This article explores the pros and cons of working with images straight out of camera.
But Greg, don’t all images come straight out of camera? Why, yes, avid readers, they do!
Straight Out Of Camera (SOOC) refers to JPEG image files that are not edited in an external software solution such as Adobe Lightroom.
SOOC relates to the images as they appear on the SD card.
There’s no denying the quality and accuracy of Fujifilm colors.
Some would argue that shooting in JPEG rather than RAW captures the purest of Fuji’s color science.
To demonstrate the benefits of Fuji SOOC photography, I challenge myself to capture a range of photography styles and genres in JPEG SOOC.
Let’s discover the pros and cons of capturing SOOC images with any Fujifilm X or GFX camera.
What’s the Appeal of Straight Out Of Camera?
Fujifilm Classic Chrome Film Simulation
Sitting in front of a screen for hours editing RAW files is a drag for many photographers.
While it’s an essential part of the creative process, it requires additional steps, equipment, and knowledge.
RAW image files are large, especially from a new 40MP Fuji X Series or even a 100MP GFX camera.
Consequently, importing them into software like Adobe Lightroom takes a long time, and you’ll need Terabytes of storage to keep up with your growing image catalog.
Putting aside the worries about storage, you’ll also need a computer powerful enough to do the heavy lifting required to manage and edit RAW images.
I’m running a relatively powerful 2017 iMac with 16GB of RAM, and it struggles with the larger Fuji RAW files.
Throw in an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription and a lot of tech know-how, and you’ve got yourself an end-to-end workflow.
Working with a straight-out-of-camera process slashes the time spent editing, managing, and storing images.
SOOC images are JPEG files that are smaller, easier to store, and don’t take any computer time at all.
The simpler SOOC workflow allows you to take photos almost 100% of your time.
You can also fit several times the number of JPEG images on an SD card compared to RAW files.
While we’ll cover this in more detail later, it’s also possible to apply simple edits to JPEG images when shooting with a Fujifilm camera.
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As a result, you can achieve a tailored look to your photos without the expensive requirements of a computer or editing software.
Fujifilm JPEG Vs. RAW
All Fujifilm X and GFX Series cameras can record image files in RAW and JPEG formats.
RAW image files capture all the data recorded by the image sensor.
The size and quality of the files depend on the resolution of the Fujifilm sensor, with higher megapixel sensors recording more data.
Because of the depth of the data, it’s easier to edit RAW files in post-processing software like Adobe Lightroom.
Editing RAW files means it’s easier to push back highlights, pull detail out of shadows, alter colors, and crop without losing too much resolution.
RAW files are also considerably larger and require more storage space on the camera’s SD card or your computer’s hard drives.
JPEG files capture a smaller and less dense amount of data than RAW images.
For example, the maximum file size of an uncompressed RAW file from the GFX 100S II is 228.5MB, while a JPEG is 61.5MB.
The JPEG surface-level data still captures excellent image quality, sharpness, color reproduction, and exposure.
However, when editing JPEG image files, the flexibility experienced with RAW files doesn’t exist.
If you capture an underexposed image, you can do little to bring the details out of the darkness.
JPEG images are smaller, take up less storage space, and are more accessible to share via email and social media.
Setting your Fuji camera to capture JPEG files simplifies your end-to-end workflow and pushes you to capture the correct exposure and composition the first time.
Fujifilm Colors
Fujifilm Astia Film Simulation
Fujifilm has a reputation for excellence in color science and true-to-life color reproduction.
The Japanese company has earned its reputation through 90 years of experience in the industry.
Fujifilm was a pioneer in analog film development and production.
That heritage led Fujifilm to create some of the most acclaimed film stock and digital cameras on the market.
Today, we enjoy Fujifilm’s trial and error with highly accurate color reproduction from the X and GFX cameras.
RAW image files contain exceptional levels of color data that are faithful to the original scene.
Fuji’s JPEG color quality is a key reason why many Fuji photographers prefer to work with SOOC images only.
The color reproduction is so accurate and visually pleasing that there’s no need to edit the file to bring the color to life. It’s already baked in!
Old School Film Simulations
Fujifilm Classic Chrome Film Simulation
As mentioned, Fuji has a long history of developing film stock for compact cameras.
While Fujifilm wasn’t the only player in the film market, they were among the most successful and influential.
While Fuji’s current film offerings are nothing compared to its heyday of film, it still produces several highly popular 35mm films.
What does that have to do with anything, Greg? Another great question, dear reader.
The point is that Fujifilm has used digital wizardry to add a range of visual filters or presets to its cameras.
Known as Film Simulations, the filters replicate some of Fuji’s best-known retro analog film stock.
Film sims apply color, tonal values, contrast, and an overall feel, recreating classic photography looks.
While Fuji Film Sims can be applied to RAW files in post-processing, the best application is to shoot JPEG images with a film sim baked in.
That way, your SOOC JPEG images instantly feature looks such as Classic Chrome, Velvia, or the monochrome Acros.
Current generation Fujifilm X Series cameras, such as the Fujifilm X-T5, feature up to 20 different film simulations.
Professional and novice photographers love Fuji color science and the clever use of film simulations.
It supports professional photographers in creating powerful or attractive image outcomes.
Those new to photography, or those moving from smartphone photography, love the ability to apply ‘filters’ and achieve instantly appealing looks.
Fujifilm has seen the demand for its unique film simulations and has continued to expand the range since the very first X Series camera.
My 12-year-old Fujifilm X70 features 11 film sims, while the latest Fujifilm GFX 100S II boasts 20.
Fujifilm’s designers and engineers have taken film simulation a step further in their latest X Series camera.
The Fujifilm X-T50 features a dedicated dial to select several film simulations instantly.
The dial also accommodates blank custom spaces for additional film simulation favorites.
The Straight Out Of Camera Process
Fujifilm cameras are ideal for SOOC photography.
They’ve made it easy to achieve excellent image quality without needing external editing processes and workflows.
What’s more, there are a few different ways to achieve SOOC images with any Fuji camera.
JPEG SOOC
Fujifilm Astia Film Simulation
When shooting with Fujifilm X Series cameras, the SOOC process is straightforward to master.
Before you head out to take photos, the image quality is the most crucial menu setting to change.
Fujifilm cameras capture images as JPEG, Lossless Compressed RAW, Compressed RAW, and Uncompressed RAW.
After setting the image quality to JPEG, you can choose Fine (higher resolution JPEG) or Normal.
I recommend always selecting Fine to gain the best image quality from a Fuji JPEG.
And that’s it! You’re done and ready to capture your best SOOC images.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Fujifilm if you didn’t first select a Film Simulation to apply to your JPEG images.
The great thing about applying film sims is that when you set the camera to capture images with a sim, the simulation is applied to the live view seen through the EVF or the rear LCD.
That way, you understand how the film simulation works with the subjects or scenes you photograph.
Another neat feature of shooting a JPEG with a Fuji is the ability to make minor adjustments to the image quality.
Leaving aside the film simulation option, you can adjust the Grain Effect, Color Chrome Effect, White Balance, Dynamic Range, Tone Curve, Color, Sharpness, High ISO NR, and Clarity.
From there, you’re now ready to head out and photograph whatever your heart desires.
However, remember that your ability to edit JPEG images in editing software is diminished significantly.
RAW Plus JPEG
If you always shoot in RAW format like me but are willing to challenge yourself with SOOC JPEG files, Fuji’s got you covered.
It’s possible to set the camera to capture a RAW file plus a JPEG copy of the same image.
That way, you have a RAW file to edit on your computer or tablet, plus a JPEG for SOOC or as a backup for important files.
If your Fuji camera has a single SD card slot, the RAW and JPEG images will appear on the same card.
However, if you’re working with a camera like the Fujifilm X-T5 with dual SD card slots, you can set the RAW files to one card and the JPEGs to the other.
RAW SOOC
Technically speaking, shooting only RAW files with your Fujifilm camera and still creating SOOC images is possible.
In their wisdom, Fujifilm included a RAW Conversion solution within the camera menu system.
It lets you capture all your images in RAW format and select the ones you want to convert to JPEG format.
It’s a convenient option for those who like to edit on the go to share their images with friends online and on social media.
The RAW Conversion option is very intuitive and quick to master.
You apply the same level of image editing to manage Image Quality, Exposure Value, Color, Sharpness, Noise Reduction, and Clarity and apply any of the camera’s film simulations.
You can also save combinations of the above editing options as custom recipes. Once named and saved, you can quickly access the custom JPEG settings via the Q menu.
Then, you select Create, and the camera processor converts the RAW image file down to a smaller JPEG image with the edits baked in.
The original RAW file is still intact and stored securely on the SD card should you wish to store it or edit it later in software such as Lightroom.
If completing the RAW conversion and editing process on the tiny Fuji 3″ LCD isn’t your cup of tea, you can complete the same task on a computer.
The Fuji X RAW Studio desktop computer software is a simple app developed by Fujifilm.
You plug your Fujifilm X or GFX camera into your computer and load up X RAW Studio.
The software connects your computer to the Fuji camera X Processor. X RAW studio lets you apply the same minor edits as you would in the camera’s RAW Conversion menu.
X RAW is free and requires minimal computer system requirements.
You can also select to save your completed JPEG images directly to your computer for easy storage, access, and sharing with others.
Check out our complete guide to Fuji X RAW Studio to learn more.
Fuji Camera Remote App
If you want to simplify your end-to-end workflow, the Fujifilm straight out-of-camera process is ideal.
Furthermore, you can use the Fuji Camera Remote App if you are traveling or like to shoot, edit, and share on the go.
The app is available for smartphones and tablets. It pairs with all Fujifilm X and GFX series cameras and serves several functions.
As the name suggests, the app works as a remote camera control, allowing you to adjust aperture, exposure, shutter speed, and ISO remotely.
As a result, you can set up your camera away from you and see the overview on your smartphone screen.
It’s actually really handy for long exposure work where you don’t want to touch your camera for fear of camera shake.
The app also allows you to quickly transfer JPEG images straight from the camera to your smartphone photo library.
While technically not a SOOC outcome, you can use third-party smartphone apps to edit your images further.
The Fujifilm Straight Out Of Camera Challenge
Fujifilm Acros Film Simulation
I put myself through the Fujifilm SOOC challenge to capture images for this article.
All images were shot with my Fujifilm X-E4 and Fujifilm XF 27mm f/2.8.
I worked with a range of subjects and applied a Fuji Film Simulation that I felt suited the context.
In Image Quality Settings, I bumped up the Sharpness and Clarity and turned on the Color Chrome Effect.
Given that I’ve only ever shot in RAW format, I found the process liberating and insightful.
I was very mindful of the framing and composition. After reviewing my JPEG images, I discovered I tend to tilt my camera slightly to the right every time!
Taking the time to view the composition and then dial in a suitable Film Simulation is equally fun.
Once back home, I imported the images from my SD card but had to resize them slightly for this article—the process was simple and swift.
Overall, it was a fun experiment and one outing taught me much about how I hold my camera and frame shots.
Is SOOC Better Than Traditional Editing Workflows?
Fujifilm Eterna Film Simulation
As with any creative process, SOOC will suit some photographers but not others.
If you’re an enthusiast or professional photographer, you will likely find that editing RAW files in editing software like Lightroom is the best option for you.
However, if you detest editing or prefer a more straightforward end-to-end process, then there’s a lot to love about SOOC.
Any Fujifilm X or GFX series camera accommodates SOOC workflow.
I think the most essential part of adopting a straight-out-of-camera process is boosting your skills and experiences.
Think about it: the less time you spend sitting at a computer editing photos, the more time you have to take photographs.
Furthermore, knowing you won’t edit images drastically increases your mindfulness when taking photos.
You’ll be more considerate about framing, composition, zooming with your feet, achieving correct exposure, and much more.
Surely, that alone is worth at least experimenting with a SOOC the next time you pick up your Fujifilm camera.
How about you? Do you shoot SOOC with a Fujifilm X or GFX camera? Share your experiences below. Above all else, get out there with your camera.
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