And if you’re in the market for a new camera an update can make a camera more enticing. So who’s saying firmware updates aren’t exciting now? Let’s take a look at some upcoming firmware updates from Fujifilm and Olympus.
Firmware Ver 4.00 for the Fujifilm X-T1
Fujifilm is releasing Firmware Ver 4.00 for their X-T1 at the end of June and they have made drastic improvements in autofocus,including faster AF and better low light focusing. Those two things alone would be enough to get excited about firmware, but wait there’s more!
This update contains a completely revamped autofocus system. Some of the newly added features are powerful and some are actually quite ingenious. To start they have divided the focusing system into smaller sections allowing for greater focus precision. The phase detection pixels now have a detection range of 0.5ev which is a pretty dimly lit scene and this is a huge improvement from the 2.5ev it was previously.
Eye Detection AF – For pin point portrait focus
This is a noteworthy development. A new option for AF is face detection, however it’s more than just a search for a face or faces, the AF is looking specifically for the eye to ensure sharp focus where you want it most in your portraits. This is especially helpful when working with a shallow depth of field.
Zone and Wide/Tracking Modes – Better focus on moving objects.
In zone mode you can choose several different zones from the 77-point AF area. The camera in AF-C continuous focusing mode will track a moving subject in the center of the zone.
In Wide/Tracking mode the camera shows you what area is in focus and tracks the moving subject across the 77-point AF area. This allows for more accurate focusing no matter if the subject moves left, right, up, down or even towards or away from the camera.
These updates give you tons more options and are quite the improvement to an already great camera.
Auto Macro – No need for a dedicated button
The improvements to AF also include an automatic macro function. You can now use the assigned macro button to something more useful!
Better AF in movie mode
Autofocusing while in movie mode has been optimized for more natural and smoother focus shifts.
Operational Improvements
Improved Shutter Speed Dial
When the Shutter Speed Dial is set to T and the Shutter Type to Mechanical + Electronic, you can use the command dial to set a full range of exposure times from 30-1/32000sec. Previously, this was limited to 30-2 seconds. This means you can change the shutter speeds across a broader range without having to change camera position. This is particularly useful when shooting in the portrait orientation with the Vertical Battery Grip VG-XT1 attached.
Exposure Compensation in Manual mode
While using Auto ISO in the Manual exposure mode you can make exposure adjustments using the Exposure Compensation dial.
Thinner framing grid lines
There are now thinner lines on the framing grid which allows you to see your subject better.
Silent mode renamed to Speaker + Flash OFF
This was done to avoid confusion.
Olympus Firmware updates to the E-M5 Mark II and the E-M1
Underwater Picture Mode
In addition to the news that Olympus will produce a limited number of Titanium OM-D E-M5 II units that will be available in June, Olympus also announced that there will cool new updates in firmware that will include an Underwater Picture Mode for both the E-M5 Mark II and the E-M1.
Now underwater uses will be able to precisely manipulate aperture and shutter speeds for stunning shots underwater.
Addresses previous bugs and issues
Any users experiencing bugs and issues in the prior firmware version can now rest assured that these have been addressed and their cameras will be capturing moments with more stunning ease and precision than before.
Live Boost will brighten Live Monitor
The E-M1 update includes the addition of Live Boost II, a feature that brightens the Live View monitor rather than displaying live exposure effects.
If you want to ensure that you are getting the most out of your camera, these firmware updates will surely be a welcome addition to your creative toolkit.
Related Video:
Specs:
E-M1 Version 3.0 to Version 3.1
Version 3.1 adds an Underwater Picture Mode with control for white balance, exposure and flash compensation, aperture and shutter speed. Also in this update is the addition of Live Boost II. This was previously announced on the E-M5 Mark II and is now available for the E-M1.
E-M5 Mark II Version 1.1 to Version 1.2
Version 1.2 also received the Underwater Picture Mode.
