Extended Photos
In going through more of the features of the FujiFilm X100s, I have found another feature that adds value and usefulness from a digital SLR camera. In the menu system where you select the drive of the shutter, you can choose the panoramic function. This works exactly the same as the panoramic feature of the iOS camera app from the Apple iPhone. When this is selected, the back of the camera will give you an arrow to show you the direction to pan the camera to make the image. After clicking the shutter, you can hear the camera making multiple images. Afterwards you move the camera from left to right.
Panoramic Images
The X100s has some advantages over the smartphone app. If you leave the camera in completely manual mode, you can set the aperture and shutter speed. In this case each component image is consistent with the one right next to it. The camera does process the panorama very quickly, so you can quickly preview to see any problems that may require you to retry. I wish that it would be possible work with RAW files with this mode, but that is not an option. Only 1 JPG is made from each panorama. The X100s also has a really good grid overlay on the screen as you make the panorama which helps to keep the horizon straight! This is implemented much better on the x100s than the phone – my horizons were much straighter throughout with less cropping needed from the top or bottom.
This is a welcome feature that I will definitely be using more. Couple the ease and speed with which you can create panoramic images with the image quality from the sensor, and you have another tool to make unique images. Let me know if you do this by stitching with software, or using a smartphone. I am sure there are lots of techniques and tips that would make this even better!
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