Fujifilm introduces the X-H2S mirrorless digital camera that is capable of shooting 6.2K in10-bit 4:2:2. The X-H2S is defined as the flagship of the X series. Furthermore, there’s a new super-telephoto zoom (Fujifilm XF150-600mmF5.6) to pair it up with the little beast. The main details are below.

Fujifilm X- H2S: First APS-C with stacked backside-illuminated sensor

Fujifilm has just announced the launch of its next flagship X Series mirrorless digital camera, Fujifilm X-H2S (X- H2S). The camera is suited for hybrid photographers and independent professional video users who want high-performance still and video features. X-H2S includes Fujifilm’s 26.16MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HS imaging sensor, the first APS-C digital camera of stacked, back-side illuminated imaging sensor with a signal reading speed up to four times faster than Fujifilm’s previous X-Trans CMOS 4.

10-bit 4:2:2 up  to 6.2K/ 30P

X-Trans CMOS 5, combined with the newly minted X-Processor 5 (which doubles the camera’s processing power compared to X-Processor 4), greatly enhances overall image fidelity at lower ISOs and reduces noise at higher ISOs. Subject-detection AF, which maximizes the tracking speed and accuracy of moving subjects is now made possible through the incorporation of an AI processor. For video, X-Processor 5 enables the recording of 10-bit 4:2:2 video in resolutions up to 6.2K/ 30P and frame rates as fast as 4K/120P and FHD/240p. Also, there’s support for codecs like Apple ProRes HQ, ProRes 422, and ProRes LT. Furthermore, the X-H2S is the first X Series digital camera to contain F-Log2, which provides a dynamic range of up to 14+ stops. As for media, the camera features dual memory card slots supporting one CFexpress Type B and one SD card.

What with the heat?

A heat-dissipating design brings the 4K/60P continuous video recording time to approximately 240 minutes, while the optional FAN-001 cooling fan accessory assists with maintaining similar levels of performance in high-temperature conditions. The FAN-001 can be fitted to the rear of the camera body without a cable, supplying power, extending continuous video recording time at high temperatures, and eliminating concerns of heat-related camera shutdown.

Explore the specs of the X-Hs2 below: 

Price and availability

The price of the X- H2S is $2,500. The camera is expected to be available in early July 2022. The FAN-001 Cooling Fan will be available in early July 2022 and will cost $199 USD.

Check out this short film shot on the Fujifilm X-H2S: 

X- H2S + anamorphic

Now, check out this cool video shot on the X- H2S paired with the Atlas Orion SE Special Edition: 

Fujifilm XF150-600mm F5.6-8 R LM OIS WR Lens

Fujifilm has also announced a new super-telephoto zoom lens with a goal to offer premium image quality, lightweight design, and speed  The lens consists of 24 lens elements in 17 groups including three extra-low dispersion (ED) elements and four Super ED elements, to deliver an advanced level of image resolution edge to edge across the entire zoom range.  Covering 35mm equivalent focal lengths of 229mm – 914mm, image-makers can extend the reach of XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR through either Fujifilm XF1.4X TC WR or Fujifilm XF2X TC WR teleconverters. The lens’s longest focal length extends to 1200mm (35mm equivalent to 1828mm), closing distances in an instant. The fast autofocus system, driven by a linear motor, attains precise focus quickly and accurately, even in the super-telephoto range, where focusing can be difficult due to a shallow depth of field.

Structure and design

The lens body is matte silver to mitigate temperature increase under even the most challenging wildlife, nature, and landscape photography environments. Magnesium alloy is used for the internal base frame that supports the lens structure to maintain durability while keeping the overall lens weight low.  The lens barrel is weather-sealed at 19 locations for dust and weather resistance and the ability to operate at temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius).

Price and availability

Fujifilm XF150-600mm F5.6-8 R LM OIS WR is expected to be available in early July 2022 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $1,999 USD

Lens roadmap

In addition, Fujifilm has unveiled its latest Development Roadmap for Interchangeable Lenses in X Series of Mirrorless Digital Cameras. As you can explore in the map, a medium telephoto prime lens joins the new generation of large-aperture prime lenses, which will now cover broad focal lengths from 18mm (wide-angle, equivalent to 27mm in the 35mm film format) to 56mm (mid-telephoto, equivalent to 85mm in the 35mm film format). Fujifilm claims that these lenses will offer outstanding image quality and image-resolving power in an extremely broad range of photographic situations. Additionally, as part of this roadmap, the compact prime series of XF lenses will have two additions: a standard macro lens and an ultra-wide-angle lens. These complement existing lenses in the XF Series by expanding the situations for suitable lens use, catering to users’ diverse needs.

Summary

These are the main announcements from Fujifilm we chose to focus on. As mentioned, the X-H2S camera and the 150-600mm zoom lens are both suited for hybrid photographers and independent professional video users who want high-performance still and video features. Although these are not considered ‘cinema’ products, they can deliver pretty decent imagery. Also, taking into account the affordable price tag, the X-H2S seems like a solid deal for hybrid shooters. BTW, the FAN-001 cooling fan seems like a smart solution that might be preferred over using 3rd party accessories. It constitutes an intriguing strategy or camera manufacturers to mitigate heat consumption when shooting high-bitrate, high-resolution videos. Very ‘cool’ and out-of-the-box thinking by Fujifilm. 

Product List

Here’re the products mentioned in the article, and the links to purchase them from authorized dealers. 

• FUJIFILM X-H2S Mirrorless Camera
  • BUY on B&H
  • BUY on ADORAMA
• FUJIFILM XF 150-600mm f/5.6-8 R LM OIS WR Lens
  • BUY on B&H
  • BUY on ADORAMA