Fujifilm South Africa has unveiled the Fujifilm X-M5, its lightest mirrorless camera yet. At just 355g, the X-M5 is compact enough to fit in your jacket pocket while delivering impressive performance for both photography and videography. The hybrid capabilities of this camera make it an ideal choice for vloggers, social media creators, and budding photographers.
The X-M5’s standout feature for content creators is its dedicated Short Movie mode, optimised for vertical 9:16 videos, perfect for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. With effortless sharing to smartphones, creators can shoot, edit, and post seamlessly. Another highlight is Vlog mode, offering an intuitive interface via the rear touchscreen, enabling quick adjustments to shooting conditions.
For audio enthusiasts, Fujifilm introduces a first for its cameras: three built-in microphones with four selectable directivity options—surround, front, back, and front & back. These features are paired with a steady-state noise reduction function, minimising persistent ambient noise like air conditioners, ensuring crisp sound quality.
Video capabilities are just as impressive, supporting 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit video, 4K/60P, and 1080/240P. New bit rates of 8Mbps and 25Mbps allow for faster uploads to external devices or social platforms. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the X-M5’s Film Simulation dial, allowing users to switch between 20 colour profiles for both stills and video.
Under the hood, the X-M5 houses the X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor with 26.1 megapixels and the high-speed X-Processor 5, as seen in the flagship X-T5. Advanced autofocus powered by deep learning ensures precise subject detection, along with Face/Eye AF for portraits.
Set to hit local shelves in November, the X-M5 is priced at R16,000, including VAT. A kit version with the XC 15-45mm lens will retail for R19,000.
Accompanying the X-M5 are two new lenses aimed at wildlife photographers and videographers alike.
Fujinon XF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR
Designed for long-range excellence, this super-telephoto lens boasts a 500mm focal length (762mm in 35mm equivalent) with an aperture of F5.6. Weighing just 1.3kg, it redefines mobility for wildlife and aviation photography, while the 5.5-stop image stabilisation ensures sharp results even at maximum focal length. Retailing for R64,000, this lens promises unmatched performance for professionals.
Fujinon XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II
The new XF16-55mmF2.8 II is a lightweight update to an iconic standard zoom lens. At just 410g, it’s 37% lighter than its predecessor while maintaining the rugged, weather-sealed design needed for demanding shoots. Notably, the lens introduces an Aperture Click Switch, enabling smooth adjustments for seamless video recording. Priced at R22,000, it’s a worthy upgrade for filmmakers and photographers.
Both lenses will be available in South Africa from November, alongside the X-M5 camera, solidifying Fujifilm’s commitment to delivering high-quality tools for creators.