FUJIFILM has introduced the X half Compact Digital Camera, designed for emerging image-makers. This device is compact and lightweight, weighing 8.5 ounces (240g). Inspired by half-frame film cameras, the X half combines modern functionalities with its half-frame heritage, offering a new approach to content creation.
The new FUJIFILM camera is not necessarily a device aimed at our core audience, yet the innovation of designing it, alongside the creativity it suggests, deserves more than a mention. Key features include a way of capturing vertical stills and videos, bringing them together into a single frame, alongside a dedicated smartphone application, and the ability to print to select FUJIFILM Instax smartphone printers. The app provides editing capabilities, including modifying dividing line colours and sizes, or interchanging left and right images.
From my perspective, this camera is best suited to be called “my first FUJIFILM”, or better yet, the missing link between the company’s popular line of Instax and fixed focal length X cameras.
So what makes this camera so special, one might ask? To start with, the in-camera 2-in-1 feature allows users to combine vertical stills and movies with a simple winding of the Frame Advance Lever. Users can also create 2-in-1 images through the dedicated X half smartphone app. In fact, the camera’s 1-inch back-illuminated sensor is placed vertically to allow taking photos in such a way. On top, there is a 10.8mm F2.8 prime lens (equivalent 35mm focal length of 32mm). Simple as it is, the camera takes photos in the JPEG format only, which, in my opinion, fits the needs of its target users.
The FUJIFILM X half is equipped with 13 film simulations to emulate classic FUJIFILM analogue film varieties. There are three new creative filters inspired by film photography: Light Leak, Halation, and Expired Film. Grain effect and date stamp are also to be found. Additionally, the X half includes eight filters from the Instax instant camera series.
After selecting a Film Simulation and a roll size of 36, 54, or 72 exposures, users will experience an analog-like experience with the X half, including winding the Frame Advance Lever after each image.
In general, the camera body is very much simplified. There is a single USB-C input/output socket, a built-in small LED light, and an optical viewfinder. On the back, it features two LCD screens. The smaller (capsule shape) screen is for selecting and showing the chosen film simulation, while the bigger 3:4 aspect ratio rear touch-screen LCD is for controlling the different camera modes, settings, and navigation.
X half is special because it rekindles our love for the compact camera and blends it with the modern sensibilities that make it easy to make a part of our everyday lives
(Victor Ha, vice president, Electronic Imaging and Optical Devices Divisions, FUJIFILM North America)
Pricing and availability
The FUJIFILM X half compact digital camera will be available in three colors: Silver, Charcoal Silver, and Black. It is expected to be released late June 2025, and the retail price will be $849.99.
What do you think about the new camera? Is it something that ignites your imagination? What about its price? Do you find it justified or a bit too high for what it offers? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
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