Essential First Accessories for the Fujifilm X-T2 (and even the X-T1!)

Don’t forget to purchase these X-T2 accessories along with the camera…

Some “best Fujifilm X-T2 accessories” lists are rather generic.  Of course you’ll need memory cards, a tripod, and a bag; here I just want to focus on those accessories specific to the X-T2 (and X-T1) that you should get at the same time you buy your new camera.  For more information on generic camera accessories that will be a great fit for your Fujifilm X, check out the following posts:

• Five best lightweight travel tripods
• Choosing a memory card
• Camera bag essentials for the minimalist photographer
• The best camera bag manufacturers for travel & adventure photographers
• Building a compact travel flash kit for under $200

Hand grip

One of the biggest advantages of mirrorless cameras is their small size; unfortunately, this is also a disadvantage for those of us with normal-sized hands.  Even just a small external hand grip will help your fingers keep a more natural grip, increasing comfort and decreasing cramping.

Fujifilm’s aftermarket grip runs over $100.  Meike makes an equivalent metal grip for a fraction of the price.  The MK-XT2G is only $39.99 and weighs a scant 3.5 ounces.  The thumbscrew allows easy installation, you’ll have easy battery compartment access, the entire bottom plate is compatible with Arca-style tripods, and there are also six threaded holes for other plates & accessories.

The Meike X-T1 hand grip is ten dollars cheaper than the X-T2 grip.

Shutter release button

The shutter release button on the X-T2 isn’t very prominent.  Your index finger may hunt around finding it, especially if you’re shooting through the EVF.  Fortunately, the shutter release is threaded, allowing for the installation of a “soft release” button.  I use the convex VKO brass buttons – a burgundy color to give it my own personal touch, but there are nine other colors available.

These buttons aren’t just for decoration; they make the shutter button just extended enough that you won’t miss a shot for not finding the button.  You can get a two-pack (convex & concave) for under $8.  It’s the little things.

The shutter release on the X-T1 isn’t threaded, but Lolumina makes a stick-on button for under $12.

Eyecup

The stock eyecup on the X-T2 is much improved over the X-T1, but it still leaves a little to be desired.  A deeper eyecup will shield the EVF from external light, assisting in focus and composition while preserving the battery.  The silicone design also conforms to those wearing glasses.  The EF-XTL eyecup is another essential Fujifilm X-T2 accessory for under $8.  It will also work with the X-T1.  You can check the photo for yourself to see if you think it’s worth it.  The stock eyecup is on the bottom.  It’s definitely required for the X-T1.

LCD protector

An LCD protector isn’t so much of an accessory to help with shooting as much as it’s an essential X-T2 accessory to protect your camera and increase resale value.  Actually, it can help with shooting if your LCD screen would otherwise be scratched up and impossible to see.

Stay away from the cheap plastic films.  Any sharp object will cut right through these and scratch the screen.  A serious travel & adventure photographer will need a glass LCD protector for the X-T2.  This small investment could save you hundreds of dollars.  They’re also made of high-definition glass so you don’t lose any of the clarity of the LCD.

A pack of two is only $8.

Power

One of the other drawbacks of mirrorless cameras is the power consumption needed to process the light hitting the sensor and display the image in the electronic viewfinder.  The single battery included with the X-T2 will not be enough for anyone except the super-casual shooter.

There are a couple of solutions to this:

• Purchase extra batteries and a dual charger.  More on this below.  This is the best solution for travel photographers.
• Invest in a vertical battery grip.  This will give you two extra batteries, a larger grip, and greater comfort with some controls while shooting vertically.  These are best for portrait and studio shooters due to the bulky size.
• Carry a portable power pack like the Anker PowerCore 20100 to charge your battery(ies).
• Don’t forget other practices to extend your camera battery while on the trail.

A special note on the NP-W126 batteries: The X-T2 draws a higher current than the X-T1.  This can cause the X-T1’s NP-W126 batteries to overheat when used in the X-T2.  The NP-W126S batteries for the X-T2 have cooling circuitry to keep the battery from overheating and crashing the camera.  Unfortunately, there are no third-party manufacturers for these batteries (yet).  You’ll have to get the Fujifilm brand batteries for around $65 and a compatible dual charger like Newmowa’s $10 charger.  For the X-T1, I’d recommend a Wasabi battery two-pack with dual charger for around $25.  Use the X-T1 batteries with the X-T2 at your own risk.  The Wasabi batteries are marketed as replacements for the NP-W126S, but this is not true.

I hope that’ll get you started, and happy shooting!