Introduction : The Fujifilm X-E2S is a rangefinder-styled mirrorless interchangeable lens camera featuring a 16MP X-Trans sensor, ab...
Introduction :
The Fujifilm X-E2S is a rangefinder-styled mirrorless interchangeable lens camera featuring a 16MP X-Trans sensor, abundant external controls, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a hybrid autofocus system. Feature- and performance-wise, it is all but identical to Fujifilm's existing X-E2 with the newest firmware installed, but the X-E2S launches at a $300 discount compared to its predecessor.
At an MSRP of $699 (or $999 with an 18-55mm F2.8-4 kit lens), Fujifilm has effectively taken an enthusiast-level camera with enthusiast-level controls and placed it alongside more traditionally entry-level models across the marketplace. If you're a photographer with some experience but a tight budget, that's great news. And if you're a beginner looking to get in to photography, the X-E2S might pique your interest.
So, the X-E2S is a re-released X-E2 with updated software, but there are still a few tweaks unique to the newer model.
Key Features
16MP APS-C X-Trans sensor
77-point autofocus system
1080/60p video capture
Fixed 3" 1.04M-dot LCD
2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder
ISO 200-6400, expandable to 51200
7 fps burst shooting
Wi-Fi
What's new on the X-E2S
An 'Auto' button on the rear, which puts the camera into a point-and-shoot 'Scene Recognition' mode similar to the auto lever on the top of the Fujifilm X-T10 (this button is also reassignable)
When shooting in Auto ISO, the X-E2S will attempt to detect motion in the scene and raise the minimum shutter speed automatically, if needed
Maximum 'boosted' ISO comes in at 51200 (JPEG only)
Tweaked grip, top plate loses the 'Fujinon Lens System' engraving
Rear four-way controller now defaults to AF point selection, but all buttons remain customizable
As you can see, there's really not much in it between the two cameras — the changes are almost 'nitpicky.' More importantly, everything that we loved about the X-E2 is still here in the X-E2S: attractive retro design, plentiful and customizable controls, and most importantly, solid image quality.
In some ways, though, the X-E2 models are starting to show their age. There are cameras out there that offer better autofocus performance, better video capture and higher resolution. But they aren't all likely to offer the level of direct control, quality of this user experience, or as thorough a useful lens lineup as the X-E2/X-E2S.
And speaking of lenses, you'll pay more for the Fuji kit lens than you might on another entry-level camera, but this XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 lens is better built, sharper and has a wider aperture than any competitors' F3.5-5.6 bundled zooms. It will be more than enough to satisfy users that aren't looking to build up a lens portfolio or swap lenses very often.
Dials on dials - in typical Fujifilm fashion, the X-E2S puts crucial controls at your fingertips. They're perfect for those with some photographic background, but could be intimidating for people just getting started. Photo by Samuel Spencer
In short, if you are a beginner who is serious about getting into photography, the Fujifilm X-E2S is likely to give you much more in terms of an engaging shooting experience than many other options out there. Likewise, if you're an established photographer looking to either try out the Fujifilm system or add another camera to your arsenal, the X-E2S is hard to ignore - let's investigate why.
Regular readers will know by now that we have kind of a thing for Fujifilm's out-of-camera JPEG rendering, and files from the X-E2S are no exception. Straight-out-of-camera JPEG with the Provia film emulation. Fujifilm XF 23mm F1.4. ISO 200, 1/120 sec, F1.4, 35mm equiv.
Specifications
Price :
MSRP $699/£549.00 (body only), $999/£749.00 (w/18-55 F2.8-4 lens)
Body type
Body type Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Sensor
Max resolution 4896 x 3264
Other resolutions 3:2 (3456 x 2304, 2496 x 1664), 16:9 (4896 x 2760, 2304 x 2304), 1:1 (3264 x 3264, 2304 x 2304, 1664 x 1664)
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 16 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 17 megapixels
Sensor size APS-C (23.6 x 15.6 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor EXR Processor II
Color space sRGB, AdobeRGB
Color filter array X-Trans
Image
ISO Auto, 200-6400 (expandable to 100-51200)
Boosted ISO (minimum) 100
Boosted ISO (maximum) 51200
White balance presets 7
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization No
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Fine, Normal
File format
JPEG (Exif 2.3),
RAW (RAF format)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
Contrast Detect (sensor)
Phase Detect
Multi-area
Center
Selective single-point
Tracking
Single
Continuous
Face Detection
Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 77
Lens mount Fujifilm X
Focal length multiplier 1.5×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fixed
Screen size 3″
Screen dots 1,040,000
Touch screen No
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder resolution 2,360,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/32000 sec
Exposure modes
Program AE
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Built-in flash Yes (Pop-up)
Flash range 7.00 m (@ ISO 200)
External flash Yes (via hot-shoe)
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync, Rear-curtain, Commander
Flash X sync speed 1/180 sec
Drive modes
Single
Continuous
Self-timer
Interval
Continuous drive 7.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2 or 10 sec, custom)
Metering modes
Multi
Average
Spot
Exposure compensation ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±3 (at 1/3 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV steps)
WB Bracketing Yes
Videography features
Resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60p, 30p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 30p)
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
HDMI Yes (mini-HDMI)
Microphone port No
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n
Remote control Yes (Wired or via smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed No
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description Lithium-Ion NP-W126 rechargeable battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 350
Weight (inc. batteries) 350 g (0.77 lb / 12.35 oz)
Dimensions 129 x 75 x 37 mm (5.08 x 2.95 x 1.46″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes
GPS None
The Fujifilm X-E2S is no sports camera, but that doesn't mean you can't shoot moving subjects with it. Out-of-camera JPEG shot in Velvia film simulation mode, cropped slightly to taste. Fujifilm XF 27mm F2.8. ISO 500, 1/250 sec, F2.8, 41mm equiv.
If you've used any of Fujifilm's reasonably high-end offerings in the past, the X-E2S will feel instantly familiar. If you're used to more plasticky entry-level models, the all-metal feel of the X-E2S will be a breath of fresh air. Be aware, though - if you've had the opportunity to use Fujifilm's newest flagships, the X-Pro2 and the X-T2, you may find you've been spoiled by those models' markedly increased performance.
Body & handling
The X-E2S may not be weather-sealed, but it feels plenty solid in-hand. Every button offers a good amount of travel and positive feedback, making this an easy camera to operate with your eye to the finder. The shutter speed and exposure compensation dials are well-damped and the tweaked grip remains comfortable, though some of Fujifilm's larger lenses will make the X-E2S feel unbalanced. Overall, the build and controls continue to make this a highly engaging camera to use - one that makes you want to pick it up and just go shooting.
That the four-way controller now defaults to AF point placement helps inspire the feeling of 'responsiveness,' though the X-E2S isn't without some issues in this area. The menus and interface, despite a fairly recent redesign, aren't really organized in the most helpful way (the newer X-Pro2 and X-T2 menus help with that, with dedicated autofocus tab, video tab, and so on). Additionally, navigating through them isn't as fluid an experience as many modern cameras - rapid clicking through options often results in the camera 'catching up' to your inputs.
If you don't use the four-way controller for AF point placement, you will have a total of seven customizable buttons at your disposal. These, combined with the physical controls for shutter speed, exposure compensation and aperture (either on-lens or with the rear, push-able control dial) make for a camera that is not only easy to take control over, but one that you can extensively tailor to your style of shooting. Each of the function buttons can be assigned to the same fairly broad selection of functions.
A main feature that distinguishes the X-E2S from the X-E2 is the addition of an Auto mode, as indicated by the 'Auto' button on the rear of the camera. This is reassignable if you don't need it, but enabling the camera to be quickly pushed into a point-and-shoot mode will be handy for when you need to hand the camera off to someone unfamiliar with photography and you're not looking to give an impromptu lesson on the exposure triangle or focus zones. It really is a thoughtful addition.
The X-E2S makes a great companion for casual shooting. Straight-out-of-camera JPEG using the Velvia film simulation. Fujifilm XF 35mm F2. ISO 200, 1/1400 sec, F4, 53mm equiv.
Performance
Start-up time is decent, but we've found it's best to just keep 'High Performance' mode enabled all the time for - you guessed it - best performance. It has an impact on battery life, of course, but in my experience, not enough to warrant disabling it.
In general operation, the X-E2S is best described as 'fast enough.' Shot-to-shot times and viewfinder/screen blackout are generally on-par with similarly priced offerings in the marketplace, and enough experience with the camera will see you learning its limitations and being able to overcome them with subjects moving at modest speeds. Don't get me wrong - the X-E2S (and, therefore, the X-T10, which is similarly specced) wouldn't likely be my go-to for fast action with multiple distractions, like team sports. But for something with more predictable motion, and when paired with a suitably quick-focusing lens, the camera should perform fairly well.
Be aware that unlike Fujifilm's newer X-T2 and X-Pro2, the X-E2S cannot compress its Raw files, so shooting in Raw mode will lengthen card write times significantly. It's best to make sure you have at least a UHS-I SD card, which the X-E2S will take advantage of (it is unable to offer any speed boost from using even faster UHS-II cards).
Somewhat counter-intuitively, the abundant external controls - which allow for quick manipulation of most settings - actually encouraged me to slow down a bit with my photography and take a more thoughtful approach to my chosen exposure and composition. It definitely depends on the situation, and it's definitely not a bad thing.
After taking the time to dial in my settings, I found the X-E2S is often quick enough to catch fleeting moments - even in dim lighting conditions. Processed and cropped to taste from Raw using the 'Monochrome' film simulation. Fujifilm XF 27mm F2.8. ISO 3200, 1/15 sec, F2.8, 41mm equiv.
Battery life is respectable, if not extraordinary. It's CIPA-rated at 350 shots, though as with any camera on the market, you will likely exceed that number. You can stretch battery life even more by turning the camera off between shots, and keeping chimping and flash use to a minimum. For heavier shooting scenarios, you may want to keep a spare battery handy, but for more casual use, a single battery carried me through the day just fine.
Autofocus
The autofocus functionality of the X-E2S is identical to that of the X-T10, the details of which we have already covered in-depth.
Like all Fujifilm cameras, focus speeds vary greatly depending on the lens used. In particular, autofocus performance with Fujifilm's older prime lenses will be slower and less consistent than even lower-end DSLRs and many other mirrorless systems. Attach one of Fujifilm's linear motor-driven zooms or newer internally focusing primes and you'll get much better results.
As with the X-E2 with the newest firmware, the X-E2S can shoot at a full 7 fps burst rate with autofocus in the central, phase-detect portion of the frame. If you drop down to 3 fps, you not only get a useful live view between shots, but you can now use the full spread of 77 autofocus points (including the contrast detection points away from the center).
With the newer X-Pro2 and X-T2, Fujifilm has been making great strides with regards to autofocus, but we have to admit that, like the 16MP X-Trans sensor itself, the 77-point hybrid autofocus system in the X-E2S is feeling a little dated. If you can track a subject yourself, continuous autofocus using a single phase-detection point in the central portion of the frame will yield best results.
In other words, we don't generally expect the X-E2S to track your subject for you, which some of its peers will do quite well. And while the camera can track/follow a face around the frame, it reverts to contrast-detect AF only in this mode, which means actual focus acquisition can often be slow enough in this mode to not make it very useful for shooting moving kids.
Even with a lot working against it - a too-short lens that was stopped down, which will hinder the contrast-detection portion of the hybrid autofocus system - the X-E2S got me some keepers using zone focusing, where the wakeboarder is clearly in focus in front of the background. Processed and cropped to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Provia preset. Fujifilm XF 35mm F2. ISO 200, 1/2000 sec, F4, 53mm equiv.
Video
The X-E2S is capable of 1080/60fps video capture, and comes equipped with a microphone input for better audio capture. However, if video is a main concern for you, there are far better options out there. The video clips themselves are all but identical to those from the Fujifilm X-T10, which is to say, they're not very good. Following that, the X-T10 is all but identical to the original X-E2, which you can see in our video stills widget here. Continuous autofocus tends to hunt without showing you where it's focusing, and focus peaking doesn't function during video capture, so manual focus can be tricky. Single-acquisition autofocus works at the very beginning of the clip, but nothing you can do will make it re-focus while recording. Lastly, though you can manually control ISO, shutter speed and aperture, you don't get any exposure aids - not even a histogram.
Overall, the X-E2S will work if you only need to grab the occasional quick clip. But for anything more than that, it's difficult to recommend.
Auto ISO
The X-E2S has a fairly robust Auto ISO implementation, save for one omission. It offers you three presets, each allowing for you to specify the minimum ISO, a slow shutter speed threshold, and a maximum ISO. What it doesn't do is offer you an automatic shutter speed threshold based on focal length, which can be a problem if you're using a zoom lens or if you are changing lenses often. In other words, if you're using a zoom lens, you'll generally want a faster shutter speed when zoomed in because hand shake increases relative to shooting at wider angles, and the camera won't automatically take this into account.
Image Quality & Shooting Experience
Though the sensor inside the X-E2S is starting to show its age a bit, it's definitely helped by Fujifilm's excellent lens offerings, including the tiny XF 27mm F2.8 pancake. Processed to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Provia preset. ISO 200, 1/250 sec, F2.8, 41mm equiv.
The sensor and processor inside the X-E2S are identical to the original X-E2 - our studio scene comparison of that previous camera holds true for its newer variant. In that older assessment we pitted the the X-E2 up against the D7100 and EOS 70D and it held up comparatively well, so long as you don't need the extra resolution those other cameras offered. But the increased performance of the newer D7200 and 80D are sure to exacerbate the slight shortcomings we found in the earlier test, to say nothing of other APS-C offerings like Sony's a6x00 cameras and Fujifilm's newer, higher-end models.
What it basically comes down to is this: digital camera technology moves pretty fast, and the sensor / processor combo in the X-E2S is starting to look a little long-in-the-tooth. Even within Fujifilm's own lineup, the X-T2 and X-Pro2 have newer 24MP X-Trans sensors and processors that come with much more resolution, improved high ISO quality, new film simulations, and more. Not to mention those cameras are capable of vastly-improved video capture, compared to the low-detail clips you'll get from the X-E2S.
It may 'only' have 16MP, but they hold up pretty well. Check out the detail on the seat, even at ISO 6400 - though you may have to tune down your noise reduction settings in-camera for best results. Straight-out-of-camera JPEG in Provia mode. Fujifilm XF 27mm F2.8. ISO 6400, 1/100 sec, F2.8, 41mm equiv.
But the reasonable MSRP of the X-E2S allows us to forgive these shortcomings somewhat. After all, those newer Fujifilm cameras come at prices that are both more than double the price of an X-E2S. And just because a camera is no longer the latest and greatest doesn't mean it isn't capable of good quality images, or is suddenly inadequate for all the photographic situations it's been used for until now.
At least, that's the conclusion I've come to after extended time with this camera. Perhaps its a testament to how good the 16MP X-Trans sensor inside it still is. It still produces images that, to my eye, are more than acceptably sharp and detailed, even at higher ISO values. Colors in particular have that decisively Fujifilm look about them that can be addictive, even if they're not everyone's cup of tea.
Helping you get those Fujifilm JPEGs off the camera and out into the (digital) world is built-in Wi-Fi, which works very well on the X-E2S. The vast majority of casual users will chiefly be downloading images via Fujifilm's Photo Receiver app, which works very quickly and easily once you've made an initial connection between your phone and the camera.
Fujifilm colors, particularly those from the Velvia film simulation, aren't always everyone's cup of tea, but I find them to be pretty fun under certain circumstances. Processed to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Velvia preset. Fujifilm XF 23mm F1.4. ISO 200, 1/800 sec, F8, 35mm equiv.
Unfortunately, there are some negative aspects of this 16MP X-Trans sensor that have carried over into the X-E2S. Some users will have issues with the 'muddying' of green detail, such a foliage in a landscape scene. Additionally, higher ISO values can result in skin tones that look a little 'waxy.' For higher ISO scenes in general, though, we've found that reducing in-camera noise reduction to the minimum (-2) helps retain finer details without letting noise intrude too much.
But really, the main concerns I have with the X-E2S relate less to its image quality and more to some aspects of its general operation.
Fujifilm's DR200 and DR400 modes are effective at keeping highlights from clipping in scenes with lots of dynamic range. Straight-out-of-camera JPEG in Provia mode with DR400. Fujifilm XF 18-55mm F2.8-4. ISO 800, 1/1100 sec, F4, 27mm equiv.
On to usage
The Fujifilm X-E2S is a camera that is capable of excellent results that are in-line with the X-T1, X100T and X-T10. It makes a great backup or 'extra' body for X-T1 users, and throw a compact prime like the XF 27mm F2.8 onto it, and it's just a fun camera to bring along with you for casual photography.
What works
As with all of Fujifilm's higher-end offerings, the retro dials and controls are a quick and effective way of controlling the X-E2S, and they're just the tip of the iceberg of what makes this such an engaging camera to use.
The fixed rear screen is a fine way to compose your images, but the electronic viewfinder is highly specced and works wonderfully, especially in bright conditions. Unfortunately, if you're a left-eyed shooter, the placement of the EVF isn't ideal - but then, there's always the X-T10 if you find that more comfortable.
It's no pro-level DSLR, but with newer lenses and easy-to-adjust external controls, the X-E2S feels plenty responsive for capturing fleeting moments. Processed to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Provia preset. Fujifilm XF 35mm F2. ISO 200, 1/3200 sec, F2, 53mm equiv.
The X-E2S feels and handles like a 'real' camera, at the expense of being unable to fit into anything smaller than a jacket pocket (and that's with a very compact lens attached). Like the X-Pro series, this camera is much more balanced with the smaller kit lens or a prime lens attached, as opposed to Fujifilm's F2.8 zooms. Those zooms will focus quickly and silently, but the grip becomes uncomfortable before long. Newer Fujifilm primes, like the XF 35mm F2, and forthcoming 23mm F2 will focus with similar alacrity to those high-end zooms, but without quite as much weight or expense.
You may not be shooting fast-action sports with the X-E2S, but for general photography - anything from candid portraits to pre-focused street photography to decently lit concert venues - the X-E2S is a fine companion.
The X-E2S's autofocus isn't always the most consistent, but for this I was able to quickly focus on the plane using a central point, then re-compose. Straight-out-of-camera JPEG using the Provia preset. Fujifilm XF 40-150 F2.8. ISO 200, 1/4000 sec, F4, 210mm equiv.
What needs some work
As referenced earlier, the X-E2S falls down for me whenever I need to dive into the menus, which is, thankfully, not very often, due to the highly customizable controls. Even though there are only five pages of shooting options, they aren't organized terribly well, and navigating them is a laggy experience that detracts from the premium feel of the camera. The implementation of the custom settings banks in particular was a point of frustration for me.
The idea of 'custom settings banks' is great in principle: the camera's JPEG engine is so good and there is such a multitude of adjustable parameters that having an option to save and recall specific sets of those parameters at any time is pretty handy. For example, I'll dial in values for noise reduction, highlight and shadow tones, and sharpness depending on my film simulation. But unfortunately, saved within these custom banks is also the ISO value you chose at the time you created them.
Considering the wide dynamic range of this scene,, the X-E2S did pretty well. But I found the wall on the right to be a bit hot, which could have been taken care of with some 'highlight tone' adjustment for the Provia preset, or switching into either DR200 or DR400 modes, which are designed to make the most out of high-contrast scenes in JPEGs. Straight-out-of-camera JPEG in Provia mode. Fujifilm XF 23mm F1.4. ISO 200, 1/2000 sec, F1.4, 35mm equiv.
This can have the unintended consequence of altering your exposure - say you've dialed in ISO 800, then want to change to a different custom settings bank for a different film simulation: suddenly you're at ISO 200 and have to readjust. Or if you've assigned a specific minimum shutter speed to Auto ISO, but are using a lens or are in a situation that necessitates a different value - every time you change your custom settings bank, you'll need to re-adjust your Auto ISO parameters.
Auto ISO is handy, in that it allows you to focus on timing and composition without having to worry about all your settings. Fujifilm XF 27mm F2.8. ISO 3200, 1/23 sec, F2.8, 41mm equiv.
On the other hand, if you tend to use the custom settings banks for overarching situations, such as low light, landscapes, and general shooting (with specific ISO or Auto ISO values for each) - you may not have any issues. As for me, I ended up just keeping most of the settings at default, and while the JPEGs weren't perfect for me, they're still awfully good.
Unfortunately though, Fujifilm's Auto ISO implementation is still a pain point overall. More than once, I switched from a wide lens to something more telephoto and, having forgotten to change my Auto ISO minimum shutter speed, came out with images that were unacceptably blurred. And some moments missed. On the plus side, you can quickly dial in a new shutter speed on the physical dial, which may be quicker than adjusting your Auto ISO parameters.
Overall
The X-E2S is, overall, classic Fujifilm. By that I mean it has some quirks and, while the autofocus is respectable, speed is highly dependent on your chosen lens and subject tracking is poor compared to other options on the market. But the camera also handles very well, feels great in the hand, and is capable of beautiful results across a wide range of scenarios. Perhaps most importantly - it's fun.
I don't take just any camera out to dinner - the Fujifilm X-E2S is a great carry-everywhere camera that offers controls, ergonomics and image quality that punch above its MSRP. Processed to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Provia preset. Fujifilm XF 35mm F2. ISO 200, 1/160 sec, F2, 53mm equiv.
With this update, Fujifilm has managed to breathe a little more life into this rangefinder-styled shooter. As long as you don't need more resolution, video or cutting-edge autofocus performance, the X-E2S is a competitive offering both for enthusiast photographers and amateurs looking to for a camera they can grow into, along with one of the most complete lines of APS-C lenses in the business.
Conclusion
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Overall conclusion
With the X-E2S, Fujifilm is clearly convinced that there's some life left in its now-midrange-priced retro-styled shooter. Overall, so are we. The X-E2S is an engaging camera to use and is capable of excellent results, both in JPEG and Raw. But the market doesn't stand still - there are options out there that offer more resolution, or better autofocus, or an entirely different control philosophy. But as an overall package, and as an engaging and fun camera with a high-quality lens ecosystem, the X-E2S is still compelling, particularly at its lower MSRP compared to the original X-E2.
"I'm not dead yet!" The Fujifilm X-E2S comes with all the X-E2 firmware updates straight from the factory, and adds a couple of new features to boot - all at a lower MSRP. Processed to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Astia preset. Fujifilm XF 27mm F2.8. ISO 200, 1/2000 sec, F2.8, 41mm equiv.
Body and handling
The Fujifilm X-E2S looks like a classic rangefinder without the viewfinder window, complete with good-old analog dials for exposure compensation, shutter speed and aperture (either on the lens or using the rear control dial on the camera). The overall layout works well, the grip is comfortable with lightweight lenses, and the camera feels solid despite no claims of weather sealing.
Importantly, this camera retails for a full $300 less than the original X-E2 did when it debuted almost three years ago. As such, it places the X-E2S much closer in MSRP to cameras that are a little more 'novice-friendly'; in other words, the retro controls won't be familiar to someone moving up from a smartphone or compact camera. We've experienced firsthand how this camera's controls can make for an intimidating and frustrating experience for a novice photographer. But on the other hand, for a beginner who is willing to put in some work, the X-E2S is an excellent camera to grow into.
We've found the Fujifilm X-E2S to be a good looker and great handler - so long as you're into the 'retro' thing.
The X-E2S gains the X-T10's 'Auto' mode, via a (reassignable) button on the rear of the camera. This places the X-E2S into a point-and-shoot mode with Fujifilm's 'Scene Recognition' technology, and it does an admirable job identifying settings to use based on lighting conditions and whether or not it can detect a face in the scene.
In the end, we find the Fujifilm X-E2S to be an excellent camera for those that already know their way around the exposure triangle, and an excellent prospect for someone who is ready to take photography more seriously - after all, what good are those retro dials if you're just going to leave it in 'Auto' all the time?
Performance and autofocus
With good start-up times (thank you, high-performance mode), respectable autofocus acquisition times (with newer lenses) and good shot-to-shot times with a decent burst rate, the X-E2S is best described as 'fast enough.'
It'll never be a pro sports camera per se, but the X-E2S is plenty responsive for careful timing. Processed and cropped to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Monochrome + red filter. Fujifilm XF 23mm F1.4. ISO 200, 1/1250 sec, F5.6, 35mm equiv.
So there's some caveats there, to be sure. But what the X-E2S does is strike a good balance. Start-up times are slower than low-end DSLRs, but the burst rate is generally higher. Autofocus acquisition can be comparatively sluggish, but you get AF points that cover a wider region of the frame than a DSLR (albeit, they're contrast-detection only). Unfortunately continuous AF in particular isn't very impressive outside of the central, phase-detect zone, and is downright slow with slower-to-focus primes, or if you engage continuous face detection. But conversely, when you've set the X-E2S up with your preferred custom settings, you can more easily adapt to changing situations than you can with a camera that offers less in terms of external, customizable controls.
Menu navigation lacks a certain fluidity. We'd also like to see Fujifilm's Auto ISO implementation gain the ability to automatically tie your minimum shutter speed to your focal length, so it works better with zoom lenses.
Watch your shutter speed - I had to remember to either adjust my Auto ISO parameters when I switched to more telephoto lenses, or dial in my new value on the shutter speed dial. Processed to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Pro Neg Hi preset. XF Fujifilm 90mm F2. ISO 1600, 1/200 sec, F8, 135mm equiv.
Thankfully, Fujifilm's Wi-Fi implementation for transferring images from the X-E2S to your smartphone is well-implemented through Fujifilm's Photo Receiver app. Combine this with in-camera Raw conversion and you really get the benefit from one of our favorite JPEG engines.
On the whole, once you've become familiar with it and learned its ins-and-outs, the X-E2S is just as at home capturing fleeting moments as it is with situations that call for more careful consideration. This isn't a camera we would go out shooting team sports (or any other fast-moving subjects, frankly) with, but for general photography with a compact prime, it's a good go-to.
Straight-out-of-camera JPEG using the Provia preset. Fujifilm XF 40-150mm F2.8. ISO 200, 1/2200 sec, F4
Image quality
With the same sensor and processor as the Fujifilm X-T1, X-T10, X100T and X70, it's no surprise that the image quality out of the X-E2S is a known quantity. And that's not to say that it's bad, but rather getting a little long-in-the-tooth.
Processed to taste from Adobe Camera Raw
Out-of-camera JPEG
"Despite its age, the 16MP X-Trans sensor still holds up well to pushes and pulls on Raw files. Fujifilm XF 18mm F2. ISO 200, 1/2400 sec, F4, 27mm equiv. "
Color rendition is classic Fujifilm - many will find it beautiful and oddly addictive, if not terribly true-to-life. Others, though, may continue to have issues with areas of fine green detail, such as foliage in a landscape scene, and skin tones can become waxy at high ISO values.
One of the major contributing factors to overall image quality is Fujifilm's comprehensive lens lineup. The X-E2S's XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 kit lens is a cut above the lens that most cameras are bundled with: well-specced, well-built and affordable given its optical quality, it feels much more like a 'real lens' than many competitors' kits. The XF 18mm F2, XF 27mm F2.8 and XF 35mm F2 are similarly high-quality at fairly reasonable prices.
I didn't really intend to have a purple blob in the foreground of this shot, but it's a good example of just how nice the out-of-focus renderings of the XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 kit lens are. ISO 400, 1/550 sec, F4, 82.5mm equiv.
Sure, there are offerings from other manufacturers that may be cheaper, such as a 'nifty fifty' 50mm F1.8, but those lenses are often rehashes of older designs and aren't quite as useful on the crop-sensor cameras at this price level. Fujifilm's lenses, though, are designed for the X-E2S's sensor size from the get-to, and are just oozing with character.
High ISO performance continues to be competitive. With JPEG files though, we've found it's best to tone down your noise reduction value to better retain detail - especially on faces which tend to turn waxy at high ISOs - at the expense of some grain. The Raw files are plenty flexible, even to the upper end of the ISO range.
High-ISO image quality holds up well, even under challenging lighting conditions. Straight-out-of-camera JPEG taken in Velvia mode. Fujifilm XF 27mm F2.8. ISO 5000, 1/125 sec, F2.8, 41mm equiv.
There's a few items to keep in mind, though - you're still working with 16MP of resolution, Fujifilm's 'Acros' film simulation (a punchy, detailed new black-and-white emulation on Fuji's latest cameras) is unavailable on these older processors, and high ISO noise performance is better with the newer sensors despite the increase in resolution. In the end, it's up to you whether or not the newer offerings on the market offer you what you need.
The final word
Despite the three-year timespan that separates the X-E2S from the original X-E2, very little is actually new on this updated model. Part of that is Fujifilm's own doing, for they've done an great job of updating the original X-E2 via software, imbuing it with capabilities that no one would have expected when it was launched.
The Fujifilm X-E2S is a great camera to just have fun with. Processed and cropped to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Velvia preset. Fujifilm XF 23mm F1.4. ISO 250, 1/60 sec, F2, 35mm equiv.
The X-E2S feels equal parts toy and tool. It's a fun camera to pick up and take with you to a friend's barbecue or to a weekend getaway, and yet, its 16MP X-Trans sensor and excellent lens selection make it a worthwhile primary or secondary camera for a full-time freelancer (mind you, a freelancer that isn't shooting peak-action sports).
The market hasn't stood still, to be certain. There are options out there that, on specification alone, will trump the X-E2S handily. The original X-E2 got a gold award back in 2013, and three years and many firmware updates later, the X-E2S offers you much of the same: a stylish and engaging photographers' camera with an excellent selection of interchangeable lenses and respectable performance, but now at a lower MSRP.
For myself, the Fujifilm X-E2S earns a silver award. The overall experience is enough for me to look past its (not insignificant) shortcomings, particularly in terms of autofocus and video. But not everyone has the same tastes or photographic history as myself, and we think it likely most shoppers spending their hard-earned cash on a camera will enjoy greater versatility than the Fujifilm can deliver. In the end, for the overall market, and as an overall package, we definitely believe the X-E2S deserves a look - if not our highest awards.
Ride on - the X-E2S is still a good camera with a comprehensive lens lineup, made all the more appealing by virtue of its new, more reasonable price. Processed to taste in Adobe Camera Raw using the Pro Neg Std preset. Fujifilm XF 27mm F2.8. ISO 200, 1/1900 sec, F2.8, 41mm equiv.
