Continuing today’s series of announcements, Fujifilm has just announced a pair of exciting products for their medium format users. The new GFX 100S II camera offers a 100-megapixel sensor and a variety of new features for $5000. Then there’s Fuji’s longest medium format lens yet – the $3500 GF 500mm f/5.6, roughly equivalent to a 400mm lens on full-frame. Both of these products look very promising, and you’ll be hearing more from Libor shortly; he already had a chance to test them in the field for wildlife photography! For now, I’ll introduce them to you briefly.
Fuji GFX 100S II
As the name implies, this medium format camera is the successor to the Fujifilm GFX 100S, which was first released in early 2021.
There are several improvements – I’m very excited to see where they lead. For starters, Fuji says that the sensor has been redesigned. Even though it’s still 100 megapixels, the base ISO is now 80 instead of 100. Fuji says that, when combined with 16-bit RAW files, the new camera has more dynamic range and less noise than the previous version.
One of the biggest headline improvements is the better autofocus system. Fuji says that the GFX 100S II has subject detection AF, which – along with improved face and eye detection – can recognize animals, birds, insects, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, and drones. The new camera also has better image stabilization compared to the previous generation, now rated for 8 stops rather than 6. Combine all that with today’s GF 500mm f/5.6 announcement, and we may have the world’s first serious medium format wildlife combination on our hands.
Other improvements over the previous GFX 100S include a faster frame rate (7 FPS rather than 5 FPS), a higher-magnification viewfinder (0.84x vs 0.77x), and improved high-end video features. It looks like a worthy step up from what was already an excellent medium format camera, especially for the price.
Fuji GF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR Lens
What good is a capable autofocus system for wildlife photography without the right lens to pair with it? At least, that’s the question Fuji seems to have asked themselves when designing the GFX 100S II. Their answer was the longest GF lens yet – a 500mm f/5.6 lens, equivalent to a 396mm f/4.4 lens on full-frame.
At $3500, it’s not a cheap lens, although it’s barely more expensive than an equivalent full-frame lens like Nikon’s Z 400mm f/4.5 S ($3250, currently on sale for $3000). Looking at the construction, the price is probably justified: 21 elements in 14 groups, including five ED and two Super ED glass elements. The lens features image stabilization and a weather-resistant design, and the weight of 1375 grams (3.03 pounds) is pretty reasonable. The maximum magnification of 0.2x won’t allow for serious near-macro photography, but it’s still respectable.
I’m sure the optical quality will be good – my only question is focus speed. Can it keep up with fast-moving action, and does it live up to the GFX 100S II’s improved autofocus system? Even small focusing errors could prevent you from making the most of a 100-megapixel medium format sensor, so it’s an important question. I haven’t heard any spoilers from Libor yet – I’m in the same boat as you, waiting to read what his experiences with the lens were like!
GFX 100S II Press Release
Lightweight, High Speed: Fujifilm Introduces FUJIFILM GFX100S II Mirrorless Digital Camera
All the Power of the GFX System in a Small, Light Body Designed for Image Makers
VALHALLA, N.Y. – FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Electronic Imaging Division, today announces the latest addition to its GFX System mirrorless digital camera lineup, FUJIFILM GFX100S II (GFX100S II). This new camera harnesses the image quality and key functionality from the larger GFX100 II mirrorless digital camera, in a smaller, lighter GFX System body designed for image makers who want to expand their system and/or are seeking an entry point into large format photography.
“Our GFX System continues to revolutionize ultra-high-resolution, large format image making by taking it out of specialist studio environments and putting into the hands of passionate creatives across all genres, styles and applications,” said Victor Ha, vice president, Electronic Imaging Division and Optical Devices Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “GFX100S II is the natural next step in the evolution of the product line that specifically caters to the needs of photographers who have wanted additional autofocus performance and responsiveness from their GFX100S cameras. We feel we’ve really delivered in that regard and done so in a way that allows it to keep its compact form factor, which means it can make an appearance in almost any creative setting.”
GFX100S II is equipped with a new, high-performance GFX 102MP CMOS II large format sensor1 approximately 1.7 times larger than a 35mm full-frame sensor, and paired with Fujifilm’s latest high-speed image processing engine, X-Processor 5, all housed within a compact body and weighing approximately 883 grams (31 ounces)2, making it the lightest digital camera in the GFX System.
GFX100S II offers rich tonal expression and three-dimensional rendering capabilities, made possible by the unique characteristics of the large format sensor, with AI-based subject detection. It features fast and highly precise autofocus (AF) and continuous shooting speed of up to 7.0 frames per second3. The in-body image stabilization (IBIS) function achieves a maximum of eight-stop4 five-axis performance, the best in the GFX System. In terms of video performance, users can create vibrant and smooth 4K/30P videos, allowing for high-quality video production as well.
Main features
Large format sensor with 102MP
- Improvement to the pixel structure in GFX100S II’s newly developed 102MP large format sensor has boosted the new sensor’s saturated electrons, enabling the use of ISO 80 as a standard sensitivity. At this setting and when shooting in 16-bit RAW, the camera can create images at greater dynamic range and with lower noise than with the previous GFX model.
- The new sensor’s micro lenses provide light use efficiency at the sensor’s edges. GFX100S II is equipped with a total of 20 Film Simulation modes, including REALA ACE mode, which combines faithful color reproduction and well-defined tonal expression.
- GFX100S II also includes the “Pixel Shift Multi-Shot” feature, which controls the in-body image stabilization function to shift the image sensor while creating photos. By creating a 16-shot RAW file, shifting the image sensor by 0.5 pixels for each shot, and using the dedicated software, “Pixel Shift Combiner”, to combine the 16 RAW files, it is possible to generate an image with approximately 400 million pixels. Additionally, the “Real Color” mode, which captures 4 RAW files with a one-pixel shift for each image, can generate images with a resolution of 102 million pixels while suppressing false colors, in only one-fourth of the imaging time and data volume compared to the previous GFX model.
Powerful IBIS mechanism in a compact body
- The IBIS unit combined with gyro and acceleration sensors are designed to accurately depict even the slightest movement, along with the use of image information to detect shake and improve correction precision when creating an image. The camera’s IBIS mechanism also includes up to 8-stops of 5-axis stabilization performance, allowing creators who are working handheld to reliably, confidently, and comfortably create images even in low-light scenes without a tripod.
- The camera has a height of approximately 104mm (4 inches) and a depth of approximately 87mm (3.4 inches), similar to previous GFX System models.
- The body of GFX100S II incorporates Fujifilm’s BISHAMON-TEX textured exterior, designed to provide comfort and grip when holding the camera.
Evolved high-speed, high precision autofocus (AF) and continuous shooting performance
- In addition to the evolved face and eye AF achieved through algorithm advancements, GFX100S II is equipped with AI based subject detection AF, developed with deep learning technology. It can detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones5, and it features an improved AF predictive algorithm compared to previous GFX System models, enabling it to handle high-speed motion tracking situations effectively.
- With the new development of the 102 MP high-speed sensor and an exceptionally high readout speed along with a newly developed shutter drive, it achieves a continuous shooting performance of 7.0 frames per second.
- GFX100S II is equipped with a high-magnification, high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a magnification of 0.84x and 5.76 million dots that is designed to suppress image distortion and flow caused by shifts in the position of the eye.
4K/30P video recording capability
- With the new sensor in GFX100S II, the standard ISO100 is available in video mode to deliver even higher image quality in video footage than on previous GFX System models.
- GFX100S II is equipped with a tracking AF function during video recording. When using AF-C + Wide/Tracking AF, the user can easily track the intended subject, even in situations where multiple subjects are present.
- The camera offers 4K video recording at 30 frames per second and is capable of recording in 4K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit on a compatible SD Memory Card (sold separately). GFX100S II is offers compatible recording using Apple ProRes™ by connecting an external SSD via a USB Type C cable6.
- GFX100S II is equipped with “F-Log2,” which offers a wide dynamic range of 13+ stops for recording, allowing for increased optimal flexibility in post-production, and it has the capability to record and output different video formats using different recording media and HDMI output. For example, users can record using “F-log2” onto any compatible recording media, while also simultaneously monitoring video via HDMI with any Film Simulation mode applied. This makes it easy to apply creative looks on set, but still retain flexibility for almost any post-production color workflow.
- GFX100S II offers an accessory-free, native Camera to Cloud integration for Adobe’s Frame.io, which allows users to wirelessly connect any GFX100S III to an active internet connection, authenticate it to Frame.io, and automatically upload photos and videos just moments after they are created. This can drastically reduce the amount of time needed to reach the end of any post-production workflow. GFX100S II is the latest GFX System camera to integrate Frame.io’s Camera to Cloud technology, joining GFX100 II in offering the capability.
Optional accessories
Hand grip (MHG-GFX S)
This metal hand grip is designed to enhance grip and stability when image making with larger telephoto lenses and offers optimal convenience when using a tripod.Pricing and Availability
FUJIFILM GFX100S II is expected to be available in June 2024 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $4,995.95 USD ($6,749.99 CAD). The MHG-GFX S hand grip is available at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $149.99 USD ($195 CAD).For more information, please visit https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/products/cameras/gfx100s-ii/.
Additional News:
Membership in C2PA7 and CAI8 and efforts to develop a system to provide context and history for digital media
In recent years, it has become an important global objective to work to rebuild trust online by proving the authenticity of photographs, videos and other online content. To further this effort and enable creative and business activities to continue to flourish, Fujifilm has joined two organizations, the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) and the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI). Fujifilm is collaborating with these organizations in their efforts to ensure that the originator of digital content can be verified online through Content Credentials9. Through its association with C2PA and CAI, Fujifilm will assist efforts to develop a system to provide context and history of digital content by providing valuable information, such as the origin and record of content, to the digital file. Fujifilm is committed to ultimately applying this verification solution to its GFX and X series line-up10.1 The new sensor has a diagonal length of 55mm (43.8mm in width x 32.9mm in height) which has approximately 1.7 times the area of a 35mm format sensor.
2 Including the battery and the user’s memory card.
3 When using the mechanical shutter
4 At CIPA standard compliant in pitch/yaw directions, with the FUJINON GF63mmF2.8 R WR lens mounted.
5 The ”Bird” Subject Detection setting is used to detect insects and the “Airplane” setting is used to detect drones.
6 Certain recording modes of the GFX100S II may not be fully compatible with certain types of SSDs. Consult https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/support/compatibility/cameras/list-of-supported-memory-cards/ for a list of confirmed compatible SSDs.
7 An open, technical standards body addressing the prevalence of misleading information online through the development of technical standards for certifying the source and history (or provenance) of digital content. C2PA is a Joint Development Foundation project that publishes Content Credentials, the digital content verification system and standard.
8 A global community of media and tech companies, NGOs, academics, and others working to promote adoption of an open industry standard for content authenticity and provenance – called Content Credentials.
9 Content Credentials is essentially an “ingredient statement” for digital content that is designed to attach secure tamper-evident metadata to digital content, which can include important information such as the creator’s name, the date an image was created, what tools were used to create an image and any edits that were made along the way.
10 Scheduled to be deployed as needed through firmware updates. (Deployment schedule to be determined).
GF 500mm f/5.6 Press Release
Super Telephoto Powerhouse: Fujifilm Introduces FUJINON GF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR Lens
VALHALLA, N.Y. – FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Electronic Imaging Division, today announces the latest lens in its GFX System line of digital camera and lens products – FUJINON GF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR (GF500mm), a super telephoto prime lens designed for photographers who primarily specialize in distant, moving subjects in genres ranging from wildlife and outdoor sports to landscape and street photography. GF500mm can create images up to 500mm (equivalent to 396mm in 35mm format), making it the lens with the longest range in the lineup of GF lenses to date.
“GF500mm is an exciting addition to the GFX System because it combines incredible range with the power of the system’s 102 megapixel sensor,” said Victor Ha, vice president, Electronic Imaging and Optical Devices Divisions, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “GF500mm’s compact, lightweight design and super telephoto focal length enable photographers to create images in impeccable detail they may not have previously dreamed was possible.”
By miniaturizing a typically large and heavy super telephoto lens and achieving high-speed and high precision autofocus, GF500mm enables super telephoto photography in sports, wildlife, and bird photography, where high mobility is required. With incredible image stabilization sensing accuracy and optimal mechanical design, it achieves powerful image stabilization with up to 6.0 stops1 of compensation. Users can comfortably enjoy handheld image making in the challenging super telephoto range, where camera shake is likely to occur.
Product Features:
Telephoto capabilities beyond what the naked eye can see
• By combining GF500mm with the FUJINON Teleconverter GF1.4X TC WR, users can expand the GF500mm’s focal length, achieving a maximum focal length equivalent to 700mm (equivalent to 554mm in 35mm format).
• With a lens construction consisting of 14 groups and 21 elements, including two Super Extra-low Dispersion (ED) lenses and five ED lenses, GF500mm effectively suppresses chromatic aberration specific to super telephoto lenses and achieves high resolution performance. It accurately depicts a level of detail beyond what the naked eye can see.Lightweight yet durable design
• In contrast to the usual heft of large format telephoto lenses, GF500mm tips the scales at only 1,375 grams (3.03lbs)2. In addition to its lightweight design, GF500mm’s optimal arrangement of ED lenses and Super ED lenses minimizes chromatic aberration that is likely to occur with miniaturization, enabling GF500mm’s compact size, light weight, and high-resolution performance.
• GF500mm is temperature resistant down to -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit), and its weather-resistant structure features sealing at 18 points on the lens barrel. Furthermore, the front element of the lens is coated with fluorine, providing water-repellent and anti-smudge capabilities.Fast, accurate autofocus
• While maintaining high resolution performance, GF500mm adopts an inner focus system that incorporates a small and light focus lens and drives the focus group using a linear motor. This enables a fast and silent autofocus (AF) with a minimum delay of approximately 0.31 seconds3.
• The user’s desired focus can be shifted to a pre-defined location via the Focus Preset button4.
• The GF500mm also features the Focus Limiter function (a setting within the Focus Range Selector), allowing users to restrict the lens’s AF range to shorten AF time when photographing a subject that is generally at least 5 meters (16.4 feet) away.Pricing and Availability:
FUJINON GF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR lens is expected to be available in June 2024 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $3,499.95 USD ($4,724.99 CAD).For more information, please visit https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/products/lenses/gf500mmf56-r-lm-ois-wr/.
1 According to CIPA standards, pitch/yaw direction.
2 Excluding lens cap, hood, and tripod mount.
3 AF speed on the telephoto end, using a CIPA Guideline compliant measurement method and when mounted on the FUJIFILM GFX100 II mirrorless digital camera with Phase Detection AF and High-Performance Mode selected.
4 To operate the “SET button,” “focus control button,” and “focus select switch” on the FUJIFILM GFX50S, it is necessary to update the camera body to version 3.10 or later.