Dear Vicky: XPan

Playing with Fuji’s 65x24 format

Here’s a Dear Vicky shot in 65X24 format.

In 1998, Hasselblad worked with Fujifilm to give the world a unique 35mm camera called the XPan (or TX for Fuji.) Besides the traditional 36x24 format, user has the option of shooting a panorama format of 65x24. It gives you a cinematic look, however you’d like to define that. Each company produced two versions of this camera, Xpan and Xpan II for Hasselblad; TX and TX II for Fujifilm. I am not a historian, so don’t hold me accountable should there be any inaccuracies. Over the years after these cameras went out of production, a cult-ish following has emerged, pushing the prices of these old cameras to ridiculous heights. Now an Xpan or a TX in decent shape can easily set you back $5000….

Luckily, there are digital cameras now. My 50R has an aspect ratio option of 65x24. So sometimes I’d play with this format and here’s some results.

The Star Ferry Pier in Wan Chai.

Man on a cigarette break.

Late night MTR ride.

In an MTR station.

Crossroad at Causeway Bay

Waiting for the light

Man at a tram stop.

Vicky from another angle.

Crossroad outside of Vicky Park. Yes, another Vicky.

A group of S. Korean tourists.

That’s it. There’s nothing to write home about these photos, but this crop allows me to think and shoot a bit differently. Ain’t that the point of taking photos? Genuine question! Till we meet again!