Fujifilm X100 Manual Focus

The Fujifilm X100 is a premium compact digital camera featuring a 12.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor, fixed 23mm f/2 lens, hybrid viewfinder, and advanced manual focus capabilities. The manual focus system includes focus ring control, focus peaking, digital split image, and distance scale display for precise focusing control. Below are key sections for features, operation, settings, techniques, and troubleshooting.

1. Manual Focus Features 2. Switching to Manual Focus 3. Focus Ring Operation 4. Focus Assist Tools 5. Distance Scale 6. Hyperfocal Distance 7. Custom Settings 8. Common Techniques 9. Maintenance 10. Troubleshooting

Manual Focus Features

Key manual focus components: Focus ring on lens barrel, MF ASSIST button, focus mode switch, EVF/LCD display with focus aids.

FeatureDescription
Focus RingMechanical ring for precise manual focus adjustment
Focus Mode SwitchSwitches between AF-S, AF-C, and MF modes
MF ASSIST ButtonActivates focus assist features (peaking/split image)
Focus PeakingHighlights in-focus areas with colored outlines
Digital Split ImageTraditional split-prism style focusing aid
Distance ScaleDisplays focus distance and depth of field
EVF/LCD DisplayElectronic viewfinder and LCD for focus confirmation
Focus CheckMagnifies image area for critical focus
AEL/AFL ButtonCan be customized for focus functions
Command DialAlternative focus adjustment when enabled

Switching to Manual Focus

Engage manual focus mode for full control over focusing.

  1. Locate focus mode switch on camera body or lens barrel.
  2. Slide switch to MF (Manual Focus) position.
  3. Rotate focus ring to adjust focus manually.
  4. Use MF ASSIST button to activate focus aids if needed.

NOTE! In MF mode, camera will not attempt auto focus. Full control is with photographer.

Focus Ring Operation

The focus ring provides smooth, precise manual focus control.

  1. Grip focus ring firmly but gently.
  2. Rotate clockwise for closer focus (toward infinity mark).
  3. Rotate counterclockwise for farther focus (toward close focus).
  4. Fine adjustments: Make small, precise rotations for critical focus.
  5. Use focus peaking or split image to confirm sharp focus.

TIP! Practice with stationary subjects to develop muscle memory for focus ring movements.

Focus Assist Tools

Multiple tools available to help achieve precise manual focus.

ACCESS: Press MF ASSIST button to cycle through focus aids.

Distance Scale

The distance scale displays focus distance and depth of field information.

  1. Enable distance scale in SHOOTING MENU > SCREEN SET-UP.
  2. View current focus distance in feet/meters.
  3. Depth of field scale shows acceptable focus range.
  4. Use for zone focusing and hyperfocal distance techniques.

APPLICATION: Ideal for street photography and pre-focusing.

Hyperfocal Distance

Maximize depth of field using hyperfocal distance technique.

  1. Set aperture to f/8 or smaller for greater depth of field.
  2. Focus at hyperfocal distance using distance scale.
  3. Verify depth of field covers desired foreground and background.
  4. Use focus peaking to confirm sharpness throughout frame.

BENEFIT: Everything from half the hyperfocal distance to infinity will be acceptably sharp.

Custom Settings

Customize manual focus behavior to match shooting style.

SettingOptionDescription
FOCUS CHECKOn/OffAuto-magnify when focus ring moved
PEAKING COLORRed/White/BlueChoose focus peaking highlight color
PEAKING LEVELHigh/LowAdjust peaking sensitivity
MF RINGLinear/Non-linearFocus ring response behavior
AF+MFOn/OffAllow fine-tuning after auto focus
FOCUS SCALEFeet/MetersDistance scale unit preference

Common Techniques

Effective manual focus techniques for various shooting scenarios.

  1. Zone Focusing: Pre-focus using distance scale for quick shooting
  2. Focus and Recompose: Focus on subject, then recompose frame
  3. Focus Peaking for Video: Maintain focus during video recording
  4. Macro Focusing: Use focus check magnification for close-ups
  5. Low Light Focusing: Combine peaking with high ISO for visibility

PRACTICE: Regular practice improves speed and accuracy.

Maintenance

Proper care ensures smooth manual focus operation.

CAUTION! Do not use excessive force on focus ring. Seek service if stiff.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Focus ring not respondingMode switch in AFSwitch to MF mode; check custom settings
Focus peaking not visibleDisabled in menuEnable in SET-UP > SCREEN SET-UP > FOCUS PEAKING
Split image not aligningIncorrect focusContinue rotating focus ring until images align
Distance scale inaccurateCalibration issueCheck firmware; may require service calibration
Focus stiff or grittyDirt/debrisClean carefully; seek professional service if persistent
Focus confirmation not workingCustom settingEnable FOCUS CHECK in shooting menu

Reset: Menu > SET-UP > RESET to restore default focus settings.

Support: Visit www.fujifilm.com/support or contact local service center.

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