Finding Comfort in Familiarity with X-S10

5 minute read

Finding Comfort in Familiarity

Humanitarian photographer, Rebecca Gaal, takes X-S10, XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ and XF18-135mmF3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR to the coast as a welcome relief from our troubled times

After studying environmental science at school, and currently studying towards a master’s in Public Health, Rebecca Gaal’s photography projects invariably have her chasing stories that can have a real impact. “I like the roots of each project to be in the area of human environment,” says Rebecca. “I like to collaborate with groups that are looking at those issues and working towards addressing the problems.

“I feel like photographing is probably 10% of my work, but it’s the most important work. You take so long coming up with ideas and trying to implement them, and then the photography is like sealing the deal. It’s the one way to say something without necessarily being overtly political or overly pushy.”

However, even for someone so obsessed with such stories, lockdowns, restricted human interaction, and non-stop coverage of the Covid-19 pandemic can become exhausting. That’s why for this project with FUJIFILM X-S10, Rebecca went in search of familiar comforts.

She took the camera, along with XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ and XF18-135mmF3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR lenses, to her local coast, where she used to vacation with her family. She chose this location not just because it would allow her the space to create safely, but because she wanted to tell a story of calm, escapism, and security in such uncertain times.

“This year has been a little crazy for everybody, even if they’re not directly affected by Covid-19 or extreme restrictions. I think I’ve been looking for familiarity, rituals or things that are familiar and comfortable,” explains Rebecca. “So, I thought if I have to shoot, I’m going to go to my place. There’s some familiarity, but it’s always different, so it helps let your guard down and step away from the chaos of things.”

As Rebecca began creating, this idea of freedom and familiarity was reinforced by the camera in her hands. X-S10 uses the same X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4 as many of the higher-end FUJIFILM cameras she is used to, along with features such as five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and 4K video capabilities. It is also extremely small and lightweight, while maintaining a substantial handgrip for maximum control.

“I’m used to a bigger camera, but I thought X-S10 was excellent, especially for people on the go. It’s small enough to put in the glove compartment of your car making it a lot easier to bring with you,” she says. “It was really fun. And a lot of high-end cameras can’t even do the kind of shots this can. So, I think there is a lot to be said for having the tricks that this guy has.”

Rebecca specifically highlights X-S10’s accessibility, telling us that the user-friendly controls made it quick and easy to find the features she wanted. “It’s easy to switch from stills to video, so you can take a multimedia approach all in one, without the need for multiple cameras. Also, if you want to transition between Film Simulations, or get more creative with the double exposure and panoramic features, they are very accessible, even in low light, when you’re fidgeting with settings,” she adds.

Overall, Rebecca tells us that X-S10’s combination of image quality, precision autofocus, compact size, and simplicity makes it a fantastic all-round camera, whether you’re an everyday photographer or a professional looking for a solid backup body.

“I’d recommend this camera to anyone,” she enthuses. “If you’re going on a family vacation or out to dinner with somebody and you want something fun and easy to take with you, X-S10 is a great option. The battery lasts a long time, so it’s also good for outdoor adventure. But it can also be a great second camera, if you’re doing an assignment.

“I love the simplicity,” Rebecca concludes. “If you use it long enough, you’re not thinking about the technical aspects, you’re using it like a paintbrush or a pencil.”

FUJIFILM X-S10 is now available at your nearest FUJIFILM Authorized Dealer. Learn more and read the full specifications here.


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