The New X Half Model from Fujifilm Might Be the Most Fun Camera to Use in Fujifilm's History
Strap on and dive into the charm of the FujiFilm X Half, a digital mirrorless compact camera channeling the spirit of the iconic analog half-frame style. This thing ain't just cute, it's a clever blend of yesteryear's photography enthusiasm with today's technological might.
First impressions? It's undeniably charming. But where others might mistake this charisma for nostalgic flair, I reckon there's more to it. After all, do we really need another digital half-frame camera in 2025? Well, gotta say, I was wrong to doubt it.
The half-frame vibe ain't a novel concept, with its roots in film photography days meaning two vertical images on one 35mm frame, effectively doubling exposures and encouraging a more spontaneous approach. Last year, I reviewed the Alfie Camera Tych, a compact modern half-frame film camera that celebrated these attributes. I applauded the liberating experience of freely shooting, working in pairs, and eagerly unveiling the roll's mysteries. The FujiFilm X Half captures this essence, minus the cost, waiting, and uncertainty of film.
What sets the X Half apart is its commitment to duplicating not just the appearance of film, but the process of analog photography. The camera sports a repurposed physical film advance lever, rewind button, and film door latch, all designed for digital use. But the pièce de résistance? The Film Roll Simulation mode. You pick one of Fujifilm's signature film simulations, such as Classic Chrome, Velvia, Acros, and you're locked in for the entire 'roll' of exposures. No dealing with images mid-stream, no deletions—just shoot. It even silences image review, creating a flow and focus rarely found in digital photography.
The X Half also honors the original rhythm of shooting in diptychs, with two vertical half frames naturally paired together in-camera to form one horizontal image as you advance the lever. It's intuitive, satisfying, and perfectly sets the stage for creative storytelling..
While the X Half radiates old-school appeal, it doesn't just play dress-up. It encourages a distinct approach, one that is slower, more instinctive, and more open to chance. By preserving the finest aspects of analog half-frame photo shooting and digitalizing them, Fujifilm has produced a camera that feels fresh and revolutionary.
So, is it for everyone? Hell no. But if you're pining for the days of half-frame photography or simply craving a break from the mundane digital shooting routine, the X Half might just be your next best friend.
Want more? Here are our guides to the best Fujifilm cameras and the best film cameras for further reading.
Kalum CarterA jack-of-all-trades photographer, filmmaker, creative director, and writer, Kalum carves out over a decade of visual storytelling experience. With a keen focus on photography books, curation, and editing, he seamlessly merges deep understanding of contemporary and historical works.
In addition to creative ventures, Kalum elucidates on photography and filmmaking, conducting insightful interviews with industry heavyweights, showcasing emerging talent, and delivering in-depth analyses of the craft. His work delves into the transformative power of visual storytelling, spurring our appreciation for the influence of photography.
- The FujiFilm X Half is a mirrorless compact camera that combines the nostalgic charm of half-frame photography with modern technology.
- The X Half not only mimics the look of film, but also the process of analog photography, offering a unique shooting experience.
- This mirrorless camera features a Film Roll Simulation mode, which allows photographers to choose from Fujifilm's signature film simulations and lock in the selection for an entire 'roll' of exposures.
- The X Half encourages a slower, more spontaneous, and more creative approach to photography, setting it apart from other digital cameras.
- Despite its vintage appeal, the X Half is not just a retro-styled gadget; it offers a distinct shooting style that is both innovative and revolutionary.
- If you are yearning for the days of half-frame photography or seeking a break from conventional digital shooting, the FujiFilm X Half could be your next photography companion.
