2012: A Good Year for Cameras

As 2012 approaches, more and more exceptional cameras are scheduled to debut, models that are sure to delight rangefinder fans. Here’s the short list:




Fujifilm Finepix X10

Debuting in November was Fujifilm’s follow up to the enormously successful X100. Competing head to head with the Nikon P7100 and Canon G12, this retro design features an excellent optical viewfinder and fast, fixed zoom lens. With a larger, newly designed sensor, apertures up to f/11 are possible. And for the first time in a rangefinder-style camera, a manual zoom lens with actual focal length designations right on the barrel.






Sony Alpha NEX-7

Also debuting in November was Sony’s latest entry in the mirrorless category. This latest iteration of the NEX series sports a more serious look and feel. But what’s truly remarkable is that they were able to shoehorn in both a 24MP APS-C sensor and the highest resolution electronic viewfinder. With its larger sensor and interchangeable lens, the NEX-7 is essentially a “universal body” that can be adapted to many existing SLR lenses without the need for optics to compensate for longer flange-focal distances.






Nikon 1 V1

Nikon’s foray into the mirrorless market begins with the debut of the V1 and J1, available in October of this year. With its new CX sensor (a 3:2 format with similar dimensions to the 1" sensor), the V1 features interchangeable lenses with Nikon’s first new mount design since 1959. The V1 shown here also employs an on-board, high resolution electronic viewfinder. Advanced technology captures multiple frames (similar to video) and selects the best one based on exposure and focus.

Pentax Q

From the folks that brought you the Auto 110 SLR, comes this miniature interchangeable lens mirrorless camera. By using a 1/2.3" backlit CMOS sensor, lens size is kept to a minimum. Although the camera doesn’t feature a viewfinder, an optional optical viewfinder is available for the 8.5mm (47mm equivalent) normal lens.

Nikon P7100

Successor to the already excellent P7000, this update features snappier performance and a cosmetic upgrade.

Fujifilm Finepix X100

Continuing in 2012, the hard to come by Finepix X100 is the flagship of the group. Its uncompromising design and manufacture sets it apart from the pack.