As you probably already know, GEN-Z photographers are crazy about affordable fixed-lens compact cameras. That’s why Yashica has just announced two of them:

• Yashica City 100 with 3x zoom
• Yashica City 200 with 10x zoom, and both are available in black or white

More specs:

• They both use the same (small) 13-megapixel Sony Type 1/3.06 sensor.
• 100-3200 ISO
• 4:3 ratio images
• 4k60p
• built-in mic
• Af with subject detection
• “Scene modes” with filter effects
• for easy focusing on friends’ faces. There are a variety of scene modes and built-in filter effects on offer.

They will be available for reorder sometimes i February. UK price is £219.99 for the Yashica City 100 and £259.99 for the Yashica City 200.

I always thought that the next big leap in image quality would be the move to three-layer sensor technology. Sigma has named the Foveon sensor as such. At Isscc from February 16-20, this will be one of the main points of discussion.

The 3-layer sensor technology (Foveon) is considered a potential future of imaging because it captures all three primary colors (RGB) at every pixel location, unlike traditional Bayer sensors that interpolate colors using a mosaic pattern. Here’s why it’s promising:

1. Superior Color Accuracy: Each pixel captures full RGB data, resulting in more accurate and natural colors compared to Bayer sensors.
2. Sharper Images: Without a Bayer filter, there’s no need for demosaicing, reducing artifacts like moiré and providing sharper details.
3. Better Micro-Contrast: Foveon sensors excel at reproducing fine details and textures, offering superior micro-contrast ideal for high-quality photography.
4. Simpler Workflow: Eliminates the need for anti-aliasing filters and complex post-processing for color reconstruction.
5. Potential for Innovation: With advancements in material science and processing technology, the challenges of high noise and limited ISO range in Foveon sensors can be addressed, unlocking their full potential.

If these challenges are overcome, Foveon and similar 3-layer sensors could redefine image quality, particularly for fields like fine art, product, and landscape photography.

A whole series of new global shutter sensors will also be presented at the same event. They are particularly interesting when it comes to video use. As a photographer, I’m more interested in seeing 3-layer technology in a future full-frame mirrorless camera. Sigma is working on it, but hasn’t gotten some production issues under control yet :(

The 6×8 Fuji medium format camera

Amateur Photographer had a chat with the Fujifilm UK manager. Here are some highlights:

Market Position
• Fujifilm now ranks third in the UK camera market by sales value, following Canon and Sony.
• This growth highlights the strong market presence Fujifilm has built despite not offering full-frame cameras, which dominate the industry.

Product Success
• X-Series Cameras: The X100VI, X-M5, and X-T50 have been well-received, contributing significantly to Fujifilm’s success.
• Instax Line: Fujifilm’s Instax instant cameras and printers remain highly popular, especially among younger demographics and casual users.

Demand for X100VI
• The X100VI’s launch generated exceptional demand, surpassing initial forecasts. Georgiades described it as an “unprecedented” response on release day.
• Fujifilm is actively working to address supply chain challenges and reduce waiting times for customers eager to purchase the X100VI.

Film Photography
• Georgiades emphasized the enduring appeal of Fujifilm’s analog products, especially among enthusiasts and professionals.
• Fujifilm remains committed to producing photographic film, reinforcing its heritage and aligning with the resurgence of interest in analog photography.
• Potential for a Film Camera: While acknowledging the growing popularity of film, Georgiades hinted that Fujifilm might consider creating a new film camera in the future. This comment has sparked interest among film photography enthusiasts looking for new analog tools.

Customer-Centric Approach
• Fujifilm is investing in maintaining strong communication with retailers and customers to ensure timely delivery of high-demand products.
• Georgiades highlighted the importance of balancing innovation with reliability, ensuring that all Fujifilm users feel valued.

Market Strategy and Differentiation
• Unlike competitors Canon and Sony, Fujifilm has achieved its market position without relying on full-frame cameras, instead focusing on APS-C and medium-format systems.
• This strategic approach allows the company to carve a unique niche, appealing to hobbyists, professionals, and hybrid shooters alike.

Outlook for the Future
• Georgiades expressed confidence in Fujifilm’s ability to sustain growth, pointing to a combination of innovative new products and a loyal customer base.
• He indicated that Fujifilm’s recent product launches and strategic market decisions would further cement its reputation as a leader in the photography industry.

via Fujirumors