In this guide, we’ll cover our best advice for first-time Fuji users.
If you’ve decided to get a Fujifilm as your first digital mirrorless camera, congratulations, you’ve made the right choice!
Now that you’ve bought yourself a Fujifilm camera and lens, it’s time to set up and make the most of the experience!
I’ve been shooting with Fujifilm X Series cameras and lenses for over a decade and have reviewed almost all of them.
I believe that Fujifilm cameras and lenses are ideal for first-time photographers or those looking to move to a more straightforward photographic experience.
Fujifilm cameras offer a refined and genuine experience that builds upon the simple joy of photography.
Furthermore, Fuji offers a wide range of digital mirrorless cameras and lenses designed to suit every skill level.
Let’s look at how to make the most of any Fujifilm camera.
Ideal First Fujifilm Camera Options
Before you walk into your local camera store, stop and consider what you’re looking for in your first camera.
Consider whether you’ll be using your first Fujifilm camera for photography or recording video.
Also, consider your budget and how much you’re prepared to spend on the camera and lens. Remember, if cared for, Fuji cameras and lenses will last a long time.
The last thing you want is to rush into buying a camera only to discover that you made the wrong choice.
To make things easier, I’ve listed a couple of Fujifilm X Series digital mirrorless cameras that I think are ideal for a first camera.
If you’re a newby photographer, you can also check out this guide to the best Fujifilm cameras for beginners.
Fujifilm X-T30 II
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is an excellent first photography camera thanks to its impressive performance, output, and ease of use.
It features a 26.1MP (APS-C) X-Trans CMOS 4 image sensor that captures excellent image quality in all lighting conditions.
Fuji’s X Processor 4 is the brains of the operation, powering a fast Intelligent Hybrid AF (TTL contrast AF/TTL phase detection AF) focusing system and a relatively fast 8 fps burst in continuous shooting.
The Fujifilm WP-126S battery captures almost 400 shots on a single charge, although I typically get more out of them.
While the Fuji X-T30 II houses impressive features, it’s also a very easy camera to master.
Aesthetically, Fujifilm cameras are inspired by retro film cameras and include command dials on the top plate.
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These command dials allow you to select Automatic or Manual control of core settings to achieve excellent exposures.
Fujifilm X-T50
The Fujifilm X-T50 is the latest X Series camera with pro-grade performance in a compact and accessible body.
While you can check out our full review of the X-T50, it’s worth mentioning that it boasts the latest 40MP (APS-C) X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor and X Processor 5.
It has a similar look and size to the Fujifilm X-T30 II but with far greater performance and image quality.
Fuji has also crammed in 5-axis in-body image stabilization that supports photography at lower shutter speeds.
The good times don’t stop there, as it’s also a highly capable video camera that records 6K 30P.
A key feature of the new camera is the Film dial, which allows you to select Fujifilm Film Simulations to change the look and feel of your JPEG images—more on that later.
Much like the Fuji X-T30 II, the X-T50 is designed to be very accessible and easy to use, making it an ideal first Fujifilm camera.
The Best Fujifilm Lens For Beginners
In most cases, Fujifilm entry-level cameras such as the X-T30 II and X-T50 include a kit lens in the box.
Depending on your region, you can purchase the camera body separately without additional lenses in the bundles.
Including or excluding a Fujifilm zoom kit lens has pros and cons. Let’s start with the pros.
Fujifilm kit lenses have earned a reputation for being excellent quality and producing beautiful images.
A kit typically includes a zoom lens, allowing wide-angle and closer portrait-style images.
A zoom kit lens is an excellent choice for mastering a single lens. It’s also ideal for everyday and travel photography.
Sometimes, depending on region, bundling a kit lens with the camera reduces cost compared to buying the two products separately.
Now for the cons of kit lenses.
My biggest issue with kit lenses is paying for a lens you may not want or use.
You must buy the camera and lens separately if you want to use a prime, single-distance lens over a zoom lens.
I advise you to check out the lenses below to help with your decision.
Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS
The Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 is considered one of the best kit lenses ever. If you don’t believe me, check out our review!
It’s compact, lightweight, and built to last a lifetime.
The wide 18mm end of the zoom range is ideal for landscape, architecture, and street photography.
At the other end, the 50mm focal distance is perfect for food, products, and portrait photography.
The autofocus lens features a manual zoom ring and an aperture ring to control the depth of field. It also features Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).
Like the IBIS features on the Fujifilm X-T50, OIS reduces camera shake, preventing blurred images.
Fujifilm has also recently released a brand new kit lens – the Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.5 R LM WR. Check out our review of that also.
Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2 R WR
The Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2 R WR is a compact prime lens with an excellent field of view and a wide aperture.
As a fixed-focal-length lens, it doesn’t feature a zoom function—instead, you tend to zoom with your feet.
When I say it’s a compact lens, it’s one of the smallest Fuji lenses on offer. It measures ø60.0mmx45.9mm (2.36×1.81″) and weighs just 170g (0.37lb).
Its weather-sealed body features a manual focus ring and an aperture ring to control exposure and depth of field.
I believe it’s an ideal and highly affordable lens for first-time Fuji users.
Essential Accessories For Fujifilm
Before you leave the camera store or hit the “Head To Checkout” button, consider these accessories to complete your Fujifilm kit.
Some of the features listed below are essential. Others will enhance your shooting experience and extend the life and durability of your gear.
Batteries
Any Fujifilm camera will include a single battery in the box. Depending on the camera you purchase, it will be powered by one of two Fujifilm battery types.
The first is the Fujifilm NP-W126S Lithium battery, which powers cameras like the Fujifilm X-T30 II, X-T50, and X100 VI.
The second battery is the larger Fujifilm NP-W235, which powers flagship Fuji cameras such as the X-T5 or X-H2S.
I highly recommend purchasing at least one spare battery specific to your camera model.
While an NP-W126S powers up to almost 400 shots, a spare battery keeps your photography experience uninterrupted.
It’s also important to note that third-party (non-Fujifilm) brands develop batteries for Fujifilm cameras.
I never buy third-party batteries and recommend using the original Fujifilm batteries to optimize performance and prevent failures.
SD Cards
Fujifilm cameras require at least one SD memory card to record photos and videos. Selecting the right one can be confusing.
If you search Google or Amazon for SD memory cards, you’ll find hundreds of results for different brands, capacities, classes, and speeds.
Head to our Memory Card Guide for a better understanding of the best memory cards.
Cameras such as the Fujifilm X-T30 II and the X-T50 feature a single SD card slot, while flagship cameras often house dual SD card slots.
Before purchasing memory cards for your new Fuji, check out the online specifications to see the recommended SD memory card.
Older Fujifilm cameras feature a UHS-I card slot, and the newer models usually host a UHS-II card slot.
UHS stands for Ultra High Speed, with I being slower than II.
I always recommend choosing an SD card with UHS-II – provided the camera can accommodate it.
The UHS-II cards are faster at transferring image and video data from the image sensor to the SD card.
It’s always best to have too much storage than too little. As a result, I recommend using a 128GB card and keeping a spare one in your bag.
Screen Protector
All Fujifilm X Series cameras feature a rear LCD that sits upon a hinged or rotating mount at the back of the camera.
Most rear LCD screens feature intuitive touch controls to access the menu or various settings.
To ensure the longevity and usability of your X Series camera, I believe it’s essential to fit a high-quality screen protector.
If you bump or scratch the rear screen, the glass panel isn’t damaged, and the screen protector can be easily replaced.
Be sure to purchase a screen protector that supports touch control and is an exact fit for your Fujifilm camera.
CPL Filters
Lens protection is equally as important as camera protection.
While some Fuji lenses, like the Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2, are weather resistant, others, such as the XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4, aren’t.
The same goes for Fujifilm cameras – some are weather-sealed; however, entry-level cameras typically aren’t.
Another way to protect your lens and ensure you capture crystal-clear shots is to fit a clear protection filter to the front.
A clear protection filter, or CPL, is a clear glass lens with an alloy frame that screws to the filter thread on the front of the lens.
CPL filters are available in a range of qualities and prices. The most crucial part is fitting one in the first place.
When I buy a new lens, I also buy a matching CPL and fit it to the lens before I even leave the camera store.
As the lens protrudes from the front of the camera, it’s more exposed to whatever elements you come across.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve bumped the front of my lenses into objects while using my camera.
A CPL protects the built-in glass lens at the front of the camera.
It’s far easier to replace a cracked, scratched, or shattered CPL than to send your lens to Fujifilm for a complete repair.
Straps
All new Fujifilm X Series cameras will include a camera strap in the box.
I avoid using these kit straps as they’re skinny and uncomfortable, especially around the neck.
Think about how you want to carry your camera, then select the right strap.
Neck, shoulder, and wrist straps made from high-quality materials provide greater comfort and security for your gear.
I also recommend that once you have a strap fitting, carry the camera with you as much as possible.
No point in the camera being in a bag all the time, as you’ll miss the best shots.
Navigating Fuji Command Dials
Fujifilm X Series digital mirrorless cameras blend retro-styling, ergonomics, and modern technology.
One of the standout features of Fuji cameras is the manual command dials to adjust core camera settings.
Not every Fujifilm camera is the same, nor do they always feature the same command dials.
The Fujifilm X100VI features a dual Shutter Speed and ISO control within the one dial.
Other cameras, such as the Fujifilm X-T50, feature an Exposure Compensation, Shutter Speed, and a new Film dial for selecting Film Simulations.
Regardless of the camera, the manual command dials help you quickly adjust exposure, shooting modes, and more.
Becoming familiar with them makes a world of difference when it comes to understanding and mastering the exposure triangle.
All Fuji cameras feature front or rear-facing dials that can be set to control functions such as Aperture, ISO, and Shutter Speed.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the command dials to understand exposure, depth of field, and image sharpness better.
In fact, Fuji cameras are the best choice for learning these key photography processes.
Setting Up The Fujifilm Menu
One of the best things about Fujifilm X Series cameras is the minimal design and layout of buttons and dials.
The cameras are designed to put everything you need to control exposure at your fingertips.
As a result, the need to dive into the camera’s menu system is reduced. However, first-time Fuji users should ensure they set up the camera menu to support their intended use.
The Fujifilm menu system is neatly stacked in up to six folders to cover Image Quality, AF/MF Settings, Shooting Settings, Flash Settings, Movie Settings, and Setup.
One fundamental change you should make in the menu is to select the Image Quality to capture image files in JPEG (Fine, Normal), RAW, or a mix of RAW images with a backup of JPEG.
JPEG images are smaller files that don’t require much editing. RAW images contain much more data and are best edited in software like Adobe Lightroom.
Aside from that, don’t be intimidated by the menu system. Take the time to explore it and make changes to customize the Fuji camera to suit your shooting style.
What Are Film Simulations?
Fujifilm is a Japanese optics and imaging company with 90 years of experience in the industry.
Long before the digital camera, Fujifilm developed analog film stock for cameras, medical imaging, and cinema projections.
As a result of that history, Fuji has unparalleled knowledge in color science and image quality.
All Fujifilm digital cameras feature Fuji Film Simulations, similar to Instagram filters in that they change the color and character of an image.
The critical difference is that Film Simulations replicate the look and feel of classic analog film stock.
When shooting JPEG images with a Fuji camera, you can select one of up to 20 Film Simulations that will change the look of your pictures.
Read more about Fuji film simulations in this guide.
Good Housekeeping
Fujifilm cameras are built to withstand almost any demands placed upon them by photographers of all skill levels.
Furthermore, if cared for properly, Fujifilm cameras and lenses should last a lifetime.
In addition to applying the essential accessories listed above, keeping your camera and lenses in top condition is equally important.
Keeping your Fujifilm gear clean and dust-free is a simple way to care for it.
Store your camera and lenses in a dust-free drawer or cupboard, and when traveling, keep them in a good camera bag.
Always carry a microfiber cleaning cloth to remove moisture or grime from the surface.
Only clean your lens’s front element with a soft cleaning cloth or specialized cleaning product.
It’s worth investing in the right products to keep your gear clean and in optimal working order.
Check out our guide to keeping your camera clean.
Final Thoughts
Fujifilm has proven itself to be an accessible and easy-to-master platform ideal for first-time photographers or those looking to enhance their joy of photography.
While it’s tempting to set your camera to Auto and simply point and shoot, a Fuji camera offers a more enriched experience.
First-time Fuji users will appreciate far more than having an incredibly stylish digital camera on their hip.
Fuji cameras and lenses encourage hands-on experience, a desire to master the exposure triangle, and the capture of stunning photos.
Furthermore, Fuji gear is of the highest quality and will prove to be a worthwhile investment today and well into the future.
Above all else, my best advice for first-time Fujifilm users is to get out and shoot as much as possible.
Enjoy the process and see where the light leads you.
