I get it. The Fujifilm X-Pro 3.

We've had a super fun time playing with the Fujifilm X-pro3. A big thank you to Fujifilm North America for allowing us some time to enjoy it together.

I share my thoughts.

First time here? Hi, I'm Omar Gonzalez, a professional portrait and event photographer in the NYC/NJ area. I’m not a professional YouTube, that’s for sure. I also don’t believe in mid-roll ads, so please hit like and subscribe if you appreciate that. On this channel, we talk cameras, lenses, and techniques to improve our photography.

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[joshuarothman]

Thanks for this great and honest video. I came to Fuji through the X100F and then moved to the X-Pro3. I'm not a pro—I mainly take photos of my family—but I've found that this is the perfect camera for me, for many of the reasons you describe. I love the 'shoot now, review later' workflow, which keeps me present in the moment, looking at my family and not at the camera's screen. In terms of the 'analog' approach, I think it's possible to take a middle path. I shoot mostly using the EVF, so I know that the pictures are exposed correctly, but I don't review them until the end of the day (except for occasionally using the screen to show someone a really good shot). If I'm really confident about exposure, and if I'm using my 23mm and 35mm lenses, I'll switch to the OVF. I'll shoot RAW, but I also play around with JPEGs and recipes, and I've set Lightroom to auto-apply the settings to my RAW files, so that I can do some creative experimentation in-camera. Often I end up applying one of my home-made presets to the RAW file, but sometimes I'm inspired to tweak or replicate the in-camera edit. I don't miss the screen at all for shooting; I've always preferred a viewfinder. I find that I'll flip down the screen a few times a day to adjust settings, then flip it back up the rest of the time and just use the dials. For me, it's not so much about the analog experience as it is about streamlining my interactions with the camera. 'Set it and forget it.' I like having this almost inert, basically screen-less object with few buttons or displays; all the images are on the inside. (Except for the little sub-monitor, which reminds me to imagine what the world might look like in Acros Yellow or whatever other simulation I'm exploring.) I spend a lot of time in front of a computer every day, and I'm glad the X-Pro3 feels so different from a computerized experience.

When I was contemplating the X-Pro3, I wondered about getting the X-T4, since its screen can flip around completely. If I'd done that, I'd have IBIS, video, and a better battery, and I could still close up the screen. I tried an X-T30, in part because of the videos on this channel, and really liked Auto Mode and the movie functions, but in the end I didn't like how many buttons and controls there were on the body. (I know this is exactly what some people like about the T bodies.) I returned the X-T30 and grit my teeth and paid for the X-Pro3 without trying the X-T4. I've accepted that, with cameras, it's all trade-offs.... Now, when I want to shoot an incidental video—like the video diaries you talk about—I use my phone or a DJI Pocket. As compensation, I have this simple, perfect (for me) stills-only camera. It's a bigger setup than just using an X-T4, but part of me likes keeping my photos and videos physically separate, in two distinct workflows. Am I finicky and silly in enjoying a stills-only camera? Who knows! Maybe in 2022 I'll buy a used X-T4, when my bank account has recovered from the X-Pro3.

There's a lot of judgment around the this camera, and some people feel irritated by it or even judged by it (and its "Pro" moniker, which implies that this is the "pro" way to shoot), and I guess that's unavoidable and certainly understandable. Ultimately, though, I'm grateful that a big company like Fujifilm decided to make this weird, quirky, yet technically-advanced device, which is obviously not the perfect thing for everyone but is ideal for me. I certainly don't feel like a "Pro" photographer, but I do find that this camera and its design are a perfect fit for me and my habits of mind.

[caoileeleazar]

A year had passed and its stil feels like 1st day every time I grab my xpro 3. There's a magical joy using this camera and this is also the reason why Im going to rangefinder system now. :) thanks Omar for sharing your thoughts!

[stardave]

There are so many different cameras available now, I like that Fujifilm has a niche camera (that isn't some cookie cutter let's please everybody) which appeals to certain photographers and not to others. It reminds me of the Plymouth Prowler. Most people wouldn't get it or understand it. Those that did understand and got it, were thankful that a company made a new product especially for them.

[debbiemowry]

I can accomplish the majority of that experience with my X-T4. I leave the screen closed if nothing more to protect it and open it occasionally if I'm in a situation I want to make sure I get it right because I won't be able to reshoot. I'm kind of slow, like with film, because I don't want to go through hundreds of photos. I've even tried burst mode shooting and I can't do it. For me the best thing for slowing down is prime lens instead of zoom.

[stevenbowen]

I went into my camera shop to get an xt4 & left with an xpro3, still don’t know why, but man I love it📸

[avs]

Way back when - I'm 73 - there weren't a lot of affordable cameras out there that the average amatuer could chose to use. Plus the price of film ect. I bought the XPRO3 and have used it for nearly a year and the thing is, like the old days, when you managed to save up and buy something decent you hung onto it and learnt it's quirks and foibles by experience over time and boy does this camera pay you back in pure enjoyment, plus it doesn't cost a fortune in film purchases . Another added plus is that the LCD screen doesn't have the EVF eyepiece sticking out over the image when you're shooting from waist level.

[zblsk]

THE BEST X-Pro3 review I’ve seen. You flawlessly explained why its so unique and “analogue” experience ) GoodJob)

[bsmukler]

I'm so glad you put this video out. I have the X-pro3 as well as the X1000V and XT3 and I agree completely with your description of the shooting experience with this camera compared with that of the other bodies. In fact, I group the X100V experience as closer to the X-Pro3, with the XT-3 as different from those two. I seldom use the X-Pro3 screen at all when I am out shooting, usually opening it only for an adjustment via the Q menu. In addition to the screen design, I give a shout out to both the quality, "dense" body construction (much more so than with the X100V which celebrates lightness and simplicity). I walk each morning, always with a camera, and find myself grabbing either the X-Pro3, the X100V, or a Leica M, rather than the XT-3. There is certainly nothing wrong with the latter--it is a true workhorse--but the fun factor is not the same. Shooting with the X-Pro3 has also led to my setting the display on the Leica M to "off" as well, so I do not review images on that either until I am at my computer later on. Two notes: Fujifilm actually did put a great deal of design and engineering (and construction cost per unit) into the hybrid viewfinder on the X-Pro3 and X100V. My understanding is that the viewfinder in each of those models is a significant factor in the relatively high retail price. I suspect the magnification value as well as the size of the EVF are dictated in part by the hybrid structure. Second, like you I also think the exposure compensation dial should either lock or at least have stiffer detents as it is very easy to move as you bring the camera up to eye level. Also, I find my thumb often moves the power switch to "on" without my realizing it, so I just cycle it off and on again. I could do with that switch being a bit harder to move. I love the design of the X100V, but I think the X-Pro3 is much more elegant and looks and feels like a more substantial camera, in keeping with traditional true rangefinders. Finally, I spent many decades shooting slide film, which requires getting the exposure right, or pretty darn close, and I like the similarity of shooting the X-Pro3 with the LCD hidden from view.

[borderlands]

Still using the X-Pro1. I turned off the screen long ago, so the X-Pro3 makes perfect sense.

[renh]

Omar, I discovered your podcast about a half year ago. I just wanted to say that it helps me A LOT during the lockdown, when I study or work on projects for school. Thank you for that! I wish you and your family all the best for 2021. I hope there will be some new episodes soon!

[henrysiegertsz]

You always sound excited about photography, it is intoxicating!

[jankubat]

I mean, all we really want is for Fuji to start making their film cameras and discontinued filmstocks again (starting with Natura 1600).

[jcblum]

Hi Omar, I find it fantastic the way you tell the relationship you have with your cameras, I am a Fuji user and I feel very similar things with my camera, congratulations on buying your new camera !!! approved

[rafbass]

I enjoy photography A LOT with my xpro3. It is what brought me back bringing my camera always with me!

[The_Moose_Trophy]

I got the X-Pro2 a month back and one of the biggest things I've noticed and loved about it is how everything is a little slower. There's slower that frustrates you, but it's not that. It's making sure you're more deliberate with you photos. I really don't see the argument that these are just for street photography either, sure no flippy screen is meh, but I use mine for macro and landscape photography and having the limitations actually is more fun.

[esppics]

I bought one Sunday and so far I LOVE it. I wear reading glasses so having to put on and take off my reading glass to see the back of the screen is a pain. So with most mirrorless cameras I just use the viewfinder. The LCD is there for when I need to make changes on the menu. But for it me not having a rear screen is not a big deal. I don't miss it.

[AdelmoSilvaPhoto]

Dear Omar,

I've just finished watching your video and you are so right. The X-Pro3 is beautiful and the shooting experience is amazing.

I bought a X-T3 in December 2019 because of your videos related to the X-T2 so please don't make buy a X-Pro3.

In August 2020 I bought myself an analog camera, a Fujica ST 605n, and you are right again, we took so long to press the shutter button.

Keep up the good work.

Happy New Year!

[thegrayyernaut]

I always check my photos in the EVF, so the X-Pro3's lack of a back LCD (by folding it inside) isn't a problem for me. Also I use the "Info" screen on my X-T1, with only a black screen showing numbers, drive modes, and no real-time images.
(I don't know if the X-T2, 3, & 4 have this screen. I would miss it a lot if I upgrade to those cameras and they don't have it)
Basically I only work in the EVF.
Maybe I'll get it an X-Pro3 one day when the X-Pro5 is out or something.

[jnsadavis]

Four years later this is still a great video. Many years ago, I was jealous of my sister's Canon Canonet rangefinder. I was unfortunately stuck with a Nikon FM ;). When the XPro1 came out, I finally had my Canonet copy! All the XPro series are special in their own ways. Like you, Omar, I have trouble seeing the ISO dial so I finally broke down and assigned it to the front command dial. It's my crutch! ;)

[abrahamkristanto]

6:40 That hawk got me man 😂😂. Keep up the good vids Omar!