Fujifilm X-M1

The brand’s smallest and lightest compact system camera for mainstream users

The latet in the X-series models from Fujifilm, the X-M1 is an impressive compact camera at a very interesting price point. It has a slim and compact body, yet its 16 megapixel APS-C sensor gives you the sharpness and detail of a DSLR camera. A wide range of lenses from Fujifilm ensures that you have the perfect lens for the perfect occasion too.

Over a period of two weeks, I spent time shooting early morning to late night scenes, and the camera was quick to adapt, whether at ‘full Auto’ mode or ‘Manual’ modes. The control dials are placed in a manner that you can use this camera with a single hand. In case you love shooting in low light, there is a tripod mount.

The camera takes an SD, SDHC or SDXC card to record images and videos. It can also record full HD videos, and has a great microphone; its optical stabilisation technology is very effective in shooting stills and videos.

Its inbuilt Wi-Fi allows transfer of images via a smartphone to social media networks, or you could automatically upload images once you get to your desktop. There is also an HDMI output to hook the camera up with a TV set.

The camera can record pictures in JPEG and RAW formats, and videos in .MOV format using H.264 compression and stereo sound. Its battery is designed to take up to 350 images.

It also supports ‘Film Simulation’ for a feel of shooting on real film. The modes that you can choose are: Rovia (Standard), Velvia (Vivid), Astia (Soft), Monochrome or Sepia. I loved the Monochrome that delivers great images in black-and-white.

At Rs 43,000, this camera may seem slightly overpriced, but considering that you can carry it in your coat pocket, or your sling bag, and with an off-to-shoot time of just 0.5 seconds, it makes for a great purchase.

cameraFujifilmX-M1