Tuesday, June 28, 2022

My Fujifilm X-T4 AF Inconsistency Update And Interesting Information From Fujifilm About Their Cameras

The Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri. The oldest continually operating motel on Route 66.
(click to enlarge)

This is a very short update concerning my X-T4 and the AF inconsistency issue many of us are having as well as some interesting information from a manager at Fujifilm.  

From my 2013 Route 66 road trip.
Last week I sent my X-T4 camera body to Fujifilm North America for evaluation.  I provided a thorough written summary of what the camera was doing relative to being inconsistent with the autofocus and asked that the camera be examined, calibrated and brought up to factory specifications.  Also, I gave them my contact information and offered additional information about the issue.  The camera is currently in their hands and I’ll let you know when it is returned to me and what was found.

I am still received comments and private emails from others who have experienced this same issue with several models of Fujifilm cameras.  I don't understand why this issue isn't more widely known and Fujifilm has not addressed it and developed a fix?

Secondly, for the first time that I’ve seen or heard anywhere, Fujifilm has publicly given us an idea of how they classify the various X model camera bodies they produce.  In the past, we’ve had to guess how the company internally positions each camera.  I found this rather fascinating and thought I would pass the information along.

This information was derived from Big Head Taco’s website.  My thanks to him for publishing it so we all can benefit from better understanding the thinking at Fujifilm’s Imaging Division.
“For the first time, Fujifilm mapped out a clear distinction between all the various camera types they have within the X Series. The new X-H2S will be considered the flagship camera, the refinement is considered Utility, the design is DLSR, and the interface is Hybrid. 

In contrast, the X-Pro series’ refinement is now categorized as Luxury, the design is Classic Rangefinder and the interface is Classic. 

The X-T series’ refinement is categorized as Mid Range, the design is Classic SLR and the interface is Classic. 

The X-Txx, X-S, and X-E series’ refinement are all considered BASE (previously we classified them Prosumer), each with their own specific design and interface classifications. 

Why does this matter? Because Fujifilm’s decision on button and dial layout, ergonomics, and features on specific camera families moving forward will be based on their refinement, design and interface categorization.”
In a different interview a Fujifilm manager said that they intend to keep the dials and controls as is on the X-T cameras and won’t be going to a PASM dial as they did with the X-H2S.  That is good news for us who like the X-T’s controls as they now are.

When I receive my camera back from Fujifilm and test it, I'll report my findings.

Join me over at my website, https://www.dennismook.com.  

Thanks for looking. Enjoy!  

Dennis A. Mook  

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6 comments:

  1. AnonymousJune 28, 2022 at 4:53 PM

    I’ve been following your posts regarding your AF issues with Fujifilm. I have to wonder if I am just fortunate and maybe there is some sort of quality control issue. My X-T3 seems to nail focus very consistently. I use continuous AF and the focus square is often a bit smaller than perhaps a persons head in the frame. It sometimes catches the eye that is further away but mostly it’s right where I want it. I don’t use eye or face detect so it’s pretty basic. I came from a Canon 50D that wasn’t all that good, so my X-T3 has been a dream. For the most part I only have to be careful with a high contrast backlit scene. I reject very few photos for missed focus. I use the XF 18-55, XF 55-200 and XF 35mm f2.

    Thanks for all that you share, I check in often.

    Brent
    New Haven, IN

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    1. AnonymousJune 28, 2022 at 7:25 PM

      Brent, thanks for your comment and kind words. From the comments and emails I’ve received concerning the AF issue, the X-T3 rarely has been mentioned. It seems to focus consistently for many owners. Now I wait to hear from Fujifilm about my camera.

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  2. AnonymousJune 29, 2022 at 5:00 PM

    Fuji just released a firmware update. Maybe/Hopefully that might address the issue.

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    1. AnonymousJune 30, 2022 at 6:45 AM

      Thanks for the information. Last night I heard from a friend who said after testing, this improves the issue for Instant AF but doesn’t help with normal AF.

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  3. AnonymousJuly 5, 2022 at 9:44 AM

    I also shared in detail how I focus with the lens or with all the other lenses. I use AF-S and a single focus point that I move over an area that has a clear contrast (preferable a vertical line). I can focus on this point as often as I want and the AF will not change. So either your lens is faulty (very likely) or your focus technique doesn't work with Fuji cameras.

    Here is an example. I focused on the edge of the orange sign. Shot at f2.8 but as mentioned before the DOF even at f2.8 is quite deep. Focus acquisition was fast and secure. I was walking and only stopped for a second to compose the shot.

    With the X-Pro3 now the XF35/1.4 also focuses quickly and reliable for static subjects even in lower light. For me this is the most reliable focus system that I have used so far. I shot with Nikon and Canon DSLRs. I think it is the main advantage of mirrorless.

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    1. AnonymousJuly 5, 2022 at 11:42 AM

      First, thank you for taking the time to write and offer a comment. Second, your comment says to me that you did not thoroughly read my four extensive blog posts about the Fujifilm “camera” autofocus inconsistency issue. I would invite you to read them thoroughly. Third, the inconsistency issue happens with all of the Fujifilm lenses I tested as well as the dozen or more comments and private emails I’ve received from readers who have found the same issue. Fourth, I think it is inappropriate for you to conclude that the problems lies with “the lens” or with my technique, not considering it being a fundamental engineering flaw in the focusing system. Sixth, I’ve been photographing professionally with Fujifilm and other digital camera systems since 2001 (and with film for about 30 years before that) so I’m confident I fully u deist and the Fujifilm AF system and my technique is not flawed. Seventh, this issue doesn’t seem to occur with all models so, based upon your experience ‘of one,’ you may be one of the fortunate ones who don’t have to worry about autofocus inconsistency issues. Again, thank you for taking time to write and comment.

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