Fujifilm GFX100RF: A compact medium format powerhouse with a fixed lens

Fujifilm's GFX100RF marks a significant advancement in medium format photography. Designed for photographers who want detail without bulk, this camera is expected to compete with high-end models such as the Leica Q3.

The GFX100RF from Fujifilm is a small fixed-lens camera with medium format capabilities.

How does the GFX100RF stand out from other Fujifilm GFX models?

This one is the first to have a fixed-lens design and is the lightest body in the GFX series, which sets it apart from the company's other GFX models. A 35mm lens (or 28mm in full frame) is included up front; Fujifilm selected this focal length due to its adaptability, as quoted in a report by The Verge.


With the GFX100RF's small size and styling, Fujifilm is attempting to replicate some of the X100VI's appearance and feel in a camera that can capture an amazing amount of detail with its 102-megapixel sensor. Indeed, Fujifilm has the Leica Q3 in its sights as well.

With a top plate that is expertly crafted from a single block of aluminum, the GFX100RF is undoubtedly aesthetically pleasing. It will retail for $4,899.95 in April. By medium format standards, it weighs only 1.62 pounds (735 grams), which puts it on par with some full-frame cameras like the Sony A1 II.

What are the key advantages and drawbacks of this new design?

A minimum focusing distance of 20 centimeters is provided by the permanently mounted f/4 lens, according to Fujifilm, which should enable some imaginative close-ups.

Digital extensions of the focal length to 45 mm, 63 mm, and 80 mm are possible.

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The GFX100RF lacks in-body image stabilization, which is disappointing for a very costly camera that users will be holding most of the time. Fujifilm probably made the GFX100RF the size it is by forgoing IBIS, but clever design also contributed, as quoted in a report by The Verge.

Shorter back focus, a leaf shutter system rather than a focal plane shutter system, and flash synchronization at any shutter speed are all examples of Fujifilm's clever design. In addition, the camera has an integrated four-stop ND filter and an aspect ratio dial that lets users choose from nine different aspect ratios.

A high-resolution 5.76-million-dot EVF and a 3.15-inch, 2.1-million-dot touchscreen LCD are located on the rear of the camera. Despite being bulkier and less stylish, Fujifilm's GFX 100S II has interchangeable lenses and IBIS.

FAQs

How does the GFX100RF differ from other GFX cameras?
It is the lightest GFX camera yet and the first to feature a fixed 35mm lens. Its compact design, leaf shutter, and aspect ratio dial distinguish it from its medium-format counterparts.

Does the GFX100RF include in-body image stabilization (IBIS)?
No, Fujifilm removed IBIS to keep the camera light and compact. However, the high-resolution sensor and built-in ND filter help to preserve image quality.