BTS- Hans & Marianne
Gears: X-T3 + 23mm – 35mm – 56mm
I am going to start by saying that this project was a great gift: getting to know Hans and Marianne better, being able to work alongside my good friend, photographer Javier Avad, to tell this lovely story and, of course, trying out the Fuji X-T3, a camera I fell in love with at first sight.
I must say I had always been a fan of another brand (which I won’t name) and that, despite how lovely the X-T3 looked, I was reticent to change. I’d been accustomed to using the same camera for a long time, and getting to grips with a completely new one usually takes time, but here it proved easier than expected. Although it is very different to the camera I was used to, I found it pretty easy to get a handle on.
It has a surprisingly lightweight body that is undeniably beautiful and which lets you swap everything around as you like, so I had pretty good control of it within a day. The second thing I would mention is the picture quality. The 4K and Full HD results were impressive; I was very happy with the outcome.
I like simple things that are easy to handle…also pieces that don’t call attention to themselves. I usually shoot camera in hand and dislike clunky equipment because my work style is fairly organic. I enjoy the freedom of movement and action that I have when shooting without a monopod or other type of stabilizer. And that was another thing that had concerned me. But I was pleasantly surprised to discover I could use it easily and not have to change my usual work style. I found the menu a bit complicated, but I guess it’s just a matter of time and it will get easier the more I use it.
I only have one criticism regarding this camera. The Rec button should be able to be customized for ergonomic and stabilization reasons and you should be able to shoot and cut with your thumb (at the back).
Apart from that, the X-T3 was brilliant for shooting video with. And if you’re like me and you like getting around freely, it’s ideal. Obviously I miss the full frame and blur that everyone wants, but in all honesty the picture quality, weight, design and of course the look of the thing warrant getting to know it better.
I loved the ETERNA film simulation, and being able to shoot 4K at 50fps is the greatest thing to have happened to me in a while. I honestly didn’t expect it would surprise me as much as it did or that I would like it like I do, but it really won me over.
In terms of the lenses, the first thing that surprised me was their size and weight. It’s extraordinary how little space they take up in my bag. I really liked the sharpness and versatility of the 23mm lens, and I loved the flares of the 35mm.
All up, trying the X-T3 was wonderful. My congratulations to Fujifilm for this …yes, I will say it again… this camera that is as lovely as it is functional.
