The Fujifilm GF 45-100mm f/4 R LM OIS WR lens covers a versatile zoom range for Fujifilm’s medium format GFX cameras. Here's a look at how it performs in use.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this practical video explores the key aspects of the Fujifilm GF 45-100mm f/4 R LM OIS WR lens. Frost emphasizes the versatility provided by its 35mm-equivalent focal length of 36-79mm, which nicely accommodates everyday shooting scenarios, including portraits. Despite its high price, Frost points out that its solid build, effective weather-sealing, and excellent image stabilization justify the cost for many users. Particularly useful is the built-in optical image stabilization, clearly demonstrated in the video by the significant improvement in handheld footage stability.
Center sharpness at both ends of the zoom is consistently impressive, but the lens displays noticeable softness at the corners when shot wide open at f/4. Stopping down to f/5.6 or f/8, however, greatly improves corner sharpness. Additionally, Frost's testing reveals pronounced barrel distortion and vignetting at the wide end, which diminish considerably when stopped down.
Key Specs
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Focal Length: 45 to 100mm (35mm equivalent: 36 to 79mm)
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Maximum Aperture: f/4
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Image Stabilization: Yes
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Minimum Focus Distance: 65 cm (2.13 ft)
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Filter Size: 82 mm
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Dimensions: 3.66 x 5.69 inches
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Weight: 2.21 lb (1005 g)
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Optical Design: 16 elements in 12 groups
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Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
The lens handles well despite its substantial size, balancing smoothly with Fujifilm’s GFX bodies. Frost points out practical details, such as the firm yet smooth zoom and focus rings, precise aperture ring clicks, and effective manual-to-automatic aperture lock feature. He also illustrates minor issues, like the focus breathing effect and slight jerkiness in manual focusing responsiveness, characteristics you might want to consider depending on your shooting style. Additionally, the lens copes well with challenging lighting, controlling flare and coma impressively, though it exhibits a peculiar glare anomaly at wider apertures, possibly limited to his copy.
Despite the moderate f/4 aperture, the larger sensor of the GFX system creates pleasing bokeh, enhancing your ability to isolate subjects effectively. He emphasizes that while this lens might not be the sharpest or technically perfect lens in the Fujifilm lineup, it delivers images with distinct character and aesthetic appeal, often outperforming lenses with slightly better technical sharpness but less compelling rendering. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Frost.
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