Being out and behind the camera is always my first preference. However, I do quite enjoy being in front of the screen and editing selected shots too. I think part of that is the excitement and anticipation of seeing on the bigger screen what you’ve captured in the field. I think also for hobbyists and enthusiasts that is a crucial marker for measuring one’s ongoing interest level…reminiscent of waiting for those rolls of Kodachrome 64 to come back in the mail from the developer. I’m a LR/PS user. The software too is so deep that I am constantly learning. I know there are other good ones too but I’ve never felt that switching away from LR would make me a better photographer. Thank you.
Thanks for this video! After a few years of using and trying multiple editors I ended up with three: DxO Photo lab Camera Raw+Photoshop Canon DPP I used Capture One for a couple of years but, although I loved it, I was getting same results with DxO Photolab. Interestingly enough, DxO works beautifully with Fujifilm raw files. And it supports the same film simulations than my X-T4. Finally, a few words about Canon DPP. It's completely overlooked and discarded by almost everyone. But in my opinion it provides the best raw conversion for Canon files. And it's quite full of features. If you work to get things right on the camera DPP is all you need. Fujifilm should look at what Canon is doing in this area :-) Cheers.
Hi, I use Capture One on my Mac. And VSCO on my iPad. A big hug from Italy. Thanks for your very interesting videos. And for your calm and polite way of explaining your point of view. In a world full of screaming and howling people, it’s a great pleasure when a man can “meet” a gentleman. Have a nice day and beautiful light. Ciao!
Thanks for the video, I've only tried X Raw studio a few times and never got used to the needed workflow. Like the Fuji remote app, much of X Raw studio leaves me wondering how it's even supposed to work. I did a lot of post processing in the past, now I try to get it right in camera. I shoot raw+jpg, stick to the JPGs in most cases, I only edit around 10 percent of my pics as raw in Capture One when I'm not happy with the (slightly edited) jpg.
I just came across this now. The only information out there that trouble-shooted why I couldn't make this work. I like the idea of just shooting RAW and working out a film sim later on. Takes the pressure off if you know what I mean. Thank you.
Thank you, Maarten, for your video about X-Raw Studio. I have used it only a couple of times, as I find it clunky and agree with all your comments. I occasionally use Slkypix, but normally use Lightroom 5.2 (the Cloud version) to process images from my Fuji cameras, and have just started using DXO PureRAW 2 to create de-noised DNG files for onward processing in LR. I have previously found that sharpness and noise reduction of raw images taken on my old Nikon D40X have benefitted from being given the PureRAW treatment before post-processing in LR.
PureRAW is the de-noising module "extracted" from the great DxO PhotoLab to be used with other non-DxO softwares. DxO did so after being asked by customers who wanted to use/import the PhotoLab great functions in their Adobe softwares. Yet another proof that DxO are the absolute masters of de-noising, with zero challenger to date. And I've tried many other options, leading to poor results. Why are DxO's solutions so efficient ? Probably because it's the only company focused on testing sensor quality and efficacity down to the pixel level. They also test lenses, to create their reference DxOmark ranking. And their DxO PhotoLab has the best sensor/lens correction modules there is, to which Lightroom ones are merely tools for amateurs. I use DxO PhotoLab for correcting my RX10M4 images, and they look like out of a "full frame" body... I fooled dozens of colleagues, who refused to believe my images came from a 1" sensor camera. Currently in my 5th year using it, with many more ahead.
Hi Maarten, I am in the process of migrating from Lightroom to Capture 1 as LR produces ‘worming’ - small curved shapes in Fuji RAW files. C1 and Fuji have apparently collaborated to produce the best outcome from the X-Trans sensor so that might be the reason so many of your Fuji viewers use C1. The transition to C1 requires some learning from their extensive range of tutorials and if one can treat this as a fun process, the rewards seem worth it. C1, based in Copenhagen Denmark, is developing fast and has an interesting photographers’ perspective. Have you tried Fuji’s mobile phone app? It seems external software is very low on their priority list that I’m surprised they even bother with it. To me it’s better to not have these apps than to have them half-baked, diminishing Fuji’s otherwise excellent reputation for quality. Thanks again for your advert-free videos, they are such a refreshing change from everybody else’s. Best wishes, Christian.
Thanks for your kind words. For me, the primary benefit of the mobile app is its ability to update firmware without needed to transfer files from a computer. I've tried both C1 and Luminar, but just can't get up the learning curve - photo editing is not my favourite part of this.
@@MaartenHeilbron Luminar unfortunately is a mixed bag as well. The software itself uses no GPU hardware acceleration making it rely almost solely on processor performance. This coupled with the softwares lack of optimization results in terrible performance on many machines adequate for the job. On one computer in particular I've had very long loading times previewing, importing and editing RAW files even on fast M.2 Solid state drives. On some computers, it just works fine for some reason. I suppose it works ok on Mac but I haven't had the time to try it out. They've been promising on forums for years to resolve performance issues but nothing has happened in years. You may have a blast using the software or you may have a terrible experience. Regardless, it is a pretty cheap piece of software. Thank you for the video!
Always used LrC + Ps and loved it. After that migrated to Affinity Apps for eases of integration with their other Affinity Apps on Mac OS + iOS also to get away from subscriptions. I note that Affinity Photo doesn’t seem to get a mention and I can’t understand why. After this was swayed by reviews to add C1 which I think is the excellent. Unfortunately too many apps now and associated learning curves have spoilt productivity a little . Your video gets everything right as far as this software is concerned so will give it a miss. Leaving LrC etc. proved to be detrimental in terms of overall organisation so I now need counselling ;-). - I will continue with Affinity as that is where I have most time invested. Reality is they all do a pretty good job from what I can see apart from overall organisation which is most definitely the domain of Lr / LrC in my humble opinion. Keep up the excellent work!
Thank you for the video. I have a X-T30 ii and couldn’t access the photos. What I had to do was to remove the sd card. While leaving the camera connected, connect the sd card to the computer separate.
Hey, Maarten! You wrong about X RAW Studio. It's not RAW Editor, it's RAW Processor/converter! X RAW Studio is very usefull if you like to play with film recipes and want to have picture like SOOC. Camera can store only 7 recipes. X RAW Studio can store a lot! Sometimes I try to store about 80-90 recipes for testing. =) If you like and use more than 7 stored recipes in camera - you can shoot in RAW and than processing RAW with another film simulation in X RAW Studio! It's fantastic! Now I don't afraid to use wrong film recipe and spoil a shot. If I want to processing RAW on camera with another settings - I can set another settings in camera and get JPG. But if I need multiple converts? I broke stick or D-pad while set right settings. X RAW Studio can convert multiple RAW files with same recipe. There is no software with same function! X RAW Studio is unique!
I enjoy both exposing and processing. Probably because I always take a picture with the editing process in mind. I have always thought of it like a part of creating the image.
Its usefull to play around with recipes, you can easily switch between your 7 different custom settings. But it can cause problems if you want to convert images taken with an older firmware.
Hi Maarten. If you conceive X-RAW Studio to be an equivalent to a RAW processing software, I think you're thinking about it wrong. Think of it more as an easier-to-use extension of the Camera's internal RAW processing engine. The concept here is "quick and easy trial" of a range of pre-saved 'Presets' or 'Recipes' to deploy the unique FijiFilm simulations that LR or C1 try to emulate. (Yes, you need to build these X-RAW custom recipies yourself beforehand!) I agree that intention is not clear, at all. But the underlying assumption for this tool is that the X-Trans Processor in your camera + Fujifilm colour science will give you a better starting point in terms of colour and tonality than you can achieve from traditional raw processors. On older models the film grain simulation isn't great - you leave that off, then crop, straighten and add grain to JPEG in Capture One etc. With practise, you'll learn what works so all of this can actually be done in-camera. So the point of X-RAW Studio is ultimately a training tool to help you shoot directly to JPEG in camera, in the field; so you spend less time fidding in post-processing later. That said, I always shoot JPEG + RAW so I have the RAW if I need it for the future, but I only keep RAWS of images I consider to be a keepable quality, not everything I shoot. A lot goes on the digital cutting room floor. If you love spending time on C1 or LR doing lots of pixel peeping, sharpening, and noise reduction and technical image quality is your mantra - X-RAW studio has nothing to offer you.
Using the camera to process photos will always be limiting. If we are building a wish list I will add an ask for Fuji to add the ability to upload JPEG "recipes" created in X-Raw Studio to the older cameras. If you had connected an X-T4 you would have had this capability, but it is not available on the older X-T cameras. This might require firmware updates, but it would be a welcome nod to Fuji's loyal user base.
I use C1 for personal and LR for professional. I think C1 is much faster but Adobe has all the things you will need when processing photos, and a very nice integration with PS.
@@MaartenHeilbron I only use luminar for finishing edit. Dxo does way better job reducing noise and does have lens profiles for fuji. Additionally I like how it handles xraw files. I don't see any dreaded artifacts there after edit and export to dng which I use in luminar.
Right. Always best to use an SD card reader. However, if you choose the camera's USB card reader mode (it's called different things on different models), your computer should identify it as an external drive.
It,s great since they added the control points, Maarten. Now I only shoot in raw. I am currently using a d5300 but thinking about upgrading to a Z50.Do you think its worth it?
The drawback of the Z50 is that the selection of DX lenses for Z mount is small and lower quality, so you might end up buying full frame lenses, which means it might be best to purchase a full frame camera like the Z6 or Z7.
Hi Maarten, not only the X-Raw Studio software is crappy but also the "Cam Remote" app on iOS. I thought nobody could do worse than Nikon with their "Snapbridge", but meanwhile I think that is really a great piece of app engineering compared to Fuji´s "Cam Remote".
Good morning! Thank you for your useful videos, I love how you talk! I'm new to photography, I have a question that I hope you can answer. I'm using Lightroom for editing my raw files, but is it possible to import the photos from the camera, in raw format, with all the informations selected at the moment of shooting, things like white balance, highlights and shadows, and more? I can only see them in the jpeg, but what if I want slightly edit the raw files starting from those indications, I have to start from the beginning on Lightroom? Sorry if I wrote too much, I hope that you can answer me! Have a good day ✨
Lightroom does not read the settings used in camera for Fujifilm or other brands. That’s one of the advantages of the manufacturer’s apps. Maybe start with X-Raw and then finish in another app - several viewers have commented that this is the workflow they use.
Thanks! I use Silkypix to process my raw files because, as bad as it is in many ways, it does a much better job by default than any other program I know of, especially with high ISO images. Then I use Capture One to complete the editing process
@@sclogse1 As I said, I use Lightroom, mostly because processing isn't my favourite and I'm lazy so haven't really bothered to investigate the alternatives.
My main issue with X Raw Studio is that it always crashes, including the camera, requiring the battery to be pulled. I try it now and then, with 2 different computers, 2 different cameras, and different cables, hoping hey might have fixed it, but they never have. If I'm lucky, it can process one file before locking up the camera, and the program itself freezes waiting for the camera to connect. Once you switch off the camera, the program crashes.
It was always thus. Camera manufacturers are just that; CAMERA manufacturers - excellent engineers and physicists and technicians. Software folk they are sadly not. All the folk who are good at that are working on computational photography for Apple and Adobe and others. Back in my Nikon shooting days the frustrations with their software, connection/wi-fi, were endless and actually make the absurdities of Fuji look to be a confidently well-constructed and executed system. Capture One for me (to heck with the expense), for processing - but I still use LR (V6!) to keep a catalogue that makes sense, and to make prints.
I hate editing but is bound to lightroom for its easy storage and good file organization! Any word yet on the Fujifilm XH-5, just teasing, I know you cant say 😉
Thank you for your presentation it is very helpful. Unfortunately I have only one USB port to either plug my X Pro-3 in "OR" my card reader in. I cannot attach both at the same time to my MAC. If I use an Apple attachment with multiple USB slots the camera is then no longer visible. Just want to drop kick my MAC sometimes. Thanks again, Sincerely Frustrated.
Why the frustration? Import the files to your hard drive using the card reader and then disconnect the card reader and connect the camera to use X-Raw studio. Thanks for your kind words.
Is there another software prog you would recommend outside of Lightroom. I find it a bit expensive and would love to actually own something instead of paying a monthly fee.
Hello Mr Heilbron, lucky for you, you had an Apple Computer to use. I use a Windows based Computer and that means, even years after the X-T2 exists, there is no way the X Raw studio works at all. Not with the camera connected and neither when choosing to load the Images into the software from the SD Card. Images may be displayed, but every function within the software are greyed out. The software simply does nothing but display pictures.
I love Lightroom. I can import my RAW images into Lightroom on my MacBook then do minor tweaking on my iPad, iPhone, or MacBook. Very convenient. Gives me all I need.
Honestly I just use Lightroom for Android. I'm pretty lazy when it comes to editing photos, like you I enjoy taking them more! I have a USBC SD card reader and plug it straight into my Google Pixel 6 Pro, copy over the files and start editing from there. Probably not the most accurate or best way to edit but it's easy for me and I can do it on the go, anything that makes it more likely to edit is a win in my books.
Maarten, apologies but only just seen your (excellent) UA-cam but I take a slightly contrary view? Having the ability to get a camera to convert a RAW file to a TIFF file with my presets (not Lightroom or any other product) was one of the reasons I moved to Fuji some years ago. I use Capture One to process the majority of my RAW files but occasionally I will use X-RAW Studio to do a conversion - that new TIFF will then get into Capture One and ultimately Photoshop for final tweaks. It's the Fuji Film simulations, allied to the ability to darken/highlight tones etc that suits me fine - note, I'm not talking about a JPEG conversion, only RAW with relatively modern cameras i.e. my (old) X-Pro2 won't work on RAW conversion whilst my GFX 50R will. I also download all my images direct from camera to PC via cable i.e. I'm not looking for X-Raw Studio to do everything - that's a dream for the future!
Sounds complicated, but thanks for sharing. Always nice to learn another's workflow. Let's all dram for a future where X-RAW Studio is a more complete tool.
@@MaartenHeilbron Lightroom has certainly become better over time at extracting detail from x-trans files. So much so, that I'm OK with it in most cases, but when I need more/cleaner detail than it can provide, X-Raw Studio is a helpful option. With newer cameras there is the option to save a 16 bit file, if you need that for further processing, but of course you can reduce that need by getting the white balance right and manage the dynamic range in X-Raw Studion.
If you don't have a card reader (like my MacBook Pro 2020), you can set the connection settings in camera to "card reader". Then you open Image Capture (builtin MacOS software), plug the camera by USB, and transfer the images. Then, disconnect the camera, set the connection to "USB raw conv.", then open X-raw studio. Yes, it is cumbersome.
I find the best use for Fuji Raw Studio is to store an unlimited number of film recipes and applying them to the raw files. Convert to jpeg , crop and done. Anything more (rarely), I use C1 Fuji Express… not at all interested in post beyond these ..
Thank you Maarten for the video. I currently use C1 for the raws of both my XT-3 and XE-4. Do you or does anyone here have tried gentleman coders' "RAW Power"? It's by the former Aperture team rep. Looks very interesting and I wonder how the quality of the results is compared to C1 in particular. Haven't found videos dealing with that, yet. So: Any experiences anyone?
Can you please make a video and talk about the issue of the new samyang 12mm af f2 lens. Concerning the problem with the ibis when used in combination with the x-s10. Because for some reason, the ibis stops working. Fujifilm and samyang are not doing anything to fix this, but maybe if we get enough people talking about it, they will address the problem. Thank you.
I don't have that lens - and after your note, I'm not much inclined to go get one. Fujifilm has not been very forthcoming with their lens APIs, so this doesn't come as much of a surprise to me. Maybe you could use a tripod, or a gimbal? Wider lenses don't need or benefit much from stabilization anyway.
@@MaartenHeilbron you have a great point. But I like to vlog, and can’t really afford a gimble, especially since I do it so sparingly. But if you can mention that this problem exists in one of your up coming videos that would be great. Many people are experiencing the same problem I am. And if we could get Fuji’s and samyang’s attention, maybe they will address the problem.
@@Mathew-vlogs While I appreciate your interest in finding a solution, I'm not sure that a random comment in a video is going to get anyone's attention. Is it too late to return the lens?
@@MaartenHeilbron yeah, it is, I bought it off of eBay. But also, I know if enough people start talking about something, things happen. So, I’m just trying to get people talking.
Fujifilm X-Raw is not for transfering images from your camera to your computer. Is for only converting raw images you have already on your computer, but to process then quickly using the camera processor.
@@MaartenHeilbron Is not an assumption, is what Fujifilm always said about the X-Raw software. I have use it before with great results. Check this video: ua-cam.com/video/Gayg0-SrLcQ/v-deo.html
It seems that Maarten and many of the commenters are missing the point. It isn’t a file editing program. What it is great at is, firstly, allowing one to view a raw file using each of the Fuji film simulations available on the camera which the file was shot on. Then that simulation can be converted to a jpg image, while still retaining the original raw file. Secondly, the app can be used to create one’s own film recipes. Yes, this can be done in camera but it is so much easier and much more intuitive to do it in the app. Thirdly, custom film recipes can be saved for trying out on new raw files and saving the converted file to a jpg. All in all, a great app. Many complain it is clunky. Well that’s because they are trying to use it to edit files as a alternative to Lightroom or whatever the favourite editing app is.
@@MaartenHeilbron Hi Maarten. Import the images? You mean the same way in which Lighroom functions? Well, it does this. When I open the app, all the directories containing my raw files are visible and available to import. Perhaps you are referring to the need to have the camera that was used to take the raw files connected? Well yes, that is the point really, to be able to review the Fuji recipes available on the camera and develop your own custom recipes for that camera. BTW, I always like your videos
The most basic thing X Raw WILL do, is open a raw file I have on my desktop. From that, it will export by asking me what to open it with. I use Photoshop 2023. No in camera processing neccessary. Otherwise, I can't open it with P.S. alone. Problem is, I miss out on all the cool things you can do with the raw file, as it has become more of a tiff (even before saving it that way, and I've lost the range. Or I think it has. What can I say, my Photoshop 2023 isn't a subscription......so, I don't really know if opening a raw file on my mac in preview and saving it as a tiff for P.S. is any better or worse than exporting out of Fuji Raw.
The issue I have with this software is I can't use it with my Mac M1 without jumping through hoops. Security settings for the M1s are tougher than for Intel based Macs; you can say "well, that's Apple's fault", but users don't care. Capture One, Lightroom et al. have all figured it out and at the very least Fuji should make it easy for users to find explicit instructions on how to overcome this obstacle. But perhaps you're right, they just don't care and have given up.
Seems Fujifilm's answer to the limitations and quirks of the app was to just start giving away Capture 1 to buyers of their cameras. With that in mind, X Raw Studio becomes a de facto film recipe lab, which definitely has some utility in and of itself.
Pretty sure that was Capture One's decision in order to build their market share. While X-RAW studio is an excellent place to create and save recipes, it would be nice if it was a little more capable.
@@MaartenHeilbron there are definitely aspects to it that are half-baked and Fujifilm could do better. Starting with, oh I dunno, maybe even mentioning that little part about having to remove the SD card and mount to your computer in order for the program to work…
@@MaartenHeilbron for sure. That said, apparently if you’ve already transferred the files to a folder on your computer or an attached drive, you can navigate to it. *BUT* those photos need to have been taken on whichever model camera is presently connected. Extremely non-intuitive. Nor is it well-explained.
Hi, how is x-raw studio so fast for you? Even changing simulation takes several seconds for me. Switching image is something like 10+ seconds. Have you done any magic / special steps, or it is like that with standard settings? thanks
As for why the camera needs to be connected... my theory is so that Fujifilm can protect their film simulation LUTs and profiles. If they were included with the software, somebody would find a way to extract them for use with any camera. If Fujifilm was smart they would create a store where Fuji users could buy new film simulations. The people using these cameras love them, and Fuji could license other brands film stocks (Kodachrome , Tri-X, Ektachrome ). They could create a whole market around them for their entire camera line.
There's a excellent idea! However, as the camera updates are downloaded, would that not make it possible to reverse engineer them? Thanks for commenting.
@@MaartenHeilbron that is possible, but the updates are usually encrypted to some degree. This is possible to work around and has been seen with the video mods available for certain cameras. It comes down to the effort required to hack the software vs the benefit.
The reality is that it is the camera which does all the work as it does when you take a picture and produce a jpeg on location. The software does really few things.
it's beyond comprehension, such a lack of effort from fujifilm. If only they knew how important these programs are for beginner photographers. I'm loving NX Studio, even though it's far from perfect but at the same time light years ahead of what fujifilm has...
The Fujifilm X-Raw Studio has its flaws, however I do enjoy the simplicity of it, plus it's for free. Whatever Fujifilm camera you plug in you get the same raw converter as the one inside your camera and that's fine by me. I never liked working with raw files, I either got the picture (jpeg) I wanted or I didn't. Editing raw files inside the camera is an option, but the camera will only show you the final image and not the individual changes/editing you do. The Fujifilm X-Raw Studio let's you see everything in real time. You change one thing and it instantaneously shows you what it does. It's great for beginners too. *About the image processor in the camera doing the work, I don't think that's what it does. At least my X-T30 II doesn't even get warm while my computer's CPU is fully utilized when using the software. I think the camera is just a hardware key telling Fujifilm you are the rightful user of their software, or rather that you are their customer. I'm fine with that, the X-T30 II even seems to allowe for both being plugged in for the X-Raw Studio and for to charge the batter at the same time.
@@MaartenHeilbron I'd say they only give you those features and film simulations that you paid for, by buying the camera. This is the only reason I can think of and it does make sense. Speaking strictly about still photography image quality, there weren't any huge technological leaps on the hardware side in some time now.
That would be an explanation except for the fact that Fujifilm always states that new film sims are added as memory space and processing power in the camera allow. I don't think it's a money grab. It also makes sense that they've developed the camera firmware in a specific way using an API specific to the camera and the features and functions of the X-peed processor. Replicating that exactly on the desktop with a difference API and processor may not be possible.
@@MaartenHeilbron I don't think it's a money grag either. All I'm saying is, when you use the x raw studios, the camera does not get warm at all, it doesn't even deplete the battery, while the CPU of the computer is working very hard to do all the work. The CPU inside your computer can do anything you throw at it. That's why it's so versatile.
I felt a few of your asks were unfair. The tool used the camera to process which means it's super fast (yippy) but that means it's simply impossible to add film simulations which aren't on the camera (bummer). I'd focus asks on what the can do; there is no excuse for not having "save as". One feature I would like, batch update (let me see these 56 pictures with that film simulation) and I would like to update the JPG image stored in the raw file. And these request focus on strength, it doesn't do much but it does it well and quickly. And if you want more, get Lightroom.
The purpose of this program has been completely missed. It is not a photo editor and was never intended to be. Anyone commenting that they only use Lightroom etc just doesn’t get it. Agree the interface could be improved but not with added features.
Even if we accept your comment without qualification, it's still very limited usefulness and a little more functionality would make it a much better app.
i appreciate you sharing this video. However it seems like you do not completely understand the purpose of X Raw. It is not raw development software in the traditional sense, and should be thought of as a remote control for your camera. There is no raw conversion engine in this software, it depends entirely on the camera's hardware and firmware. So you won't ever see features like newer film simulations, corrections of shadow and hightlights or cropping beyond what the camera can do already. The benefits of using xraw is that it is the only way to get the film simulations exactly right. Other software like lightroom will only ever be able to approximate what the camera does. The in camera noise reduction and correction of optical imperfections is also much better than what you can get from lightroom for the simple reason that the camera is able to use sensor- and lens metadata that is just not known to lightroom. The downside is that if you upgrade your x-t2 to an t3 or t4, you won't be able to process any of your old raw files with xraw. Your new camera did not produce those files so it cannot process them. But as long as you're using xraw you're getting the very best raw conversion you can get, at no cost to you whatsoever. Its unique to Fuji and a very useful tool to have. Having said that I think everyone will agree that it's user interface could do with some modernisation because it is kind of clunky and tedious to use.
The interface of the software is outdated and lacks functionality not very useful at all I wish Fujifilm would redesign the interface with some additional features that is relevant to the modern digital age.
@@MaartenHeilbron I really don’t see the point of that particular application considering you can do some sort of editing in the camera. Steve Jobs once describe Abode as being lazy the same comes for Fujifilm.
Wow. I guess it really is just click bait for views now, isn't it? It's one thing to have genuine concerns about a products limitations, but your arguments seem to be posted to create a way to receive views only. The product in question does simple things brilliantly, if you understand the limitations, which are many... like asking a Mini to perform like a Bentley is just odd. The simple fact is you are limited by the software of the camera you took the original picture with as the conversion happens in the camera. So yea, why would Fuji spend time creating a whole new software when what's in the camera is already pretty darn good.
Yes, sorry. However, I did think that I explained my argument. Even if we accept that the apps only purpose is to apply different settings to the images taken, it would still be helpful if, as the app requires the images to be transferred to the computer before processing, that the app facilitate that task.
Your problem is that you don’t know what X Raw Studio is. According to Fuji, it is just a way to do what you can do in camera in a more comfortable environment, namely one with a larger screen. If you bothered reading the manual, you would know that it works with raw files stored on your computer and it writes the jpg files you create to the same folder. Since the camera handles all the processing, how could you possibly use a film simulation it does not have? This application is NOT a photo editor. It’s a way to play with recipes and create jpegs from raw files, and this it does very well. At least familiarize yourself with the subject of your videos before posting!
@@MaartenHeilbron I think a lot of people make excuses for Fuji when it comes to this. I love my fuji cameras also but also agree with you on the RAW X program. The program is intended to process raw files. How it goes about doing that and how limited it is should not be excused. Could they have made it where it did not require the camera to be plugged in and added additional functionality? I have to say absolutely yes. They chose to make it VERY limited in scope. It is also slow to perform actions as it is relying on the camera to do the work vs the PC. I fail to accept that this was the best method of going about this. I ended up using photolab 5 but wished that the raw x was better.
@@mnaz5628 If you read the overview of the the Raw X program on the Fuji website , you would see that it is not intended, nor does it have any of the tools, to be a file editor. No wonder you are disappointed. For its intended use, I think it is a rather brilliant, of a tad clunky, piece of software but in no way replaces the need for Lightroom, my choice, or similar aps
You're the only one to explain this in detail! Thank you so much!!
Always my pleasure, thanks for taking the time to comment with your kind words.
Being out and behind the camera is always my first preference. However, I do quite enjoy being in front of the screen and editing selected shots too. I think part of that is the excitement and anticipation of seeing on the bigger screen what you’ve captured in the field. I think also for hobbyists and enthusiasts that is a crucial marker for measuring one’s ongoing interest level…reminiscent of waiting for those rolls of Kodachrome 64 to come back in the mail from the developer. I’m a LR/PS user. The software too is so deep that I am constantly learning. I know there are other good ones too but I’ve never felt that switching away from LR would make me a better photographer. Thank you.
Good sentiment, I'm pretty much on the same page - so I love your last comment!
Thanks for this video!
After a few years of using and trying multiple editors I ended up with three:
DxO Photo lab
Camera Raw+Photoshop
Canon DPP
I used Capture One for a couple of years but, although I loved it, I was getting same results with DxO Photolab.
Interestingly enough, DxO works beautifully with Fujifilm raw files. And it supports the same film simulations than my X-T4.
Finally, a few words about Canon DPP. It's completely overlooked and discarded by almost everyone. But in my opinion it provides the best raw conversion for Canon files. And it's quite full of features. If you work to get things right on the camera DPP is all you need.
Fujifilm should look at what Canon is doing in this area :-)
Cheers.
Good notes, thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences.
Hi, I use Capture One on my Mac. And VSCO on my iPad. A big hug from Italy. Thanks for your very interesting videos. And for your calm and polite way of explaining your point of view. In a world full of screaming and howling people, it’s a great pleasure when a man can “meet” a gentleman. Have a nice day and beautiful light. Ciao!
What a pleasure to read your kind words, thanks for commenting.
Thanks for the video, I've only tried X Raw studio a few times and never got used to the needed workflow. Like the Fuji remote app, much of X Raw studio leaves me wondering how it's even supposed to work.
I did a lot of post processing in the past, now I try to get it right in camera. I shoot raw+jpg, stick to the JPGs in most cases, I only edit around 10 percent of my pics as raw in Capture One when I'm not happy with the (slightly edited) jpg.
Thanks, that's how I feel - and try to manage - as well.
I just came across this now. The only information out there that trouble-shooted why I couldn't make this work. I like the idea of just shooting RAW and working out a film sim later on. Takes the pressure off if you know what I mean. Thank you.
I know exactly what you mean, thanks for your kind words.
Thank you, Maarten, for your video about X-Raw Studio. I have used it only a couple of times, as I find it clunky and agree with all your comments.
I occasionally use Slkypix, but normally use Lightroom 5.2 (the Cloud version) to process images from my Fuji cameras, and have just started using DXO PureRAW 2 to create de-noised DNG files for onward processing in LR. I have previously found that sharpness and noise reduction of raw images taken on my old Nikon D40X have benefitted from being given the PureRAW treatment before post-processing in LR.
Good notes, I'm not familiar with DXP PureRaw at all.
PureRAW is the de-noising module "extracted" from the great DxO PhotoLab to be used with other non-DxO softwares.
DxO did so after being asked by customers who wanted to use/import the PhotoLab great functions in their Adobe softwares.
Yet another proof that DxO are the absolute masters of de-noising, with zero challenger to date. And I've tried many other options, leading to poor results. Why are DxO's solutions so efficient ? Probably because it's the only company focused on testing sensor quality and efficacity down to the pixel level. They also test lenses, to create their reference DxOmark ranking. And their DxO PhotoLab has the best sensor/lens correction modules there is, to which Lightroom ones are merely tools for amateurs.
I use DxO PhotoLab for correcting my RX10M4 images, and they look like out of a "full frame" body... I fooled dozens of colleagues, who refused to believe my images came from a 1" sensor camera. Currently in my 5th year using it, with many more ahead.
@@gillesmatheronpro I'll add that to my workflow, thanks for the tip!
Hi Maarten, I am in the process of migrating from Lightroom to Capture 1 as LR produces ‘worming’ - small curved shapes in Fuji RAW files. C1 and Fuji have apparently collaborated to produce the best outcome from the X-Trans sensor so that might be the reason so many of your Fuji viewers use C1. The transition to C1 requires some learning from their extensive range of tutorials and if one can treat this as a fun process, the rewards seem worth it. C1, based in Copenhagen Denmark, is developing fast and has an interesting photographers’ perspective. Have you tried Fuji’s mobile phone app? It seems external software is very low on their priority list that I’m surprised they even bother with it. To me it’s better to not have these apps than to have them half-baked, diminishing Fuji’s otherwise excellent reputation for quality. Thanks again for your advert-free videos, they are such a refreshing change from everybody else’s. Best wishes, Christian.
Thanks for your kind words. For me, the primary benefit of the mobile app is its ability to update firmware without needed to transfer files from a computer. I've tried both C1 and Luminar, but just can't get up the learning curve - photo editing is not my favourite part of this.
@@MaartenHeilbron Luminar unfortunately is a mixed bag as well.
The software itself uses no GPU hardware acceleration making it rely almost solely on processor performance. This coupled with the softwares lack of optimization results in terrible performance on many machines adequate for the job.
On one computer in particular I've had very long loading times previewing, importing and editing RAW files even on fast M.2 Solid state drives.
On some computers, it just works fine for some reason. I suppose it works ok on Mac but I haven't had the time to try it out.
They've been promising on forums for years to resolve performance issues but nothing has happened in years.
You may have a blast using the software or you may have a terrible experience. Regardless, it is a pretty cheap piece of software.
Thank you for the video!
Always used LrC + Ps and loved it. After that migrated to Affinity Apps for eases of integration with their other Affinity Apps on Mac OS + iOS also to get away from subscriptions. I note that Affinity Photo doesn’t seem to get a mention and I can’t understand why. After this was swayed by reviews to add C1 which I think is the excellent. Unfortunately too many apps now and associated learning curves have spoilt productivity a little . Your video gets everything right as far as this software is concerned so will give it a miss. Leaving LrC etc. proved to be detrimental in terms of overall organisation so I now need counselling ;-). - I will continue with Affinity as that is where I have most time invested. Reality is they all do a pretty good job from what I can see apart from overall organisation which is most definitely the domain of Lr / LrC in my humble opinion. Keep up the excellent work!
Thanks for your kind words and sharing your workflow. I'll have a look at Affinity - I've not tried it.
@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you Maarten, I would be really interested in your opinions re Affinity Photo when you have time to have a gander. Atb Simon
Thanks for the video. Never had a look at this App.
I use Capture One and sometimes Luminar Neo
Thanks for your kind words. I'm going to have a closer look at Neo in the next few weeks.
Thank you for the video.
I have a X-T30 ii and couldn’t access the photos. What I had to do was to remove the sd card. While leaving the camera connected, connect the sd card to the computer separate.
What a strange problem. Thanks for sharing your work-around.
Nice overview of what X-RAW Studio can (not) do.
My preferred editors are CaptureOne Pro and DxO PhotoLabs 5!
Always nice to read your comments, thanks for posting. I didn't realize that C1 was so popular among my viewers. And I've never even tried DxO.
Hey, Maarten!
You wrong about X RAW Studio. It's not RAW Editor, it's RAW Processor/converter!
X RAW Studio is very usefull if you like to play with film recipes and want to have picture like SOOC.
Camera can store only 7 recipes. X RAW Studio can store a lot! Sometimes I try to store about 80-90 recipes for testing. =) If you like and use more than 7 stored recipes in camera - you can shoot in RAW and than processing RAW with another film simulation in X RAW Studio! It's fantastic! Now I don't afraid to use wrong film recipe and spoil a shot.
If I want to processing RAW on camera with another settings - I can set another settings in camera and get JPG. But if I need multiple converts? I broke stick or D-pad while set right settings. X RAW Studio can convert multiple RAW files with same recipe.
There is no software with same function! X RAW Studio is unique!
Thanks for those useful tips. However, would it not be slightly more useful with a few editing features?
I enjoy both exposing and processing. Probably because I always take a picture with the editing process in mind. I have always thought of it like a part of creating the image.
Understood. Thanks for commenting.
What can I do to make my camera appear in the source images folder? Please help.
You cannot. You must import the images to your computer, and then find the folder with the images in the source images.
Thank you! I was just wondering why i couldn't see the SD card in the source image folders.
Glad I could help! Thanks for commenting.
Its usefull to play around with recipes, you can easily switch between your 7 different custom settings. But it can cause problems if you want to convert images taken with an older firmware.
Yes, but it could easily be a substantially better app for saving JPEG images from RAW files.
Hi Maarten. If you conceive X-RAW Studio to be an equivalent to a RAW processing software, I think you're thinking about it wrong. Think of it more as an easier-to-use extension of the Camera's internal RAW processing engine. The concept here is "quick and easy trial" of a range of pre-saved 'Presets' or 'Recipes' to deploy the unique FijiFilm simulations that LR or C1 try to emulate. (Yes, you need to build these X-RAW custom recipies yourself beforehand!) I agree that intention is not clear, at all. But the underlying assumption for this tool is that the X-Trans Processor in your camera + Fujifilm colour science will give you a better starting point in terms of colour and tonality than you can achieve from traditional raw processors. On older models the film grain simulation isn't great - you leave that off, then crop, straighten and add grain to JPEG in Capture One etc.
With practise, you'll learn what works so all of this can actually be done in-camera.
So the point of X-RAW Studio is ultimately a training tool to help you shoot directly to JPEG in camera, in the field; so you spend less time fidding in post-processing later. That said, I always shoot JPEG + RAW so I have the RAW if I need it for the future, but I only keep RAWS of images I consider to be a keepable quality, not everything I shoot. A lot goes on the digital cutting room floor.
If you love spending time on C1 or LR doing lots of pixel peeping, sharpening, and noise reduction and technical image quality is your mantra - X-RAW studio has nothing to offer you.
Understood. Just suggesting that it could be both more powerful and useful if they made a few changes.
Using the camera to process photos will always be limiting. If we are building a wish list I will add an ask for Fuji to add the ability to upload JPEG "recipes" created in X-Raw Studio to the older cameras. If you had connected an X-T4 you would have had this capability, but it is not available on the older X-T cameras. This might require firmware updates, but it would be a welcome nod to Fuji's loyal user base.
Yes, that's a good benefit of the X-T4.
I use C1 for personal and LR for professional. I think C1 is much faster but Adobe has all the things you will need when processing photos, and a very nice integration with PS.
Interesting, thanks for your insight.
Dxo photolab 5 for initial edit, lens correction and best noise correction. After that I export it as dng file and finish in luminar ai or neo.
Interesting. Do you feel Luminar doesn't do a good job with X-RAW files? I had the opposite impression.
@@MaartenHeilbron I only use luminar for finishing edit. Dxo does way better job reducing noise and does have lens profiles for fuji. Additionally I like how it handles xraw files. I don't see any dreaded artifacts there after edit and export to dng which I use in luminar.
@@kamilpotato3764 Understood, thanks!
How do i connect my camera through Usb? Cuz it doesnt show any photos in capture one or any software
Right. Always best to use an SD card reader. However, if you choose the camera's USB card reader mode (it's called different things on different models), your computer should identify it as an external drive.
It,s great since they added the control points, Maarten. Now I only shoot in raw. I am currently using a d5300 but thinking about upgrading to a Z50.Do you think its worth it?
The drawback of the Z50 is that the selection of DX lenses for Z mount is small and lower quality, so you might end up buying full frame lenses, which means it might be best to purchase a full frame camera like the Z6 or Z7.
Hi Maarten, not only the X-Raw Studio software is crappy but also the "Cam Remote" app on iOS. I thought nobody could do worse than Nikon with their "Snapbridge", but meanwhile I think that is really a great piece of app engineering compared to Fuji´s "Cam Remote".
Although neither fulfil their promise, they're still usable with a little tolerance and persistence.
Thank you.
Always my pleasure, I appreciate the kind words.
Good morning!
Thank you for your useful videos, I love how you talk!
I'm new to photography, I have a question that I hope you can answer.
I'm using Lightroom for editing my raw files, but is it possible to import the photos from the camera, in raw format, with all the informations selected at the moment of shooting, things like white balance, highlights and shadows, and more?
I can only see them in the jpeg, but what if I want slightly edit the raw files starting from those indications, I have to start from the beginning on Lightroom?
Sorry if I wrote too much, I hope that you can answer me!
Have a good day ✨
Lightroom does not read the settings used in camera for Fujifilm or other brands. That’s one of the advantages of the manufacturer’s apps. Maybe start with X-Raw and then finish in another app - several viewers have commented that this is the workflow they use.
@@MaartenHeilbron Oh no!
Thank you for the reply, I will try your suggestion!
I tried this software for my X-Pro2. Crap! I'll stick to Capture One. Thanks for the video.
Well, it certainly doesn't do what other photo-editing apps like Capture One or Lightroom do.
Does not work on iMac 2021 what ever I try. Stopped trying to use it.
Works without issue on my iMac 2021.
Thanks! I use Silkypix to process my raw files because, as bad as it is in many ways, it does a much better job by default than any other program I know of, especially with high ISO images. Then I use Capture One to complete the editing process
Thanks, an interesting approach - I thought Silky Pix had mostly fallen out of favour.
Ditto with high iso
@@AK-hk2pd noted, thanks
What system do you have on your computer?
@@sclogse1 As I said, I use Lightroom, mostly because processing isn't my favourite and I'm lazy so haven't really bothered to investigate the alternatives.
Thanks. I use Lightroom on my iPad Pro. Amateur not making money from photography. I love working on my iPad vs a computer.
As I said, editing images doesn't excite me much on a PC - I'll have to see if I like it better on an iPad - thanks for the tip.
My main issue with X Raw Studio is that it always crashes, including the camera, requiring the battery to be pulled. I try it now and then, with 2 different computers, 2 different cameras, and different cables, hoping hey might have fixed it, but they never have. If I'm lucky, it can process one file before locking up the camera, and the program itself freezes waiting for the camera to connect. Once you switch off the camera, the program crashes.
That sounds terrible. Luckily my experience has been better.
It was always thus. Camera manufacturers are just that; CAMERA manufacturers - excellent engineers and physicists and technicians. Software folk they are sadly not. All the folk who are good at that are working on computational photography for Apple and Adobe and others. Back in my Nikon shooting days the frustrations with their software, connection/wi-fi, were endless and actually make the absurdities of Fuji look to be a confidently well-constructed and executed system.
Capture One for me (to heck with the expense), for processing - but I still use LR (V6!) to keep a catalogue that makes sense, and to make prints.
Sure, so, why do they bother at all? Interesting approach - LR is a good cataloguing solution.
I hate editing but is bound to lightroom for its easy storage and good file organization! Any word yet on the Fujifilm XH-5, just teasing, I know you cant say 😉
Thanks for your note. No word yet.
Lightroom Classic, I’ve been using it since it was introduced.
Right! It is, as the name implies, a classic.
Debating switching over to Fujifilm camera. Does Lightroom Classic support Fuji raw files?
@@mara1820 Yes, it does.
Thank you for your presentation it is very helpful. Unfortunately I have only one USB port to either plug my X Pro-3 in "OR" my card reader in. I cannot attach both at the same time to my MAC. If I use an Apple attachment with multiple USB slots the camera is then no longer visible. Just want to drop kick my MAC sometimes. Thanks again, Sincerely Frustrated.
Why the frustration? Import the files to your hard drive using the card reader and then disconnect the card reader and connect the camera to use X-Raw studio. Thanks for your kind words.
@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you for the work around. You have been very helpful.👍
Is there another software prog you would recommend outside of Lightroom. I find it a bit expensive and would love to actually own something instead of paying a monthly fee.
Capture One is a heavy favourite. Also Luminar, from Skylum - a Ukrainian development team.
Darkroom is another good alternative
Hello Mr Heilbron, lucky for you, you had an Apple Computer to use. I use a Windows based Computer and that means, even years after the X-T2 exists, there is no way the X Raw studio works at all. Not with the camera connected and neither when choosing to load the Images into the software from the SD Card. Images may be displayed, but every function within the software are greyed out. The software simply does nothing but display pictures.
I think the solution to your problem seems straightforward.
Hello Maarten. I have the XT3. The Fuji app is terrible. Doesn’t work. I quess knowing issue. Are there any alternatives yet ?
There are lots of alternatives from Adobe Lightroom to Luminar Neo.
@@MaartenHeilbron sorry, meant the phone app.
Again, there are many to choose from.
I love Lightroom. I can import my RAW images into Lightroom on my MacBook then do minor tweaking on my iPad, iPhone, or MacBook. Very convenient. Gives me all I need.
Thanks, I'm also a Lightroom fan.
Honestly I just use Lightroom for Android. I'm pretty lazy when it comes to editing photos, like you I enjoy taking them more! I have a USBC SD card reader and plug it straight into my Google Pixel 6 Pro, copy over the files and start editing from there. Probably not the most accurate or best way to edit but it's easy for me and I can do it on the go, anything that makes it more likely to edit is a win in my books.
Understood, I'm driven by much of the same interests. And as you said, I'm looking for simple.
Maarten, apologies but only just seen your (excellent) UA-cam but I take a slightly contrary view? Having the ability to get a camera to convert a RAW file to a TIFF file with my presets (not Lightroom or any other product) was one of the reasons I moved to Fuji some years ago. I use Capture One to process the majority of my RAW files but occasionally I will use X-RAW Studio to do a conversion - that new TIFF will then get into Capture One and ultimately Photoshop for final tweaks. It's the Fuji Film simulations, allied to the ability to darken/highlight tones etc that suits me fine - note, I'm not talking about a JPEG conversion, only RAW with relatively modern cameras i.e. my (old) X-Pro2 won't work on RAW conversion whilst my GFX 50R will. I also download all my images direct from camera to PC via cable i.e. I'm not looking for X-Raw Studio to do everything - that's a dream for the future!
Sounds complicated, but thanks for sharing. Always nice to learn another's workflow. Let's all dram for a future where X-RAW Studio is a more complete tool.
My usecase for this software is to get better detail extraction than Lightroom can, when I need that. It works pretty well for that, in my opinion :-)
Yes, interesting observation. Many don't feel that Lightroom does not (or didn't) provide very good RAW conversion for X-Trans files.
@@MaartenHeilbron Lightroom has certainly become better over time at extracting detail from x-trans files. So much so, that I'm OK with it in most cases, but when I need more/cleaner detail than it can provide, X-Raw Studio is a helpful option.
With newer cameras there is the option to save a 16 bit file, if you need that for further processing, but of course you can reduce that need by getting the white balance right and manage the dynamic range in X-Raw Studion.
@@kbqvist Understood, thanks for your comments.
I use Lightroom for adjustments and Photoshop for touching up.
Good plan. Thanks for sharing your notes.
If you don't have a card reader (like my MacBook Pro 2020), you can set the connection settings in camera to "card reader". Then you open Image Capture (builtin MacOS software), plug the camera by USB, and transfer the images. Then, disconnect the camera, set the connection to "USB raw conv.", then open X-raw studio. Yes, it is cumbersome.
Thanks for suggesting this alternate solution..
I find the best use for Fuji Raw Studio is to store an unlimited number of film recipes and applying them to the raw files. Convert to jpeg , crop and done. Anything more (rarely), I use C1 Fuji Express… not at all interested in post beyond these ..
Thanks, while that’s not available for all models, I agree, that’s a very useful feature - particularly if you have a lot of recipes.
ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate user here. I've been using ACDSee for a while now and pretty happy with it.
Wow, it's been years since anyone has mentioned that app - glad to hear it's still around.
Thank you Maarten for the video. I currently use C1 for the raws of both my XT-3 and XE-4. Do you or does anyone here have tried gentleman coders' "RAW Power"? It's by the former Aperture team rep. Looks very interesting and I wonder how the quality of the results is compared to C1 in particular. Haven't found videos dealing with that, yet. So: Any experiences anyone?
That's a new one to me - I'll have to try it out. Thanks for the suggestion.
Can you please make a video and talk about the issue of the new samyang 12mm af f2 lens. Concerning the problem with the ibis when used in combination with the x-s10. Because for some reason, the ibis stops working. Fujifilm and samyang are not doing anything to fix this, but maybe if we get enough people talking about it, they will address the problem. Thank you.
I don't have that lens - and after your note, I'm not much inclined to go get one. Fujifilm has not been very forthcoming with their lens APIs, so this doesn't come as much of a surprise to me. Maybe you could use a tripod, or a gimbal? Wider lenses don't need or benefit much from stabilization anyway.
@@MaartenHeilbron you have a great point. But I like to vlog, and can’t really afford a gimble, especially since I do it so sparingly. But if you can mention that this problem exists in one of your up coming videos that would be great. Many people are experiencing the same problem I am. And if we could get Fuji’s and samyang’s attention, maybe they will address the problem.
@@Mathew-vlogs While I appreciate your interest in finding a solution, I'm not sure that a random comment in a video is going to get anyone's attention. Is it too late to return the lens?
@@MaartenHeilbron yeah, it is, I bought it off of eBay. But also, I know if enough people start talking about something, things happen. So, I’m just trying to get people talking.
@@Mathew-vlogs I hope this works out for you.
Fujifilm X-Raw is not for transfering images from your camera to your computer. Is for only converting raw images you have already on your computer, but to process then quickly using the camera processor.
So, you're suggesting that the processor in the camera is more powerful than in my Mac? I'm not sure that's a reasonable assumption.
@@MaartenHeilbron Is not an assumption, is what Fujifilm always said about the X-Raw software. I have use it before with great results.
Check this video: ua-cam.com/video/Gayg0-SrLcQ/v-deo.html
It seems that Maarten and many of the commenters are missing the point. It isn’t a file editing program. What it is great at is, firstly, allowing one to view a raw file using each of the Fuji film simulations available on the camera which the file was shot on. Then that simulation can be converted to a jpg image, while still retaining the original raw file. Secondly, the app can be used to create one’s own film recipes. Yes, this can be done in camera but it is so much easier and much more intuitive to do it in the app. Thirdly, custom film recipes can be saved for trying out on new raw files and saving the converted file to a jpg. All in all, a great app. Many complain it is clunky. Well that’s because they are trying to use it to edit files as a alternative to Lightroom or whatever the favourite editing app is.
But it would be so much better if it could also import the images - a step that's needed before you can do any of the other tasks.
@@MaartenHeilbron Hi Maarten. Import the images? You mean the same way in which Lighroom functions? Well, it does this. When I open the app, all the directories containing my raw files are visible and available to import. Perhaps you are referring to the need to have the camera that was used to take the raw files connected? Well yes, that is the point really, to be able to review the Fuji recipes available on the camera and develop your own custom recipes for that camera. BTW, I always like your videos
thank you good video
raw file converter ex 3.0
hopefully this is a better solution (also from Fujifilm)
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for commenting.
thanks for the tip
The most basic thing X Raw WILL do, is open a raw file I have on my desktop. From that, it will export by asking me what to open it with. I use Photoshop 2023. No in camera processing neccessary. Otherwise, I can't open it with P.S. alone. Problem is, I miss out on all the cool things you can do with the raw file, as it has become more of a tiff (even before saving it that way, and I've lost the range. Or I think it has. What can I say, my Photoshop 2023 isn't a subscription......so, I don't really know if opening a raw file on my mac in preview and saving it as a tiff for P.S. is any better or worse than exporting out of Fuji Raw.
Not sure I follow that - if you use the Adobe camera raw (part of photoshop and Lightroom) it can import and manage Fujifilm RAW files.
The issue I have with this software is I can't use it with my Mac M1 without jumping through hoops. Security settings for the M1s are tougher than for Intel based Macs; you can say "well, that's Apple's fault", but users don't care. Capture One, Lightroom et al. have all figured it out and at the very least Fuji should make it easy for users to find explicit instructions on how to overcome this obstacle. But perhaps you're right, they just don't care and have given up.
Wasn't aware of this, thanks for adding this note to the comments.
Seems Fujifilm's answer to the limitations and quirks of the app was to just start giving away Capture 1 to buyers of their cameras. With that in mind, X Raw Studio becomes a de facto film recipe lab, which definitely has some utility in and of itself.
Pretty sure that was Capture One's decision in order to build their market share. While X-RAW studio is an excellent place to create and save recipes, it would be nice if it was a little more capable.
@@MaartenHeilbron there are definitely aspects to it that are half-baked and Fujifilm could do better. Starting with, oh I dunno, maybe even mentioning that little part about having to remove the SD card and mount to your computer in order for the program to work…
That's a big miss in my book.
@@MaartenHeilbron for sure. That said, apparently if you’ve already transferred the files to a folder on your computer or an attached drive, you can navigate to it. *BUT* those photos need to have been taken on whichever model camera is presently connected. Extremely non-intuitive. Nor is it well-explained.
Well, that does kind of make sense. But yes, non-intuitive and poorly documented and promoted. And why are the features of X-Acquire not integrated?
"What's Wrong with Fujifilm X-Raw Studio?" - Yes!
Always nice to know viewers appreciate my content.
Darktable for me, love the price, and has great capabilities
Never heard of this one, I'll check it out!
@@MaartenHeilbron open source for the win!
@@GreenhornPhototaker ahh!!
Hi, how is x-raw studio so fast for you? Even changing simulation takes several seconds for me. Switching image is something like 10+ seconds. Have you done any magic / special steps, or it is like that with standard settings? thanks
I'm using a 2021 Intel iMac.
@@MaartenHeilbron thanks, I will try it on a mac.
As for why the camera needs to be connected... my theory is so that Fujifilm can protect their film simulation LUTs and profiles. If they were included with the software, somebody would find a way to extract them for use with any camera. If Fujifilm was smart they would create a store where Fuji users could buy new film simulations. The people using these cameras love them, and Fuji could license other brands film stocks (Kodachrome , Tri-X, Ektachrome ). They could create a whole market around them for their entire camera line.
There's a excellent idea! However, as the camera updates are downloaded, would that not make it possible to reverse engineer them? Thanks for commenting.
@@MaartenHeilbron that is possible, but the updates are usually encrypted to some degree. This is possible to work around and has been seen with the video mods available for certain cameras. It comes down to the effort required to hack the software vs the benefit.
@@GetOffMyyLawn So, the exposure is about the same as a desktop app. All software/firmware can be hacked.
The reality is that it is the camera which does all the work as it does when you take a picture and produce a jpeg on location. The software does really few things.
@@davidlatreyte3188 Very few things
love X raw
You would!
it's beyond comprehension, such a lack of effort from fujifilm. If only they knew how important these programs are for beginner photographers. I'm loving NX Studio, even though it's far from perfect but at the same time light years ahead of what fujifilm has...
Not sure about "light years", but it does have more features.
DXO Photolab Elite with all the plugins
Right, that's a robust solution.
COne to edit. ACDsee to organize.
Haven't looked at ACDSee for a long time. No one has mentioned MGI PhotoSuite yet (I used to work at MGI).
Lightroom classic !
It's a classic!
@@MaartenHeilbron X-raw has so bad ergonomics ! kisses from France !
Hi, CaptureOne
That is clearly a viewer favourite!
I tried to use it and it was an awful experience. I went back to using my iPad.
Understood, thanks for your note.
The Fujifilm X-Raw Studio has its flaws, however I do enjoy the simplicity of it, plus it's for free. Whatever Fujifilm camera you plug in you get the same raw converter as the one inside your camera and that's fine by me. I never liked working with raw files, I either got the picture (jpeg) I wanted or I didn't. Editing raw files inside the camera is an option, but the camera will only show you the final image and not the individual changes/editing you do. The Fujifilm X-Raw Studio let's you see everything in real time. You change one thing and it instantaneously shows you what it does. It's great for beginners too.
*About the image processor in the camera doing the work, I don't think that's what it does. At least my X-T30 II doesn't even get warm while my computer's CPU is fully utilized when using the software. I think the camera is just a hardware key telling Fujifilm you are the rightful user of their software, or rather that you are their customer. I'm fine with that, the X-T30 II even seems to allowe for both being plugged in for the X-Raw Studio and for to charge the batter at the same time.
Well, I was just hoping for more. If it were the computer doing the work, why are the film sims limited to those available in the camera?
@@MaartenHeilbron I'd say they only give you those features and film simulations that you paid for, by buying the camera. This is the only reason I can think of and it does make sense. Speaking strictly about still photography image quality, there weren't any huge technological leaps on the hardware side in some time now.
That would be an explanation except for the fact that Fujifilm always states that new film sims are added as memory space and processing power in the camera allow. I don't think it's a money grab.
It also makes sense that they've developed the camera firmware in a specific way using an API specific to the camera and the features and functions of the X-peed processor. Replicating that exactly on the desktop with a difference API and processor may not be possible.
@@MaartenHeilbron I don't think it's a money grag either. All I'm saying is, when you use the x raw studios, the camera does not get warm at all, it doesn't even deplete the battery, while the CPU of the computer is working very hard to do all the work. The CPU inside your computer can do anything you throw at it. That's why it's so versatile.
The camera is obviously not more than a hardware dongle and isn't involved in the actual RAW conversion or image processing.
Capture One
That's certainly popular!
I felt a few of your asks were unfair. The tool used the camera to process which means it's super fast (yippy) but that means it's simply impossible to add film simulations which aren't on the camera (bummer). I'd focus asks on what the can do; there is no excuse for not having "save as". One feature I would like, batch update (let me see these 56 pictures with that film simulation) and I would like to update the JPG image stored in the raw file. And these request focus on strength, it doesn't do much but it does it well and quickly. And if you want more, get Lightroom.
Sorry for going outside the box. Thanks for your good suggestions.
The purpose of this program has been completely missed. It is not a photo editor and was never intended to be. Anyone commenting that they only use Lightroom etc just doesn’t get it. Agree the interface could be improved but not with added features.
Even if we accept your comment without qualification, it's still very limited usefulness and a little more functionality would make it a much better app.
The only useful feature of this software is the ability to save "recipes" directly to the xt4 without fiddling with the camera
Yes, for X-T4 photographers, that's a very useful feature.
Nikon studio x
Pairs perfectly with newer Nikon models!
This in-camera X-RAW Studio is ridiculous! The Nikon NX Studio is much easier and better. It is a shame because I love my Fuji XT-5.
Well, maybe not quite ridiculous, but certainly not as usable as the Nikon app.
Nothing
Interesting
i appreciate you sharing this video. However it seems like you do not completely understand the purpose of X Raw. It is not raw development software in the traditional sense, and should be thought of as a remote control for your camera. There is no raw conversion engine in this software, it depends entirely on the camera's hardware and firmware. So you won't ever see features like newer film simulations, corrections of shadow and hightlights or cropping beyond what the camera can do already. The benefits of using xraw is that it is the only way to get the film simulations exactly right. Other software like lightroom will only ever be able to approximate what the camera does. The in camera noise reduction and correction of optical imperfections is also much better than what you can get from lightroom for the simple reason that the camera is able to use sensor- and lens metadata that is just not known to lightroom. The downside is that if you upgrade your x-t2 to an t3 or t4, you won't be able to process any of your old raw files with xraw. Your new camera did not produce those files so it cannot process them. But as long as you're using xraw you're getting the very best raw conversion you can get, at no cost to you whatsoever. Its unique to Fuji and a very useful tool to have. Having said that I think everyone will agree that it's user interface could do with some modernisation because it is kind of clunky and tedious to use.
Interesting, but while I might appreciate this explanation, it's very hard to accept its limitations.
The interface of the software is outdated and lacks functionality not very useful at all I wish Fujifilm would redesign the interface with some additional features that is relevant to the modern digital age.
I just wish they'd make it a little easier to understand and a little more powerful.
@@MaartenHeilbron I really don’t see the point of that particular application considering you can do some sort of editing in the camera. Steve Jobs once describe Abode as being lazy the same comes for Fujifilm.
@@Ishijah1 Sounds about right. Even a little more useful and a little more customer-centred design would help.
Wow. I guess it really is just click bait for views now, isn't it? It's one thing to have genuine concerns about a products limitations, but your arguments seem to be posted to create a way to receive views only. The product in question does simple things brilliantly, if you understand the limitations, which are many... like asking a Mini to perform like a Bentley is just odd. The simple fact is you are limited by the software of the camera you took the original picture with as the conversion happens in the camera. So yea, why would Fuji spend time creating a whole new software when what's in the camera is already pretty darn good.
Yes, sorry. However, I did think that I explained my argument. Even if we accept that the apps only purpose is to apply different settings to the images taken, it would still be helpful if, as the app requires the images to be transferred to the computer before processing, that the app facilitate that task.
Your problem is that you don’t know what X Raw Studio is. According to Fuji, it is just a way to do what you can do in camera in a more comfortable environment, namely one with a larger screen. If you bothered reading the manual, you would know that it works with raw files stored on your computer and it writes the jpg files you create to the same folder. Since the camera handles all the processing, how could you possibly use a film simulation it does not have? This application is NOT a photo editor. It’s a way to play with recipes and create jpegs from raw files, and this it does very well. At least familiarize yourself with the subject of your videos before posting!
I'm not sure that knowing the limitations are intentional redeems this. All the issues I describe have easy fixes.
@@MaartenHeilbron I think a lot of people make excuses for Fuji when it comes to this. I love my fuji cameras also but also agree with you on the RAW X program. The program is intended to process raw files. How it goes about doing that and how limited it is should not be excused. Could they have made it where it did not require the camera to be plugged in and added additional functionality? I have to say absolutely yes. They chose to make it VERY limited in scope. It is also slow to perform actions as it is relying on the camera to do the work vs the PC. I fail to accept that this was the best method of going about this. I ended up using photolab 5 but wished that the raw x was better.
@@mnaz5628 Agree. We both wish it was better.
@@mnaz5628 If you read the overview of the the Raw X program on the Fuji website , you would see that it is not intended, nor does it have any of the tools, to be a file editor. No wonder you are disappointed. For its intended use, I think it is a rather brilliant, of a tad clunky, piece of software but in no way replaces the need for Lightroom, my choice, or similar aps
Useless app
That's a little extreme, it has some usefulness, however it could certainly do more.