
FUJIFILM X-E1 – Black version with 18-55mm lens
6 September 2012 – Fujifilm have announced the second generation interchangeable-lens digital compact system camera in their excellent X series, the premium Fujifilm X-E1. The announcement comes following news of the Fujifilm X-Pro1, back in January 2012.
Essentially, the X-E1 sits beneath the X-Pro1 in the X series line-up, absent is the revolutionary hybrid-viewfinder found on other models, namely the X-Pro1, X2, and the X100. In it’s place is one of the highest resolution OLED viewfinders available, at a whopping 2.36 million dots!
The X-E1 shares the same core innards as the X-Pro1, including the 16.3 megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS Sensor, which of course doesn’t have the traditional optical low pass filter, proven to deliver sharper photos.
Having lots of experience with Fuji X-Series products, Digital Hardware is very pleased to see the introduction of the X-E1; these retro styled modern digital compact system cameras are nothing short of remarkable, and it’s good to see Fuji introduce an (ok, it’s still a premium camera, but…) affordfable alternative to the X-Pro1.
New X Mount lenses also announced
To compliment the X-E1 the new FUJINON XF18-55mm F2.8-4 R LM OIS lens (for high-speed autofocus of 0.1 sec) has also been announced, making a great combination for an all-in-one walkabout body and lens combo.
“The highly agile linear motor in the newly announced XF18-55mm lens combines with the high-speed signal readout of the CMOS sensor and the newly developed EXR Processor Pro to achieve a huge leap in AF speed and precision performance. Contrast Detection in the X-E1 brings your subject into sharp focus in as little as 0.1seconds“, Fujifilm explains.
In addition, Fujifilm have also announced the Fujinon XF14mm F2.8 R lens. More details about the lenses can be found below.
X-E1 Pricing and Availability
The FUJIFILM X-E1 and XF18mm-55mm (27-84mm) F2.8-4 lens (kit) will be available in November for $1,399.95. The FUJINON XF14mm (21mm) F2.8 single focal length lens and XF18mm-55mm (27-84mm) F2.8-4 lens will be available in November for $899.95 and $699.95, respectively.
The X-E1 is available in two colours, a full black version, and a black & silver version:

Fujifilm X-E1 black and silver versions
X-E1 Key Features
- 16.3 megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS Sensor
- EXR Processor Pro
- FUJIFILM X mount (For Fujinon XF lenses)
- Extra high resolution 2.36 million dot OLED electronic viewfinder
- 2.8-inch (460K dot) LCD (High contrast, High Brightness and Wide viewing angle)
- Built-in pop-up Flash (hotshoe attachment also available for external flash)
- ISO 200 – 6400, extended ISO 100, 12800, 25600 (range of ISO400-6400 when using ISO Auto)
- 0.05 sec Shutter time lag
- Q (quick) button to shooting menu settings
- In-camera RAW converter
- Film simulation modes (Velvia, Astia, Provia, Monochrome, Sepia, PRO Neg Std & PRO Neg Hi)
- Artistic features inc. Multiple exposure & Panoramic shooting
- Auto Bracketing functions (AE/ISO/DR &FS)
- Full HD Movie
- Microphone/shutter release input (2.5mm)
- Approx. 350 shots per battery charge
X-E1 Press Release
FUJIFILM INTRODUCES THE ALL NEW X-E1 INTERCHANGEABLE LENS DIGITAL CAMERA AND TWO XF LENSES TO THE X-SERIES SYSTEM
Valhalla, N.Y., September 6, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation is proud to introduce its second compact system camera of this year – the FUJIFILM X-E1 – a premium interchangeable lens camera system that truly exemplifies the high quality and extraordinary image resolution that the X-Series is known for among professional photographers.
The FUJIFILM X-E1 follows in the tradition of the award-winning FUJIFILM X-Pro1 and utilizes the same proprietary 16.3 Megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensorTM and the same X-Mount for use with FUJINON XF lenses, all in a body that is 30% smaller than the FUJIFILM X-Pro1.
With its compact, travel-friendly size, the X-E1 promises to be an exciting addition to the FUJIFILM X-Series. It will be available in two classic designs: a two-tone black and silver, and a solid black. Both versions of the X-E1 will also ship as kits with the XF18mm-55mm (27-84mm) F2.8-4 lens in November 2012.
“It’s an exciting day for Fujifilm as we launch our second premium interchangeable lens digital camera this year, the FUJIFILM X-E1, and two extraordinary new XF lenses” said Go Miyazaki, president and chief operating officer, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “The X-Series has thrilled photographers around the world with its exceptional image quality and stunning design, and the new X-E1 promises to continue that tradition with a slightly smaller body and all of the attention to detail that is the hallmark of FUJIFILM X-Series digital cameras.”
Exceptional color rendition and image resolution
Fujifilm’s advanced X-Trans CMOS sensor is capable of delivering resolution that is superior to other APS-C sensors, and equal to even some full frame sensors found in popular DSLR cameras.
The FUJIFILM X-E1’s unique color filter array can effectively minimize moiré and false color without the need for an optical low pass filter. This makes it possible for the camera to maximize its extremely high resolution, and to capture each photograph with accuracy and clarity across the whole image.
FUJIFILM original “X-Mount” maximizes lens performance
Specifically designed to take advantage of the camera’s mirrorless design, the X-Mount has a short flange back distance of just 17.7mm made possible by designing the mount ring as thin as 2.5mm. This means the rear lens elements are as close as possible to the sensor, reducing the back focus distance of each lens to the minimum possible, thus achieving high resolution from edge to edge. And when fitted with a FUJIFILM M Mount Adapter, the X-E1 can use a wide variety of M lenses to broaden the scope of your photography.
2.36 million dot “Organic LED (OLED) electronic viewfinder”
The FUJIFILM X-E1 camera comes equipped with a high definition, high luminance OLED electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 2.36 million dots that is one of the highest resolutions available on an EVF-equipped digital camera today(1). The natural, bright viewfinder offers a horizontal field of view of 25-degrees, allowing users to scan the entire scene quickly and easily.
Premium quality design and portability
Made in Japan, the X-E1 exudes precision, elegance and premium quality that can be seen from each of its components. The top and front covers are made from die-cast magnesium for a solid, yet functional design. At roughly the same size as the FUJIFILM X100, the X-E1 is refreshingly compact and lightweight (12.35oz(2)). Featuring a rubber grip for additional stability, and with the X-Mount positioned centrally on the camera, the X-E1 is perfectly-balanced.
Expanding the FUJINON XF lens lineup: New XF14mm (21mm) F2.8 single focal length lens and XF18mm-55mm (27-84mm) F2.8-4 lens
The FUJIFILM X-E1 pairs perfectly with the XF18mm-55mm (27-84mm) F2.8-4 lens to deliver super-fast focusing speeds that will capture even the fastest action. The highly responsive linear motor in the XF18-55mm lens combines with the high-speed signal readout of the X-Trans CMOS sensor and the EXR Processor Pro, to achieve a huge leap in AF speed and precision performance. Contrast Detection in the X-E1 brings your subject into sharp focus in as little as 0.1 seconds.
A true masterpiece of optical technology, the high quality all-glass lens structure consists of 14 elements in 10 groups, including 3 aspherical lenses and 1 extra low dispersion element, as well as a seven-blade rounded diaphragm. This zoom lens covers a broad range of frequently-used focal lengths from 18mm in wide angle to 55mm mid telephoto(3) to capture everything from landscapes to street photography.
At F2.8-4 wide open, this fast lens is perfect for low-light photography or scenes beckoning a beautiful bokeh effect. Advanced optical and mechanical designs are optimized to keep the lens compact, while maintaining a physical aperture ring so that users can make fluid adjustments. The lens also features OIS to provide image stabilization equivalent to 4 stops, controlling the effect of camera shake and allowing users to seize perfect photo opportunities.
The new FUJINON XF14mm (21mm) F2.8 single focal length lens offers a stunning, ultra wide angle that delivers exceptional resolution from edge to edge. The new lens consists of 10 elements in 7 groups, including 2 aspheric and 3 extra low dispersion elements, and a seven-blade rounded diaphragm.
With its distance and depth of field scales on the barrel, the FUJINON XF14mm (21mm) F2.8 lens is ideally suited for a range of shooting techniques. And with its bright, F2.8 aperture, the lens performs beautifully in low-light shooting.
Diverse shooting modes
The X-E1 offers Fujifilm’s creative “Film Simulation Modes” to simulate the distinctive color palates of conventional photo film. Film Simulation Modes include “Velvia,” “ASTIA,” and “PROVIA,” as well as two additional settings based on professional color negative films, PRO Neg.Std and PRO Neg.Hi.
In addition, advanced digital processing in the X-E1 enables multiple exposures, giving photographers the ability to take two shots while visually checking the finished image, either in the viewfinder or LCD screen.
Full HD Movie recording
The X-E1 supports shooting Full HD movies (1920×1080) at 24fps. In addition, you can now use Monochrome or Film Simulation modes when video recording and even take advantage of the X-E1’s large sensor and bright XF lenses to capture movies with beautiful bokeh effect. Connect a stereo microphone (3rd party sold separately) to the external microphone input and record audio with enhanced clarity.
X-E1 Full Specs
X-E1 Product Gallery
- FUJIFILM X-E1 – Black version with 18-55mm lens
- Fujifilm X-E1 black and silver versions
X-E1 Official Videos and Previews
X-E1 Accessories
- Leather case BLC-XE1
- Fujinon XF Lenses
- M Mount Adapter
- Hand Grip HG-XE1
- Three dedicated flash models to choose from depending on requirements (EF-X20, EF-20, EF-42)
- Protector filters (PRF-39, PRF-52 and PRF-58)
- Remote release RR-80
New X Mount Lenses – Key Features
FUJINON XF14mm key features list:
• 21mm equivalent bright F2.8 lens
• Consists of 10 elements in 7 groups, including 2 aspheric and 3 extra low dispersion elements and a seven-blade rounded diaphragm
• 58mm lens filter size
FUJINON XF18mm-55mm key features list:
• 27-84mm equivalent F2.8-4 lens
• Highly responsive linear motor
• Contrast Detection brings subject into sharp focus in as little as 0.1 seconds(5)
• High quality all-glass lens structure consists of 14 elements in 10 groups, including 3 aspherical lenses and 1 extra low dispersion element, as well as a seven-blade rounded diaphragm
• OIS to provide image stabilization equivalent to 4 stops
• 58mm lens filter size
New X Mount Lenses – Press Release
Expanding the FUJINON XF Lens line up for FUJIFILM’s X series interchangeable cameras
FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Shigehiro Nakajima) is pleased to announce the launch of two new models to the FUJINON XF Lens range bringing the total number of lenses available to five, offering much broader photographic appeal.
Fujinon XF lenses are the pinnacle of Fujifilm’s optical design technology, with top quality all-glass construction including aspheric lens elements. Developed with particular attention to corner resolutions and vignetting, the Fujinon XF lens line up eliminates chromatic aberration. Their fast f-stop broadens users’ scope of photographic expression, such as low-light photography and scenes with beautiful bokeh effects. The lenses have FUJINON’s “Super EBC Coating” to reduce reflection at a wider range of wavelengths, thereby controlling ghosting. The use of the 1/3EV step aperture ring enables delicate, tactile control of exposure and depth of field.
1. The compact FUJINON “XF18-55mm F2.8-4 R LM OIS” lens, the first short zoom lens in the Fujinon XF lens range
This short zoom lens covers a range of frequently-used focal lengths from 18mm wide-angle to 55mm telephoto*. The lens structure consists of 14 elements in 10 groups, including 3 aspheric and 1 extra low dispersion elements, and a seven-blade rounded diaphragm.
The linear motor-driven system delivers high-speed autofocus performance of 0.1 seconds to capture those perfect photo opportunities. Silent operation also makes the lens suitable for video recording.
Advanced optical and mechanical designs have been used to keep the lens compact, despite offering fast aperture of F2.8 – 4.0 wide open. It is a fast and highly mobile lens that delivers premium picture quality in a variety of scenes, being suitable for low-light photography or scenes with beautiful bokeh in the background.
It features an OIS (Optical Image Stabiliser) equivalent to 4 stops, controlling the effect of camera shake and preventing blurry shots. The lens is equipped with an aperture ring so that users can easily adjust the aperture while holding the camera up to their eye.
*Equivalent to 35mm format :27-84mm
2. Fujinon “XF14mm F2.8 R”, a stunning ultra wide-angle lens with high resolution into all corners
Advanced optical design has been used to overcome the distortion-prone tendency of ultra wide-angle lenses to control distortion without digital correction. This contributes to achieving high resolution to all corners of this ultra wide-angle lens.
The lens structure consists of 10 elements in 7 groups, including 2 aspheric and 3 extra low dispersion elements, and a seven-blade rounded diaphragm.
The lens features distance and depth of field scales on the barrel, making it suitable for a range of shooting techniques such as pre-focusing.
With the F2.8 wide open, the lens is suitable for low-light photography. The short minimum shooting distance of 18cm means it can effectively blur the background while also giving a sense of perspective characteristic to ultra wide-angle lenses.
The FUJIFILM X Mount has a short back focus distance, preventing vignetting, to achieve clarity and brightness to all corners. Image distortion and chromatic aberration are well controlled to deliver high resolution to all corners of an image, making the lens perfect for landscape photography.
**Equivalent to 35mm format :21mm
[For FUJIFILM X-Pro1 and X-E1 customers]
Please update the firmware of your camera body when using these lenses for the first time.
The firmware will be supplied by SD card (bundled in Lens Box) or can be downloaded from “Support” on the Fujifilm Global website. Please go to the following URL for details. Both firmware updates will be available soon:
Fujifilm Global website: http://www.fujifilm.com/support/digital_cameras/