The Fujifilm X Half is an ode to analogue half-frame cameras and could be the company's next big hit
A love letter to half-frame cameras. Are you old enough to remember those?
#fujifilm #xhalf #halfframe
Note: This article was first published on 23 May 2025.
The Fujifilm X Half looks like a compact rangefinder-style camera. Photo: Fujifilm
There’s no question that a big part of why Fujifilm cameras are so popular is because of their vintage-inspired looks. The newest X Half follows in this tradition and is an exceptionally charming-looking camera. What’s more, at S$999, it’s also the most affordable X Series camera that you can buy now.
The X Half gets its name because it’s an ode to analogue half-frame cameras, so-called because each shot only takes up half a frame. It was popular back in the Sixties because it allowed owners to get double the number of photos using a standard 35mm roll of film.
With the X Half, you are meant to shoot in a vertical orientation. Photo: Fujifilm
Of course, the X Half isn’t an analogue half-frame camera. Instead, it encourages its owners to take photos in a 3:4 vertical orientation and then use its dedicated “X half” app to stitch together a side-by-side diptych. The entire process mimics half-frame cameras of old.
Enabling this experience is a 1-inch type sensor that takes 18-megapixel photos. This is paired with a 32mm-equivalent f/2.8 fixed lens. The minimum focusing distance when measured from the front of the lens is just 10cm.
You can use the X Half app to create side-by-side diptychs like old half-frame cameras. Photo: Fujifilm
To enhance the shooting experience and replicate the feel of shooting with a vintage half-camera, the X Half has an optical viewfinder that matches the vertical orientation of the camera’s default shooting mode and also the main rear display.
To the left of the main display is a secondary display that typically shows the selected Film Simulation mode, or it can show secondary options when browsing through menus and settings. Speaking of Film Simulations, the X Half has 13, including favourites like Classic Neg., Reala Ace, Provia, Velvia, Astia, and more.
How good does it look? Photo: Fujifilm
It even has a "Film Camera Mode", which asks user to choose a roll size first and then you have to wind the camera's Frame Advacne Lever between shots just like you would with a vintage film camera.
The Fujifilm X Half is certainly quirky, but it also clearly shows that the company has some unusual and bold ideas when it comes to photography. Instead of chasing headline specifications, it has differentiated itself with design, aesthetics, and by offering a unique photography experience. Crucially, it's relatively accessible price means people are more likely to buy and try even if they are not hardcore photography enthusiasts. In short, this has every chance of being the next big hit for Fujifilm.
Availability and pricing
The Fujifilm X Half comes in three colourways. From left to right: Charcoal Silver, Black, Silver.
The Fujifilm X Half is available to pre-order now for S$999 and will come with special gifts including a 32GB SD card, an X-Half pouch, a photo print voucher, and a workshop session. Pre-orders end on 15 June and the camera itself will be available in retail sometime after.
You can keep a look out for the Fujifilm X Half on Fujifilm's online store and Fujifilm's official storefronts on Lazada and Shopee.
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