Launching a new camera to the market is undoubtedly a balancing act. Each manufacturer seeks to incorporate as many functions as possible, while also making the right cuts so that the final price isn't a scandal. However, the Fujifilm X-Pro3 goes in a very different direction. This mirrorless basically forces the user to use it as if it were a classic camera, but that's not a simple imposition, rather a central element of its essence, backed by a construction that turns it into a tank.
When a company talks about delivering experiences, it's logical for potential users to take a more defensive stance. Generally speaking, “experience” is a word associated with certain restrictions, or the need to play in a very defined sandbox. Photography doesn't usually get along with those concepts, and the last thing a photographer wants is to feel trapped by their camera. Now, that doesn't mean exceptions don't exist...
One of them is the Fujifilm X-Pro3. At first glance, someone might mistake it for an old camera... and we must admit that it does so on purpose. The “experience” this mirrorless offers is exactly that: Simulate film, use the optical viewfinder, and shoot... but without losing the advantages of modern technology. At the end of the day, the Fujifilm X-Pro3 hides very solid specifications, as much as its metallic construction.
Fujifilm X-Pro3: With the Eye... or from the Waist
Originally announced in October last year, the Fujifilm X-Pro3 features a 26.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, backed by the fourth version of its X-Processor. Its ISO sensitivity ranges from 160 to 12,800 with a Boost in both directions of 80-51,200, while shutter speed ranges from 1/8,000 to 30 seconds, or 1/32,000 in electronic mode. Its main screen has 1.62 million dots, is touch-sensitive and tilting, but with a twist: it opens “downwards”, enabling image capture with the camera at hip height.
The second screen is a small LCD panel on the back (176 x 176 pixels) that reports the camera's current settings, or the representation of the Film Simulation mode. The viewfinder doesn't lag behind either, with a hybrid optical-electronic module of 3.69 million dots, 95 percent coverage, and a Boost mode of 100 frames per second.
When analyzing the autofocus system on the Fujifilm X-Pro3, we find it has parameters identical to those of the Fujifilm X-T3, with 425 phase-detection points. The individual modes are three (Single Point, Wide/Tracking, and Zone), or alternatively we can activate the “All” option to use a combination. Additionally, there is face and eye detection, which can be easily linked to the function buttons on the body, though they are not available with the optical viewfinder (where the available focus points are also reduced).
The overall autofocus performance is on par with the X-T3, and when it comes to Burst, we see a ceiling of 11 FPS with a buffer of 145 frames in JPEG, and 36 in uncompressed RAW. If we decide to use the electronic shutter (and accept a 1.25x crop in the process), the frame rate reaches 30 FPS. Despite those numbers, the Fujifilm X-Pro3 is not a camera designed for action or sports photography. Its design whispers to the urban photographer, who will surely find the autofocus and Burst values more than adequate.
At the interface level, the most important change on the Fujifilm X-Pro3 (apart from the secondary screen) is the absence of the four-way control that its predecessor had, but the joystick is still there. On the top, one of the dials merges the ISO sensitivity values with shutter speed. Its operation is not entirely conventional, but it only takes a few minutes to get used to it.
The other dial is entirely dedicated to exposure compensation, and on the front we see the third control dial, to the right of the Fn2 button (with no label on the body) and the lever to switch between optical and electronic viewfinder.
So, how does that double dial work? Simple: a turn changes the shutter speed, and lifting it adjusts sensitivity. If you want to choose another speed after selecting “A” mode, you have to hold down the dial lock release and turn again. This and other details can be found in the manual, starting on page 24.
A piece of good news that many users will surely appreciate is that the Fujifilm X-Pro3 does not neglect its video modes. Its priority is undoubtedly photography, but with maximum support for 4Kp30 at 200 megabits per second (just a step below the X-T3) and the application of oversampling, its recordings don't look bad at all. Autofocus is a bit more limited when shooting video, and the lack of in-body stabilization requires a bit of extra attention, however, there's nothing here to ruin our sessions.
Accessories for the Fujifilm X-Pro3
The Fujifilm X-Pro3 does nothing to hide its premium nature. In fact, that's not the idea. As we mentioned at the beginning, the mirrorless is an experience... whose body costs around 1,900 euros at the moment. For that same price you can buy the X-T3 with an included lens, so any value-for-money seeker should follow that route. But if the X-Pro3 has managed to convince you... you'll need accessories.
Batteries and Power
With an average ranging from 370 to 440 shots per charge cycle (depending on the viewfinder used), the Fujifilm X-Pro3 doesn't rewrite any rules regarding battery life, and if we're going to be away from home with it for hours, we'll most likely need an additional unit. That's when the compatible Gloxy NP-W126 battery comes in, with performance very similar to the original, and a truly fabulous price. On the other hand, the Gloxy 2-in-1 charger for home and car will help keep it in optimal condition no matter where you are. The product codes are “0712006549,VDTS-4604-CH-VDTS-4242”.
Tripods and Supports
Since it's a mirrorless that comes close to 500 grams with battery included, looking for a tripod for the Fujifilm X-Pro3 is not complicated. In fact, with an investment of just 130 euros you can add a setup that adapts to any situation. If you want a traditional tripod, the Gloxy GX-T6662A has an ideal price-performance balance, thanks to its maximum load of 10 kilograms, and an aluminum alloy design that makes it easy to carry. On the other side, there's the Clampod Takeway T2, an ultra-compact solution that grips onto anything, and even offers a tripod mode.
Backpacks and Bags
Two titanium panels, magnesium alloy body, weather sealing. The Fujifilm X-Pro3 is a tank, but we can't neglect its transport, can we? Every urban photographer depends on something comfortable and safe, and so we come to the Delta 400a Fancier bag, with a practical messenger design, customizable interior, and a front pocket to carry even more things. Its direct alternative is the Genesis Gear Orion bag, in which we can carry the camera, lens, a flash, and even a tablet. Both options cost less than 40 euros.
Memory
With a UHS-II slot and V30 compatibility, the Fujifilm X-Pro3 is capable of accepting very fast cards, something essential if we're going to record 4K at a higher bitrate. Fortunately, the SanDisk Extreme Pro SDXC card of 128 gigabytes checks all the boxes. V30 certification, 90 megabytes per second write speed, and a very reasonable price seal the deal. On the other hand, if you prefer to prioritize capacity, the Transcend 300S of 512 GB costs only 80 euros.
Lenses
Such a camera needs a good optic, and I'm sure its owners will want to experiment with a wide-angle. If you agree, then you should get an excellent Samyang f/2.0 NCS CS 12mm lens. Besides achieving fabulous shots in the city, it will also allow you to capture the best of local architecture, and any interior that deserves your attention.
In summary, the Fujifilm X-Pro3 makes several decisions for the user, something not everyone will agree with. If you feel you're part of that group, then go directly to the Fujifilm X-T3 and don't look back. On the contrary, if you think you'll get along with the “experience” of shooting with a Fujifilm X-Pro3 and the budget stretches enough, don't think twice. Good luck!
