The FujiFilm X-T3: A Time-Tested Classic That Holds Its Own in 2024
6 years ago, The Fujifilm XT3 was a groundbreaking release to the prosumer market, offering photographers and aspiring filmmakers a camera capable of stunning images and video capabilities that in the right hands rivalled professional cinema cameras. But is that still the case? Will the X-T3 still retain its relevance and allure in 2024? I’m going to try and answer this question from my perspective after some heavy use.
1. Image Quality:
The X-T3 boasts a 26.1-megapixel APS-C sensor with X-Trans technology, resulting in exceptional image quality. Its ability to capture stunning detail and vibrant colours in a wide range of lighting conditions continues to impress me. Paired with FujiFilm's legendary colour science, this camera delivers beautiful, true-to-life colours that have become a signature of the X-series.
2. Autofocus Performance:
While the X-T4 and X-T5 have made improvements in this area, the X-T3 still offers a highly competent autofocus system. Its 425-point phase-detection AF system covers a significant portion of the frame, ensuring speedy and accurate focus. It may not have the AI-driven capabilities of newer models, but for most photographers (especially if like me you shoot a lot in full manual), the X-T3's autofocus is more than sufficient.
Paired with lenses like the 35mm XF R-WR the focusing motor is dead silent even in quiet environments.
Although I personally shoot in full manual, I have configured my XT3 to back button focus which gives me the best of both worlds.
3. Ergonomics and Build Quality:
One of the X-T3's standout features is its robust and weather-sealed magnesium alloy body. The tactile dials and buttons give an analog feel, making it a joy to use. The electronic viewfinder is clear and sharp and provides a real-time preview of your shot. In terms of handling.
With newer models like the X100VI and X-T50 hitting the market, some users might prioritise a more compact form factor. Although it is admittedly bigger than both the X100VI & X-T50, As a hybrid camera, I feel the XT3 is a perfect size, not too big not too small, allowing for better quality than the smaller more compact versions while still maintaining a fairly discrete look.
4. Filmmaking & Cinematography:
For all the cinematographers out there, the XT-3 was a game-changer in 2018 able to shoot 4K H265 video at 60fps (limited to 30fps with All-Intra compression) with 10-bit 4:2:0 internal recording at 24fps, and even 10-bit 4:2:2 when using an external recorder.
Although the image quality is amazing and footage shot in F-Log will provide about 11 stops of dynamic range, I must admit that after some heavy use, there are some features I wish this camera had that some of the newer models come with.
The first, and definitely the most annoying one is the XT3’s inability to display a film simulation / LUT on the LCD screen when shooting in F-Log like the newer models so all you get is the flat grey tone you normally get with Log files. This can be very limiting for any cinematographer who wants to expose with the end result in mind since the only workaround is to purchase an external monitor and attach it to the camera’s hot shoe, not a good option if like me you’re aiming to use the XT3 as a hybrid shooter camera and portability is imperative. Proper white balance, the use of Zebras, and the light Meter help to some extent and result in excellent images but when aiming for a specific creative look, I’m mostly flying blind.
The second issue is the lack of IBIS, meaning there is no stabilisation to your footage. Although this isn’t nearly as big of a problem as the first issue. Moving shots become extremely trickery without a cage, grip or gimble, not ideal if you want to keep your setup light. Although given the right precautions, most footage can be sufficiently stabilised in Davinci Resolve if necessary. Although I don’t rely on IBIS for the majority of my work, and most cinema cameras don’t have IBIS, I find that shooting becomes less intuitive and requires more planning due to the size of the camera, sometimes with mixed results which is why I prefer static shots when shooting with the XT3 as it definitely feels more at home on a tripod, and I like to keep my setup light.
For anyone looking to shoot mostly video, I would advise you to use a camera cage with a grip, a gimble, tripod or choose a different model altogether that has IBIS built in.
5. Dynamic Range:
The XT3 can boost its dynamic range based on your chosen ISO settings. It has a native ISO of 640 when shooting in f-log and despite the reports, I couldn’t find any evidence to suggest it has a dual native ISO. It’s true that at ISO 2000 the noise floor seems to drop significantly but I couldn’t find any official confirmation to support this claim.
Dynamic range settings by default are set to 100%, to access these 200% and 400% settings you’ll need to be using an ISO sensitivity at least one stop or two stops higher than the base ISO, respectively (eg if your camera’s lowest ISO is ISO 160, you’ll need to set ISO 640 to use a dynamic range of 400%
ISO 640 is not bad at all but still allows for some noise to sneak into the footage in darker scenes. I also couldn’t find a chart that displays how the camera distributes its dynamic range in different ISO’s so it’s a guess at best most of the time. Fortunately, any noise that finds its way into your footage can easily be removed with the built-in tools most high-end editing software have, but in most cases, the noise the camera generates at these lower ISO’s is quite pleasing to my eye so I don’t necessarily mind keeping it there.
6. Price Point:
In 2024, the X-T3 often comes in at a considerably lower price point compared to its newer siblings. I picked mine last year for around £600, which makes it an attractive option for photographers and cinematographers who want exceptional performance without breaking the bank. The cost savings can be allocated towards high-quality lenses or other accessories.
The XT-5 and X-H2s have made significant improvements to their specs but for most photographers, it’s not going to make a world of difference. At the time, I couldn’t justify the extra £1000 (£1700 in the case of the X-H2s) to purchase one of these newer models, and If I was still only focusing on photography I still wouldn't consider them as most of the advantages they offer to a hybrid shooter like myself benefit cinematographers & videographers.
7. Lens Compatibility:
The X-T3 continues to benefit from FujiFilm's extensive lineup of XF lenses, which have grown since its launch. This means you have access to a wide variety of lenses for different shooting scenarios, and you can expand your kit as your skills and needs evolve.
Fujifilm lens mount system, known as the X-Mount, allows for the use of adapters to mount a wide range of vintage and third-party lenses. This includes classic manual focus lenses from manufacturers like Canon, Nikon, Leica, and more as well as budget autofocus options from the likes of TTArtisan, Rokinon and Sigma.
I use an old Nikon af nikkor 50mm f/1.8d when I want more of a timely feel to my images or when I need a faster alternative to my 27mm f/2.8 or 35mm f/2. I’d advise that whatever vintage lens you decide to mount on your camera make sure it has an aperture ring and a focus ring with distance range markings since your camera doesn’t know it has a lens on and you’ll have to shoot in full manual.
What I Don’t Like:
While the FujiFilm X-T3 is an excellent camera, it's not without its drawbacks. Here are a few cons to consider:
Lack of In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): As mentioned earlier, the X-T3 does not feature IBIS, which can be a disadvantage when shooting in low light, video or when using non-stabilized lenses. It means you may need to rely more on stabilized lenses, tripods, or gimbals for stable shots.
Battery Life: The X-T3's battery life is by far its biggest drawback as far as I’m concerned, especially when shooting 4K video. When in boost mode your battery life will drain even faster, but unless you want a laggy response and jaggy image displayed on the LCD screen leaving this feature on is pretty much a no-brainer. You may find yourself needing to carry extra batteries for extended shooting sessions. I normally carry 2 fully charged batteries with me when I’m out and about and each one will give me about 2.5 hours of juice (depending on the use).
Flip-out Screen: The X-T3 has a tilting LCD screen, but it doesn't offer the flexibility of a fully articulated or flip-out screen, which can be less convenient for vlogging or shooting from awkward angles. For my style of photography, the LCD screen on the X-T3 is perfect for both Photography and Cinematography but I appreciate some people might find it restricting.
Software Glitches: While the X-T3 is a solid and reliable camera I must admit I encountered my fair share of software glitches. From the camera randomly shutting off to it resetting itself back to factory settings altogether and even the dreaded black screen of death where the only workaround is to pop the battery in and out of its socket. Firmware updates have largely fixed those issues and they are too far apart to be a problem, but when they do happen it’s worth having your camera settings backed up on the Fujifilm X app for a quick restore.
Size and Weight: Some users may find the X-T3, with its robust build, a bit bulkier and heavier compared to other mirrorless cameras (X100V to name one). It might not be the most compact choice for those who prioritize portability.
Video Limitations: While the X-T3 offers outstanding video quality, it lacks certain advanced video features found in newer or more professional models, like internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording. This might be a drawback for cinematographers who need these advanced capabilities. There is also the issue of the flat image on the LCD screen when shooting in F-Log which prevents me from viewing the image in a colour space that is closer to the end result i’m aiming for. This is a big drawback for anyone who opts to colour grade later in post.
In conclusion, despite these cons, the FujiFilm X-T3 remains a strong and versatile camera that excels in many areas. It's essential to weigh these drawbacks against its numerous strengths and your specific photography and cinematography requirements when deciding whether it's the right camera for you.
TL;DR:
The FujiFilm X-T3 remains a strong choice in 2024, offering excellent image quality, autofocus, build quality, and competitive pricing.
While it lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and its battery life is less than ideal (and this is me being polite), its other strengths more than makeup for it. The Fujifilm XT-3 has superb image quality, 4K video at 60fps, affordability compared to newer models and adaptability with vintage and budget lenses through adapters. Even now 6 years after its release! it’s still pretty much a no-brainer for anyone looking for a professional camera on a budget.