First Impression: Fujifilm FinePix X100 Camera

I just received my Fujifilm FinePix X100 about 3 days ago and I only have limited time to do some testing shots.  I was planning to go outdoor to test some true testing shots but the weather is not allowed.  So I endup testing the camera with my dog and my garden.  My first of the impression is… “WOW!”.  Yes, I really said that after trying to use the hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder to take the first picture.  I am feeling like I’m using a DSLR with a fixed 35mm f/2.0 prime lens except the size of the camera is very compact comparing to most of the DSLR out there (For me, the feeling is even more extreme because I am using Canon EOS 1D Mark III).

As what I said earlier, Fujifilm X100 comes with a fixed 35mm f2.0 lens.  It does not have neither optical or digital zoom.  I am planning to bring this camera with me for my European vacation next month and I hope I don’t make a big mistake.  I was thinking to bring my Canon DSLR with a 17-40mm f/4 lens for my vacation because I believe there will be a lot of architectural and scenery opportunities.  However, due to the size of the DSLR, I may also want to bring my Ricoh GX200 as the compact solution.  It is about 7lbs of equipments I am talking about here!  Honestly, this is my vacation and I think I should relax and enjoy.  As a result, I make a decision on getting the X100 as my only camera during the trip.

When Sigma announced the DP1, I told myself it will be my primary “snapshot” camera other than my DSLR and lenses. Unfortunately, the high price and bad reviews prevent me to take the risk to get it. There it comes with DP2 and same story. A couple years ago, Panasonic and other manufacturers come out micro four third format camera body and it is very attractive. I was also looking into Panasonic GF1 because of the mechanical style switches (comparing to GF2′s control). However, both of the cameras still have issues with digital noise at high ISO and missing optical viewfinder.

Anyway, I will try to get outdoor and practice more with this new camera.  More update will follow in the next couple weeks!