If you have sufficient shutter speed (also depends if you have image stabilization), then I think the issue is probably focus.

I also have a fuji camera. In manual mode, you can have focus indicator showing e.g. red dots in the in-focus areas. Another way is to use "focus check" button which is basically a quick digital zoom to check the focus yourself.

Regarding blown-out sky, I often use the HDR auto mode which effectively automatically lowers the exposure 1 stop and then raises it in post, so trading some shadows for highlights. You lose some control but it makes shooting easier. I also use the display indicator / blinkies for blown out parts so I can easily see when something is overexposed.

Yeah, I can confirm I'm getting AF on the points I want. No IBIS/lens stabilization though. I think it's camera shake but man, holding it pretty darn still at 1/600+ shutter speed, seems like it "should" be plenty. I should try zooming in on the original pic and reviewing in realtime with each shot. Ditto for the exposure work.