Fujifilm Unveils GFX100RF: A Groundbreaking Medium Format Fixed-Lens Camera
Fujifilm has announced the launch of its latest medium format camera, the GFX100RF, marking a significant departure from its previous GFX models. This innovative device combines the lightweight design of the X100VI series with the high-resolution capabilities of a 102-megapixel sensor, positioning itself as a formidable competitor to the Leica Q3.
The GFX100RF stands out as the lightest body in the GFX series and introduces a fixed-lens design, a first for the medium format line. The camera features a versatile 35mm lens, equivalent to 28mm in full-frame terms, catering to a wide range of photographic scenarios.
Craftsmanship is at the forefront of the GFX100RF’s design, with its top plate precision-milled from a single block of aluminum. The camera is set to hit the market in April, priced at $4,899.95, and weighs in at a surprisingly light 1.62 pounds (735 grams), comparable to some full-frame models like the Sony A1 II.
The fixed f/4 lens boasts a minimum focusing distance of 20 centimeters, enabling creative close-up shots. For added versatility, the focal length can be digitally extended to 45mm, 63mm, and 80mm. Notably, the GFX100RF employs a leaf shutter system instead of a focal plane shutter, allowing for flash sync at any shutter speed and contributing to the camera’s compact size.
While the camera lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS), likely to maintain its slim profile, it introduces several innovative features. An aspect ratio dial offers nine different options, including 3:2, 16:9, 1:1, and 17:6. The GFX100RF also incorporates a built-in four-stop ND filter, a first for the GFX series.
The camera’s interface includes a 3.15-inch, 2.1-million dot touchscreen LCD on the back and a high-resolution 5.76-million dot electronic viewfinder.
In comparison to Fujifilm’s GFX 100S II, the GFX100RF offers a lighter and more compact body but sacrifices IBIS and interchangeable lens capabilities. This positions the camera as a direct competitor to the Leica Q3, targeting photographers with substantial budgets who prioritize portability without compromising on image quality.
As the photography community eagerly awaits hands-on experiences with the GFX100RF, reviews are expected to surface in the near future, providing deeper insights into this groundbreaking medium format fixed-lens camera.