Fujifilm X Half Reinvents Retro Photography with Digital Innovation
Fujifilm X Half: Where Old School Charm Meets Digital Versatility
Ask any photo enthusiast what draws them to vintage cameras, and odds are, it’s that hands-on, analog feel. Fujifilm knows this well, and their latest release, the Fujifilm X Half, dives right into that sweet spot between nostalgia and practicality. Announced for release in late June 2025 and priced at $849.99 in the U.S., this compact camera isn’t about bloated specs—it’s about fun, creativity, and something that feels different from generic smartphone snaps.
So, what’s so special about this little guy? For starters, the X Half borrows inspiration from half-frame film cameras—those quirky shooters from the past that doubled the number of shots per roll. Instead of packing a massive sensor, the X Half sticks with an 18MP 1-inch CMOS sensor that’s been rotated vertically. The fixed FUJINON 10.8mm f/2.8 lens, which brings you the feel of a 32mm full-frame equivalent, is all about making your shots look distinctive, whether you’re going for still photos or vertical video (yep, it records in 1080 x 1440 for sharing on Reels or TikTok).
Analog Controls with Modern Flare
If twirling knobs and feeling deliberate about each shot is your thing, you’ll dig the manual aperture ring on the lens, manual focus, and even the choice of contrast-detect autofocus for when you need speed. What’s truly wild is the Film Camera Mode, which mimics the old film shooting experience. Imagine advancing frames with a lever, just like you would with a classic Canon Demi or Olympus Pen. Manual exposure tweaks are super-easy, too, thanks to a dedicated exposure compensation dial that lets you go up or down by three stops.
But the X Half doesn’t stop there. There’s a 2-in-1 Mode where you can capture an image both vertically and horizontally at once, perfect for when you’re not sure what will look best. Creative types will love the buffet of 13 Film Simulation modes (think: dreamy classic chrome or punchy Velvia) and 26 filters to give each shot its unique vibe without endless post-processing. Swapping between these feels intuitive, and plenty of photographers will find themselves cycling through different looks on the fly.
The physical features make a statement, too. There’s a tall, rear LCD for composing your vertical masterpieces, paired with a sub-LCD for quick settings checks. If you’re feeling fancy, you can use the old-fashioned optical viewfinder—because not everyone loves rear screens. The camera is a featherweight at just 240g, and its body is downright pocketable at about two-thirds the size of Fujifilm’s popular X100VI. It comes in Silver, Charcoal Silver, and Black, so matching your style isn’t a problem.
Practical details haven’t been overlooked. There’s Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB-C for getting images off the camera or tethering to your phone. INSTAX fans are in luck, too, with direct printing support—ideal if you want physical keepsakes within minutes. A front LED flash comes built-in for casual night shots, and there’s a cold shoe on top for accessories, though don’t expect any smart communication there.
With this camera, Fujifilm isn’t just riding the retro wave—they’re letting a new generation experience the deliberate process of analog shooting, but with zero waiting for film development and plenty of room to experiment. For folks who crave creative control but hate hauling massive gear, or for anyone itching for something different from their phone, the Fujifilm X Half might just hit the sweet spot.
Chris Ward
I’ve been chasing vintage cameras since I was a teenager and I can’t help but roll my eyes at the hype. The X Half looks slick, but it’s really just a fancy smartphone accessory dressed up in retro clothing. Sure, the half‑frame vibe is nostalgic, yet the 1‑inch sensor can’t magically bring back the grainy magic of film. The manual aperture ring feels cool, but you’ll spend more time fiddling than actually shooting. The built‑in Film Camera Mode pretends you’re loading film, even though there’s no waiting for chemicals to develop. If you love the click of a real shutter, you’ll be definitely (definately) disappointed by the silent electronic one. The 10.8mm f/2.8 lens is marketed as 32mm equivalent, but on a 1‑inch sensor it still feels a bit cramped for low‑light work. The vertical video format is clever for TikTok, yet it forces you to think in portrait before you’ve even composed the shot. The dual‑LCD setup looks premium, but swapping between screens on the fly can be a nuisance in the field. Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi are nice, but they also drain the battery faster than a tape recorder. The price tag of $849.99 places it in the same league as many full‑frame mirrorless bodies that actually deliver better image quality. I’m not saying you shouldn’t buy it, just that you might be paying for nostalgia rather than performance. If you already own a solid X‑Series camera, the X Half will feel like a gimmick addition to your bag. For newcomers, it could be a fun entry point, but there are cheaper options that teach the same fundamentals. In short, love it or leave it, but don’t let the retro packaging blind you to the actual specs.