The FUJIFILM X-H2 mirrorless system camera is the latest flagship model to join the multi-award-winning X Series, whose APS-C cameras combine the highest image quality with a compact design. Like its recently unveiled sister model, the FUJIFILM X-H2S, the X-H2 represents the cutting edge of camera technology. It is exceptionally powerful and is designed in every respect to meet even the highest professional standards. Whilst the X-H2S is characterised above all by its tremendous speed, evident in features such as lightning-fast data processing and precise AF tracking of moving subjects, the X-H2’s strengths lie in its very high sensor resolution and outstanding detail reproduction.

At the heart of the X-H2 is the new 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor *1, which is optimally matched to the fast X-Processor 5. The camera offers the highest resolution yet in the X Series, for both photos and videos. This makes it the world’s first *2 APS-C camera capable of recording video in 8K/30p Apple ProRes quality *3 directly to the memory card.

The X-H2 offers many advanced features, such as ISO 125 as the lowest standard sensitivity, a minimum shutter speed of 1/180,000 sec. with an electronic shutter, and the ‘Pixel Shift MultiShot’ function. It also features numerous functions and interfaces that make professional-quality photography easier than ever. These include the scene-detection autofocus based on deep learning technology, which identifies and tracks various subjects (e.g. animals or vehicles); the built-in five-axis image stabiliser, which provides a shutter speed advantage of up to seven stops (EV) *4, an electronic viewfinder with 5.76 million dots and 0.8x magnification, and a memory card slot for CFexpress Type B cards *5 , which allow the full technological potential of the X-H2 to be exploited.

High-resolution X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor and X-Processor 5

The 40.2-megapixel back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor features an improved image processing algorithm that enables very high resolution without distracting image noise, resulting in outstanding overall image quality.

An advanced pixel structure allows more light to reach the sensor, meaning that ISO 125 is now available as the standard sensitivity and no longer needs to be selected via the extended ISO range. The new sensor can also be controlled with extreme precision, allowing for ultra-short exposure times. The shortest shutter speed of the electronic shutter has thus been increased by 2.5 EV steps from 1/32,000 sec. to 1/180,000 sec.

The new sensor opens up new creative possibilities, particularly when shooting in bright environments. This means you can now achieve the attractive bokeh effect with a wide aperture even on sunny summer days or on the ski slopes, as well as freeze fast movements with maximum sharpness using ultra-short shutter speeds.

Ultra-high-resolution photos and HEIF image format

Using the ‘Pixel Shift Multi-Shot’ function, the camera captures 20 high-resolution RGB images in raw format one after the other, with the image sensor being shifted slightly after each exposure. The resulting individual photos can be combined using the free ‘Pixel Shift Combiner’ software to create a single image file with a resolution of 160 megapixels. This feature is particularly useful for photographic documentation and digitisation in the fields of art and culture, as well as for high-quality still life and product photography.

The X-H2 supports the HEIF image format, which delivers 10-bit image files that are up to 30 per cent smaller than standard JPEG files. With the integration of these two features, FUJIFILM underlines its reputation for delivering images of the very highest quality straight from the camera.

Professional 8K-quality video

With the X-H2, ultra-high-resolution video recording becomes the professional standard: the new sensor allows video to be recorded in the forward-looking 8K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit format. The X-H2’s body has been designed to quickly dissipate the heat generated by the sensor and processor. This allows for up to 160 minutes *6 of uninterrupted recording in 8K quality.

The 8K sensor also offers many advantages in 4K workflows. For instance, during internal oversampling, the camera draws on the depth of detail in the 8K data to generate a 4K image of outstanding quality.

The X-H2’s digital zoom function *7 also makes use of the high resolution of the 40.2-megapixel sensor. This allows you to zoom in on the image with up to 2x magnification during 4K recording. When used with the XF18-120mmF4 LM PZ WR, the camera seamlessly switches to digital zoom once the maximum optical focal length is reached, effectively doubling the focal length.

Efficient post-production

The X-H2 supports three Apple ProRes codecs: ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422 and ProRes 422 LT. When recording video at up to 4K resolution, low-bitrate proxy files *8 (ProRes 422 Proxy) can also be recorded simultaneously. As these have a smaller file size, they are ideal for efficient workflows with reduced post-production effort.

In combination with a compatible external HDMI recorder from Atomos or Blackmagic Design, 12-bit RAW video files can also be recorded. These can be saved as Apple ProRes RAW or Blackmagic RAW in up to 8K resolution at frame rates of up to 29.97 frames per second.

In addition to the familiar F-Log, the X-H2 also supports F-Log2, which offers an extended dynamic range of more than 13 stops and thus greater creative freedom in video editing.

Intelligent autofocus for maximum detail sharpness

The X-H2 is equipped with an innovative autofocus system that allows the photographer to concentrate fully on the subject and the composition. They can trust that the camera will focus on the subject reliably and precisely.

The X-H2’s powerful X-Processor 5 offers an object-oriented autofocus function with subject recognition based on artificial intelligence. The algorithm, developed using deep learning technology, not only recognises and tracks human faces and eyes, but also keeps animals, birds, cars,

motorbikes, bicycles, aeroplanes and trains reliably in focus.

The 40.2-megapixel sensor has more phase-detection pixels than previous X Series models, resulting in even more precise focusing in AF-S mode, for example when shooting landscapes or portraits. In addition, the X-H2 (like the X-H2S) features a new AF algorithm for predicting subject movement, enabling even more reliable focus tracking during continuous autofocus (AF-C).

As 8K videos require particularly precise focusing, the Video AF algorithm has also been optimised. There is also a new focus indicator that makes manual focusing easier when filming and can be used in combination with the Focus Peaking function.

Top-of-the-range features and ease of use

The FUJIFILM X-H2 is equipped with built-in five-axis image stabilisation (IBIS). This enables sharp shots at shutter speeds up to seven EV stops slower, offering a decisive advantage in many situations, such as in low light.

The X-H2’s electronic viewfinder offers a high-resolution viewfinder image with 5.76 million pixels and 0.8x magnification. The high refresh rate of approximately 120 frames per second ensures a natural display even of very fast movements. The viewfinder image is also optimally corrected and free from parallax errors and distortion, which would otherwise typically occur when the position of the eyes changes.

The X-H2 is built to withstand the rigours of everyday professional use. Like the X-H2S, it features a weather-sealed body, sealed at 79 points against the ingress of moisture and dust, and remains fully operational even in cold conditions down to minus 10 degrees Celsius.

Additional ease of use is provided by the sub-display on the top of the camera, the rear LCD monitor with 1.62 million pixels, the customisable AF ON button and the separate video recording button. The X-H2’s dual memory card slot supports not only conventional SD cards but also CFexpress Type B cards, which allow the camera’s full potential to be exploited during continuous shooting and video recording, amongst other things. *9

Furthermore, the X-H2 (like the X-H2S*10) is compatible with the FT-XH File Transmitter, which enables wired LAN and wireless Wi-Fi tethered video recording. Up to four X-H2 and X-H2S cameras can be controlled via a browser application. For example, the shooting parameters for each camera can be checked and adjusted, and video recording can be started and stopped synchronously for all cameras. It is also possible to save, copy and load camera settings. *11

*1 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.

*2 As of 8 September 2022, according to FUJIFILM.

*3 Apple ProRes is a trademark of Apple Inc. and is registered in the USA and other countries and regions.

*4 When used with the FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R.

*5 CFexpress™ is a trademark or registered trademark of the CompactFlash Association.

*6 Maximum recording time at an ambient temperature of 25 degrees Celsius and with the following camera settings: auto power-off temperature set to ‘High’, H.265 4:2:0, 200Mbps bitrate, and the VG-XH vertical battery grip with a total of three batteries inserted. Recording time depends on the remaining battery charge and the type and capacity of the memory card used. If the device becomes hot, recording may stop automatically.

*7 Digital zoom is available in the three video modes: 4K HQ, 4K DCI HQ and Full HD.

*8 The proxy function is not available for 8K/30P and 8K/25P recordings.

*9 A list of compatible memory cards can be found on the FUJIFILM website.

*10 An update to the latest firmware is required for the X-H2S to use this function.

*11 Camera settings can be saved to a computer or tablet and reloaded from there.

Fujifilm XF 16-80mm F4 R OIS WR

The “FUJINON XF16-80mmF4 R OIS WR” is a compact and weather-resistant zoom lens for the FUJIFILM X Series mirrorless system cameras. It features a constant maximum aperture of F4 and covers a focal length range of 16–80 mm (equivalent to 24–122 mm in 35 mm format). It also offers a minimum focusing distance of 35 cm across the entire zoom range. The maximum magnification is 0.25x.

The zoom lens features an optical image stabilisation system that allows for shutter speeds up to 6 EV steps slower. This means the lens can be used in a wide variety of situations, including in difficult lighting conditions.

The XF16-80mm also offers particularly fast, precise and quiet internal focusing, controlled by a powerful stepper motor.

It weighs just 440 grams, making it around 40 per cent lighter than a comparable lens for a 35mm system. With a length of 88.9 mm and a diameter of 78.3 mm, it is very compact.