The Fujifilm X-H2 May Feature 8k Video; Here’s What Else I’d Love to See
Fujifilm could be planning huge things for their next X-H camera.
The internet has been speculating that the new Fujifilm X-H2 could have 8k video. This would be a huge implication if real. To achieve 8k video, Fuji would need an entirely new sensor. As a result, they would need at least 32 Megapixels. However, if they shoot for DCI 8k, we could see a 45 MP camera. Beyond those potential updates, I’d love to see Fujifilm go crazy on this new camera. Could the Fuji X-H2 be an S1H killer? Read the awesome possibilities after the break.
Could Fujifilm Ditch X-Trans for the X-H2?
Fuji will have to decide on a new sensor design for the X-H2. Fuji Rumors reported this camera could have 8k video. If that’s true, it is going to be high resolution. At higher resolutions, things like moiré and aliasing become lesser problems. However, the X-Trans sensor was developed to battle those without anti-aliasing filters. This camera could be perfect for Fujifilm to experiment. This wouldn’t be the first Fuji camera with a Bayer array sensor. The X-T200 and GFX cameras feature Bayer sensors. Fuji has done an excellent job maintaining its famous colors in those cameras. Also, a traditional sensor would grant the Fujifilm X-H2 the ability to have features like pixel shift. It would also alleviate “worming” issues some RAW processors have with X-Trans files. However, they could still opt to design a high-resolution X-Trans sensor as well. It will be exciting to see which route they take.
Tech That Could Take the X-H2 to the Top
The X-H line of cameras was supposed to be Fuji’s flagship line for the X-series. However, the X-T3 and X-T4 quickly made the X-H1 seem irrelevant. Fuji will really need to knock it out of the park this time. I expect the Fujifilm X-H2 to come loaded with all the tech they can pack into it. It would be great if they can improve the IBIS mech. The X-T4 already does great. However, I’d love to see them get closer to what Micro Four-Thirds cameras achieve. If they go with a Bayer sensor, a pixel shift resolution mode will rock.
Fuji is also getting much better at autofocus. However, they have a bit of catching up to do compared to Sony and Canon. As a result, I’d love to see them incorporate more deep learning technology regarding autofocus. It will also be interesting to see if they move towards CF Express. If this camera is fast, it could be an excellent stills platform.
Video Tech The Fujifilm X-H2 Needs
Let’s not forget that the X-H1 was the camera that got videographers interested in Fuji. The X-H2 will need loads of video features. Of course, we’ll expect F-log 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording. We know the Eterna film simulation will be there. The Fuji XH2 will most certainly deliver great bit rates and record options. On the software side of things, 8k is exciting. That could also give the Fujifilm X-H2 a 4k HQ mode like the Canon R5. More monitoring options would be great as well. Give us waveforms to get our exposures right. Zebras should be mandatory for a great video-capable camera. Also, vectorscopes would be a nice touch.
It would be awesome to see Fuji work with Blackmagic. Getting ProRes Raw to an Atomos Ninja is nice. However, having the option to also get BRAW with a Blackmagic Video Assist would be nicer still. On that topic, I’d love to see a full-sized HDMI port. While we’re at it, please don’t make the battery grip a requirement. Give us a headphone jack on the body. The USB adapter is a nice workaround, but this camera deserves a dedicated port. Fuji could even go whole-hog and add a fan ala S1H. No one wants another overheating 8k camera fiasco.
Fuji Needs to Evolve the X-H Ergonomics
Many of the features I’ve listed would require a slightly bigger body. Fuji has done well to offer ergonomics for everyone. They have the rangefinder bodies like the X-Pro 3 and X100V. The traditional film ergonomics of the XT line are great and unique. They also have a compact, DSLR-style body in the X-S10. The Fuji XH2 should continue to evolve from the XH1. This would provide a larger DSLR-styled body for those who want it. This could be helpful to keeping the future X-T5 from immediately obsoleting this camera too. Give us that big, comfortable grip. Also, make sure the controls are easy to manipulate. The X-H2 body with a battery grip should be perfect for balancing long lenses.
Perhaps this would allow Fuji to install a fully articulating screen on the X-H2. Then they could return to the “Fuji-Flip” screen on the X-T line. That has been a point of contention for many photo-centric users. Fuji really needs to focus on differentiation this time. People may be hesitant to buy this camera after what happened to the X-H1. Give us confidence that the Fujifilm X-H2 will be a long-lasting camera. However, the original X-H1 was quite comfortable in hand. I have faith in Fuji to be able to execute on its successor. Also, it should go without saying that this camera needs to be robust. I expect excellent weather sealing and a strong chassis.
Will Fujifilm Deliver?
Fujifilm has the opportunity to make big waves. However, a lot remains to be seen. Fuji did say that before they made another X-H camera, it would need to feature breakthrough technology. As a result, I’m quite optimistic about the Fuji XH2. This camera seems to be where they want to debut new advances in the X-series. Hopefully, this camera will really make hybrid shooters take a good look. It would be great to see Fuji attack the Lumix GH and SH-series cameras. If it really ends up with 8k video, it may even cause potential EOS R5 customers to take a look. What features do you hope Fujifilm brings to the X-H2? Let us know in the comments!