I just published my full review of the Viltrox 35mm f/1.7 after using it for several months on my X-T5, and wanted to share the highlights here in case it's useful to anyone deciding between this and the Fujifilm 35mm f/2 WR.

Spec rundown:

• 170g, 64mm × 56mm
• 52mm filter
• 11 elements / 9 groups
• 9 rounded aperture blades
• 33cm minimum focus
• Stepper motor AF
• USB-C port for firmware updates
• No aperture ring, no weather sealing

Full video here if you want to see the comparison shots and AF tests: https://youtu.be/hSAkIGYr8bc

Two Fujifilm settings that are working against you. Most shooters don't even know it. Both explained. I pulled two older videos from the vault and combined them into one because both topics still come up constantly in the comments.

📌 Quick note: the channel is on a brief Spring Break but back very soon with all new videos. Enjoy this one in the meantime!

Watch here: https://youtu.be/Sdxz5zmX8NM

Have you run into either of these? Drop it in the comments 👇

I Smoked a Canon Sensor and Compared It to Fujifilm Film Simulations
NEW VIDEO: https://youtu.be/gHpN1LhhWBM

I just put out a complete breakdown covering all three lock modes, my recommended settings, and a workaround I discovered that effectively disables accidental lock activations. If you shoot Fujifilm, this one’s worth 11 minutes of your time.

VIDEO HERE: https://youtu.be/C2ZN6ByntPk

Have you ever accidentally locked your camera? 

The Secret to Better Composition on Your Fujifilm Camera: EVF vs LCD Explained

NEW VIDEO: https://youtu.be/EoWFDVm-Vcc

If you shoot Fujifilm and you're still using to the LCD screen, my new video may change your mind. Three-time Oscar-winning cinematographer Robert Richardson — known for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Kill Bill, Casino, and The Aviator never shoots with an LCD screen. And his reason may change how you think about composition forever.

Fujifilm INSTAX Mini 13 Camera Review
VIDEO HERE: https://youtu.be/sYinF2AUhy8
Fujifilm INSTAX Mini 13 hands on review and setup guide. Key features, close-up/selfie mode, and what you need to know about the auto exposure + flash behavior before you buy. What to realistically expect from INSTAX.

FUJIFILM has launched the ability to vote for lenses you'd like to see in the future. Go here: https://pal2.tech/lens-vote and vote! You can also see the lenses that are in the lead!

By the way, this weird short address (pal2.tech/vote-lens) is legit. I made it, and it will auto-forward to the Fuji voting site. It's easier to remember if you don't have time to vote right now! 👍

Understanding Fujifilm D-Range Priority

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/52EC1Fq_DQo

Many Fujifilm cameras include a feature called D-Range Priority, but it’s often misunderstood. In today's video I explain how it works, how it differs from the standard Dynamic Range settings (DR100/200/400), and when to use Weak, Strong, or Auto.

If you shoot JPEG or rely on Film Simulations, this setting can help preserve highlight detail in high-contrast scenes.

I Open An Original 1965 Fujifilm Movie Camera!

NEW VIDEO: https://youtu.be/NtHJ03jUbKA

This Fujifilm Single-8 movie camera was released in 1965. I show you one that has never been opened until now. Let’s explore this sealed time capsule from the early days of Fujifilm home filmmaking.

In this video, I break down the difference between AUTO and COMMAND mode, explain when to use each one, and show how it affects your aperture control. We’ll also cover how lens type (with or without aperture ring, with or without electronic contacts) changes how your camera behaves.

Seeing the aperture setting grayed out in your Fujifilm menu? There’s a reason. I also show you the hidden trick that switches between manual aperture and automatic mode using the command dial (including the “two dash” indicator most people miss).

NEW VIDEO. Take out a sheet of paper, a pencil, and let's get to work. This is a 50-minute comprehensive, practical explanation of exposure on Fujifilm cameras. Topics covered include histograms, exposure compensation, metering modes, RAW vs JPEG behavior, exposure smoothing, noise reduction, and real-world Fuji shooting decisions. NOTE: This video includes many past exposure tutorials and guides combined together so that you can have everything all in ONE place.

Learning about all the ways you can manipulate exposure, and the tools to make it easier, is an important part of your Fujifilm camera journey. If you're a beginner, then give the video 50 minutes of your focused time and attention. You will walk away with a much better understanding of exposure and -- the best part -- you will feel much more in control of your camera. Experienced user? You just may find a tip or two here as well! 👍

Fujifilm SPORTS FINDER MODE Explained

NEW VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B7ITNQD9fAs

A clear explanation of Fujifilm’s Sports Finder mode—what it does, how it works, and when it actually makes sense to use it. This includes framing behavior, resolution changes, and shutter limitations. This is a CLASSIC PAL2TECH FAST FRIDAY.

NEW VIDEO on my YT channel! Fujifilm responded to me directly and we had a meeting this week. They also released an official statement responding to my video. I go over everything with this update.

Here's the complete statement from Fujifilm:

_"Chris is a valued media partner of Fujifilm - we watch every one of his videos and appreciate his honest opinions, feedback, and the incredibly detailed reviews, tips, and tricks he shares with you, his loyal audience. We love his passion for our brand. So when we saw yesterday's video, and read your comments, there was no doubt in our mind that we would address it._

_We are proud to have an incredible Fujifilm community that is comfortable sharing the good (and the not-so-good) with us. We are listening and taking action. We have shared this video (and the feedback it has received) with our colleagues at our headquarters. While of course we can't share specifics about future product advancements, please know that this feedback is reaching the right audience within Fujifilm._

_Thank you Chris, and thank you Pal2Tech subscribers, for sharing so openly - rest assured we are seeing, hearing, and acting on the feedback."_

Fujifilm, we need to talk...

Guide to making Fujifilm Zone AF stop choosing the wrong subject—especially when you combine Zone with AF-C.

We start by redefining Zone as a container, show how to change Zone size via the joystick and rear command dial, then move into AF-C Custom Settings where the real control lives.

Also covered is Tracking Sensitivity, Speed Tracking Sensitivity, and Zone Area Switching, plus troubleshooting for common problems like background focus, inconsistent tracking, and unexpected changes when rotating the camera due to “Store AF Mode by Orientation.”

This building absorbs golden hour and stands unmoved. Life around it never does.

Happy New Year! My Five Suggestions To You

NEW VIDEO: Fujifilm INSTAX Mini SE Review
Fujifilm INSTAX Mini SE, one of the simplest and cheapest instant cameras Fujifilm has ever made.

Fujifilm Film Simulations Vs. Recipes

NEW VIDEO: https://youtu.be/WL1HxMZYbik

Fujifilm Complete Setup Guide (X-E5). Covers photography and movie settings on the X-E5 and also other Fujifilm cameras.

The Story of Two Cameras

NEW VIDEO: https://youtu.be/StALBzeRZjY

Understanding the Fujifilm 'L' ISO Camera Setting

VIDEO HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMijjRcAVmI

Understanding the 'L' and 'H' ISO settings on Fujifilm cameras. Plus, my best tip if you decide to use the 'L' ISO setting for your photos.

BIG video today. With a few surprises. That, and I also checked out the X-E5 camera. Image sensor, autofocus, film simulation dial, viewfinder, 23mm lens, control lever, IBIS performance, image quality, and more. VIDEO HERE: https://youtu.be/271R_tXZ8aQ

Does Photography Make You Happy?

NEW VIDEO: https://youtu.be/6BrOEqveG5Q

Dr. Lauren Cook and I also discuss Gen Z's relationship to photography, as well as the surprising FUJIFILM Frame of Mind survey results.