The Perfect Everyday Carry Camera
As an amateur photographer, I have always been intrigued by the world of street photography and its ability to capture raw, unfiltered moments of everyday life. At the start of 2023, I made a conscious decision to explore different genres, and street photography is now my next goal. I embarked on a quest to find the perfect everyday carry camera; one that would allow me to delve into the world of street photography while still offering modern features. My Fujifilm GFX100s is just not suitable for discreetly capturing candid shots on the street without drawing attention to myself. Enter the Fujifilm X100v - an exceptional camera that combines the best of both worlds with its advanced technology and versatile film modes.
Initially, I was drawn to the idea of using an old film camera for street photography, inspired by the timeless aesthetic and unique qualities of analogue photography. However, the practicality, cost, and convenience of digital photography ultimately swayed my decision. The Fujifilm X100v, with its array of film simulation modes, allows me to recreate the classic look and feel of different film types, such as the rich tones of Velvia or the vintage appeal of Classic Chrome. This versatility sealed the deal for me as it combines the convenience of digital photography with the nostalgic charm of film, all without the costly developing and scanning expenses.
One of the key factors in my search was portability. I wanted a compact, lightweight camera that I could effortlessly carry with me every day. The Fujifilm X100v excels in this regard. With its sleek design and compact form factor, it easily fits into my bag or pocket, making it the ideal companion for capturing spontaneous moments wherever I go, and it's discreet enough to use for street photography.
The X100V boasts a remarkable 26.1-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor, which delivers exceptional image quality with sharp details, accurate colours, and impressive dynamic range. Its advanced autofocus system ensures quick and precise focus, allowing me to capture fleeting moments with ease. The built-in Fujinon 23mm f/2 lens provides a versatile focal length that is perfect for street photography, offering a perspective that is both immersive and intimate. For my second camera body, I didn't want something with interchangeable lenses; essentially, I wanted a high-quality advanced compact camera.
Street photography is all about observing the world around you and capturing the essence of everyday life. The Fujifilm X100v is an excellent tool for this genre, as its compact size and inconspicuous appearance help me blend into the environment, allowing me to capture candid shots without disturbing the natural flow of events. The camera's silent electronic shutter is particularly useful; ensuring I can remain discreet while photographing people in public spaces.
However, my excitement quickly turned into frustration as I discovered that getting my hands on the Fujifilm X100v was no easy task. Despite being available since 2020, the demand for this incredible camera has far surpassed its supply, creating scarcity that has left many photography enthusiasts eagerly awaiting restocks. One factor contributing to this overwhelming demand is the TikTok hype surrounding the X100v. First started by TikTok star Kylie Katich, it seems that every Gen Z influencer and content creator has showcased stunning shots captured with the X100v, igniting a wave of interest among a younger generation of photographers. As viral videos featuring the camera continue to circulate, it has become an aspirational tool for budding creatives, sparking a sense of urgency to own one.
In addition to the TikTok hype, the demand for the X100v can also be attributed to the changing landscape of film photography. Modern-day film photographers are finding themselves increasingly priced out of the market due to rising costs of film, developing, and scanning. The expenses associated with shooting and processing film can quickly add up, making it a less accessible medium for many photographers. As a result, more and more film enthusiasts are turning to digital alternatives that can provide the look and feel of film while offering cost-effective and convenient options.
The Fujifilm X100v perfectly fills this void for film photographers seeking a digital alternative. With its various film simulation and custom modes, the X100v allows photographers to recreate the distinct characteristics of different film types without the accompanying expense. This versatility, combined with its compact size and powerful features, makes it an attractive choice for those who want to embrace the aesthetics of film photography, without the continual financial burden.
Despite the challenges of obtaining one due to the overwhelming demand, the allure of the X100v as a digital alternative for film enthusiasts, coupled with its social media popularity, continues to fuel the search for this coveted camera. The X100v represents a bridge between the nostalgic charm of film and the convenience of digital, offering an accessible and high-quality solution for everyday carry and street photography.
After less than three weeks on a waiting list, I was lucky that my local Bournemouth Castle Cameras came up trumps. Now, I'm excited to get out there and take photos with it. Watch this space for street photography images coming soon.