My Hands-On Experience With The FujiFilm X-T4
When I realized my interest in photography was continuing to grow, I knew I wanted a camera that would last me a long time. In writing this, I hope to document the cameras I’ve used and create a record to look back on, showcasing how my gear has evolved over time. I had been using the X-T3 for about 6 months and, while I loved it, there were a few frustrations that led me to upgrade to the X-T4 sooner than I expected.
The build quality of the X-T4 is excellent—it looks and feels great. I’m often asked if it’s a film camera, thanks to its manual dials on the top, a feature that initially drew me to Fujifilm cameras. It feels comfortable in the hand and is compact enough that I can carry it through busy crowds at the farmers market or capture moments during family vacations without feeling awkward. My only ergonomic complaint is the smaller hand grip on the right side of the camera. While it serves its purpose, I almost always use a SmallRig frame, which extends the grip and makes it much more comfortable to hold.
One thing that stood out to me as a beginner using the X-T4 was how easy it was to understand the relationship between ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. Adjusting the top dials and seeing how these changes affected my photos in real time really helped me grasp the exposure triangle. This feature made it much easier to understand what my settings should be, regardless of the shooting conditions.
As a somewhat serious hobbyist, I’ve found the X-T4’s performance to be consistently reliable. The improved battery life compared to the X-T3 was a major factor in my decision to upgrade, and I often only need a single battery when heading out to take photos. I’ve always been particular about resolution and image quality, and the X-T4 has consistently met my expectations without any issues.
What drew me to Fujifilm in the first place—aside from the classic aesthetic of their cameras—was the colors their film simulations produce. Fujifilm offers a variety of film simulations, and there are entire communities dedicated to replicating the look of iconic film stocks. The results can be incredibly convincing. Unless I’m shooting an event, I almost always rely on the JPEG files, as the baked-in settings are often difficult to replicate with RAW files. Another advantage of shooting JPEGs is that they usually require little to no editing as long as my camera settings are dialed in correctly.
One of my favorite simulations at the moment is the Portra 400 by Fujixweekly.
Since I’ve never shot film before and still find the idea a bit intimidating, I like using JPEGs as a way to challenge myself to shoot with the best possible settings. Without the additional flexibility of RAW files, I have to be intentional about my exposure and composition, which has pushed me to improve my skills.
The Fujifilm X-T4 has been a fantastic addition to my photography journey, addressing many of the frustrations I had with its predecessor while enhancing my overall shooting experience. Its improved battery life, reliable performance, and intuitive controls have made it a camera I can depend on, whether I’m documenting family moments or exploring creative projects. The film simulations continue to inspire me, providing beautiful colors and tones straight out of the camera, while challenging me to grow as a photographer by shooting intentionally. For anyone considering an upgrade or looking for a versatile, high-quality camera, the X-T4 is a solid choice that strikes an excellent balance between form, function, and creativity.