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Fujifilm’s GFX System gets the X100 treatment The ever-popular X100 formula meets with Fujifilm’s medium format GFX System, resulting in the fresh Fujifilm GFX100RF
To many, the Fujifilm brand is practically synonymous with its X100 range of cameras, with 2024’s Fujifilm X100VI continuing to set new standards for quality and performance in a compact, fixed-lens mirrorless body. The mission statement for these cameras has always been to provide an intuitive and engaging photographic experience while minimising weight and footprint, meaning the X100 range has found firm favour among travel, street and everyday photographers. That design philosophy has historically aligned this style of camera more naturally with Fujifilm’s X Series, where the smaller APS-C sensor size can cement a firm foundation on which to build a lightweight and pocketable design. For the first time though, innovations in camera design have enabled Fujifilm to create a fixed-lens model for the GFX System – the brand’s line of medium format cameras that were previously the reserve of large, powerful bodies, built to facilitate high-end, professional photography. Taking inspiration from the design and utility of a range of vintage analogue cameras, the Fujifilm GFX100RF combines the extensive imaging capacity of a 102-megapixel GFX System sensor with the elegant usability of a fixed-lens rangefinder The GFX100RF is the lightest-ever GFX System camera, at just 735g
camera – setting a new standard for the archetypal everyday carry.
GFX quality With a vast, 43.9x32.9mm image sensor, GFX System cameras offer an imaging surface that’s almost 70% larger than that of a full-frame camera. This grants significant benefits in a number of areas – not least quality. With so much room for additional pixels, the GFX100RF grants a resolution of 102 megapixels, offering lifelike levels of detail in every single photograph. GFX System sensors are also renowned for their ability to record high-contrast scenes, thanks to their astonishing dynamic range. Combine this with incredible colour accuracy – courtesy of 16-bit files – and the images made using the GFX100RF offer vast scope for exploration in post-production. A base ISO of 80 enables the creation of beautifully low-noise images when working in low-light scenarios, while the powerful X-Processor 5 enables the use of Fujifilm’s powerful subject detection algorithms, using artificial intelligence to automatically lock onto and track everyday subjects such as people, animals and vehicles. Versatile fixed lens For a fixed-lens camera to work at this scale, the lens needs to be as versatile as the sensor is capable – and that’s exactly the case with the GFX100RF. The built-in 35mm f/4 optic – which translates to an approximate 28mm f/3.2 full-frame equivalent – offers a natural, wide-angle view that’s ideal for travel,
street, documentary and environmental portraiture. Expanding its utility, the digital teleconverter function, leverages the GFX100RF’s sensor to deliver 28, 35, 50 and 63mm full-frame-equivalent fields of view. Meanwhile, a minimum focus distance of just 20cm opens up the ability to render close-up images, while a built-in four- stop ND filter supports the use of wider apertures and slower shutter speeds in bright conditions. The lens’ leaf shutter also enables high-speed flash sync and near- silent operation – ideal for discreet working. Refined rangefinder design The GFX100RF is the lightest-ever GFX System camera, having been stripped back to the bare essentials in order to tip the scales at just 735g. But with a machined aluminium top-plate and dials, it still possesses the same premium, robust build quality that GFX users have come to expect. The camera has also retained Fujifilm’s commitment to physical, analogue-inspired controls. The top- plate’s push-pull dial allows quick toggling between ISO and shutter speed, maintaining the tactile experience that many photographers seek out. This is complemented by a refined EVF – a large, 0.5in, 5.76-million-dot unit – delivering a crisp and immersive image preview. Additional design elements help elevate the experience further. The included lens
hood completes the classic styling, while attaching the included adapter ring and filter makes the entire camera weather resistant, for confident outdoor use. A front lever control provides customisable access to commonly used features, while another physical lever toggles teleconverter settings in an instant – blending digital versatility with satisfying mechanical feedback. Analogue inspiration With the GFX100RF, Fujifilm has once again proven that digital innovation needn’t come at the expense of creative expression. Much like the X100VI, the new camera is as much about the feel of photography as it is about the final image. This ethos is echoed in the inclusion of Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes – a now-iconic feature that gives photographers instant access to a suite of colour profiles based on classic film stocks. From the punchy contrast of Velvia to the soft tones of ASTIA or muted vintage look of Classic Chrome, Film Simulations bring character to your imagery at the moment of acquisition, with no need to spend hours editing. A new analogue-style control dial on the camera’s top plate also allows for direct adjustment of the aspect ratio – offering not just standard 3:2 and 4:3 formats, but also panoramic 65:24 and square 1:1 ratios. This subtle yet effective addition encourages
GO LARGE All this resolution, in such a compact body, is a wonder to behold – and to hold!
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