Fujifilm X Half digital camera, charcoal

Fujifilm X Half digital camera, charcoal

The Fujifilm X-HF1 or X Half brings the idea of the classic "half-frame" film camera into the digital age. This exceptionally compact and stylish camera combines a unique 1" vertical sensor, a fixed wide-angle lens and a wealth of features that mimic film photography - offering both the joy of shooting and the feeling of a considered shot.

Vertical 18 MP 1″ sensor, 3:4 aspect ratio

In the spirit of the semi-automatic, the X Half uses a 1-inch vertical sensor to produce 18 megapixel 3:4 aspect ratio images and video. The sensor works seamlessly with the camera's Film Simulation modes, producing expressive, film-like shots. Exposure control is conveniently handled via a ±3 EV compensation dial, aperture control dial and rear touchscreen.

Film camera mode

Film Simulation mode, where you select one Film Simulation setup and a ”film reel” of 36, 54 or 72 images. The images can only be viewed after the entire roll has been shot and digitally ”developed” in the FUJIFILM application or by transferring the images to a computer. After the roll, the camera also automatically generates a ”summary” image - a contact image that mimics the filmstrip, allowing all shots to be reviewed at a glance.

In this mode, only the frame counter, the auto/manual focus selector, the option to add a time stamp and the zone focus scale are displayed on the back screen. Image preview and focus are disabled. Composition of images is done exclusively through the optical viewfinder, and frames are advanced using the manual tuning lever - just like a film camera.

Film Simulation -tilat

The camera features 13 different Film Simulation modes, including vivid Velvia, nostalgic Classic Chrome and artistic black and white Acros. In addition, the Grain Effect setting adjusts the grain of each film. 26 additional filters, such as Light Leak, HALATION, Aged Film and Double Exposure, complete the authentic film atmosphere.

A smaller touchscreen at the back, similar to the back of a film camera, displays the selected simulation - swipe up or down to scroll through the modes.

2-in-1 imaging mode

Traditional semi-automatic images often have two consecutive images next to each other - a so-called diptych. X Half mimics this function by combining two consecutive images or video clips into a single image directly in the camera. After the first frame, using the tuning lever activates this mode, and the next frame completes the composite. Background colour, frame width and style can be adjusted.

Fixed wide-angle lens

The camera features a fixed FUJINON 10.8mm f/2.8 wide-angle lens (equivalent to 32mm in cinema size) for versatile everyday shooting.

• The aperture ring on the lens includes an ”A” position, which switches the camera to shutter speed or program automatic.
• The front focus ring allows manual focusing from a distance of up to 10 cm. In film mode, the focus distance is displayed on a zone focus scale.

Design details

• X Half is designed to be extremely compact, lightweight and fun to use - just like a classic film camera.
• The optical viewfinder in the corner is similar to a rangefinder camera and corresponds to the aspect ratio, but does not display information. An eye sensor turns off the rear viewfinder when using the viewfinder.
• The vertical touchscreen makes it easy to navigate menus.
• The smaller side screen shows the Film Simulation mode and acts as a navigation screen in the menu.
• The camera doesn't have a traditional "Menu" button: a swipe opens the menu - movie mode and wireless at the top, main menu on the right, quick settings at the bottom.
• The shutter button is connected to an exposure compensation dial (+/-3 EV) and has a threaded socket for a cable release.
• The built-in tuning lever works both in film mode for frame transfer and in 2-in-1 mode for activation. When the lever is pressed, the camera displays the most recent image without a separate playback mode.
• An internal flash illuminates targets in low light.
• Cold shoe for accessories (e.g. lights).
• One SD memory card slot.
• Battery charging and data transfer via USB-C - the port also supports audio monitoring via headphones.

Standalone video directly to the web

While the design is a tribute to film cameras, the X Half is also the perfect tool for social media. The camera records vertical 1080×1440 video at 24 fps, with slowdown options up to 200 %. A built-in stereo microphone ensures good sound quality (read: tolerable)

Sharing and printing

The camera supports direct wireless connection to Fujifilm INSTAX Link printers, so you can instantly touch and feel your images. A standalone X half app allows easy sharing of images and digital development of film stills.

Technical specifications

• Sensor: 18 MP 1″ CMOS, 3:4 aspect ratio
• Lens: Fixed Fujinon 10.8mm f/2.8 (equivalent to 32mm)
• Displays: two touchscreens (main and auxiliary)
• Film simulations: 13 styles + 26 filters
• Features: exposure compensation, aperture ring, manual focus, tuning lever
• Looking for: Optical viewfinder for compositing
• Compatibility: Fujifilm Instax Link printers
• Video: 1080×1440 vertical video
• Battery: NP-W126S, up to 880 shots/charge
• Size: 105,8 x 64,3 x 45,8 mm
• Weight: 240 g (memory card and battery included)