Fujifilm XQ1: The Best Compact Camera I’ve Used

The Fujifilm XQ1 is a forgotten compact camera gem — but this tiny pocket-sized digi camera still delivers incredible results for travel, street, and everyday photography. In this video, I show what the XQ1 can really do in 2025, from RAW files to film recipes, and why it might be the perfect travel companion.

I’ve been shooting with the Fujifilm XQ1 for a while now, and despite how good it is, there’s almost no content about it on YouTube. In this video, I take it out for real-world shooting — from a spontaneous colour-based photo walk in York, to dramatic coastal scenes in Port Mulgrave, and finally, to stunning travel photography in Morocco.

You’ll see how well this little camera handles bright light, RAW editing, and even custom Fujifilm film recipes. Plus, I’ll share my own film recipe that delivers warm tones and a nostalgic look perfect for daylight travel and outdoor scenes.

The XQ1 might be small, but it’s packed with features: a 12MP X-Trans CMOS II sensor, a 25–100mm f/1.8–4.9 lens, hybrid autofocus, and Fujifilm’s beautiful film simulations. Whether you shoot RAW or JPEG, it’s an incredible little travel camera that proves you don’t need the latest gear to create beautiful images.

If you enjoy compact cameras, Fujifilm colours, or retro-style photography, this one’s for you.

About the Creator

I’m Craig Vinnie Whitehead photographer, filmmaker, musician, dad, ice hockey player, and all-round creative with a passion for both 35mm film and digital photography I mainly shoot street photography but also enjoy a bit of urban and landscape photography.

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I am part of the DxO, Dehancer and Camp Snap affiliate programs and may earn a commission if you purchase through these links or use my discount codes. All opinions are my own.

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00:00 - Intro
00:42 - First Time Shooting
01:56 - Fujifilm XQ1 Features
02:56 - Port Mulgrave Custom Recipe
03:32 - RAW Files
04:07 - Perfect Travel Camera JPEGs
05:25 - Custom Settings and Recipe
06:07 - Battery Life
06:39 - Camera Accessories
07:11 - Final Thoughts
07:36 - Fujifilm x100F