, which makes it less conspicuous for candids. However, Fuji is not radical enough in designing this cameras, as Ricoh was. To get the best street camera, Fuji should forsake some of the traditional thinking, like strap lugs, caps, and fancy looks.

    The search continues for a replacement my original GR. I only wish it had IS and a backlit sensor with a few more MPs to make better use of the digital zoom feature.

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  10. Hi !

    does X70 have the Ricoh GR`s Snap focus feature too ? I found it quite useful at times.

    Thanks. Daniel

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    1. the snap focus is quite unique to the Ricoh GR. You can zone and scale focus better on the X70 versus the GR because of the larger focus scale

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  11. Hi,

    I was hoping that the X70 would be the Fuji camera that would get me back into the Fuji Fold since I had switched from a X100T to the GR because of the size and portability.

    However, having come back from the Toronto Fujifilm event and getting a chance to handle the X70, I am disappointed to say that I will be waiting for the next iteration.

    The main difference is that the GR has a build in lens cover and can get really thin when powered off so that it can just fit into pant pockets. The X70 with the pancake lens and cap are just slightly too thick that it makes it uncomfortable to carry that way.

    The other aspect is the Grip on the X70, with the GR I never feel like the camera might fall out of my hands even without a strap, but holding the X70 did not give me that same level of confidence.

    I love the Fuji colours and the AWB is better than the GR but for an EDC camera size and weight play the biggest decision on whether it will go with you or be left behind.

    Too bad they can't mash both these cameras together, X70 LCD system, jpgs and AWB with GR body UI and handling.....

    It would be like the ultimate comics crossovers where Spiderman and Batman exist in the same universe....

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    1. Thanks for your comment, I'm glad you came to a reasonable conclusion based on ergonomics and not just functions or features. Yes, everything you mentioned are concerns of mine as well. As an EDC, the GR is still superior to the X70 because of size and weight and the secure right hand grip. These are very important features to me, more so that AF speed or high ISO performance. I too will be keeping my GR as my EDC. Thanks again for your opinion.

      BHT

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    2. Take, you can keep your GR because of your special position, which can give you access anytime to a Fuji camera.
      I would not keep the camera in my pant's pocket and, consdering that Fuji decided to drop soon the film production, a digital camera from them may be the only source of "fujifilm looking" images. But I may be upset enough and boicot Fuji products for this decision and switch copletely to Kodak film products. And as I am in Europe, I may go with Ferrania and Illford products as well. Bye-bye expensive Fuji, you got it wrong (including the entire Instax line).

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    3. I couldn't agree more with your assessment of the two cameras. Built-in-lens cover makes or breaks the potential of an EDC camera. For a number of years I've use and carried around a Pana LX-3 and Canon S100. For the last couple years the Pana LX-3 sits at home and it's the Canon S100 that has become the default EDC camera. Two reasons it's evolve this way, first and most annoying is the LX-3's lens cap, it's one thing to have to deal with a lens cap on my larger DSLR but quite another to have to diddle with a cap on a camera I want to be able to throw in my pocket or jacket after a quick and fast picture taking event. The second and perhaps equal issue is the thickness of the LX-3 with the lens protruding out pass the body of the camera. This cause the camera’s lens to hang-up on your pocket or jacket going and coming out as well as accidentally pealing the lens cap off many times. If form fallows function, then the function of an EDC should encourage use through ease of design (no small feat) and that is where GR so simply and cleanly prevails.

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  12. Hi Take,

    Great article as always,
    I couldn't find anywhere if the X-70 is Made in Japan?

    The X-T10 was Thailand and was thinking of getting the X-E2s because similar pricing but build is better...
    Now I'm excited about the X-70...

    Decisions... Good news is I sold my Nikon gear and my RX100M2 waiting to make the switch ... I'm leaning towards the compactness and user experience of the X-70 now...

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    1. The X70 is great but it has its limits compared to the X-T10 or X-E2s. There is no viewfinder and there is no ability to change lenses except via converters, which really is not the same as a dedicated lens. However, it's reasonably compact and the auto features make it a quick shooter. However, if you need to frame carefully, shoot in bright daylight or in dark environments, the X70 won't be great due to the lack of a built in viewfinder.

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  13. Any insights into the image quality of the digital tele-conversion? How well does the 28-35-50 work?

    My first camera was an Olympus Infinity Twin with a 35-70 lens. Great for travel.

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    1. Hi Steven,

      my pre-production did not have this feature activated yet so I'm anxious to get a production copy to see how it works. For myself personally, I want to see the frame lines like a rangefinder, but a zoom in style is also sufficient. Obviously you lose resolution as it is just cropping the sensor, but for some applications its a great tool to get the right perspective. I'll know in a couple of weeks. Stay tuned for a detailed review here and on YouTube and FujiLove magazine. Thanks for your question.

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  14. nice but for this price i was expect 1,4 , 1.7 at least on apcs today you start from $400 double zoom(18-55 +70-300 0r 55-200)+ case set on entry level of canon and nikon. and a600 double zoom(16-50 +55-200) set for $600 from sony. yeah I knew that it Fuji, but still it's hobby camera, that not make money. so as always in Fuji it overpriced and i believe that viewfinder will be extremely expensive, as a wide angle adapter. so i guess we going close to Canon 6D price that FF I believe that Ken Rockwell will name it another camera for reach guy))) also even if money not problem. it now new sensor on a market new AF system, all new that we see in Xpro2 . so if i like this camera. and this is exactly what i need BTW i will wait for next model)))

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  15. I also own the ricoh gr and i have also owned a few x100 and x100s's- for many of the same reasons as you the GR is my EDC. I think that the x70 is awesome but I love the snap focus feature of the GR. What are your thoughts on the snap focus on the GR and what the x70 offers?

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    1. I will stick to my GR most likely, not because it's better than the X70 (although in many ways it is) but because I don't believe that any specific camera can make me a better photographer. Snap focus is fantastic. It's such a simple feature that is not technology driven, which is the type of feature I like.

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    2. Take,have you experienced dust on the sensor problem with GR ? I recently had to return brand new GR II having a dust speck on in the corner of the sensor. Great ergonomics though, really makes you want to take it and shoot.

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    3. I have not experienced any dust on any of my GRs or any review GRs, but I've had many bring this issue to me. I don't know what to say, only that it has not affected my cameras.

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  16. BHT,

    What are your thoughts on noise reduction, texture smoothing, and the "waxy skin effect" common to higher ISO OOC JPEGs in Fuji X cameras; did you notice any of these with the X70?

    Thanks.

    -Charuteiro

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    1. Hi Charuteiro,

      this texture smoothing tends to affect skin tones as well as small details like blades of grass. I have always noticed it and it is part of the look. Do I like it? It really depends in what situation, but sometimes it can be a bit unsightly. The X70 has the same sensor and processor as the X-T1, X-T10, X-E2 and the X100T, so it will produce similar results.

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    2. Oops! Didn't knew this! And Fuji, knowing this, still ask for that higher price? Then definitely GR it is. I can say that considering the details you gave us in your reviews and youtube movie, Fuji can't beat the GR. In isn't even a replacement for Fujifilm X30 camera, not matter the sensor size.

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  17. Thanks for the review BHT! Could you answer the following questions I could not find answers to anywhere yet?
    1) Can x70 shoot 8 fps in manual mode with a shutter speed of 1/4000s and f/2.8?
    2) Can x70 shoot at 8fps in AF-C mode and track-n-lock on a moving subject?
    3) Will built-in flash fire in 8fps burst?
    4) Can built-in flash trigger external flash guns?
    5) Can LCD exposure simulation be switched off for framing and focusing a shot in Manual mode?

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    1. 1. I don't see why not but I haven't tested it yet. The maximum fps is typically based on the buffer limit of the camera, not the exposure.

      2. I do not think the 8 fps is based on continuous track focus and lock. I will need to check my production copy, but since it uses the same sensor/processor combination as the X100T, X-T1, X-E2s, X-T10 it should be similar or the same. Stay tuned for this answer in the future.

      3. the flash will not trigger that flash due to the limit of the flash capacitor. It can not recycle fast enough. Most external flashes can not burst shoot that quickly unless at very low power.

      4. the camera should be able to trigger external flashes but that is based on the external flashes you are using and in what mode you wish to use it for. If it's within Fujifilm's system, a wireless flash trigger is usually done by triggering the on-camera flash. However, if you're using another brand, it depends.

      5. I have never tried this but I am curious why you would want to turn off the exposure simulation while in manual mode? And if switched off, what do you want the camera to do with the exposure? Keep it in the middle no matter what you change it to?

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    2. BHT, thanks for your reply! Looking forward to your further testing of the x70.
      Turning Exposure Simulation off can help with framing and focusing on a subject when speedlights are the primary source of light.

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  18. Which camera is preferable if you always shoot raw? Also is one camera better than the other as far as B&W conversions? thanks.

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    1. Do you mean in general, or within Fujifilm? Firstly, if you always shoot RAW make sure your software can handle Fujfilm's proprietary RAW files. Second, if you're converting RAW files into b&w, with the correct software, almost any brand can create beautiful monochromatic images. However, certain sensors do render pixels differently, and some processors do effect the rendering. I find the least amount of noise suppression through texture smoothing is best for b&w conversions. This means turn off noise suppression. Also the Leica Monochrom series creates the best looking b&w images from any digital camera. I would say the Ricoh sensor/processor combination also renders images in monochrome really well. Because the sensor is a bit noisy at ISO 800, when converted the noise looks a bit like film grain. Also the lens on the GR is very contrasty and sharp, again rendering monochromatic images beautifully. I hope this helps.

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  19. Looking at this as a EDC and in some ways to replace my RX100Mk3, but in other ways not as they are quite different. RX100 is a great camera considering its sensor size, but I've always loved Fuji colours. Also to see if I could live with a 28mm equiv, a focal length that I've never been that comfortable with. Cheaper than a Leica Q anyway!

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    1. The Sony RX100 series is an amazing camera. I recommend it to the majority of people who want an all-in-one camera to do everything well. However, the Fujifilm is focused on producing amazing stills, and the colours are amazing. Many just shoot JPEGs since they love the film-esque look. You can either bracket film simulations (choose your favourite 3) or shoot RAW and then convert them to JPEGs later in-camera using different film simulations.

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  20. Hi, Have you posted that the Ricoh has the better lens? If so I am curious why as the few test shots of the X70 I see open up full screen on my desktop and look sharp with great color.

    Shawn

    Thanks.

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  21. Hi, Have you posted that the Ricoh has the better lens? If so I am curious why as the few test shots of the X70 I see open up full screen on my desktop and look sharp with great color.

    Shawn

    Thanks.

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    1. I've mentioned that since the X70's lens design is almost identical to the GR's (7 elements in 5 groups, 2 aspherical, 9 blade aperture ring) that both lenses will give similar optical characteristics. However, the GR has an extra LD glass and the lens coatings will be different between the two. Also they both use different sensors and processors so the final image will still look different

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    2. Thank you Taco. I love your site and videos!

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  22. Hi Take, thanks for all your good re/preview. I now own a black x70, having mixed feelings about this new X-model. Yes, it's pocket able compare to my X100 classic but missing out that ovf is definitely tough to change habits. I think it's too small for some one with a large thumpsup, for example the video recording button is a real pain in the... index finger. You'll have to grow nail to activate that one (I have small Asian hand mind you). Chinese made is also a little disappointing but what is not now a days. Picture color ooc when compared to x100 classic is cooler, x100 first gen is warmer. So for now, would I sell my x100? I don't think so, loving my ovf/even and ooc picture too much. AF speed is nothing special either, again compared to the x100 (firmware 2.11 already). IMO it's almost as fast as the x70. As you have mentioned on YouTube, it's still hunts a bit. May the next firmware be with us soon.

    Cheers
    Daan

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    1. Thanks for your comments. Yes the ergonomics on the new X70 is nothing like the X100 series as it is more compact, the buttons and dials are even smaller and harder to access. Shooting without a viewfinder is not easy for those who are use to using one, but you do gain compactness. Weather that's worth it for you is really an individual thing. It's worth it for me to always have a powerful camera with me at all times, but for others, they're happy with their smartphones or don't mind dragging around a larger camera. Thanks again for sharing your experience with the X70.

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  23. Thanks for your reply, hope to see your full indepth review video very soon.

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  24. Hey BHT! Thanks for the preview! How quiet is the shutter mechanism?

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    1. The X70's shutter is as quiet as the X100T. However, I Find the operating volume (lens buzz) is louder than both the GR and X100T.

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  25. Hello,

    I do want to buy a L-Plate to make some pano.
    Do you have any L-plate that you can recommended ?

    thank you

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    Replies
    1. I've never used an L-Plate to shoot panorama images. A good tripod, a level, and make sure you overlap each image. Also keep an eye on your exposure as you do not want a shift in exposure to make the stitch look uneven. However, if you're using the panorama feature built into the Fujfilm, then it locks focus and exposure from the start. Just make sure you pan evenly at the same speed.

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  26. Easy answer: What EDC is going to be better than your current GR, you are totally familiar with it, evidently produces fine images, is far more pocket able and 100g lighter. Being a m4/3 user E-M1 as my mission camera I bought a E-PL5 17mm f1.8 as a spare body but also for discrete Street shooting The E-PL5 fails in the carry anywhere comfortably and deploy quickly department. That lump of a lens, lens cap removal and surprisingly heavy. I only realised how heavy it was after I bought the GRii whose first impression where a bit unnerving, I could not believe a camera this light was going last any kind of use, and im careful with gear. Im late to the GR camp after sitting on the fence for two years, I now see the GR for what it is, EDC, great IQ, light and discrete.

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    1. Thanks for your comment. Yes I have no intentions to change my camera just because another one has a few more features. I'm rarely about the best tech or fastest features. I keep what works for me, and the GR has been great for me for the past 18 years. However, for those looking for a new camera or an upgrade, both cameras are good, depending on your priorities. The GR has size and weight, the X70 has the articulating screen and touch focus. It's a toss-up for some. I know a couple of GR shooters that made the switch, while a couple others that have stayed with Ricoh. I'm staying myself because I don't change equipment very often.

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  28. There is only one thing on the X70 that really would make a HUGE difference to me, manual focusing ring. The manual focusing on the Ricoh GR is horrible really. Just my opinion. There are times where I would love to manual focus and have the focus peaking. Other than that, Ricoh GR for life.

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  29. I have never been more sandwiched between cameras in my life. I used to have a GR but sold that for the G7x as I needed better video capabilities at the time (I know, what was I thinking right?). I loved the GR and the photos I took with it, so I had in mind to replace it with the GR II at some point. Now here comes the X70 with all its bells and whistles. It's so tempting but I'm worried I won't be satisfied with the quality of the images that it produces in comparison to the GR II. That sharpness is something I'm used to from the GR. Although I'm sure it won't differ much, but it would bug me.

    I'd like to get my hands on the X-Pro 2, but that will take some saving up. Haha.

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    1. Hi Janet, it's really hard to beat the GR for lens sharpness in this category. I would say that the GR can keep up and even beat ILC 28mm equivalent lenses. DPReview just posted a review of the X70 and compared it against the GR II and the GR is the clear winner for sharpness. However, the sensor on the X70 is great for higher ISO performance and also superior JPEGs. For me I decide what is my priority (stills or video) and then find the best camera for that. There will never be a perfect camera (GR is pretty close, and so is the X100T), so you need to accept compromises. For me the Leica Q is probably the closest to a perfect camera in terms of IQ, stills and video, but it's too darn expensive and too big for an EDC. I'm happy with my GR for now....

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    2. Did you experience the difference in sharpness in your own shooting? Also is the difference noticeable around F8 if you compare the x70 with the Ricoh GR?

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  30. im thinking to go for x70 but i have bad exp with my fuji x1 last time.

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    1. What was your bad experience, and what system or camera were you comparing the X-T1 with? The X70 is using the same sensor, processor and menu system, so it's somewhat similar. The biggest difference is the form factor, which is a pretty big deal.

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  31. Hi BHT, thanks for great reviews and information.

    I was wondering if you ever shoot plain JPEGs with the GR? I have an x100t and am looking for a more compact camera because I have to say, I never take the x100t around due to its size (I know, it's not that big, but still).

    The one big thing is, I love the convenience of shooting just JPEG and found I really like the results I get from the x100t. I'm wondering if shooting JPEG is really that bad on the GR by comparison?

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  32. The Fujifilm JPEGs are class leading and the GR's JPEGs are just okay. Many like the high contrast B&W, but the colour JPEGs are okay. I've seen some photographers really work the JPEGs and look great, but for me I haven't had much success. I much prefer the RAW files, or shoot the JPEGs very neutral and tweak in post processing.

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  33. I'm between the new X70 and the X100T for an all purpose/street camera. Which do you recommend?

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    1. Both are great. If you don't need an articulating screen, or you feel you need a viewfinder, the X100T is your choice. the slightly wider lens on the X70 also makes it easier for group shots and video, but it's also a stop slower. The X100T is probably the higher spec'd camera, but it comes down to what you want to use it for. The X70 comes with a decent (but large) wide angle lens converter, which is a big bonus.

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  34. Take,
    Are you finding yourself using the X70 very much or are you still smitten with your GRD?

    I had the GRDI and sold it- I bought it as a replacement to my GR film camera which is an absolute stunner in what it can produce for images.
    I just cannot be bothered with film.

    I absolutely love, love, love my X100s, but I also like a 28mm equivalent so the X70 is an interesting proposition. The portability factor over the X100 is a big advantage.

    So my real question is, I am on the fence whether to get an X-E2 or the X70...
    What are your thoughts? -

    I know they are very different in form factor - I really could care less about the touch or articulating screen, but I do see some usefulness. What to do?

    Appreciate your input on this decision.
    Thanks, Frank Mercurio

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  35. Hi!

    X70 or X30 as a family camera? I plan to buy either, along with the EF-X20 flash. My main concern is taking photos in dimly lit room.

    cheers

    Neven

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  36. Hi Neven,

    The X70 will take better low light images, although using a flash will help with both cameras. The zoom on the X30 is helpful though, as well as the image stabilization. I think the X30 is done and we are waiting to see if Fujifilm even decides to replace it with a new X40 or X30S. My guess is they will not, although you never know. If they do, they will put a more modern 1" sensor versus the current 2/3" sensor. For a good family camera, I say the newer 1" sensor cameras are the best. Sony RX100 series, the Canon G series (G5x, G7x, G9x) and the new Panasonic LX10/15. These cameras have the best balance of sensor size, image quality, video quality, and features.

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    Replies
    1. Thank you very much!
      Fingers crossed for x40😀

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  37. One more thing,

    I saw this photo: https://goo.gl/images/YXVOs4 and like the results of X70+EFX20.
    What were the settings? If I get the XE1/XE2, will the EFX20 on top of it give me the plaesing indoor photos? As I am aware, the XE series don't have leaf shutter. Is this a must to be able to use an EFX20?

    Thank you

    Neven

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    Replies
    1. I always shoot the EF-X20 in manual flash output mode. I expose for the ambient exposure, drop the exposure about 1/2 stop, then use the flash for fill. Depending on the aperture used (because flash exposure is determined by the aperture setting and not shutter speed), I will choose the appropriate power output. My guess is I shot at f/4 and 1/32 manual flash output.

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