Our recent photographic adventures introduced us to two extremely robust mirrorless cameras: the Fujifilm X-T3 and the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5. Both come highly recommended almost automatically, but if an average of two thousand euros sounds a bit intimidating, the good news is that there are other options further down. One of them is the Fujifilm X-E3, which offers excellent image quality, more than adequate 4K recording for its price, and that classic spark that steals all the attention.
Entering the world of photography is not a question of eras. Both Black Friday (and its variants) and the holiday season can make some models more tempting, but you can always find one that fits your budget. This is especially true in the mirrorless camera space, which we hope to continue studying closely if we get the chance. It is there that the market pulse is felt strongest, with greater activity from manufacturers. The reasons are logical: there are many "smartphone photographers" out there who want to take a step up in quality, and mirrorless cameras are shaping up as the ideal stepping stone. That places us at the level of the Fujifilm X-E3, which replaces and optimizes its younger sisters E2 and E2s.
Fujifilm X-E3: Style and Performance at a Balanced Price
Officially announced in September 2017, the Fujifilm X-E3 delivers a sensor with 24 effective megapixels and an X-Processor Pro image processor. Its ISO sensitivity extends from 200 to 12,800 with a Boost in both directions of 100-51,200, and the shutter speed ranges from 1/4000 or 1/32000 in electronic mode to 30 seconds. The main screen is standard, with a 3-inch size and 1.04 million dots of resolution, and it includes touch support but is not tilting. As for the electronic viewfinder, there are not many surprises either, presenting 2.36 million dots based on OLED technology, 100 percent coverage, and a magnification of 0.93x.
Analyzing the autofocus system, we find a total of 325 points (13 by 25) or an alternative configuration of 91 points (7 by 13), with phase detection covering 70 percent of the frame vertically and 50 percent horizontally. The combination of the tracking algorithm, the touchscreen, and the dedicated joystick on the back of the camera gives the user more than decent control over autofocus, although the general recommendation is to concentrate on the phase-detection coverage zone. Its Burst mode rises to 14 FPS using the electronic shutter, while in traditional mode you can get about 8 FPS (62 JPEG images and 23-25 RAW buffer). Fujifilm suggests using a UHS-I class SD card, but it's ideal to apply other parameters due to video recording (additional details below).
A good part of the Fujifilm X-E3's interface depends on touch interaction, but on the top there are two dedicated dials, one to modify exposure compensation and the other oriented to shutter speed. Their position is similar to what we saw on the Fujifilm X-T3, but the absence of a third dial and locking systems reminds us that the E3 is a mid-end mirrorless. The Fn button is more comfortable than the one on its older sister, however, our attention is drawn to the aforementioned autofocus joystick, coming from another great Fujifilm mirrorless, the X-Pro2. The role of the lever is nothing more than to switch from manual mode to what we know as Full Auto. Novices probably prefer to start their relationship with the Fujifilm X-E3 by leaving the lever in Full Auto and changing modes with the control dial on the front of the camera. The list of available modes is found in the manual, starting on pages 74-75.
The Fujifilm X-E3 allows recording video at 4Kp30 at 100 megabits per second with a 10-minute limit, 1080p60 at 36 Mbps and 15 minutes, or 720p60 at 18 Mbps and 30 minutes. One advantage of the camera is that it uses the full width of the sensor for 4K, but if you need to record longer videos per session, it wouldn't be a bad idea to consider other alternatives, such as the Sony Alpha a6300. In both cases, a very fast SD card is almost mandatory, on the order of U3 or V30 class with a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s. Undoubtedly, there are cameras that can deliver more complete 4K video (in fact, many users place the a6300 one step above), but once you see it in action, the Fujifilm X-E3 will surprise you. When it comes to pulling content, its Bluetooth connectivity keeps a permanent connection with your mobile device, and combined with WiFi link, the auto-transfer system will send everything you want to your smartphone before turning off the camera.
Accessories for the Fujifilm X-E3
The Fujifilm X-E3 currently has a price of 1,100 euros with a very good 18-55 lens, but if you prefer the body only, your investment will be 780 euros. That difference opens up a wide range of possibilities for buying accessories. Do you think the kit lens is worth that premium, or is it better to look for an external alternative? Maybe a complete set of lenses before committing to a specific model? No matter which path you choose, we can help you.
Batteries and Power
The folks at Fujifilm decided not to make changes to the X-E3's power supply, and that means we can go beyond its 350 shots with just 40 euros. The Gloxy battery compatible with NP-W126 works just like the original, and the Gloxy 2-in-1 charger for home and car breaks the dependence on traditional outlets. Another positive aspect is that the Fujifilm X-E3 is compatible with USB charging, so keeping the main and secondary batteries at full charge will be much easier. The product codes "0712006549,VDTS-4604-CH-VDTS-4242" refer to the battery and charger.
Tripods and Supports
337 grams. That's all the body of the Fujifilm X-E3 weighs with its battery included. The good autofocus combined with its simple point control allows us to use this mirrorless handheld without much worry, but you know how things are. In more extreme situations and low-light environments, it's always advisable to incorporate a tripod. Our first recommendation is the Triopo C-258 tripod with the KJ-2 head. Its maximum height is 1.5 meters, and the combination of aluminum and titanium makes it very easy to transport (just 1.43 kilograms in weight), without sacrificing maximum load (5.5 kg). The second is a classic from our guides, the Clampod Takeway T1, which once again demonstrates its impressive compatibility by receiving Fujifilm cameras without problems. If you want a compact support, this is it. The product codes "0712163592,0712606406" correspond to these tripods.
Bags and Backpacks
Almost as simple as choosing a tripod is finding a backpack for the Fujifilm X-E3. Since it doesn't take up much space, you can fill the rest of the volume with whatever you want, and that detail makes the Gloxy PRO AW backpack a great candidate, thanks to its customizable and padded interior. On the other hand, when portability is the priority, the Delta 400a Fancier bag does the job perfectly. Available in two colors, with a front pocket, adjustable dividers, and a pleasant crossbody style that's very comfortable to use. The product codes "GloxyPRO,Fancier400a" identify these bags.
Flashes
The Fujifilm X-E3 follows the same line as its older sisters by not having a built-in flash, but that's quickly forgotten thanks to the presence of a hot shoe. In other words, it's an excellent idea to combat any light deficit with a dedicated flash. The first flash option is economical but of good quality. It's the Meike MK-320, with a weight of 150 grams, guide number 32, and compatibility with TTL, slave, manual, and stroboscopic modes. The second option is an official flash, the Fujifilm EF-42. A bit more expensive, and undoubtedly heavier (260 grams), but it also increases the guide number to 42, and the horizontal movement of its head expands our control over light.
Lenses and Optics
The most effective way to overcome the limits of a mount is through an adapter, but Fujifilm's X mount has been with us for more than half a decade, and the market welcomed it with open arms. A good example is the Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS lens. This excellent ultra-wide-angle with a 98.9-degree field of view will complement the 18-55 kit lens wonderfully and shouldn't disappoint you in low-light conditions. Now, is there anything cheaper? The answer is yes! Gloxy offers a kit of compatible lenses, including wide-angle, telephoto, and macro. The Fujifilm X-E3 can work with these lenses without issues (but always check support first).
A great sensor for JPEG images, 4Kp30, a robust and easy-to-control autofocus, compact, lightweight, with a well-finished exterior, and a healthy compatibility of accessories, the Fujifilm X-E3 is a mirrorless that presents no difficulties when it comes to recommending it. If you feel that the Fujifilm X-T2 is 'too much', but you notice that the Fujifilm X-T100 is a bit short, here you have the middle ground you should look for. Good luck!
