Switching from iPhone to Fujifilm | The X-S10 Camera Review

My transition from mobile photography to a mirrorless hybrid shooting solution with Fujifilm's renowned X-S10 camera body.

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When I transitioned from mobile photography to a conventional camera system, I spent weeks comparing various brands to find the camera that would enhance my visual storytelling. As an artist who incorporated film and vintage-style preset, grain, and cinematic color-grading in my post-production process — I grew towards Fujifilm and their renowned film simulations. These in-camera grain options allow me to capture high-quality JPEGs that fit my precise photography requirements. It’s been a seamless transition. I’ve shot images that have influenced my peers in Nigeria to consider Fujifilm cameras. I’ve been able to tell more powerful stories. My life is now a movie shot on a Fujifilm camera for the world to see.

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The remarkable capabilities of the Fujifilm X-S10 encourage photographers of all skill sets to transform the world around them visually. It's the perfect entry point into the Fujifilm family, no matter what camera you're upgrading. As a mobile photographer and short-form video creator in Lagos, Nigeria, who was ready to invest in my first serious camera — the X-S10 caught my eye after months of research. The 26.1MP sensor, 4k capture at up to 30fps, in-body image stabilization, DSLR-shaped body, and Fujifilm's renowned film simulations played significant roles in my purchase. The X-S10 is genuinely a hybrid camera of many talents.

Choosing to visually document life in an exciting yet complex city such as Lagos, Nigeria, requires dynamic, compact gear that exudes character and can assist in telling the city’s daily stories. The X-S10 has undoubtedly proven itself as a worthwhile investment and a loyal, creative companion.

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To Know:

Fujifilm describes the X-S10 as a lovechild of the X-T30 and X-H1. It has a 26.1MP APS-C sensor, a 3' articulate touchscreen, and an OLED viewfinder which are both 1.04M-dot and 2.36M-dot, respectively. It boasts 5-axis image stabilization, allowing you to nail sharper images in motion. The X-S10 can capture DCI and UHD 4K footage up to 30p. Add F-Log support, and the X-S10 is now a contender to make a cinematic masterpiece.

What We Love:

Quality Build

The X-S10's deep grip and more traditional DSLR shape provide confidence and security in diverse shooting situations.

Film Simulations

Native to all Fujifilm X-series cameras, the 18 film simulations are a unique value proposition for this camera. The character these film simulations impart on your images straight from the camera is incredible.

Diverse Kit Options

You can purchase the X-S10 body only, with the 18-55mm f2.8-4 R LM OIS lens or the 16-80mm f4 R WR OIS lens from the Moment store.

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The Camera That Changed Everything

The Fujifilm X-S10 is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera that pioneers a new range of cameras under the Fujifilm X series. It's a 26.1-megapixel camera with up to 6 stops of in-body image stabilization and a 3" fully-articulate touchscreen. It can capture DCI 4k and UHD video up to 30fps. The X-S10 is said to be a hybrid of the Fujifilm X-T30 and the X-H1 due to their looks and specifications.

Photographers will appreciate how the camera feels with its deep front grip. The manual pop-up flash and 18 film simulations helped create photos that evoke a myriad of emotions from the camera. Vloggers and filmmakers will appreciate additional features like an in-built microphone, headphone jacks, and the ability to shoot in F-Log.

The camera's compact size can be considered a subjective con. The X-S10's body weighs 465g when a battery and SD card are inserted. Tightening a zoom or telephoto lens onto the camera makes it hefty and sometimes uncomfortable to handle.

The 91 focus points are comprehensive (single point, zone, wide-tracking, all), but depending on the photographer behind the lens, the focus may need to be faster. The 8.0ps (mechanical), 20.0fps (electronic), and 30fps (electronic 1.25x crop) continuous shooting speeds may compensate where autofocus capabilities may fall short.

When I started my digital photography journey using this camera, I was intrigued by its creative possibilities rather than technical specs. After solid play with the X-S10 in the real world, I understand the relevance of appreciating the science behind this camera. I relish the 2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder because it's a window that enhances my physical, creative eye. Its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allows me to sync images quickly to my phone or even print out Polaroids on my Fujifilm Instax printer to share with friends, family, and the occasional friendly stranger I photograph.

Capturing video on Fujifilm is a delight, as most of the footage I capture is in slow motion. Although Full HD high-speed recording isn't 4 K capable, 1080p up to 240fps still suffices for the online content I create. Nearly all my favorite shorts were captured at 1080p up to 120fps, and I have no complaints about the quality.

The X-S10 is excellent for novice photographers and filmmakers who need a camera to help strengthen their skills, visualize the world around them, and spark creativity. Using premium gear from the Moment Shop, such as the 58mm 10% Cinebloom lens filter, deepens the X-S10's creative capabilities, making this camera more lovely. Whether using its kit lens, a prime Fujinon lens, or a vintage lens, the X-S10's X-Trans IV CMOS sensor conveys the correct information to show me the proper image.

  • 26.1 megapixels & Fujifilm's film simulations make for excellent straight-out-the-camera JPEGS.
  • 5-axis Image Stabilization increases the ability to get sharp shots
  • This camera can serve both still and video creators.
  • Auto-focus could be improved depending on who you ask.
  • Wi-Fi & Bluetooth capabilities aid in operating in the fast-paced digital world.
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In Detail

The Fujifilm is a hybrid camera that merges essential qualities from its various family members within its compact body. Its design and IBIS tap from the X-H1. The X-T4 lets this camera mirror its X-Trans CMOS 4 APS-C sensor and X-Processor 4 quad-core processor. It has the EVF resolution and SD card slot of the X-T30. The X-S10 captures 325 shots on a full charge and uses the LCD. This camera uses a USB-C connection port and NP126S battery, just like the X-T30.

With the X-S10, very low ISO allows for maximum dynamic range. From ISO 800, you get less range but less noise in the shadows of your images.

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What It Has

  • FUJIFILM X-S10 Mirrorless Camera with 18-55mm Lens
  • FUJIFILM XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS Lens
  • FUJIFILM NP-W126S Li-Ion Battery Pack
  • USB Cable
  • Headphone Adapter
  • Shoulder Strap
  • FUJIFILM Body Cap for FUJIFILM X-Mount Cameras

What It Does

  • Varied Film Stock Emulators
  • Excellent JPEGS
  • A diverse range of Portraits
  • Landscapes
  • Lifestyle Images
  • DCI & UHD 4K at 30FPS
  • Strong Cinematic footage

Specs

  • 26.1 megapixels
  • 14bit RAW image capture (6240 × 4160)
  • Panorama capture, vertical (2160 × 9600) & horizontal (9600 × 1440)
  • 4K (3840x2160, 16:9) and DCI 4K(4096x2160, 17:9) video up to 30 fps, and FHD video recording up to 240 fps
  • 18 Film Simulation modes
  • USB-C, HDMI-D, 3.5mm audio jack
  • Pop-up flash
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