Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Fujifilm Camera Loan

Thinking about stepping up to a new camera system? The FUJIFILM House of Photography's camera loan service gives you 48 hours to truly experience a camera before committing to the purchase. Completely free. Whether you're eyeing the stunning medium format capabilities of the GFX series or exploring the versatility of X Series cameras, a well-planned loan period can make all the difference in finding your perfect match.

Here's how to make every moment of your loan count.

Time Your Loan Strategically

The secret to a rewarding camera loan? Timing. Plan your loan around an actual shooting opportunity where you'll really put the equipment through its paces.

Book around a specific shoot or project. If you have a portrait session, landscape outing, or event coming up, schedule your loan to coincide with it. There's no better way to understand a camera's capabilities than using it for real work.

Consider the season and weather. If you're testing a camera for landscape or wildlife photography, think about lighting conditions and weather. A GFX system's exceptional dynamic range, for instance, truly shines in challenging lighting situations.

Choose two full days when you're free. Schedule your collection for a time when you have two complete days available to shoot. Whether that's a weekend, days off, or a quieter period in your schedule, having uninterrupted time ensures you can truly explore the camera's capabilities without rushing. 

Choose the Right Equipment for Your Goals

With both X Series and GFX Series cameras available to loan, it's worth thinking carefully about which system to try first.

For those considering medium format, the GFX series represents a significant investment which is exactly why the loan service is so valuable. The image quality, resolution, and creative possibilities of medium format are extraordinary, but you need to experience it firsthand to understand if it suits your workflow. The 48-hour loan lets you discover whether the GFX's exceptional detail and tonal range justify the step up from X-Series.

Not sure where to start? Visit us in-store at the House of Photography in Covent Garden. Our team can discuss your photography style, current equipment, and aspirations to help you choose the perfect camera to trial. We can also add lenses and accessories to your loan, so you're testing a complete system that matches how you'd actually use it.

Plan Your Shooting Tests

While you’ll naturally want to capture beautiful images during your loan, approach it as a discovery process. Systematically exploring the camera’s strengths will help you understand what it can do for your photography.

Shoot in your typical conditions. Use the lighting, locations, and subjects you photograph most often. If you're a portrait photographer, book a willing friend or family member for a session. Landscape shooter? Plan a dawn or dusk outing to test dynamic range.

Push the boundaries. Try the camera in challenging situations: low light, high ISO, fast-moving subjects, or extreme contrasts. This reveals how the camera performs when you need it most.

Explore features you're curious about. If film simulations drew you to FUJIFILM, spend time experimenting with them. Interested in the GFX's pixel-shift multi-shot mode? Test it on static subjects to see the incredible detail it captures.

Take the same shots with your current camera. This direct comparison will highlight exactly what you gain by switching systems.

How to Know if a Camera is Right for You

Helping you make an informed decision and discovering which camera truly suits your photography style is what the loan service is all about.  Here’s what to pay attention to during your 48 hours.

A camera should feel comfortable in your hands. Even after a few hours of shooting, the best camera is the one you’ll actually want to pick up and use. During your loan, notice how the grip feels, whether the controls fall naturally under your fingers, and if the weight distribution works for your shooting style.

Consider the weight and size. Particularly with GFX medium format cameras, the larger sensor means a larger system. If the weight feels cumbersome after carrying it for a few hours, consider whether you'd be happy using it day after day.

Give yourself time to learn. Switching to a new camera system takes adjustment, and some features take time to master. To get a better understanding of your camera, explore the FUJIFILM Learning Centre where you’ll find loads of quick start guides and tutorials that can help you get the most from your loan period.

Review your images. Do the files match your expectations? Does the colour science inspire you? Are you excited by what you've captured and the creative possibilities it could bring?

Remember, the loan service is designed to help you find the camera that matches your creative vision. By the end of your 48 hours, you'll know with confidence whether this is the equipment that will elevate your photography.

Make the Most of the House of Photography Experience

While you can arrange a Loan Direct delivery to your home, there are real advantages to collecting in person from our Covent Garden store.

Get expert advice at collection. When you pick up your loan equipment, our team can show you key features, recommend settings for your planned shoots, and answer any questions before you head out.

Explore the store. While you're here, browse our range of lenses, accessories, and photography books. You might discover items you'd like to add to your setup once you've decided on a camera.

Return with questions. When you bring the equipment back, our team can discuss your experience and help you interpret what you learned during the loan.

Book your next step. If you loved the camera, we can help you with your purchase. If you're still exploring options, we can suggest another model to try.

Ready to Try Before You Buy?

The FUJIFILM camera loan service removes the guesswork from choosing your next camera. Whether you're curious about the legendary image quality of the GFX series or exploring the lightweight versatility of X Series cameras, 48 hours of real-world shooting tells you everything you need to know.

Visit our product loan page for more information. You can also  browse our loan equipment and check availability online, or visit us in-store at 8-9 Long Acre, Covent Garden, where our team can help you plan the perfect loan experience.

Because the best way to find your ideal camera? Actually using it.

For more details on the loan service, including terms and conditions, visit our Loan FAQs.