Fujifilm releases GFX100 II and lenses
Posted on Sep 13, 2023 by Samara Husbands
Fujifilm has dropped the highly anticipated GFX100 II mirrorless camera alongside brand new lenses, promising broad genre coverage for professional photographers and videographers
GFX100 II
The GFX100 II enters the GFX series as the new flagship model and promises large-format, high-burst shooting alongside strong AF and video performance to broaden genre coverage.
The mirrorless GFX100 II features an image sensor that is 1.7 time larger than its 35mm full frame counterpart, resulting in ‘rich, tonal reproducibility and strong three-dimensional definitions.’ Pair this with the high-speed image processing engine, it is possible to incorporate the AI-based-subject-detection AF and the prediction AF algorithm for the first time outside the X-H2S.
Fujifilm has worked on improving the burst shooting performance, quickening the pace from 5.0 to 8.0 fps, to incorporate different shooting styles, like fashion, commercial, landscape, sports and news photography, where high-speed is paramount.
The new sensor ushered in enhancement of video recording performance. The camera records 4K/60p 4:2:2 10-bit video internally and, as a first for the GFX series, supports 8K/30p. Various ‘Video Format’ modes support Premista, 35mm, and anamorphic (35mm), accommodating a versatile range of shooting environments.
In terms of image quality, non-extended ISO80 sensitivity is introduced, alongside Film Simulation mode, ‘REALA ACE’. Hardware improvements include up to 8-stop five-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), 1.0x viewfinder, and 9.44-million-dot high-magnification and high-definition EVF. A large sub-LCD screen adorns the camera body with a titled top panel and new texture.
The GFX100 II body sports an Ethernet port, a HDMI type A and USB-C terminals for connectivity of external devices. Support for Fujifilm’s ‘Frame.io Camera to Cloud’ and timecode sync with ATOMOS AirGlu Bluetooth aids user workflow efficiency.
Pricing and availability
The FUJIFILM GFX100 II will be released late September 2023 priced as follows:
- Fujifilm GFX100 II Body Only: £6,999
- Vertical Grip for GFX100 II (VG-GFX100II) – no battery included: £479.
For more information regarding the GFX100 II, head to the Fujifilm website.
GF55mm f1.7 lens
Fujifilm has released lenses to accompany the GFX100 II camera in the GFX range. First up, the Fujinon GF55mmF1.7 R WR, which is an interchangeable within the whole GFX series. It is a large-aperture prime lens with the standard focal length of 55mm, which is equivalent to 44mm in the 35mm format).
Characteristically, the lens’ descriptive capability is combined with the bokeh created by the large maximum aperture, making the main subject stand out against a blurred background. The focal length vows to recreate a field of view close to that of the human eye for natural perspective. Fujifilm highlights that this makes it ideal for information-dense snaps and portraiture where the relation between the subject and the background is vital for effect.
The GF55mmF1.7 consists of 14 lens element in 10 groups, including two ED elements and two aspherical elements, promising a high-level of image-revolving performance and creamy bokeh. The placement of the aspherical elements appears to make use to the eight-element focusing lens group, which controls shifts in chromatic aberration, spherical aberration and comatic aberration when focusing position changes.
The lens features a maximum aperture of F1.7 alongside a normal focal length, meaning it should be able to adapt to versatile shooting situations both indoors and outdoors.
Pricing and availability
The FUJINON GF55mmF1.7 R WR will be released late September 2023 priced at £2,249.
For more information regarding the GF55mmF1.7, head to the Fujifilm website.
GF30mmF5.6 T/S and GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro lenses
Next up, we’ve got the tilt-shift lenses, the GF30mmF5.6 and the GF110mmF5.6, which cater to professional shooting needs in architecture, landscape and commercial photography. They allow photographers to alter how the optical axis related to the imaging plane, while intentionally manipulating areas in focus and perspective.
The optical design secures an 85mm (approx..) to cover a range of shift adjustment up to ±15mm. Revolving operation allows specialised shooting style without sacrificing image quality.
The GF30mmF5.6 T/S is a wide-angle tilt shift lens with a focal length of 35mm (equivalent to 24mm in 35mm film format). It works to suppress distortion and ghosting, typically seen with wide-angle lenses, to achieve a high level of image resolution. Ideal for landscape and architectural photography.
The GF110mmF5.6 is a mid-telephoto tilt shift macro lens with the focal length of 110mm (equivalent to 87mm in 35mm film format) and a maximum reproduction rate of 0.5x. It works to suppress aberration including distortion, and lateral and axial chromatic aberration for enhanced image quality. Made for commercial and still life photography.
Pricing and availability
Fujifilm GF30mmF5.6 T/S lens: £3,899
Fujifilm GF110mmF5.6 T/S lens: £3,499
Find out more on the Fujifilm website.
As if that wasn’t enough, Fujifilm has announced the development roadmap for GF lenses, featuring an ultra-telephoto prime lens and a power zoom lens.
