Fujifilm X-T1 Graphite Summary

The Fuji X-T1 Graphite represents the latest step in Fuji's continuous refinement of their line of premium digital cameras. Fuji has been improvement the performance and usability of several of their X-series models via the introduction of exceptionally frequent firmware upgrades.

With the Graphite Edition of the X-T1, Fuji unveiled a notable upgrade to the original model and is celebrating it with a new finish. The new X-T1 Graphite gets a smooth and extra-durable 3-layer coating. A 6-stage process takes applies the special coating which is designed to protect the camera and give it a distinct semi-glossy look, making the X-T1 Graphite stand out even more than its predecessor.

This new shade of X-T1
Fujifilm X-T1 features a number of improvements, including the fastest electronic shutter among large-sensor cameras. Photographers can now choose between a typical mechanical-shutter and a new electronic-shutter, or let the camera automatically decide which to use. The electronic-shutter supports a maximum shutter-speed of 1/32000s and a minimum one of 1s. Only standard ISO sensitivities are allowed with the new shutter, so not all shots are possible without using the mechanical-shutter.

Having an ultra-fast electronic-shutter makes it possible to capture scenes in bright light with the use of extraordinarily-wide apertures, where typical cameras would overexpose. However, it does not help much with extremely fast action since the sensor read-out is not instantaneous. This is the same issue of the infamous jello-effect seen in digital video cameras. The new electronic-shutter also makes the Fuji X-T1 Graphite incredibly quiet.

Classic Chrome Film Simulation and Natural Live-View make their debut on the X-T1 Graphite. These will also be available as a firmware upgrade to existing X-T1 cameras. The Classic Chrome mode is a new Film Simulation which is designed to mimic the look of reversal film. This is characterized by a soft and subdued look with low contrast and low saturation. Natural Live-View is an oxymoron. It is a mode where Live-View attempts to mimic what would be seen through an optical viewfinder, ignoring how an image is rendered. This may be of use to those who shoot RAW and intend to perform their own image-conversion.

Outside of the new finish, the X-T1 Graphite physically is an X-T1. It is built around the same 16 megapixels APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor with built-in Phase-Detect AF and features the same EXR II processor. The control layout is absolutely identical. This translates into exactly the usability experience of the original X-T1.

With a huge number of dials and external controls, these professional-grade mirrorless cameras are overly complex. One only needs 3 dials to completely control exposure on a digital camera, yet the X-T1 has no fewer than 5, excluding the aperture-ring found on most Fuji X-mount lenses! These dials partially control parameters in ways that overlap. Both the Shutter-Speed and ISO dial are particularly problematic. The former only sets speeds in full stops for a subset of the camera's range, while the latter is missing one expanded sensitivity.

The main ergonomic complain for the X-T1 in our original review is that buttons are too flush with the camera body. This makes them nearly impossible to operate while wearing gloves. This does not affect everyone yet is a common concern in winter around here. The Graphite Edition does not change any of this.

Once one gets use to the complexity of this interface and its quirks, the Fuji X-T1 becomes an outstanding digital camera. Image-quality is top-notch with extremely low image-noise and excellent dynamic-range. Captured details are truly superb and the metering system is highly reliable. The X-T1 Graphite is quite fast and responsive too.

Just like its single-color twin, the Fuji X-T1 delivers one of the most compelling image-quality among digital cameras. It does so from within a relatively compact and highly durable body. This is exactly what many advanced photographers are looking for.