Discovering the Right Fit: The Fujifilm GFX 100S II Medium Format Mirrorless Camera

Finding a camera that genuinely fits your workflow can dramatically impact your enjoyment of photography. When your gear feels right in your hands, you're able to focus purely on the shot, rather than fighting with ergonomics or complicated settings.

Coming to you from James Popsys, this thoughtful video explores his unexpected decision to switch to the Fujifilm GFX 100S II medium format mirrorless camera after years with other systems. Popsys emphasizes that comfort and handling can play surprisingly significant roles in camera choice. After initially dismissing the idea of switching cameras, Popsys borrowed the GFX 100S II for a trial period, and its feel immediately reminded him of his beloved Lumix G9. Although initially concerned about the camera's large size, Popsys found its handling offset any inconvenience, allowing for extended shooting sessions without fatigue.

Additionally, Popsys discusses how the camera's resolution complements his preference for a specific crop format—65:24, also known as the Xpan crop. This panoramic format intrigued him after viewing photographer Adam Gibbs' striking compositions, which effectively leave critical elements out of the frame, sparking curiosity. Popsys had previously struggled to visualize this crop with his Sony a7R V, having to apply it retrospectively. The GFX 100S II solved this problem by displaying crop lines directly in-camera, enabling him to frame shots precisely in the field. This capability simplifies the creative process significantly, allowing you to compose intentionally rather than relying on guesswork or post-processing crops.

Key Specs

• Lens Mount: Fujifilm G

• Sensor: 102 Megapixel Medium Format CMOS (43.8 x 32.9 mm)

• Image Stabilization: 5-Axis Sensor-Shift

• ISO Range: 80 to 12,800 (Extended 40 to 102,400)

• Video: DCI/UHD 4K up to 29.97 fps, internal/external 10-bit recording

• Autofocus: 117 Phase Detection points

• Dual SD card slots (UHS-II)

• Display: 3.2" 3-way tilting touchscreen LCD

• Viewfinder: 5.76M-dot OLED, 100% coverage

• Weight: 1.9 lb (with battery and cards)

Popsys also touches upon common misconceptions regarding medium format's high megapixel count. Despite assumptions that tripods are necessary to achieve sharpness at resolutions over 100 megapixels, he finds handheld shooting perfectly viable thanks to the camera's exceptional image stabilization. This is particularly beneficial for photographers who prefer mobility and spontaneity over more deliberate, tripod-based compositions.

The practical implications of high-resolution sensors become evident when cropping aggressively. For instance, even after employing the panoramic 65:24 crop, Popsys retains substantial detail—around 50 megapixels. This opens possibilities for large prints without compromising image quality, offering considerable flexibility in post-production. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Popsys.