Despite being released in 2016, The Fujifilm X-T2 continues to be a relevant and a good professional camera in today's photography landscape. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to a combination of factors that make it a versatile and capable tool for photographers across various genres. From its robust build quality to its advanced features, the X-T2 remains a reliable choice for both enthusiasts and professionals.
The retro design of the Fujifilm X camera system is a distinctive homage to classic film cameras. Characterized by manual dials, tactile controls, and a vintage aesthetic, it seamlessly blends nostalgia with modern technology. This timeless design not only enhances the shooting experience but also sets Fujifilm apart in the digital camera market.
Is the Fujifilm X-T2 a professional camera?
Yes, the Fuji X-T2 is a professional camera. It boasts a robust weather sealed build, advanced features, and excellent image quality, meeting the demands of professional photographers. With a 24 MP sensor, 4K video capability, and a durable magnesium alloy body, it offers versatility for various shooting scenarios.
The X-T2's advanced autofocus, customizable controls, and impressive electronic viewfinder makes it suitable for both enthusiasts and seasoned photographers who require reliability and high performance in their work.
Build Quality
One of the standout features of the X-T2 is its exceptional build quality. FujiFilm is renowned for producing cameras with a premium feel, and the X-T2 is no exception. The magnesium alloy body not only gives it a durable and rugged exterior but also makes it lightweight, ensuring that photographers can comfortably carry it for extended periods. The camera's weather-sealing adds an extra layer of protection, making it suitable for shooting in challenging conditions, whether it's rain, dust, or extreme temperatures. This robust construction contributes to the X-T2's longevity, allowing it to withstand the rigors of professional use.
Image Quality
In terms of imaging capabilities, the X-T2 holds its ground against more recent camera releases. The 24.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor, combined with the X-Processor Pro, delivers impressive image quality with excellent dynamic range and low-light performance. The X-Trans sensor's unique color filter array eliminates the need for an optical low-pass filter, resulting in sharper images with rich and accurate colors. This sensor and processor combination continues to produce images that meet the demanding standards of professional photographers.
Autofocus
The X-T2's autofocus system is another area where it excels. With 325 AF points, including 169 phase-detection points, the camera delivers fast and accurate autofocus performance. This is crucial for capturing decisive moments, whether shooting fast-paced action or portraiture. The predictive tracking and face detection capabilities ensure that subjects remain in focus, allowing photographers to concentrate on composition and creativity without worrying about technical issues.
Physical Controls
For photographers who appreciate the tactile experience of shooting with physical controls, the X-T2 offers a classic design reminiscent of film cameras. The array of dials and buttons on the top plate provides quick access to essential settings, allowing for an intuitive shooting experience. The manual controls give photographers a direct connection to their craft, allowing them to adjust settings on the fly without diving into menus. This tactile interface contributes to the X-T2's appeal, especially for those who appreciate a more traditional and hands-on approach to photography.
Video
Videographers also find the X-T2 relevant in today's content creation landscape. While it might not have the video-centric features of some dedicated cinema cameras, the X-T2 is more than capable of delivering high-quality video. It can record in 4K at 30fps, providing videographers with sharp and detailed footage. The camera's Film Simulation modes, inherited from FujiFilm's experience in film manufacturing, add a cinematic look to videos straight out of the camera. With features like clean HDMI output and headphone and microphone jacks, the X-T2 offers a well-rounded solution for those who want to explore both stills and video.
Firmware
The X-T2's versatility is further enhanced by FujiFilm's commitment to firmware updates. Even though it's a few years old, the camera continues to receive firmware updates, introducing new features and improvements. This level of support from the manufacturer ensures that the X-T2 stays relevant by adapting to evolving technological trends. FujiFilm's responsiveness to user feedback and commitment to enhancing their products contribute to the long-term value of the X-T2.
Lenses
Another factor that adds to the X-T2's relevance is the extensive lineup of high-quality lenses available for the Fuji X-mount system. FujiFilm's dedication to lens development has resulted in a diverse range of optics, from compact primes to professional zooms. This lens ecosystem provides photographers with the tools they need to tackle various photographic scenarios, making the X-T2 a versatile platform for different genres of photography.
Fujifilm is one of the few systems that has really committed to the APS-C sensor size and has completed avoided full frame. This has allowed them to focus on lenses that are purpose built for APS-C. Most other camera makers have only made the smaller sensor format as an upgrade path to their full frame system.
Conclusion
The Fuji X-T2 remains a relevant and professional camera today due to its exceptional build quality, advanced imaging capabilities, intuitive controls, and ongoing support through firmware updates. Its ability to deliver outstanding results in both stills and video, combined with a vast selection of lenses, makes it a compelling choice for photographers who prioritize a balance of performance, durability, and creative control. While newer models may offer incremental improvements, the X-T2's enduring appeal lies in its ability to meet the demands of diverse photographic needs, standing the test of time as a reliable and capable tool for photographers.
You can find the X-T2 for bargain prices and compared to the new models it remains a great value for those just coming into the Fujifilm X mount system.
My personal experience
I personally use the Fufilm X-T2 and X-Pro2 as my professional camera pair. I shoot many different types of photography such as events, portraits, headshots, and real estate. Couple the X-T2 with a battery grip and you have a camera that can shoot all day.
I also shoot with it for my personal projects and family time. It's compact enough to be non instrusive with family situations while having all the features to be a professional workhorse. The X-T2 is truly a camera for all and can be purchased at a bargain price. You will not be disappointed.
What I like
good build quality
weather sealed
24 megapixels
2 way tilt screen
film simulations
battery grip option
excellent electronic viewfinder
What I don't like
batttery life without the battery grip
grip could be larger
a tad too narrow in width (compared to the X-Pro2)
no 4K 60p
no touchscreen
My name is Jason Logan. I'm a photographer and content creator from Jersey City, NJ. I'm an avid Fujifilm shooter and own an X-T2, X-Pro2, and X-S10.