Fuji X100S Manual Focus

The Fuji X100S is a premium digital camera featuring a hybrid viewfinder, 16.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor, and advanced manual focus capabilities. The manual focus system combines traditional focusing techniques with modern digital aids including focus peaking, digital split image, and focus check. Below are key sections for focus modes, operation techniques, settings, and troubleshooting.

1. Focus Modes Overview 2. Manual Focus Operation 3. Focus Assist Features 4. Focus Ring Settings 5. Custom Focus Buttons 6. Low Light Focusing 7. Macro Focus Range 8. Focus Preset Techniques 9. Maintenance & Care 10. Technical Specifications 11. Troubleshooting

Focus Modes Overview

The X100S offers three primary focus modes: Single AF (S), Continuous AF (C), and Manual Focus (M). Manual focus provides complete control over focus distance and creative focusing techniques.

Focus Mode	Description
Single AF (S)	Auto-focus locks when shutter button half-pressed
Continuous AF (C)	Continuous auto-focus tracking moving subjects
Manual Focus (M)	Full manual control using focus ring and focus aids
AF+MF	Auto-focus with manual fine-tuning capability
Focus Peaking	Highlights in-focus areas with colored outlines
Digital Split Image	Traditional split-prism focusing aid
Focus Check	Magnifies image area for precise focus verification

Manual Focus Operation

Engage manual focus by switching the focus selector on camera body to M position.

Set focus mode: Turn focus selector switch to M position.
Rotate focus ring: Turn lens focus ring to adjust focus distance.
Use focus aids: Enable focus peaking or digital split image for precision.
Verify focus: Use focus check magnification to confirm sharpness.
Capture image: Press shutter button completely when focus achieved.

IMPORTANT! Manual focus requires practice; use focus aids for best results in challenging conditions.

Focus Assist Features

The X100S provides multiple digital aids to enhance manual focus accuracy.

Focus Peaking: Highlights sharp edges in white, red, or blue (SETUP menu).
Digital Split Image: Displays split-prism view when focus ring turned.
Focus Check: Magnifies center area (press AFL/AEL button to activate).
MF Distance Indicator: Shows approximate focus distance in viewfinder.
Depth of Field Scale: Displays depth of field range based on aperture.

TIP: Combine focus peaking with focus check for maximum precision in critical situations.

Focus Ring Settings

Focus Ring Type: Electronic focus ring with customizable behavior.
Rotation Direction: Adjustable in menu (clockwise for near/far).
Focus Throw: Approximately 120° rotation for full range.
Step Response: Fine control throughout focus range.
Customization: SETUP > BUTTON/DIAL SETTING > FOCUS RING.

Custom Focus Buttons

Programmable function buttons can be assigned to focus-related functions for quick access.

Assignable Functions: FOCUS CHECK, FOCUS PEAKING, AF MODE, AF+MF, MF ASSIST.

Configuration: Press and hold desired FN button, then select function from menu. Recommended assignments: FN1 for focus check, FN2 for focus peaking toggle.

Low Light Focusing

Manual focus excels in low light where auto-focus may struggle.

Use focus peaking: High contrast edges remain visible in low light.
Focus check magnification: Verify critical focus at high magnification.
Digital split image: Works effectively with point light sources.
Assist lamp: Enable AF ILLUMINATOR in dark environments.
High ISO preview: Temporarily boost ISO to see subject clearly.

NOTE: Focus peaking sensitivity can be adjusted in SETUP menu for low light conditions.

Macro Focus Range

The X100S manual focus range extends to 10cm in macro mode.

Normal Focus Range: 50cm to infinity.
Macro Focus Range: 10cm to 2m (enable macro function).
Macro Activation: Press macro button or assign to FN button.
Focus Precision: Critical in macro; use focus check at maximum magnification.
Depth of Field: Very shallow at close distances; use smaller apertures.

Focus Preset Techniques

Advanced manual focus techniques for specific shooting scenarios.

Zone Focusing: Pre-set focus distance for street photography.
Hyperfocal Distance: Maximize depth of field for landscape.
Focus Tracking: Manual follow-focus for video applications.
Focus Stacking: Multiple exposures at different focus distances.
Infrared Focus: Manual focus adjustment for IR photography.

PRO TIP: Use depth of field scale in viewfinder for zone focusing calculations.

Maintenance & Care

Proper maintenance ensures smooth manual focus operation.

Clean focus ring area with soft brush. Avoid excessive force when turning focus ring. Store camera with lens focused at infinity. Periodic calibration check recommended for critical work.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air on focus mechanism; avoid moisture and extreme temperatures.

Technical Specifications

Focus System: Manual focus with electronic focus ring
Focus Aids: Focus peaking, digital split image, focus check
Focus Throw: 120° rotation
Minimum Focus: 10cm (macro), 50cm (normal)
Focus Scale: Distance indicator in feet and meters
Customization: Focus ring direction, focus aid colors
Compatibility: Works with optical and electronic viewfinders

Troubleshooting

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Focus ring not responding	Mode not set to M	Set focus selector to M position
Focus peaking not visible	Feature disabled	Enable in SETUP > SCREEN SET-UP
Digital split image not working	Incompatible mode	Use in manual focus mode only
Focus check magnification poor	Low light/low contrast	Increase lighting or use focus peaking
Inconsistent focus accuracy	Camera movement	Use tripod and focus bracketing

Reset: SETUP > USER SETTING > RESET to restore default focus settings.

Service: Contact authorized Fujifilm service center for focus mechanism issues.