The Fujifilm GFX 100S II offers the allure of medium format imaging in tandem with a 102-megapixel sensor. A camera like this provides features that can elevate your portrait game, but it comes at a significant investment. So, what sets it apart?
Coming to you from Leigh & Raymond Photography, this insightful video highlights the strengths of the Fujifilm GFX 100S II, showing off its performance in a real-world setting. The hosts take it out to the Watchable Wildlife Trail near Flagstaff, Arizona—a scenic location that puts the camera’s capabilities to the test. With a large, pixel-packed sensor and a GF 110mm f/2 lens, the setup is ideal for low-light conditions and creating beautifully isolated portraits. The result is incredibly sharp images, rich in detail, and with smooth bokeh that you’d expect from a medium format system. The video explores how the lens and camera combination provides a depth-of-field and background separation that smaller sensors just can’t replicate.
What makes this video particularly compelling is how it breaks down the practical application of medium format for outdoor portraiture. The video discuss the technical specs, but more importantly, it shows how the camera behaves in less-than-ideal lighting situations. Because the shoot took place on an overcast day, the lighting was soft but dim, which forced them to bump up the ISO—something that often reveals a camera’s weaknesses. However, the GFX 100S II handled it with ease, delivering clean files without significant noise. They also emphasize that the GF 110mm f/2 lens, despite its size and weight, is well-suited to medium format. It offers a field of view equivalent to 85mm in full-frame terms, a classic focal length for portrait work.
Another key point discussed is how the GFX 100S II compares to full-frame cameras in achieving the “medium format look.” With a crop factor of 0.79x, the focal length and depth of field behave differently, making it easier to achieve shallow depth-of-field effects even at wider apertures. The video demonstrates this with a series of portraits that show excellent subject separation and smooth background blur. But, they’re quick to point out that you don’t need medium format to get pleasing bokeh—full frame and even APS-C sensors can create a similar look, though it requires more planning and precise positioning.
The video wraps up by showcasing more portraits, including some fun shots. Using the GFX 100S II, they capture every fine detail while still maintaining a soft, pleasing blur around the subject. There are benefits of having a large sensor for capturing these intricate details, but viewers should not to get too caught up in the technical specs. In the end, it’s about whether the camera fits your style and needs. Check out the video above for the full rundown.
