Making Lemonade with the X-H1: A student’s perspective

Amid the global coronavirus pandemic, I adopted the proverbial phrase, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Adjusting to the limitations of the pandemic, whilst being extremely challenging, has also forced me to think differently and out of the box.

I have also discovered that constraints can foster innovation, and in my case, it forced me out of my comfort zone into progressively expanding my photography skills. This has pushed me to learn and find images in otherwise ordinary subjects.

When I first came to use the Fujifilm X-H1, I immediately fell in love with it. From an ergonomics and design perspective, it is by far the most impressive camera I’ve seen and had the pleasure of using. Whenever I shoot out in public, I always get an approving look from the occasional passerby, adding to the experience.

The camera does not stop at that, as it continues to impress me in numerous ways, and although I also use the camera’s video capabilities, I am constantly surprised by how quickly I naturally gravitate towards shooting more stills than video footage.

I use the Fujifilm X-H1 with the XF50mmF2 R WR and the XF35mmF2 R WR lenses, often with the battery grip attached.

Image quality

Thus far, the Fujifilm X-H1 has impressed me in countless ways, starting with its impeccable image quality. Stills taken with the camera are both sharp and detailed, and are further enhanced by the various film simulations. My personal favourite is Velvia since I tend to shoot outdoors in nature and I enjoy the vivid look. It really brings the scenery to life, giving it depth whilst delivering the intended emotion behind the image.

Colour science

The game-changer for me is the colour science of the X-H1. I found the camera delivers phenomenal colour, which enhances visual storytelling. An interesting thing about the human brain is that we tend to perceive things as being more ‘enhanced’ rather than how they actually are in real life. Fujifilm’s colour science builds on this psychological component in that it enables us to create images that have a strong impact on the memory of our viewers.

Top display

A very helpful feature when using the X-H1 is the top LCD display which can be used to check camera settings, battery life and memory space, as well as having the ability to toggle between dark and light depending on the lighting conditions.

Battery Grip

The large grip feels sturdy and secure in your hands. It is of significant value as it also increases video recording time and is equipped with a conveniently placed headphone jack.

The act of shooting makes me feel exhilarated, and I feel less and less concerned about getting the technicalities correct and more focused on the art of creative expression. I see the world differently through the X-H1’s electronic viewfinder. The beauty of the world and the people that inhabit it stand out more to me through the lens of the camera. It allows me to see beauty in the ordinary.

My overall experience operating the camera resulted in me feeling more confident and excited to pick up the camera and want to shoot even the most random of items surrounding me. I find that the camera not only makes shooting easier but also fun.

Personally, I am a big fan of the overall user experience of Fujifilm X-H1 camera and love the images the camera produces. It has even allowed me to fulfill the requirements of an assignment, for which I was able to achieve a distinction towards my Graphic Design degree.

About Nomvula Moepya:

I’m a graphic design student in Johannesburg with an active interest in photography. I am an enthusiast looking for ways to express myself authentically through creative means. As a positive person, I tend to look at life from a glass half full rather than a half-empty perspective. I seek to inspire optimism and a positive can-do attitude in the face of adversity or misfortune.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noms_18/