Fujifilm X-M5 Black + XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ

I really like the camera! I chose it because of its compact size, excellent price-quality ratio, video function, Fuji's color quality and aesthetic design. The camera certainly does not disappoint on any of these points.

However, there are a few minor points of attention. The autofocus (AF!) regularly gives a message when there are few objects in the frame, for example when half of the frame is focused on a white wall. In addition, the battery runs out quite quickly - after about 100 photos - which may have to do with the current temperature around freezing point.

Another point is that the camera is not ready for use very quickly. Because there is no viewfinder, you first have to unfold the screen, turn it over and fold it back before you can take a photo. Because of this, I have already missed some beautiful moments. You can leave the screen unfolded, but then it is less well protected. Personally, I do miss the presence of a viewfinder.

What I also really like is that the camera gives a sound and feeling that is reminiscent of an SLR camera. Together with the stylish design, this ensures a pleasant, analogue experience.

Before ordering this camera, I had disappointing experiences with the Sony ZV-E10 (a unit that already had a flaw because it didn't recognize the memory card properly, and the quality of that kit lens was possibly disappointing) and 2 Ricoh models (IIIx is too cropped. IV is blurry due to poor autofocus, and when it did go right for once, the photos looked too much like smartphone photos).

How different things are now with this Fuji X-M5. The included kit lens isn't even formally extremely sharp. But I am surprised by its quality. When I compare photos from the Fuji to those from the Ricoh GR IIIx (with the same settings), I notice that they are of virtually the same or even better quality. With a "better" lens, I think the photos could be even better. And that's despite all four cameras having (virtually) the same APS-C lens.

Actually, even the "automatic mode" on this camera, in combination with the kit lens, is already very good or excellent. The photos from the Fuji are quite soft and realistic in terms of color. I consider that an advantage compared to both the earlier Sony and the Ricohs. As a result, I feel little to no need to edit the photos.

I also notice when using the device that it is a fairly "smart" camera. I can easily select a focus point with a small lever, and notifications such as "moving object detected" appear regularly on the screen.

When I unpacked the camera, I was immediately positively intrigued to learn how a camera really works. What the symbols on the dial mean. What aperture, shutter speed, and exposure are. How to set this on this camera (surprisingly easy!). I quickly came to the conclusion that the quality of a photo depends mainly on whether the user understands how the settings work. And that this device motivates me to want to take photos: it won't just end up in a corner somewhere. Some people consider the lack of a flash a disadvantage. However, an external one can be attached to the camera, allowing it to be "expanded." But honestly, in the past, I have almost never used or missed a flash on a camera.

The only real downsides... 1. For people who have never owned a "real" camera, keeping the manual next to you is a must. The fact that the shutter button is a sort of circle with a hole in it doesn't make sense to them. 2. On the one hand, the kit lens is ideal for travel; on the other hand, the device is quite heavy because of it. It is also difficult to take a "selfie" with this lens, even though you can turn the screen towards you. Perhaps it is easier with a pancake lens or a tripod. 3. It isn't really a "snapshot" camera, but since I own an iPhone 16, I don't consider that a problem at all.

Conclusion: I wish I had discovered the Fujifilm brand much sooner and can recommend this camera.