Another one from Fujifilm? The company is definitely on a roll this year with the X-series getting much of the attention. After introducing the X-S20 and the X-T50, Fujifilm has now launched the friendly, more accessible X-M5. This latest addition promises to make high-quality photography and videography more approachable, especially for first-time digital camera users and content creation enthusiasts.
With its impressive specifications and user-friendly design, the X-M5 aims to capture the hearts of both budding photographers and seasoned pros looking for a compact, versatile camera that doesn’t compromise on performance.
Fujifilm X-M5: Stepping up from your smartphone
Fujifilm’s latest addition to its X-series, the X-M5, is designed with emerging content creators in mind, making it an ideal tool for those who are still exploring the world of photography and videography.
Victor Ha, vice president of Fujifilm North America Corporation, aptly describes the X-M5 as “a tool for the ‘camera curious” and a possible stepping stone from transitoning from shooting on your smartphone to an actual camera.
This lightweight marvel weighs approximately 13 ounces (355g) and measures around 4.7 inches (111.9mm) in width, 2.6 inches (66.6mm) in height, and 1.5 inches (38mm) in depth, making it the lightest in Fujifilm’s current X Series mirrorless digital camera lineup. Its compact design positions the X-M5 as a natural everyday camera for capturing life’s moments without the bulk.
Adopted from the X-T50 is the Film Simulation Mode Dial, located conveniently on the top left of the camera. This dial offers a total of 20 Film Simulations, showcasing the eight most popular selections while also allowing users to customize three additional favorites.
Under the hood, the X-M5 is equipped with a back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor, boasting approximately 26.1 megapixels, paired with the latest X-Processor 5 image processing engine. Fun fact: this is also the same processor on the ever-popular Fujifilm X1000V.
The autofocus system on the X-M5 has also received a significant upgrade, utilizing AI technology for subject detection, enabling the camera to recognize and track various subjects like animals, vehicles, and even insects with impressive accuracy.
When it comes to video capabilities, the X-M5 doesn’t disappoint. It can record up to 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit open gate video onto an SD card and supports an extensive range of video functions, including 4K/60P and 1080/240P recording. The camera is equipped with advanced digital image stabilization to counteract minor shakes and movements, which is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting during video creation.
View this post on Instagram
For enhanced audio, Fujifilm has included three built-in microphones for the first time in its digital camera lineup, offering users the choice of four different microphone configurations: surround, front, back, or front and back. This versatility allows for more dynamic audio capture tailored to various shooting environments. Additionally, the X-M5 features a steady-state noise reduction function, effectively minimizing continuous noise such as air conditioning hum, providing cleaner audio in recordings.
It also comes with practical features like a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, allowing for flexible shooting angles. The new “9:16 short movie mode” makes it easy to create vertical videos, a popular format for social media platforms. With these features and more, the Fujifilm X-M5 is set to be an essential tool for those looking to explore their creative potential.
Two new lenses
New lenses have also been announced — FUJINON XF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR and the FUJINON XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II.
The FUJINON XF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS W stands out as the longest prime lens in the X Series lineup. This super-telephoto lens is crafted for outdoor content creators, excelling in fast autofocus and delivering remarkable detail, making it perfect for wildlife, birding, and sports photography. It boasts a maximum aperture of F5.6 and can extend to impressive focal lengths with optional teleconverters. The lens features a rugged design with 20 weather-sealing points, ensuring reliability in challenging conditions, while its 5.5-stop optical image stabilization allows for steady handheld shooting.
Another exciting option is the newly released FUJINON XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II. Known for its versatility, this large-aperture standard zoom lens remains a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts.
t offers a constant F2.8 aperture across its zoom range, making it suitable for various genres from landscapes to portraits. The updated lens features enhanced optical performance with improved bokeh and reduced chromatic aberrations, all while maintaining a compact and lightweight design. With weather-resistant construction and a fluorine coating for added durability, the XF16-55mm II is a reliable companion for any shooting adventure.
Pricing and availability
In the United States, the FUJIFILM X-M5 will be available in Silver starting November 2024 for $799.95 USD. A kit that includes the X-M5 and the FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ Lens will retail for $899.95 USD .
The FUJINON XF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR lens is set to launch in December 2024, with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $2,999.95 USD. The FUJINON XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II lens will also be available in December 2024, priced at $1,199.95 USD. F
In the Philippines, the FUJIFILM X-M5 with XC15-45mm kit will be available at a suggested retail price of PhP 58,990, launching in November 2024. The FUJINON XF16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR II lens will retail for PhP 74,990, while the FUJINON XF500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR will be priced at PhP187,990
