PHOTOGRAPHY
9 MINS
Seeing by feeling
Seeing by feeling
On design, photography, and an obsession with the X100VI
Premankan Seal, Chief Design Officer at Canvs, talks taste, tools, trusting your eye, and how photography has always moved in step with his design becoming.
PREMANKAN SEAL
PREMANKAN SEAL
PREMANKAN SEAL
How it started
How it started
From hearing stories of his grandfather’s now-missing Leica & Rolleiflex, to admiring SLR cameras in the hands of ‘the grown-ups’ to tinkering with his very first toy and film cameras, photography has long been a companion to Premankan's visual instinct. Equal parts observer and editor, he’s spent years tuning his taste, in design, in the visual and fine arts, and on the streets, where every frame, every moment, is an act of choosing what to show, and what to leave out. Whether he's chasing a pretty reflection or tweaking a film simulation, what guides him is the decision to make with intent.
Over time, the tools evolved from cheap film cameras to DSLRs to mirrorless systems and large sensor phone cameras, each one adding something to his picture-making arsenal. However, it was the Fujifilm X100VI that landed just right, it wasn’t just another cool-looking rangefinder-inspired tool for him, but the perfect extension of how he likes to see: by feeling first.
From hearing stories of his grandfather’s now-missing Leica & Rolleiflex, to admiring SLR cameras in the hands of ‘the grown-ups’ to tinkering with his very first toy and film cameras, photography has long been a companion to Premankan's visual instinct. Equal parts observer and editor, he’s spent years tuning his taste, in design, in the visual and fine arts, and on the streets, where every frame, every moment, is an act of choosing what to show, and what to leave out. Whether he's chasing a pretty reflection or tweaking a film simulation, what guides him is the decision to make with intent.
Over time, the tools evolved from cheap film cameras to DSLRs to mirrorless systems and large sensor phone cameras, each one adding something to his picture-making arsenal. However, it was the Fujifilm X100VI that landed just right, it wasn’t just another cool-looking rangefinder-inspired tool for him, but the perfect extension of how he likes to see: by feeling first.
“It comes down to loving the act of making."
“It comes down to loving the act of making."
What do you enjoy about photography?
What do you enjoy about photography?
Making a photo. The whole act of it. I enjoy the planning, nerding out over the gear, the whole process. I love waiting for the right moment and getting the shot right in-camera. That part’s deeply satisfying.
I also genuinely enjoy post-production. I'm inherently nerdy by nature, so I like learning & reading up about colour profiles, codecs, and all that stuff — sRGB vs Adobe RGB, 4:2:2 vs 4:2:0, how different film simulation recipes dramatically change the outcome. It’s fun for me. I could have gone deep into anything else nerdy (and I have more than a few of those obsessions), but photography is tactile. Turning a physical dial is always more fun than dragging a digital slider on a screen. And really, it comes down to loving the act of making.
Making a photo. The whole act of it. I enjoy the planning, nerding out over the gear, the whole process. I love waiting for the right moment and getting the shot right in-camera. That part’s deeply satisfying.
I also genuinely enjoy post-production. I'm inherently nerdy by nature, so I like learning & reading up about colour profiles, codecs, and all that stuff — sRGB vs Adobe RGB, 4:2:2 vs 4:2:0, how different film simulation recipes dramatically change the outcome. It’s fun for me. I could have gone deep into anything else nerdy (and I have more than a few of those obsessions), but photography is tactile. Turning a physical dial is always more fun than dragging a digital slider on a screen. And really, it comes down to loving the act of making.
FUJIFILM X100VI
FUJIFILM X100VI
FUJIFILM X100VI
“Photography doesn’t need big setups. Just a camera and curiosity.”
“Photography doesn’t need big setups. Just a camera and curiosity.”
Can you speak a little more about that?
Can you speak a little more about that?
Sometimes it’s about recreating a photo I saw years ago. Sometimes it’s about framing something in a particular way. I'm good at noticing things — it comes naturally to me. Photography helps me capture those little moments instead of forgetting them five minutes later.
Even before smartphones, I used to mentally bookmark interesting visuals. Now I just pull out my phone and shoot. But having a good camera on hand helps me go beyond a quick snapshot. It lets me do something a bit more intentional, a bit more artful than what your phone camera can offer. Plus, I don't know how I'm going to do it, till I put my eyes to the viewfinder. And that’s what I love.
Sometimes it’s about recreating a photo I saw years ago. Sometimes it’s about framing something in a particular way. I'm good at noticing things — it comes naturally to me. Photography helps me capture those little moments instead of forgetting them five minutes later.
Even before smartphones, I used to mentally bookmark interesting visuals. Now I just pull out my phone and shoot. But having a good camera on hand helps me go beyond a quick snapshot. It lets me do something a bit more intentional, a bit more artful than what your phone camera can offer. Plus, I don't know how I'm going to do it, till I put my eyes to the viewfinder. And that’s what I love.
23mm | ISO 320 | f/8 | 1/25S | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 320 | f/8 | 1/25S | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 320 | f/8 | 1/25S | Classic NEGATIVE
Have you explored any analog or alternative processes in photography?
Have you explored any analog or alternative processes in photography?
A little. I’m mostly from the digital era, but I did experiment with film and darkroom work, not deeply, though. By the time I started shooting film as a kid, labs were common and convenient, so I didn’t need to process it myself (also I doubt I would have been let lose with chemicals at any point). As an adult, I’ve done it a couple of times, mostly assisting someone or trying it out for the learning experience. But I wouldn’t say I’ve properly dabbled in it.
That said, I’ve played around with a bunch of alternative stuff: cyanotypes, Lomo, even building my own pinhole cameras. Some of them were just for fun, like using tissue boxes or shoeboxes, and others were more involved - 3D printed, laser-cut, carefully assembled, that kind of thing. I think I still have a few prints from those experiments lying around somewhere.
A little. I’m mostly from the digital era, but I did experiment with film and darkroom work, not deeply, though. By the time I started shooting film as a kid, labs were common and convenient, so I didn’t need to process it myself (also I doubt I would have been let lose with chemicals at any point). As an adult, I’ve done it a couple of times, mostly assisting someone or trying it out for the learning experience. But I wouldn’t say I’ve properly dabbled in it.
That said, I’ve played around with a bunch of alternative stuff: cyanotypes, Lomo, even building my own pinhole cameras. Some of them were just for fun, like using tissue boxes or shoeboxes, and others were more involved - 3D printed, laser-cut, carefully assembled, that kind of thing. I think I still have a few prints from those experiments lying around somewhere.
"Two people can shoot the same scene with the same camera and come away with completely different images — that’s what I’m drawn to."
"Two people can shoot the same scene with the same camera and come away with completely different images — that’s what I’m drawn to."
What kind of photography do you do personally when you're outside shooting, and what kind of photography do you enjoy?
What kind of photography do you do personally when you're outside shooting, and what kind of photography do you enjoy?
Street mostly, travel too, that’s my thing. I love patterns, shadow play, abstracts — anything that catches my eye, and all of that nicely ties into street. It’s low equipment, low prep, and high satisfaction. Portraits? Not for me. I admire them, but I don’t enjoy shooting people up-close. I’ve had the opportunity to dive deeper, just never took to it.
What I love has always leaned more documentary. Reportage, candid moments, that whole Magnum school of thought. Henri Cartier-Bresson, Joel Meyerowitz, Diane Arbus, Vivian Maier the legends, those are the people I look up to. Photography like that doesn’t need big setups. Just a camera you’re comfortable operating and curiosity.
Street mostly, travel too, that’s my thing. I love patterns, shadow play, abstracts — anything that catches my eye, and all of that nicely ties into street. It’s low equipment, low prep, and high satisfaction. Portraits? Not for me. I admire them, but I don’t enjoy shooting people up-close. I’ve had the opportunity to dive deeper, just never took to it.
What I love has always leaned more documentary. Reportage, candid moments, that whole Magnum school of thought. Henri Cartier-Bresson, Joel Meyerowitz, Diane Arbus, Vivian Maier the legends, those are the people I look up to. Photography like that doesn’t need big setups. Just a camera you’re comfortable operating and curiosity.
23mm | ISO 100 | -0.3ev | f/11 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 100 | -0.3ev | f/11 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 100 | -0.3ev | f/11 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
“An understanding of form, colour, shape, texture, it all stays with you.”
“An understanding of form, colour, shape, texture, it all stays with you.”
What are a few parallels you can draw between good photography and good design?
What are a few parallels you can draw between good photography and good design?
Both are ways to express yourself, right? And having a point of view is a good segue into taste. Apples to apples, with any modern camera, you're going to get a good photo. Same price bracket, similar types of bodies - you’re going to get very similar photos.
This also applies to design. With equal years of experience and similar backgrounds, people will end up making similar things.
What sets it all apart is taste. A point of view. That’s what I love seeing; it could be in product design, in photography, in animation, in anything really. When I’m consuming work, I want to see what the maker envisioned, how they interpreted it, how they chose to put their spin on it. For instance, two people can shoot the same scene with the same camera and come away with completely different images. That difference — that’s what I’m drawn to.
Both are ways to express yourself, right? And having a point of view is a good segue into taste. Apples to apples, with any modern camera, you're going to get a good photo. Same price bracket, similar types of bodies - you’re going to get very similar photos.
This also applies to design. With equal years of experience and similar backgrounds, people will end up making similar things.
What sets it all apart is taste. A point of view. That’s what I love seeing; it could be in product design, in photography, in animation, in anything really. When I’m consuming work, I want to see what the maker envisioned, how they interpreted it, how they chose to put their spin on it. For instance, two people can shoot the same scene with the same camera and come away with completely different images. That difference — that’s what I’m drawn to.
23mm | ISO 320 | f/2.2 | 1/100s | Reala Ace
23mm | ISO 320 | f/2.2 | 1/100s | Reala Ace
23mm | ISO 320 | f/2.2 | 1/100s | Reala Ace
23mm | ISO 800 | f/2 | 1/100s | Astia
23mm | ISO 800 | f/2 | 1/100s | Astia
23mm | ISO 800 | f/2 | 1/100s | Astia
And you can do something very similar in design as well. Other things being equal, two people will make a thing very differently. Of course, if you're doing product design, there are certain goals that you need to meet, but if you're designing for the sake of design, two people will do it very differently. And I love seeing this point of view.
You can pick up a template and run with it. Or have a design system and run with it. But you can also craft your UI. The same thing goes for any other form of design. You could be doing posters or signage or way-finding or anything else, and your vision will show through, your point of view will show through while meeting every other conceivable goal that you might have.
There is also the whole aspect of a design falling into your lap or a photo just happening to you, versus, it's like the difference between photo-taking and photo-making. You craft your designs and you make your photos. You don't take photos. I mean you can, and that's what your iPhone is for. But, even with my phone, I compose my shots and get them right by being intentional and being deliberate, and then I spend inordinate amounts of time editing them on my phone or my iPad.
And you can do something very similar in design as well. Other things being equal, two people will make a thing very differently. Of course, if you're doing product design, there are certain goals that you need to meet, but if you're designing for the sake of design, two people will do it very differently. And I love seeing this point of view.
You can pick up a template and run with it. Or have a design system and run with it. But you can also craft your UI. The same thing goes for any other form of design. You could be doing posters or signage or way-finding or anything else, and your vision will show through, your point of view will show through while meeting every other conceivable goal that you might have.
There is also the whole aspect of a design falling into your lap or a photo just happening to you, versus, it's like the difference between photo-taking and photo-making. You craft your designs and you make your photos. You don't take photos. I mean you can, and that's what your iPhone is for. But, even with my phone, I compose my shots and get them right by being intentional and being deliberate, and then I spend inordinate amounts of time editing them on my phone or my iPad.
23mm | ISO 3200 | -3ev | f/8 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 3200 | -3ev | f/8 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 3200 | -3ev | f/8 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 3200 | -3ev | f/8 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
“Everything I've seen like and enjoy - cinema, street photography, TV, anime - directly feeds into how I shoot."
“Everything I've seen like and enjoy - cinema, street photography, TV, anime - directly feeds into how I shoot."
Do your design instincts influence how you shoot? Or do you consciously let go of them?
Do your design instincts influence how you shoot? Or do you consciously let go of them?
It’s a mix of them, right? Because a part of it is absolutely yes, training, experience, learning, doing the same things over and over again 10000 times will have you imbibe certain things. Will embed certain things deeply inside you. An understanding of form, colour, shape, texture, it all stays with you. You can choose to lean into it or break away from it. I love symmetry, order. But sometimes I’ll break that on purpose, just for fun. Same way you’d break a grid in design. Huge fan of David Carson by the way.
Same thing applies to photography, where your design skills, and more importantly, your taste in what you've acquired directly influences your photography, at least for me. Everything I've seen, like and enjoy - cinematography, photography, animation - directly feeds into how I shoot. There’s a direct correlation with watching Ghost in the Shell, and wanting to go to Japan, and shooting street photos in Tokyo on a rainy night. That whole pipeline is real.
So yes, design influences my photography, and my photography influences how I design or animate. I see light differently because I’ve learned to spot it while making photos. It shapes how I compose, how I want things to feel. They complement each other.
But you also have to know when to break away. And to do that, you need to know the rules first. If you don’t know the rules and you’re breaking them, you’re not really breaking anything. You’re just fumbling through it.
It’s a mix of them, right? Because a part of it is absolutely yes, training, experience, learning, doing the same things over and over again 10000 times will have you imbibe certain things. Will embed certain things deeply inside you. An understanding of form, colour, shape, texture, it all stays with you. You can choose to lean into it or break away from it. I love symmetry, order. But sometimes I’ll break that on purpose, just for fun. Same way you’d break a grid in design. Huge fan of David Carson by the way.
Same thing applies to photography, where your design skills, and more importantly, your taste in what you've acquired directly influences your photography, at least for me. Everything I've seen, like and enjoy - cinematography, photography, animation - directly feeds into how I shoot. There’s a direct correlation with watching Ghost in the Shell, and wanting to go to Japan, and shooting street photos in Tokyo on a rainy night. That whole pipeline is real.
So yes, design influences my photography, and my photography influences how I design or animate. I see light differently because I’ve learned to spot it while making photos. It shapes how I compose, how I want things to feel. They complement each other.
But you also have to know when to break away. And to do that, you need to know the rules first. If you don’t know the rules and you’re breaking them, you’re not really breaking anything. You’re just fumbling through it.
23mm | ISO 64 | f/1.8 | 1/4000s | Edited in Lightroom
23mm | ISO 64 | f/1.8 | 1/4000s | Edited in Lightroom
23mm | ISO 64 | f/1.8 | 1/4000s | Edited in Lightroom
So what is seeing for you in photography versus seeing in design?
So what is seeing for you in photography versus seeing in design?
Very contextual. When I design, especially for clients, it's not about what I want to see, it's about specs, constraints, and requirements. It's work. But when I photograph, it's personal. There’s no goal beyond joy. I rarely share my photos. They're not meant for anyone else. It's purely indulgent.
And because I'm not dependent on photography for a livelihood, I see differently. When I’m framing a photo versus laying out an app screen, what I notice, what resonates, it’s all shaped by intent. One is deliverable-driven; the other is for me. Same act of seeing, but entirely different filters.
Very contextual. When I design, especially for clients, it's not about what I want to see, it's about specs, constraints, and requirements. It's work. But when I photograph, it's personal. There’s no goal beyond joy. I rarely share my photos. They're not meant for anyone else. It's purely indulgent.
And because I'm not dependent on photography for a livelihood, I see differently. When I’m framing a photo versus laying out an app screen, what I notice, what resonates, it’s all shaped by intent. One is deliverable-driven; the other is for me. Same act of seeing, but entirely different filters.
“It’s easy to be visionary within product design: you’ve seen every app, downloaded them all, and think that’s enough. But that’s not true vocabulary.”
“It’s easy to be visionary within product design: you’ve seen every app, downloaded them all, and think that’s enough. But that’s not true vocabulary.”
Do you see younger designers today struggling to differentiate between personal and professional creative work?
Do you see younger designers today struggling to differentiate between personal and professional creative work?
Yeah, often. And it shows in the work. It’s easy to play visionary within product design: you’ve seen every app, used them all, have an opinion on most and think that’s enough. But that’s not true vocabulary. Unless you consciously step out, consume better references, read more, see more — your taste won’t evolve.
A lot of people are also afraid of sounding pretentious, so they downplay their interests or influences. But consuming widely is essential. The more you consume, the more you understand what you’re creating and how to talk about it.
Yeah, often. And it shows in the work. It’s easy to play visionary within product design: you’ve seen every app, used them all, have an opinion on most and think that’s enough. But that’s not true vocabulary. Unless you consciously step out, consume better references, read more, see more — your taste won’t evolve.
A lot of people are also afraid of sounding pretentious, so they downplay their interests or influences. But consuming widely is essential. The more you consume, the more you understand what you’re creating and how to talk about it.
23mm | ISO 640 | f/16 | 1/170s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 640 | f/16 | 1/170s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 640 | f/16 | 1/170s | Classic NEGATIVE
“Tapping a screen is nowhere near as satisfying as turning a dial, looking through a viewfinder, clicking a shutter. It feels like photography.”
“Tapping a screen is nowhere near as satisfying as turning a dial, looking through a viewfinder, clicking a shutter. It feels like photography.”
Now do tell us more about your new camera, why did you get it? What do you love about it?
Now do tell us more about your new camera, why did you get it? What do you love about it?
Let’s start with why I got it. I’ve had a bunch of cameras over the years, and each serves a different purpose. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve felt less of a need to carry around a full kit — dual bodies, massive lenses, adapters and filters for each lens size. I’m not a professional photographer. I just want to make good-looking photos for myself.
I’ve been itching for something smaller for a while, but most compact cameras either give up & compromise on too much or don’t feel great in the hand. There are two brands that get it right: one’s absurdly expensive to own and maintain, the other due to a surge in popularity in recent years, has been very hard to find.
So, I waited. I didn’t want to pay scalper prices because, again, I do this as an indulgence. And eventually, I found this one.
It’s the feel of it. My other cameras - the Sony, the Canon - are technically far superior. Full-frame sensors, lightning-fast autofocus, all of that. But they don’t feel like this does. This is tactile. It’s clicky. It’s fun. I enjoy using it. I’d used similar cameras in the past and knew I’d probably love it, but I hadn’t committed till now. I was too enthralled by interchangeable lenses and the possibilities they afford.
Let’s start with why I got it. I’ve had a bunch of cameras over the years, and each serves a different purpose. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve felt less of a need to carry around a full kit — dual bodies, massive lenses, adapters and filters for each lens size. I’m not a professional photographer. I just want to make good-looking photos for myself.
I’ve been itching for something smaller for a while, but most compact cameras either give up & compromise on too much or don’t feel great in the hand. There are two brands that get it right: one’s absurdly expensive to own and maintain, the other due to a surge in popularity in recent years, has been very hard to find.
So, I waited. I didn’t want to pay scalper prices because, again, I do this as an indulgence. And eventually, I found this one.
It’s the feel of it. My other cameras - the Sony, the Canon - are technically far superior. Full-frame sensors, lightning-fast autofocus, all of that. But they don’t feel like this does. This is tactile. It’s clicky. It’s fun. I enjoy using it. I’d used similar cameras in the past and knew I’d probably love it, but I hadn’t committed till now. I was too enthralled by interchangeable lenses and the possibilities they afford.
FEATURE SET OF THE X100VI
FEATURE SET OF THE X100VI
FEATURE SET OF THE X100VI
FEATURE SET OF THE X100VI
I can take a good photo with my phone, sure. But tapping a screen is nowhere near as satisfying as turning a dial, looking through a viewfinder, making sure things are just right before pressing the shutter release. It feels like photography. And the size — the fact that it fits easily into a jacket or snugly in even a jeans pocket (assuming you’re not wearing skinny jeans) — is a massive win.
Then you see the images, and they’re stunning. The sensor handles light beautifully for APS-C. ISO performance is solid. The lens opens to f/2, which is perfect — I wouldn’t want it any wider on a sensor this size, honestly. But mostly, Fuji’s color science is in its own league.
They’re one of the only companies that’ve done lenses, bodies and film. That vertical integration shows. It lets them create cameras that are technically excellent, fun to use and spit out beautiful straight-out-of-camera images. And their RAW files? So much room to play.
All in a compact little package, that also is designed immaculately, and feels so good in the hand.
I can take a good photo with my phone, sure. But tapping a screen is nowhere near as satisfying as turning a dial, looking through a viewfinder, making sure things are just right before pressing the shutter release. It feels like photography. And the size — the fact that it fits easily into a jacket or snugly in even a jeans pocket (assuming you’re not wearing skinny jeans) — is a massive win.
Then you see the images, and they’re stunning. The sensor handles light beautifully for APS-C. ISO performance is solid. The lens opens to f/2, which is perfect — I wouldn’t want it any wider on a sensor this size, honestly. But mostly, Fuji’s color science is in its own league.
They’re one of the only companies that’ve done lenses, bodies and film. That vertical integration shows. It lets them create cameras that are technically excellent, fun to use and spit out beautiful straight-out-of-camera images. And their RAW files? So much room to play.
All in a compact little package, that also is designed immaculately, and feels so good in the hand.
"I use apps like GX Weekly to explore new recipes, but I rotate mostly between a gritty B&W, a clean Leica-style recipe, and one for vivid landscapes."
"I use apps like GX Weekly to explore new recipes, but I rotate mostly between a gritty B&W, a clean Leica-style recipe, and one for vivid landscapes."
How are you using it these days?
How are you using it these days?
This camera is with me everywhere. It’s always in my bag — no extra gear, no tripod, no cleaning kit, no lens caps. Just the camera. I’ve taken it to work, on walks, on drives, on flights. I shoot shadows, patterns, people on platforms, friends at dinner. It’s helping me shoot more regularly, more spontaneously. It’s there, so I use it.
This camera is with me everywhere. It’s always in my bag — no extra gear, no tripod, no cleaning kit, no lens caps. Just the camera. I’ve taken it to work, on walks, on drives, on flights. I shoot shadows, patterns, people on platforms, friends at dinner. It’s helping me shoot more regularly, more spontaneously. It’s there, so I use it.
Are you using the film simulations much? Any favourites?
Are you using the film simulations much? Any favourites?
All the time. I shoot JPEG+RAW, but Classic Chrome is my go-to. I’ve dabbled in all of them obviously when learning the system, but Classic Chrome hits the sweet spot — good contrast, beautiful skin tones. I’ve built a few custom recipes that work for me. Nothing crazy, just some tonal tweaks — softer shadows, warmer mids. I love how much you can control in-camera. Sometimes I don’t even need to edit. I just shoot and share.
All the time. I shoot JPEG+RAW, but Classic Chrome is my go-to. I’ve dabbled in all of them obviously when learning the system, but Classic Chrome hits the sweet spot — good contrast, beautiful skin tones. I’ve built a few custom recipes that work for me. Nothing crazy, just some tonal tweaks — softer shadows, warmer mids. I love how much you can control in-camera. Sometimes I don’t even need to edit. I just shoot and share.
FUJFILM X100VI
FUJFILM X100VI
FUJFILM X100VI
FUJFILM X100VI
"Aesthetically, I like extremes — either dreamy and soft, or gritty and crunchy."
"Aesthetically, I like extremes — either dreamy and soft, or gritty and crunchy."
Can you walk us through your shooting style, post-processing preferences, and how you’ve customized the camera to suit your aesthetic?
Can you walk us through your shooting style, post-processing preferences, and how you’ve customized the camera to suit your aesthetic?
I mostly shoot in aperture priority when I’m on the go — it lets me focus on aperture without worrying about the rest. But when I have time, I’ll switch to full manual. Autofocus is still a must for me — my eyesight isn’t perfect — but I prefer setting my metering, locking focus and then recomposing.
Spot or multi-metering depending on the shot. I shoot wide open when I can — unless I’m doing street or landscapes, then I stop down to f/8 or f/11 to retain context in the background. Even in low light, I’ll sacrifice some ISO to stop down — I don’t mind noise if it helps me tell the story.
For custom settings, I’ve got a few banks (C1–C7) set up. I use apps like GX Weekly to explore new recipes, but I rotate mostly between a gritty B&W, a clean Leica-style recipe, and one for vivid landscapes.
I mostly shoot in aperture priority when I’m on the go — it lets me focus on aperture without worrying about the rest. But when I have time, I’ll switch to full manual. Autofocus is still a must for me — my eyesight isn’t perfect — but I prefer setting my metering, locking focus and then recomposing.
Spot or multi-metering depending on the shot. I shoot wide open when I can — unless I’m doing street or landscapes, then I stop down to f/8 or f/11 to retain context in the background. Even in low light, I’ll sacrifice some ISO to stop down — I don’t mind noise if it helps me tell the story.
For custom settings, I’ve got a few banks (C1–C7) set up. I use apps like GX Weekly to explore new recipes, but I rotate mostly between a gritty B&W, a clean Leica-style recipe, and one for vivid landscapes.
23mm | ISO 500 | -1.3ev | f/16 | 1/200s | Acros +Y
23mm | ISO 500 | -1.3ev | f/16 | 1/200s | Acros +Y
23mm | ISO 500 | -1.3ev | f/16 | 1/200s | Acros +Y
Aesthetically, I like extremes — either dreamy and soft, or gritty and crunchy. Not a fan of overly clean, processed-looking photos. Give me either no noise or *all* the noise.
I enjoy post-production. I love playing with both color and black & white. I have a trusty set of Lightroom presets I’ve banked on for years (with subtle tweaks depending on the sensor and lens I’m shooting with). A few corrections in the Geometry section in LR, some exposure compensation if needed and slap on one my handy presets. That’s about 95% of the time. In some instances I might go ham with the editing (especially when I’m just messing around on the iPad), but those are purely indulgent.
In terms of customizing the camera, not much really. I have a filter slapped on since this camera requires it for weather-sealing. 95% of the time it’s a diffusion filter or a circular polarizer. Coupled with a lens hood, it protects the lens, and I don’t have to keep taking a lens cap on and off all the time.
Aesthetically, I like extremes — either dreamy and soft, or gritty and crunchy. Not a fan of overly clean, processed-looking photos. Give me either no noise or *all* the noise.
I enjoy post-production. I love playing with both color and black & white. I have a trusty set of Lightroom presets I’ve banked on for years (with subtle tweaks depending on the sensor and lens I’m shooting with). A few corrections in the Geometry section in LR, some exposure compensation if needed and slap on one my handy presets. That’s about 95% of the time. In some instances I might go ham with the editing (especially when I’m just messing around on the iPad), but those are purely indulgent.
In terms of customizing the camera, not much really. I have a filter slapped on since this camera requires it for weather-sealing. 95% of the time it’s a diffusion filter or a circular polarizer. Coupled with a lens hood, it protects the lens, and I don’t have to keep taking a lens cap on and off all the time.
23mm | ISO 400 | f/16 | 1/80s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 400 | f/16 | 1/80s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 400 | f/16 | 1/80s | Classic NEGATIVE
Are you planning to push the limits of the X100VI, especially considering the fixed lens setup?
Are you planning to push the limits of the X100VI, especially considering the fixed lens setup?
Not in the “try-hard” sense. I’ve used bigger systems before — this is about making a good photo easily. I’m not chasing the sharpest lens or crazy FPS. I want something that feels good and gives me what I need without friction.
That said, I do want to experiment more with multiple exposures & bracketing. The camera supports that, and it’s a lot of fun when done right.
Not in the “try-hard” sense. I’ve used bigger systems before — this is about making a good photo easily. I’m not chasing the sharpest lens or crazy FPS. I want something that feels good and gives me what I need without friction.
That said, I do want to experiment more with multiple exposures & bracketing. The camera supports that, and it’s a lot of fun when done right.
What are your favorite features on the X100VI — anything you’re especially kicked about?
What are your favorite features on the X100VI — anything you’re especially kicked about?
The color, hands down. That’s the reason I bought it. Fuji gives you beautiful colors straight out of camera. You can transfer images to your phone in seconds and post them as is. That’s massive for flow.
And then there’s the build. I don’t use a case on my iPhone because I like how it feels in my hand — same with this camera. Sometimes I shoot just because I want to hold it. It’s a great fidget toy *and* a serious tool.
The color, hands down. That’s the reason I bought it. Fuji gives you beautiful colors straight out of camera. You can transfer images to your phone in seconds and post them as is. That’s massive for flow.
And then there’s the build. I don’t use a case on my iPhone because I like how it feels in my hand — same with this camera. Sometimes I shoot just because I want to hold it. It’s a great fidget toy *and* a serious tool.
"I just want to make good-looking photos for myself."
"I just want to make good-looking photos for myself."
23mm | ISO 250 | f/2 | 1/60s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 250 | f/2 | 1/60s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 250 | f/2 | 1/60s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 250 | f/2 | 1/60s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 250 | f/2 | 1/60s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 250 | f/2 | 1/60s | Classic NEGATIVE
“With any decent modern camera, you're going to get a good photo. What sets it all apart is taste.”
“With any decent modern camera, you're going to get a good photo. What sets it all apart is taste.”
What do you think about the look of the X100VI compared to something like a Leica?
What do you think about the look of the X100VI compared to something like a Leica?
The X100 series will always get compared to Leicas, it’s inevitable. Leica’s iconic. It’s what you imagine when you think “camera.” They’ve perfected the ergonomics over decades in every conceivable scenario, used by some of the greatest photographers ever. Fuji clearly took inspiration from that, but with their own spin.
The X100VI is a beautiful camera, no doubt. Built solid, premium materials, never feels cheap and plasticky. Ergonomically, it’s not perfect. It’s small, can cramp your hand without additional grip accessories, but so do Leicas. Leica users would probably say, “It’s not the camera, it’s your hands that are wrong” though, so I let it slide with the X100VI.
The X100 series will always get compared to Leicas, it’s inevitable. Leica’s iconic. It’s what you imagine when you think “camera.” They’ve perfected the ergonomics over decades in every conceivable scenario, used by some of the greatest photographers ever. Fuji clearly took inspiration from that, but with their own spin.
The X100VI is a beautiful camera, no doubt. Built solid, premium materials, never feels cheap and plasticky. Ergonomically, it’s not perfect. It’s small, can cramp your hand without additional grip accessories, but so do Leicas. Leica users would probably say, “It’s not the camera, it’s your hands that are wrong” though, so I let it slide with the X100VI.
23mm | ISO 500 | f/11 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 500 | f/11 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 500 | f/11 | 1/100s | Classic NEGATIVE
Does the fixed lens ever limit you? Do you plan to use adapters or converters?
Does the fixed lens ever limit you? Do you plan to use adapters or converters?
I bought this camera because of the fixed lens. I didn’t want to think about swapping lenses or picking focal lengths. I wanted to just shoot.
40MP is more than enough for prints. Even 12MP is enough. This camera helps me stay in the moment. I might try the wide converter later, but I don’t care for tele. If I want that, I’ll use another setup.
I bought this camera because of the fixed lens. I didn’t want to think about swapping lenses or picking focal lengths. I wanted to just shoot.
40MP is more than enough for prints. Even 12MP is enough. This camera helps me stay in the moment. I might try the wide converter later, but I don’t care for tele. If I want that, I’ll use another setup.
“Taste outpaces skill. You’ll love things you can’t yet make. Your entire life as a creative is trying to close that gap.”
“Taste outpaces skill. You’ll love things you can’t yet make. Your entire life as a creative is trying to close that gap.”
23mm | ISO 500 | -1.7ev | f/2 | 1/180s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 500 | -1.7ev | f/2 | 1/180s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 500 | -1.7ev | f/2 | 1/180s | Classic NEGATIVE
23mm | ISO 500 | -1.7ev | f/2 | 1/180s | Classic NEGATIVE
Do you intend to print your photos at any point?
Do you intend to print your photos at any point?
Yeah, definitely. I’ve made photo books before. Haven’t printed anything from this camera yet - still getting to know it. But eventually, I’d love to do large format prints. Then I’ll go full nerd mode with papers and textures. For now, I’m enjoying the images on screens. Just learning the toy before I worry about the output.
Yeah, definitely. I’ve made photo books before. Haven’t printed anything from this camera yet - still getting to know it. But eventually, I’d love to do large format prints. Then I’ll go full nerd mode with papers and textures. For now, I’m enjoying the images on screens. Just learning the toy before I worry about the output.
Ultimately, do you think gear shapes creativity, or does creativity shape how you use gear?
Ultimately, do you think gear shapes creativity, or does creativity shape how you use gear?
Definitely both. But early on, gear does shape you. Your first camera biases your shooting style. I went from disposable film (quick, middle of the road, terrible at low light) to Canon (fast, reliable, pleasant colors,) to Sony (great autofocus & low-light), and it inevitably nudged me to shoot certain things. From shooting friends and family with consumer film, to wildlife & sports with a Canon, to gigs and festivals with a Sony, the gear kind of drives you to shoot a certain way. With the ergonomics and color science of Fuji, it makes you want to travel or shoot street. You mimic what you've seen from that gear when used by others.
But over time, you break that bias. You realise you can shoot anything with anything. The mistakes are part of the journey. Same in design — if your reference pool is limited to a few sites, apps or animations, your output will reflect that. You won’t even know what you're missing in your work because you just haven’t seen enough.
Taste outpaces skill. You’ll always love & admire things you don’t yet have the skill to make. Your entire life as a creative is trying to close that gap. And when taste is underdeveloped, it shows, very clearly. Don’t get me wrong, it shows with skill too, but it’s a lot easier to spot with taste.
Definitely both. But early on, gear does shape you. Your first camera biases your shooting style. I went from disposable film (quick, middle of the road, terrible at low light) to Canon (fast, reliable, pleasant colors,) to Sony (great autofocus & low-light), and it inevitably nudged me to shoot certain things. From shooting friends and family with consumer film, to wildlife & sports with a Canon, to gigs and festivals with a Sony, the gear kind of drives you to shoot a certain way. With the ergonomics and color science of Fuji, it makes you want to travel or shoot street. You mimic what you've seen from that gear when used by others.
But over time, you break that bias. You realise you can shoot anything with anything. The mistakes are part of the journey. Same in design — if your reference pool is limited to a few sites, apps or animations, your output will reflect that. You won’t even know what you're missing in your work because you just haven’t seen enough.
Taste outpaces skill. You’ll always love & admire things you don’t yet have the skill to make. Your entire life as a creative is trying to close that gap. And when taste is underdeveloped, it shows, very clearly. Don’t get me wrong, it shows with skill too, but it’s a lot easier to spot with taste.
23mm | ISO 125 | f/2 | 1/120s
23mm | ISO 125 | f/2 | 1/120s
23mm | ISO 125 | f/2 | 1/120s
Canvs is an interface design and engineering studio based in Mumbai, India. We are group design partners to some of India’s market leaders in Banking and Finance and have been around since 2016.