The Instax Mini Evo Cinema is not just an instant camera – it’s also a smartphone printer and a video camera. New Eras Dial allows for effects from 10 different eras to videos and photos.

24 April 2026

Fujifilm South Africa has announced that the hotly anticipated Instax Mini Evo Cinema hybrid instant camera is now available locally in limited quantities. The Mini Evo Cinema offers the power of three: an instant camera, a smartphone printer and now also a video camera – complete in one package.

The Mini Evo Cinema is like nothing Instax has released before, with this being a 3-in-1 hybrid instant camera offering not only Instax Mini prints from both the unit and a smartphone, but also short-form video (15-second clips).

Video or Photo

Users can easily switch between CINE and STILL modes to capture either videos or photos. In CINE mode, users can shoot a series of clips – up to 15 seconds in total, and the camera will stitch them into a video automatically. Through the free Instax Mini Evo smartphone app, users can connect via Bluetooth and extend video creations to 30 seconds by adding or reordering clips, alongside opening and closing sequences. 

These video clips can be accessed via a one-of-a-kind Instax Mini instant photo printed with a QR code. By scanning the QR code with a smartphone, the video can be replayed with an Instax frame or downloaded for easy posting on social media and sharing with friends. Video and audio data shared this way is securely stored for 24 months.

All images and videos created with the Mini Evo Cinema can be saved within the Instax Mini Evo app. Here users can also save printed images digitally to their smartphone’s camera roll, finished with the iconic Instax Mini border.

Video (and photos) through the Decades

A big part of the Evo Cinema’s appeal lies in the Eras Dial, a first for Instax. The Eras Dial, situated on the side of the device, allows users to apply effects from 10 different decades to their photos and videos. Each era is designed to capture the look and feel of the imagery of that time. This includes the grainy, pale tones of the 1930s; a 1960s effect inspired by 8mm cameras; the vibrant colours of the 1980s; and the sharp, rich imagery of the 2020s.

Content created in each era can be further fine-tuned with any of the 10 effects from the Degree Control Dial on the lens. By simply rotating the dial to precisely adjust colour, contrast and noise expression, users can create up to 10 creative variations per era. 

Once an era is chosen and the intensity of the era is selected, users can continue to personalise by adding a frame to every shot or video clip utilising the Frame Switch. There’s a frame for every era, each paying homage to the characteristics, media and playback devices that defined that time.

Form and Function

With sleek black, vertical grip design (inspired by Fujifilm’s “FUJICA Single-8”, an 8mm camera introduced in 1965) and analogue-inspired details, the Mini Evo Cinema is meticulously crafted for those who appreciate tactile functions alongside beauty and elegance.

Below the Eras Dial is a Zoom Lever that allows creators to zoom in or pull back for greater scope and more atmosphere. An analogue-style printing operation lever is next to, with users able to lift and twist it to print a photo. A 1.54-inch high-resolution LCD Monitor is there to view operation as well as for playback, while a viewfinder, grip attachment and a premium hand strap are included.

Pricing and Availability

For those looking for a truly unique instant camera, that also includes a video camera, instant prints and a smartphone printer, the 3-in1 Instax Mini Evo Cinema hybrid instant camera is ready to be explored. The Instax Mini Evo Cinema is available in limited quantities at select stores locally, with a suggested retail price of R7 499 incl. VAT

The post Now with video, the Instax Mini Evo Cinema is one camera with decades of possibilities appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

What if you could carry a film camera vibe in your pocket, shoot vertical content for social media, and still enjoy clean digital output? That’s exactly what the Fujifilm X Half promises, and after taking it on a road trip from Durban to Johannesburg for Rage Expo, it’s clear this camera is all about creativity, nostalgia, and spontaneity.

Fujifilm calls the X Half a digital half-frame camera, blending the charm of classic film photography with modern digital flexibility. It officially launched globally in June 2025, and it’s designed for creators who want to shoot more intentionally—without lugging around heavy gear.

What Is the Fujifilm X Half?

The Fujifilm X Half is a super-compact, lightweight digital camera aimed at creators, street photographers, and social-first shooters. Weighing just 240g including battery and SD card, it’s a true grab-and-go camera—one you throw in your bag and forget about until the light hits just right.

This isn’t a camera chasing massive specs or professional dominance. Instead, it focuses on vibe, storytelling, and ease of use.

Specs

Price & Availability

• Price (South Africa & global):
  Approx. R14,500 – R15,800
• Colors available:
  • Charcoal
  • Silver
  • Black

While more expensive than a smartphone or basic point-and-shoot, you’re paying for Fujifilm’s design, film simulations, and creative philosophy.

Who Is the Fujifilm X Half For?

The Fujifilm X Half is not a heavy-duty professional camera. Instead, it’s designed for:

• Content creators
• Street photographers
• Travelers
• Social media shooters
• Anyone who loves the nostalgia of film with digital convenience

If you’re chasing extreme dynamic range or shallow depth of field, you’ll want something else. But if you want a lightweight, creative, travel-ready camera that inspires intentional shooting, the X Half hits the sweet spot.

Pros and Cons of the Fujifilm X Half

Pros

• Ultra-lightweight and highly portable
• Built-in 32mm equivalent lens ideal for travel and street photography
• Vertical touchscreen LCD perfect for social media content
• Powerful film simulations and creative filters
• Two-in-one mode for storytelling
• Excellent battery life for its size

Cons

• Fixed prime lens (no zoom or interchangeable lenses)
• JPEG-only shooting (no RAW support)
• 1-inch sensor won’t compete with larger mirrorless cameras
• No weather sealing
• Basic optical viewfinder with limited information
• Premium price for a “fun-first” camera

Final Thoughts: A Camera That Brings Back the Joy

The Fujifilm X Half reminds me why I fell in love with photography in the first place, spontaneity, surprise, and creativity. On the road trip to Rage Expo, it wasn’t about pixel peeping or perfect exposure. It was about capturing moods, stories, and moments.

The fixed 32mm lens forces you to think. The film simulations make you choose how your story should feel. It’s raw emotion with a digital heart.

As a second body, or even a main camera for social media, street photography, vlogging, and events—the Fujifilm X Half is an inspiring little powerhouse.

The post Fujifilm X Half Review: A Pocketable Digital Camera with Film Soul appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

An instax^™ that can capture videos and “hand them over” in instax^™ print!
Enjoy a time-travel experience with “Eras Dial^™” effects inspired by various eras!

TOKYO, January 7, 2026 – FUJIFILM Corporation announces the launch of the “instax mini Evo Cinema^™” (mini Evo Cinema), a new model in the instax^™ hybrid instant camera “Evo series”. It will be available in Japan on January 30, 2026.

The “Evo Series” is a hybrid instant camera that allows users to take pictures with viewing the LCD monitor on the back of the camera and select their favorite shots to print, and enjoy an immersive photography experience with a variety of creative effects.
The mini Evo Cinema can capture both still images and videos. It converts captured video data into a QR code^*1 and creates an instax^™ print together with a still image cut out from the video, allowing users to “hand over a video”. By turning videos into instax^™ prints, users can not only preserve memorable moments spent with loved ones in tangible form, but also easily revisit the video anytime via the QR code.
As a new feature, the camera is equipped with the “Eras Dial^™”, which lets users experience effects inspired by different eras.10 “Eras Dial^™” effects are available, including “1960” inspired by 8mm film cameras. Each effect has 10 adjustable levels, offering a total of 100 possible expressions. These effects capture the unique flavor of each era, letting users shoot extraordinary, special videos and still images with a sense of time travel.

The camera features a vertical grip design inspired by Fujifilm’s “FUJICA Single-8”, an 8mm camera introduced in 1965. Its meticulously crafted design and analog operation enhance the enjoyment of shooting and printing.
The dedicated app^*2 allows users to edit videos by combining clips and adding cinematic opening and ending templates, making it possible to create them more special. Furthermore, it features a “Direct Print Function” that lets users turn smartphone images into instax^™ prints.
The mini Evo Cinema is a 3-in-1 camera that not only captures videos and still images but also functions as a smartphone printer.

Fujifilm will continue to expand the world of the instax^™ instant photo system that allows people to enjoy on-the-spot photo printing.

• *1 QR Code is a registered trademark of Denso Wave Incorporated. After printing a instax^™ print with a QR code, it is necessary to upload the video data to the server via the “instax mini Evo^™” app. The download period for video data is two years from the time they are uploaded to the server via the dedicated smartphone app along with the captured images.
• *2 A free app for Android and iOS devices. It is available for download from Google Play for Android devices and from App Store for iOS devices. Android and Google Play are trademarks or registered trademarks of Google Inc. iPhone and App Store are trademarks of Apple Inc. The iPhone trademark is used in Japan under license from Aiphone Co., Ltd. The iOS trademark is used under license from Cisco in the United States and other countries.

1. Product Name, Release Date, Price

(1) Hybrid Instant Camera “instax mini Evo Cinema^™”

(2) Camera Case for “instax mini Evo Cinema^™”

2. Main Features of the “instax mini Evo Cinema^™”

(1) Capture videos and hand them over as instax^™ prints with QR codes

Capture videos up to 15 seconds long with simple controls—press and hold the shutter button to record, release to pause, and shoot multiple cuts with ease. Recorded videos can be reviewed instantly on the rear monitor, and users can select their favorite scenes to print as instax^™ prints with a QR code for immediate sharing. By scanning the QR code with a smartphone, the video can be replayed with an instax^™ frame or downloaded for easy posting on social media and sharing with friends.

(2) Features various “Eras Dial^™” effects inspired by different eras

Featuring 10 “Eras Dial^™” effects, such as “1960” inspired by 8mm film cameras of the 1960s and “1970”, evoking the texture of color CRT televisions from the 1970s. In addition to visual textures, each effect incorporates subtle details such as noise and tape flutter to recreate the feel of the era. Each effect offers 10 adjustable degree levels, enabling a total of 100 unique expressions. Audio is also processed with “Eras Dial^™” effects, adding distinctive sound characteristics, while certain effects even play nostalgic sounds—such as the whir of film reels—during shooting, creating an immersive experience that feels like stepping back in time.

Example of “Eras Dial^™”

(3) Design that enhances the shooting experience with a vertical Grip and analog feel

The camera body features a classic, premium design in black and gray, adopting a vertical grip style reminiscent of Fujifilm’s “FUJICA Single-8”, the groundbreaking 8mm home movie system launched in 1965 that made everyday video recording accessible to everyone. Details such as the tactile “Eras Dial^™”, which delivers a satisfying click with every turn, and the “Print Lever,” designed to evoke the feel of winding film by hand, add to the analog charm and expand the joy of shooting and printing.
Users can easily shoot while checking the rear monitor or enjoy an immersive experience by attaching the included viewfinder accessory. The grip attachment further improves handling, ensuring stable operation and allowing users to focus on capturing the perfect shot.

(4) Dedicated app for viewing and editing captured videos

The dedicated app allows users to view videos captured with mini Evo Cinema on their smartphones and combine multiple clips to create truly special content. In addition to Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity is supported for faster transfers and the ability to preview and select videos or still images before sending.

• In the gallery, users can browse and edit transferred videos and still images. Multiple clips can be combined into a single video of up to 30 seconds, with cinematic opening and ending templates available for added impact.
• A “Poster Template” feature lets users design instax prints^™ with a movie-poster look by adding titles and text for a personalized touch.
• The “Direct Print” function enables printing of photos and favorite images stored on a smartphone directly with mini Evo Cinema.
  By linking with the dedicated app, mini Evo Cinema serves as a 3-in-1 device—capturing videos and still images while also functioning as a smartphone printer.

3. “instax mini Evo Cinema^™” promotion

The mini Evo Cinema is a hybrid instant camera that not only lets users capture videos and turn them into instax^™ prints, but also offers 10 “Eras Dial^™” effects inspired by different eras, creating an experience that feels like stepping back in time. The promotional tagline “One camera, decades of possibilities” expresses our hope that users capture extraordinary, era-themed scenes as instax^™ prints. The tagline is used online, on social media and at stores to communicate the appeal of the “mini Evo Cinema” to as many people as possible.

About the instax^™ brand

Since its original launch in 1998, the instax^™ series of instant cameras has embraced trends and evolving technologies with time and expanded its lineup to include not only analog instant cameras, but also hybrid instant cameras using digital technology, smartphone printers and palm-sized digital camera. The instax^™ continues to offer diverse ways to enjoy photography, broadening the user base in more than 100 countries.

The post Fujifilm Launches Hybrid Instant Camera “instax mini Evo Cinema™” appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

X-T30 III mirrorless camera comes with latest image processing engine while also incorporating new Film Simulation Dial to switch between 20 Film Simulations.

30 October 2025. Fujifilm South Africa has announced the new Fujifilm X-T30 III, the latest model in the popular X Series range of mirrorless cameras and the follow-up to 2021’s X-T30 II. Like its predecessor, the X-T30 III offers outstanding image quality in a beautifully compact and lightweight body, weighing only 378g with a classic centre viewfinder style design.

The camera is equipped with the trusted back-illuminated 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and the high-speed X-Processor 5 image processing engine, the same engine found in the flagship Fujifilm X-T5. Compared to the previous model, the X-T30 III achieves approximately twice the processing speed and adopts the latest subject detection autofocus, allowing users to enjoy high image quality and worry-free shooting.

New too is the Film Simulation dial featured on the top left side of the body, seen by users in models such as Fujifilm X-T50 and X-M5. Here photographers can intuitively switch between 20 Film Simulation modes, digitally recreating analogue-inspired film looks to deliver brilliant results straight out of camera. This includes “REALA ACE” with faithful colour reproduction and “NOSTALGIC Neg.” with high saturation and soft gradation. The dial includes three positions, FS1 to FS3, where users can register their own original “FS recipes” with preferred image quality settings for a wide range of photographic expressions and moods.

Thanks to the new X-Processor 5, videographers using the X-T30 III have access to 6.2K/30P video recording in 4:2:2 10-bit, video recording in 4K/60P, and high frame rate recording at 1080/240P. There is also 9:16 Short Movie Mode, suited for short clips that are optimised for social media.

Furthermore, the camera features powerful electronic image stabilization that effectively reduces not only subtle hand shake but also larger motion, such as when shooting video while walking.

Popular features from previous models, such as the pop-up flash and the “AUTO” shooting mode switch lever for easy shooting, are retained in the X-T30 III. In AUTO mode, the camera recognises the subject, tracks it, and records the moment, taking care of the technicalities so users can concentrate on perfect framing.

Designed to meet the needs of first-time digital camera users as well as more serious photographers, the X-T30 III offers an intuitive shooting experience there to bring more enjoyment to photography. 

The Fujifilm X-T30 III will be making its way to South Africa on 6 December 2025, and is set to retail for a recommended R19 560 incl. VAT. The X-T30 III kit, which comes with the new XC13-33mmF3.5-6.3 lens, will be available during the second week of December 2025 for a recommended R23 000.

New wide zoom also introduced

Fujifilm has also announced the new Fujinon XC13-33mmF3.5-6.3 OIS lens, which covers a focal length range from wide-angle 13mm (equivalent to 20mm in 35mm format) to standard 33mm (equivalent to 50mm in 35mm format).

Despite this coverage, it achieves the smallest and lightest dimensions among Fujinon zoom lenses, with a total length of 37.5mm and a weight of approximately 125g. Paired with the Fujifilm X-T30 III, it offers photographers a wide focal length while retaining the lightweight portability of the camera. 

The Fujinon XC13-33mmF3.5-6.3 OIS will be available locally during January 2026 for a recommended R8 280 incl. VAT.

The post Fujifilm South Africa announces intuitive X-T30 III, improving autofocus and video recording capabilities appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one instant camera that blends digital flexibility with analog charm, the Fujifilm Instax Wide Evo might just be the one to beat in 2025. This hybrid instant camera allows you to shoot, review, and print wide-format photos, all from a single, sleek device.

Why Choose the Instax Wide Evo?

The Instax Wide Evo is Fujifilm’s first attempt to bring the wide format to a hybrid instant camera. While other Instax models focus on mini formats, this device gives you twice the print width, making it ideal for group shots, landscapes, and moments where size matters.

It offers:

• A modern, compact design
• Digital + analog functionality
• Creative control with effects and styles
• Smartphone integration via app and Bluetooth

It’s perfect for people who want the best of both worlds—instant prints without sacrificing digital convenience.

Specs & Features

In the Field: Experience Matters

TechSceneZA took the Instax Wide Evo to Comic-Con Africa 2025, where it outshone expectations. Handing out wide prints to cosplayers, the print crank became a fun conversation starter. The ability to see your shot before committing was a game changer—no wasted film. Over 30 cosplayers walked away with tangible memories from that day.

This real-world use underscores what the device does best: bridging the gap between digital and physical in a creative, social setting.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Wide-format prints deliver more visual impact
• Hybrid workflow: shoot, store, and print in one unit
• 100 effect combinations for creative flexibility
• Smartphone connectivity and remote control
• Retro touches: physical crank, tactile dials
• Compact design compared to traditional wide analogs

Cons

• Premium price tag
• Limited internal storage (only ~45 images without microSD)
• Battery only supports ~100 prints per charge
• Shutter lever and print-out lever placement may feel awkward
• Only printed images can be transferred via app

How Does It Compare?

• Vs. Instax Mini Evo
  The Wide Evo delivers larger prints and a wider lens, but performance (storage, battery) is similar.
• Vs. Instax Wide 400 (analog model)
  It’s far more compact and flexible, with digital features and customization, though it comes at a higher price.

Who Should Buy It?

This camera appeals to creators, event photographers, cosplayers, or anyone who wants a premium instant experience. If you prioritize print size, creative control, and hybrid functionality, the Wide Evo is a standout option.

If you want something more budget‑friendly with fewer features, the Instax Mini Evo or Wide 400 might be more appropriate.

Price & Availability (South Africa, 2025)

• Retail price: ~R6,500 to R7,200
• Film packs:
  • 10‑pack: ~R200
  • 20‑pack: ~R400

Final Thoughts

The Fujifilm Instax Wide Evo is a bold step forward in instant-camera design. It combines the best elements of digital and analog photography and gives you creative control like never before in an instant camera. While it comes with trade-offs (cost, battery, storage), if creative prints are your priority, this could be your go-to device in 2025.

The post Fujifilm Instax Wide Evo Review: Shoot, Preview & Print – All in One appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

17 September 2025. FUJIFILM South Africa has announced the launch of the GFX ETERNA 55, the company’s first camera designed primarily for professional digital filmmaking. With the GFX ETERNA 55, Fujifilm has created a product from the ground up as a tool for filmmakers and cinematic content creators.

The GFX ETERNA 55 is equipped with a 102MP large format sensor – the GFX 102MP CMOS II HS. At 43.8mm wide, 32.9mm high and 54.8mm diagonal, this sensor is one of the world’s longest vertical large format sensors for filmmaking cameras on the market, far exceeding the traditional 35mm full-frame. Through the sensor, the camera delivers a cinematic aesthetic with unique depth-of-field characteristics that standard formats simply cannot replicate.

Cinematic Versatility

The large sensor allows the GFX ETERNA 55 to expand the angle of view with both spherical and anamorphic lenses, providing filmmakers with a more creative canvas. As such, the camera supports five cinema formats: GF format for full utilisation of the sensor in 4:3 open gate shooting, Premista, 35mm, ANAMORPHIC (35mm), and Super35. This diverse selection enables the opportunity for diverse visual expression through the use of a wide variety of lenses paired with specific formats. And by attaching bundled mount adapters such as the PL Mount Adapter G, creators can expand lens choices and pursue diverse visual expressions tailored to their intentions.

The GFX ETERNA 55 supports filming in a 4:3 open gate format at up to 48 fps, fully leveraging the large image circle. Additionally, the GFX ETERNA 55 can output 4:2:2 10bit uncompressed data and up to 8K/30P 12-bit video in RAW data via HDMI. Also on offer is F-Log2 and F-Log2 C with dynamic range of 14+ stops. This records images with rich gradation leveraging the large sensor size, enhancing flexibility in post-production.

Furthermore, up to 16 LUT (Look Up Table) files defining colour information can be loaded, enabling unified colour management from shooting to post-production and providing an efficient filmmaking environment.

As expected, FUJIFILM’s digital film science offers highly controllable colour application, with 20 built-in Film Simulations allowing various colour tone expressions as if swapping photographic film. This includes ETERNA and ETERNA BLEACH BYPASS cinema colour negative film beloved by legendary Hollywood cinematographers.

Ready for Filmmaking

To support small crews and solo filming, the magnesium alloy body weights 2.0 kg. Additionally, 3-inch side monitors have been placed on both sides to give camera operators and camera assistants full access to the camera menu in most configurations. The front of the camera and the included handle feature a multi-function dial that controls the focus, iris and zoom of FUJIFILM GF lenses. When the dial is set to ND, it allows fine adjustment of the internal electronic variable Neutral Density filter.

The GFX ETERNA 55 delivers rich tonal and true-to-life image quality unique to a large-format sensor, bringing new value to filmmaking across various genres such as independent and feature films, television, documentaries, weddings, commercials and music videos. Its abundant image data also offers high editing resilience, supporting demanding production workflows.

At this stage the South African release date and recommended retail price for the Fujifilm GFX ETERNA 55 are yet to be confirmed.  

New Motorised GF Zoom lens also announced

In addition to the GFX ETERNA 55, Fujifilm has announced the FUJINON GF32-90mmT3.5 PZ OIS WR lens, the first GF Series lens optimised for filmmaking production. It is also the first FUJINON motorised power zoom lens for the GFX System, offering serious filmmakers cinematic versatility and exceptional optical performance in a compact, lightweight design.

The local release date and recommended retail price for the FUJINON GF32-90mmT3.5 PZ OIS WR lens are yet to be confirmed.

The post Fujifilm introduces the GFX ETERNA 55, a dedicated camera for filmmakers appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

If you’re looking for a fun, easy-to-use instant camera that delivers classic Polaroid-style prints with a modern twist, the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 is a top contender. Whether you’re capturing spontaneous moments, documenting your travels, or creating a photo wall of memories, this square-format instant camera offers a perfect balance of style, simplicity, and nostalgia.

Why Choose the Instax Square SQ1?

The Instax SQ1 blends modern design with instant photography’s retro charm. It stands out with its square format—a feature that pays homage to classic Polaroid prints—while offering the reliability and ease-of-use we expect from Fujifilm’s Instax line.

Specs

Design and Usability

One of the best things about the SQ1 is its minimalist and bold aesthetic. Available in three eye-catching colors—Terracotta Orange, Chalk White, and Glacier Blue—the camera looks as good on your shelf as it does in your hand.

It’s built with beginners in mind, thanks to:

• Automatic exposure: No need to adjust settings manually.
• One-touch selfie mode: Great for quick snaps with friends.
• Simple point-and-shoot experience: Perfect for all ages.

Pros and Cons of the Fujifilm Instax SQ1

Pros

• Modern, stylish design
• Larger square prints for more visual impact
• Instant photo gratification
• User-friendly features with no learning curve
• Reliable performance in most lighting conditions

Cons

• Film packs can get expensive over time
• No digital backup – prints only
• Limited manual controls for advanced users

Price and Availability in South Africa (2025)

The Instax Square SQ1 retails for around R2,499 at major South African retailers and online stores. Just keep in mind that film is sold separately, so be sure to factor that into your overall cost.

Is the Instax SQ1 Still Worth It in 2025?

With newer models like the Instax Mini 41 and Instax Evo entering the market, it’s fair to ask whether the SQ1 is still relevant. The answer is yes—especially if you want larger prints and zero-fuss operation. It may lack digital features, but it delivers something many modern devices can’t: tangible, printed memories in seconds.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a:

• Student wanting to document campus life
• Traveler looking to create a photo diary
• Creative soul craving real prints without editing fuss

…the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 is a fantastic choice.

Great for:

• Beginners
• Instant photo lovers
• Stylish decor or gifting

Not ideal if you need:

• Digital copies
• Advanced manual settings

The post Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 Review: Instant Photography Made Stylish and Simple appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Fujifilm South Africa has announced the latest mirrorless camera in their X Series line-up: the rangefinder-style X-E5, debuting four years after the X-E4. The X-E5 brings with it some serious specifications, including the back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor and the X-Processor 5 high-speed image processing engine, the same as found inside the flagship Fujifilm X-T5 camera.

The X-E5 can be seen as the rangefinder-style kin to the in-demand X100VI, but unlike the X100VI the X-E5 allows for interchangeable lenses. It also includes a number of new features never seen on Fujifilm X Series cameras before, including a top-plate crafted solely from machined aluminium.

A Tactile and Precise Design 

By combining sharp, flat edges with carefully curved surfaces, the X-E5 offers a distinct premium feel when holding the camera, with tactile handling for one-handed operation.

The top plate is also home to a newly designed Film Simulation dial which features a precision-cut indicator window. Photographers can choose between different Film Simulations on the fly, each providing a particular look and feel, based on Fujifilm film stock such as Velvia and Acros. Fujifilm fans will also be happy to learn about three positions on the dial which allows for the saving of their own Film Simulation recipes. 

Importantly, the X-E5 is the first in the X-E series to feature a powerful five-axis In-Body Image Stabilisation mechanism, offering up to 7.0 stops in the centre and 6.0 stops at the periphery – highly beneficial in low-light situations. The camera now also includes a 1.4x and 2x digital teleconverter function, creating a range of framing options even when shooting with prime lenses. 

Exploring the Joy of Photography

In keeping with Fujifilm’s exploration of the joy of photography, photographers will be able to select the retro and minimalist “Classic Display” mode when viewing the electronic viewfinder. Inspired by the viewfinder look of old film cameras, this simplifies the information on the EVF to help photographers concentrate on composition.

Further assisting them to capture the exact moment, the new Surround View function displays the area outside the shooting range as a semi-transparent or a line pattern according to the aspect ratio. This provides a shooting experience that is similar to an optical viewfinder even though the X-E5 has an electronic one.

And photographers will never miss a shot, since as far as autofocus is concerned, the X-E5 incorporates an impressive autofocus prediction algorithm for reliable focussing. Thanks to the powerful X-Processor 5, subject detection autofocus can accurately track a range of subjects. This includes animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects and drones, due to the incorporation of deep-learning AI technology.

Finally, when it comes to videography, the X-E5’s compact and lightweight body supports in-camera recording at an impressive 6.2K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit, as well as high-quality 4K/60p and 1080/240p. 

Price and Availability

Expected in South Africa during July 2025, the Fujifilm X-E5 will sell at an RRP of R29 500 incl. VAT for the body. As a kit, the X-E5 is bundled with the newly announced Fujinon XF23mmF2.8 R WR pancake lens. This lens weighs a mere 90g and is weather-resistant, making it an ideal companion. The Fujifilm X-E5 kit is expected to retail for a recommended R35 000 incl. VAT. On its own, the new XF23mmF2.8 R WR lens is set to sell for R8 8000 incl. VAT.

The post New Fujifilm X-E5 rangefinder-style camera explores the joy of photography appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Fujifilm South Africa is reinventing the charm of film photography in a digital format with its latest camera – the Fujifilm X half (X-HF1). Apart from its retro rangefinder looks, the X half compact camera adds to its film photography charm by introducing physical features such as a frame advance lever and optical viewfinder, plus digital ones including Film Camera Mode.

However, perhaps most notable is the camera’s eschewing of horizontal aspect ratios, rather opting for 3:4 vertical framing. Both images and videos are captured vertically, and this is reflected in the vertical orientation of the optical viewfinder and LCD display at the back.

The X half compact camera evolved from the concept of classic half-frame cameras which were capable of shooting at half the size of 35mm film, so allowing for two images per frame. Building on the half-frame concept, the X half camera includes a 2-in-1 function, which enables users to combine two vertical frames for new ways of storytelling. Two still images, a video and a still, or two videos can be joined by simply pulling the frame advance lever or by using the dedicated X half smartphone app afterwards.

But for those photographers wanting the full retro experience of shooting film, it is the Film Camera Mode which will appeal most. In this mode, shooting is possible using only the optical viewfinder without the LCD monitor. After each shot, the frame advance lever is operated to proceed to the next shot – similar to advancing the film in old cameras. Also, the images can only be viewed after the specified number of shots have been taken (36, 54 or 72), adding an element of anticipation for the captured images.

Further contributing to the analogue appeal of the X half is the digital effects available to alter the appearance of the photos. Not only is 13 of Fujifilm’s Film Simulations included (which can be viewed and changed on the sub LCD at the back of the camera) but also 19 shooting filters, including Light Leek, Double Ex. and Miniature. These filters allow for diverse shooting expressions tailored to subjects and scenes. Grain Effect can also be adjusted, reproducing the unique graininess of film photos.

Designed with travellling in mind, the X half features a compact 240g body that evokes the charm of a classic rangefinder camera. The fixed 10.8mm F2.8 Fujinon prime lens is equivalent to 32mm in 35mm format, with the ability to adjust both the focus and aperture on the lens. Inside the X half is a 1-inch (13.3mm x 8.8mm) sensor with primary colour filter, allowing for a resolution of 17.74 million pixels.

The Fujifilm X half compact camera digitally recreates and evolves the analogue photographic shooting experience unique to half-frame film cameras. The camera will be arriving in South Africa during June 2025 for a recommended retail price of R14 999 incl. VAT.

The post Film, but Digital – Fujifilm X half compact camera evolves the charm of analogue photography appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

If you’re into instant photography or just love capturing memories on the go, Fujifilm’s latest release, the Instax Mini 41, might just be your next must-have gadget. Launched on April 17, 2025, the Instax Mini 41 carries the signature charm of its predecessors with a fresh twist. Its black body with silver trims and orange accents gives it a modern-retro appeal. Whether you’re a student, traveler, or creative soul, this analog instant camera brings style, simplicity, and satisfaction in one neat package.

Specs

Instax App Compatibility

The Instax Mini 41 works with the Instax app, letting you scan, save, and share your printed memories digitally. While the camera itself doesn’t store digital versions, the app bridges that gap seamlessly.

Who Is the Instax Mini 41 For?

The Instax Mini 41 is ideal for students, travelers, event-goers and creative users. Whether you need to document your campus life, create instant scrapbooks or capture real time memories to add on mood boards or memory walls, the Instax Mini 41 has got your back.

Price and Availability

In South Africa, the Instax Mini 41 is priced around R2,249 and is available at major retailers and online stores. Remember, film packs are not included in the box, so be sure to budget accordingly.

Pros of the Instax Mini 41

• ✔️ Stylish retro-modern design
• ✔️ Easy to use – just point, shoot, and print
• ✔️ Parallax correction for accurate close-ups
• ✔️ Built-in selfie mirror for perfect framing
• ✔️ Instant prints for real-world memories
• ✔️ Compatible with Instax app for digital sharing

Cons of the Instax Mini 41

• ❗ Film packs sold separately – long-term cost adds up
• ❗ No built-in digital storage – you’ll need the app for backups
• ❗ Limited manual controls – not ideal for advanced photographers

Instax Mini 41 vs Instax Mini 40

The Instax Mini 41 is a direct successor to the Instax Mini 40 and shares many design elements. However, the Mini 41 introduces:

• A pop of orange accent
• Improved parallax correction for close-up accuracy
• Enhanced user-friendly features

Final Thoughts: Why We Love the Instax Mini 41

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 41 blends analog charm with a dash of modern flair. It’s easy to use, beautiful to look at, and fun to shoot with. Whether you’re capturing a reunion with old friends or documenting your adventures abroad, this instant camera delivers the magic of physical photos with every click. From nostalgic moments to creative projects, the Instax Mini 41 is more than just a camera—it’s a memory-making machine.

The post Retro Charm Meets Modern Magic Within The FujiFilm Instax Mini 41 appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.