Medium format cameras are often viewed as tools for professionals, but their growing accessibility has broadened their appeal. With the right combination of features and price, they offer stunning image quality for those willing to embrace their unique quirks.
Coming to you from Take Kayo of bigheadtaco, this great video reviews the Fujifilm GFX 100S II. This camera stands out as a more affordable entry into the 100-megapixel medium-format world, priced at $5,000. Kayo highlights the differences between this model and others in Fujifilm’s GFX lineup, while emphasizing the image quality that all these cameras deliver. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or documentary-style images, the GFX 100S II offers excellent resolution at a competitive price.
Kayo discusses lens pairings that work best with the camera, such as the 32-64mm zoom for versatility and the 55mm f/1.7 for intimate, close-range shots. These lenses provide a range of options for different styles, whether you’re capturing wide cityscapes or working on tighter, more personal compositions. One standout feature of the camera is its ability to adapt to various workflows. Its film simulations, like Reala Ace and Nostalgic Negative, cater to diverse creative preferences. Kayo explains how these simulations differ from Fujifilm’s X-series cameras due to the GFX’s Bayer sensor, giving them a unique look. For anyone interested in blending the classic feel of film with modern digital capabilities, these simulations offer a lot to explore. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Kayo.
TL;DW:
Yes.
I will declare my bias because I've used this camera now for six months I absolutely love it! The reasons why I love the camera.
1 it's very light for a GFX. It only weighs 883 grams
2 it doesn't feel any bigger than a normal full frame camera in the hands.
3 The bishamon-tex actually serves a purpose as the camera feels fantastic to grip in the hand.
4 it's a photography first camera. 4K 30 only video. But if you want to shoot video you can and as a simple switch. But it's great that it was photography first and one of the reasons why I bought it.
5 The image quality is absolutely amazing and looking on social media doesn't do it justice. You have to look at a file on a computer and then see it printed on the wall.
6 8.5 stops IBIS in this camera is so good considering the size and I've shot down as low as one second handheld I've shot as low as 1/10 of a second with a 200 mm lens. Sharp!
7 The camera is versatile and you can shoot sports with it if you needed to or your dog running around and it's great for portraits.
8 The build quality is fantastic. Yes Made in Japan!
9 The dynamic range is fantastic and I virtually don't have to bracket images
10 Did anyone mention Fuji colours? Yeah we know they're good and look. The autofocus actually is really good in this particular camera and I've shot portraits with it with a high hit rate no problems.
Did I need a medium format camera? Probably not but did I want one to take my photography to a different level? Yes I did and I worked my absolute arse off in the last two years and I've already made the money back on this camera and prints and other work.
How did I end up with this camera? Well I was using Fuji X cameras and I do love them cameras but I was missing the dynamic range and I wanted to stay in Fuji so there was no other option and I've loved my journey into medium format.