Five Must-Have Accessories for the Fujifilm X100VI

15 Mar

After a few months with the Fujifilm X100VI, I can confidently say the hype is real. It’s a beautifully designed camera that delivers stunning image quality, but like any tool, a few carefully chosen accessories can take it to the next level. As soon as I got my hands on the X100VI, I knew I needed to complement it with some essential add-ons to improve usability, protection, and aesthetics. Here are the five accessories I purchased and why I think they’re worth considering.

1. A Camera Strap – Practical and Stylish

The first thing I picked up was a forest green rope-style camera strap. I prefer this type over an adjustable one because of the simplicity and flexibility it offers. I can quickly switch between slinging it around my neck or wrapping it around my wrist, making it a convenient and stylish way to carry my camera. Beyond function, a well-chosen strap adds a bit of personality to your setup. Plus, the durability ensures it’ll last through many adventures.

2. An Adapter Ring – Essential for Weather Sealing and Filters

One of the biggest draws of the X100VI is its weather resistance, but it isn’t fully sealed straight out of the box. To complete the weather-sealing, I purchased the Haoge adapter ring. This small but crucial accessory ensures that when paired with a protective filter, dust and moisture stay out, allowing me to shoot confidently in unpredictable weather conditions. Another advantage is that the adapter enables me to use filters, which leads to my next essential accessory.

3. A Lens Filter – Enhancing Image Aesthetics

To take full advantage of the adapter ring, I added a lens filter, specifically an ethereal black mist filter from URTH. I initially discovered this type of filter when using my 33mm f/1.4 and was impressed with how it softened highlights, reduced contrast slightly, and added a more cinematic look to my images. The same effect works beautifully on the X100VI, giving my photos a subtle, dreamlike quality. It’s a simple way to enhance images straight out of the camera without needing heavy editing.

4. A Lens Hood – Classic Look and Added Protection

A lens hood is one of those accessories that often gets overlooked but is incredibly useful. Not only does it reduce lens flare and improve contrast in bright conditions, but it also serves as a layer of protection for the front element of the lens. The one I chose is also from Haoge and is a square design that adds a retro feel to the X100VI, making it look even more like a classic film camera. Additionally, if the camera gets knocked against a surface, the lens hood helps absorb some of the impact, reducing the chance of damage.

5. A Thumb Grip – Improved Handling and Comfort

The X100VI is an incredibly compact camera, but its small form factor can sometimes make handling a bit tricky, especially for extended shooting sessions. This is where the SmallRig thumb grip comes in handy. It provides better stability when shooting, particularly in vertical orientation, which is great for social media content. I also find that it improves the overall ergonomics of the camera, making it more comfortable to hold. As a bonus, it subtly enhances the aesthetics of the camera, making it look even more refined.

Bonus: Soft Shutter Release Button – A Small but Impactful Addition

While not an essential piece of kit, a soft shutter release button can make a big difference in the shooting experience. The tactile response feels more satisfying, and the added height makes it easier to press the shutter smoothly. I went with a red one to add a small pop of colour to my setup. However, if you do pick one up, make sure it’s screwed on tightly—mine once fell between the seats of my car, and it took ages to retrieve!

Final Thoughts

These accessories have significantly improved my experience with the X100VI. From enhancing comfort and usability to providing added protection and elevating the overall aesthetic, each item plays a role in making this camera even better. If you’re planning on making the X100VI your everyday carry, I highly recommend investing in these small but impactful additions.