So I've finally relegated my X-E2 to back-up status and purchased an X-T2, 10-24mm and 18-135mm.
I'm using Lightroom 5.7.1, Camera RAW 8.7.1 and Perfectly Clear 3.5.2 and the Photomatix add-on for LR (which I use to combine multiple images taken at a range of exposures).
Over the last several years I have accumulated the following lenses:
10-24mm, 18-55mm, 18-135mm WR, 55-200mm, 14mm, 27mm, 60mm and someday, when my checkbook recovers, I'd like to get the standard 55mm 1.2 for portraiture.
I have several filters, clear protective, polarizer, neutral density. My flash is a Fujifilm EF-42. It seems that it would be quite expensive to get a complete set of filters for each lens filter size.
Due to a hand tremor, I generally need to use faster speeds or a tripod rather than depend solely on OIS.
I'm far, far, far away from being an expert, but I enjoy learning and there is a LOT for me to learn!
Historically, I've shot mostly in RAW with the understanding that this would allow me to retain the maximum amount of information for post processing. It is my understanding that every time a jpeg file is saved that the compression algorithms cause a loss of detail. True? Does it really matter in terms of final results?
I enjoy working with a range of subjects. Nature, landscapes, whitewater kayaking, competitive fencing, portraits, street photography, grandchildren, etc. I'd like to learn how to work with night ... Light painting, milky way shots, cityscapes, etc.
I'm headed to China and Japan next year and am very motivated to learn and become proficient.
I'm looking for some advice and counsel to get the best results. So here are my questions.
1) In order to take advantage of the 4K video recording capability, what kind of memory card should I use? Is there a difference between brands? What card speed is necessary? How large does a card need to be in order to record 30 minutes?
2) I've read that Adobe's Camera RAW leaves much to be desired when it comes to resolving Fuji's RAW files. I'm very open to changing my software tools. I'd like to maintain the maximum possible detail from RAW files, however I perceive that at my skill level a tool like Perfectly Clear or Luminar would really help with the heavy lifting.
Specifically, I've been interested in Capture One v. 11, I've also read recently that some X-series experts have really liked the new Luminar 2018.
If I were to use Capture One to do the RAW conversion, should I just use CO for all of the post processing or would it make sense to use Luminar or Perfectly Clear to simplify the process? Does Luminar do as good a job at RAW conversion as CO? I believe Perfectly Clear just works on jpeg files. Does Luminar have the ability to work on RAW files converted by CO or only on files converted by Luminar's native processing?
3) I've read that one of the greatest things about the X-series is the film emulation that is built-in. I normally have used Velvia with boosted color saturation and recorded in either RAW or RAW plus JPEG. LR, Perfectly Clear, Luminar and I assume CO, have a wide range of film emulations, styles, filters, etc.
So is it generally better to use the various built-in film emulations or to use the options available in software for post-processing? Do the RAW files include the selected film emulation or do those only effect jpeg files?
4) Batteries. Fuji or generic? Has anyone seen any difference in performance, charge duration, charging time, longevity, etc.?
5) What type of equipment do I need to get into portraiture (lighting, backgrounds) using my living room as a studio area?
Finally, there are so many resources out there, what sites, books or other resources have you found to be valuable in learning the art of photography and mastering the X-T2?
Thanks in advance for any guidance y'all might provide.
Jesse
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro