Why I still love my Fuji X-T2

For a good while now, my trusty Fujifilm X-T2 has been a constant companion, and I’ve never thought about trading it (I also rock a Nikon Z8, which I absolutely love, but for a different set of reasons). And whilst newer, flashier Fuji models have come, and gone, there's one thing about the X-T2 that keeps me coming back, time and time again: its sensor.

Now, I know what you might be thinking. "Another X-Trans sensor, what's so special about that?" And it's true, Fujifilm's X-Trans CMOS sensors are legendary for their unique colour science, and beautiful rendering. But for me, the X-T2's 24.3-megapixel X-Trans CMOS III sensor feels... I dunno different. It has a character that, in my experience, sets it apart from other Fujifilm sensors, even those in later generations. It feels somehow organic…

It's hard to put your finger on exactly why, but there's a certain magic to the files that come out of the X-T2. The colours, whilst distinctly Fuji, have a richness and depth that I find utterly captivating. Reds are vibrant without being oversaturated, blues are deep and evocative, and skin tones are simply sublime. It's a subtle difference, perhaps, but one that's immediately apparent to my eye.

And then there's the dynamic range. For a sensor of its generation, the X-T2 truly holds its own. I've been consistently impressed with its ability to retain detail in both the highlights and shadows, even in challenging lighting conditions. This gives me a great deal of flexibility in post-production, allowing me to push and pull my images without them falling apart.

But perhaps the most compelling aspect of the X-T2's sensor, for me, is its ability to render texture and detail. There's a tangible quality to the images, a fine grain that adds a beautiful, almost analogue feel. It's not the clinically sharp, pixel-peeping perfection of some modern sensors, but rather a more organic and pleasing rendition of reality. It's the difference between seeing a photograph and feeling it.

I've shot with cameras sporting newer X-Trans sensors, and whilst they are undoubtedly excellent, they don't quite deliver that same unique flavour that the X-T2 does. There's a certain je ne sais quoi, a particular rendition that I've simply fallen in love with. It's not a case of one being objectively "better" than the other, but rather a personal preference for the distinct character of the X-T2's output.

So, whilst the photographic world continues to churn out ever-more advanced cameras, I'll be quite content sticking with my beloved X-T2. For its sensor, and its sensor alone, it remains a truly special camera that consistently delivers images I adore. If you've never had the pleasure of shooting with an X-T2, I'd highly recommend seeking one out and experiencing its unique magic for yourself. You might just find yourself falling in love, too.