Introduction
Last week I decided to change my camera system/setup and got started with the the Fujifilm X-T20 DSLM. My existing equipment was the following:
Canon EOS 700D Body
Sigma 18-300mm F3,5-6,3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary as “Allrounder” lens
Canon EF-S 10-18mm 4.5-5.6 IS STM as Wide Angle lens
EF-S 18-55mm 3.5-5.6 IS STM, the kit lens
Because of the heavy weight and large size of this gear (especially when carrying everything with you in the backpack), I wanted to give a small DSLM camera the chance. So I started to investigate what the best choice could be here. To be honest, I set my personal budget to start with to €1000,- (without any additional lenses). In this price segment, nearly all manufacturers offer DSLM models. After that, reading and watching a lot of reviews, I decided to choose the Fujifilm X-T20 DSLM . There is a newer model available, the X-T30, but it was too expensive for me and not worth the upcharge (in my opinion). The cost-benefit ratio was much better at the X-T20, so I ordered this one with the Fujinon XF 18-55mm F2.8-4.0 which is a really good lens. In conclusion I can tell you that I am truly happy about this decision.
First Impressions of Fujifilm X-T20 DSLM
Firstly, I want to share with you the first impressions after unboxing the Fujifilm X-T20 DSLM. Please keep in mind, that I had already ordered some cool accessoires which are attached to the camera in these pictures, but I will come back to them later in this article.
My first impression was: I totally love the design of the Fujfilm cameras. What do you think about it? The body has a magnesium alloy and just feels really premium but also robust. In addition, the camera has an electronic view finder, which is a must-have for me. It is different to the optical viewfinder, but the huge advantage is, that you can directly see how the image will look like before shooting it.
Secondly, The manual controls on top of the body are easily accessible and let you play around with them easily. That is a great opportunity to get to know all the different parameters of photography and playing around with them. In addition, all other settings can be set with the LCD touchscreen. There is a shutter speed dial, exposure compensation dial and others. Finally, there is also an advanced SR auto mode, which also lets you create great but quick shots.
Specifications of Fujifilm X-T20 DSLM
Let us have a short look at the main specifications of the camera:
| Image sensor type | X-Trans CMOS III |
|---|---|
| Image sensor size | 23.6 mm × 15.6 mm (APS-C) |
| Image sensor maker | Sony |
| Maximum resolution | 24.3 megapixels |
| ASA/ISO range | ISO 200–12800, expandable to 100–51200 |
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fujifilm_X-T20
The ISO value from up to 51200 is truly impressive. However, from practical use I can tell you that you can really use ISO values up to 8000 if needed if you can adapt shutter speed and exposure according to that.
Accessories for Fujifilm X-T20 DSLM
Some useful accessories are definitely needed, which I really recommend you to try:
Firstly, there is the awesome hand grip from Meike, which gives you a way better feeling when holding the camera. The slot for battery and SD card is still good accessible and you can also mount it to a tripod.
Secondly, I guess you also need additional batteries. The one delivered with the camera is capable of shooting about 350 pictures, the battery time is rather low in comparison with a DSLR camera. So I bought 2 additional batteries with an USB-C charger. I love it because I can charge the batteries with my laptop or phone charger.
Finally, there is the shutter button. Once attached to your camera, you do not want to miss it, believe me. However I lost mine when unpacking my camera from the backpack. Be careful when using it.
In conclusion I can tell you after more than one year now, that I am really happy with this camera. I also bought some additonal lenses and accessoires in the meantime.
