Fujifilm recently announced the GFX 50SII camera, the much-anticipated successor to their extremely popular GFX50S large format camera. With each new release, Fujifilm’s GFX series has changed our perception of medium format digital. The GFX50SII will put medium format cameras in more hands than ever before. Not to mention, the price point makes it perfect for someone who wants to enter the medium format world.
Key Features of the Fujifilm GFX 50SII Camera
It seems odd to use the word “entry” when discussing medium format cameras. These tools are designed with extremely high-build quality, image sensor, and are loaded with professional features. However, the price of the GFX 50SII will make it the first medium format camera for many photographers.
We know medium format with sensors 1.7x the size of full frame are capable of amazing image quality. Although, what the Fujifilm GFX 50SII camera shows us is that medium format can be priced so graduating students and new professionals can fit it into their budget.
Image Sensor and Processor
With a 51.4 Megapixel Large Format CMOS Image Sensor and the X-Processor 4 Image Processor, the GFX 50SII is capable of 3.0 frames per second. You won’t miss a shot whether out in the field or in the studio. You can feel confident using the GFX 50SII as a run-and-gun camera with up to 6.5 stops of Internal Body Image Stabilization (UBIS) and a compact, weather resistant body.
Combine with the New 35-70mm Lens
Along with the GFX 50SII, Fujifilm has released the GF 35-70mm F4.5-56 WR lens, which you can also buy as a kit. This kit — priced at about $4499 — will be a great starting point or second camera for wedding shooters already in the GFX system. Of course, the GFX 50SII is compatible with the full line of GF lenses. It also uses an updated autofocus (AF) algorithm for optimized performance with G Mount lenses.
The GF35-70mm F4.5-5.6 WR can be collapsed when not in use, keeping the total package very small. It’s easy to carry around for a day of shooting whether that be on an assignment, covering an event, or exploring the city. With both the camera and lens being weather resistant and a small form factor, the GF35-70mm F4.5-5.6 WR and GFX50SII are a great combo for an everyday shooter.
Trying it Out
Since I had the Fujifilm GFX 50SII camera for a few days, I decided to have my friend Mia come by the studio for a classic portrait. While shooting with a 100mm lens, the camera performance was fast and the resulting images had the amazing color and sharpness Fuji is known for.
We decided to meet up later in the week and shoot some location portraits in Central Park. For this session, I took with me the GFX50SII and GF35-70mm F4.5-5.6 WR kit.
The compact size of the GFX50SII and versatility of the 35-70mm lens makes it effortless to create magazine-style portraits with minimal gear. The FujiFilm GFX sensor is so much larger than a full frame digital camera. Therefore, the field of view with the GF lenses is slightly wider than the focal length might suggest if you are coming from full frame. The GF35-70mm F4.5-5.6 WR lens has a field of view roughly equivalent to 28-55mm in full frame. This range enabled me to get images that included the environment even though I was shooting in a tight spot. It allowed nice portraits with enough apparent compression to be flattering. The resulting images were sharp with great contrast and nicely saturated color.
All in all, the GFX50SII is a solid camera. Coupled with the GF35-70mm F4.5-5.6 WR, FujiFilm has created an appealing pair for those looking to break into medium format or add another capable body to their GFX kit. You can see more images and detail from my shoot on AdoramaTV.
To add to the exciting news, Fujifilm has also expanded their X series with release of the X-T30 II camera, XF18-55mm lens, and XC15-45mm lens. Check out these new products if you’re looking to expand your Fujifilm collection.
