Medium format cameras offer something that’s hard to match with other systems: incredible detail. If you’ve ever wondered how different medium format is compared to full frame, you’re not alone. Many people are curious whether the larger sensor is worth the extra cost or if they really need it for their style of photography.
Coming to you from Leigh & Raymond Photography, this detailed video compares the image quality of medium format and full-frame cameras. The comparison focuses on aspects like resolution, dynamic range, and bokeh. Using the Fujifilm GFX 100S and the Panasonic Lumix S5 II, the video shows side-by-side examples in different shooting environments, including cityscapes and landscapes. One key takeaway is the ability of medium format to capture an incredible amount of detail, especially when zooming in on distant objects. However, modern full frame cameras, particularly those with high-resolution modes like the S5 II, can hold their own, even mimicking the clarity of medium format in some cases.
The video also emphasizes how medium format excels when it comes to creating shallow depth of field, producing that beautiful bokeh effect. For portrait photographers, this can be a game-changer. However, as shown in the Flagstaff, Arizona, field test, the difference between the two formats isn’t always as significant as you might expect. While the medium format offers smoother transitions from in-focus to out-of-focus areas, the full frame images remain impressively sharp and show nice transitions with similar lenses. This makes you question whether the difference is enough to justify the price for your specific work.
Another aspect discussed is the practical differences in usability. Medium format cameras are typically bulkier and slower, which can be a challenge if you’re used to the quicker autofocus and faster shooting speeds of full frame models. When shooting astrophotography near the San Francisco Peaks, the video highlights how medium format’s larger sensor offers greater dynamic range in shadows, but lacks some of the night-friendly features available in full frame models like the Lumix S5 II, such as enhanced live view for manual focusing in the dark.
Ultimately, the comparison showcases that while medium format delivers some of the best image quality available, full frame cameras are catching up in ways that are making the choice more nuanced than ever before. The question of whether you need medium format really comes down to your personal shooting style and what you prioritize in your photography. Check out the video above for the full rundown.
For the resolution test, she compares the 100MP GFX to a 96MP multi-shot capture from a 24MP S5II. I don't buy it. Comparing to a 60MP body, with and without multi-shot, would be more informative about the maximum possible performance of each system.
Medium format? Been there, done that. Hasselblad, Mamiya. Not worth the extra weight and limited lens selection compared to high-end 24x36.