Fujifilm X-Pro1 Digital Camera Review

Dynamic Range

The X-Pro1's large APS-C sensor is capable of excellent dynamic range. For best results, we recommend sticking with ISO 100, which achieved just over 7 full stops of usable image data. Performance falls off gradually and linearly from there, a mirror opposite of the gradual increase in noise reduction over the course of the ISO spectrum. We stay above 6 stops until after ISO 400, then 4 stops at ISO 3200 and 3 at 6400. Moving all the way above the sensor's native sensitivity, ISO 12800 and 25600 are each capable of roughly 2 stops of dynamic range.

Be aware that we test JPEG images, not RAW files, so those with the time or incentive for additional processing should be able to coax out some additional dynamic range. All test shots were captured without extra dynamic range enhancement, and we consider "usable" dark zones to be those with a signal to noise ratio of 10:1 or better. More on how we test dynamic range.

Believe it or not the X-Pro1 actually gives the Canon 5D Mark III a run for its money in this test, same goes for the Sony NEX-7 which shocked us with its dynamic range performance. While both of these cameras have wider maximum dynamic range, especially the Mark III, the real reason the X-Pro1 comes in third is because these models sustain their performance further up the ISO spectrum. The NEX-7, for example, still records nearly 6 stops at ISO 1600, while the X-Pro1 drops to 4.5 stops by then.