Fujifilm unveiled several exciting new products today, expanding both the GFX and X series lineups. We briefly overview each release in a “30,000′ foot” kind of way and share our initial thoughts. All these items are available pre-owned through Camera West. We’ve enabled stock notifications for each item that you can sign up for online (links below). You can also contact us directly or your preferred Camera West store to inquire about purchasing one of these items.
In-Person First Look Events!
At the writing of this first look article, we’d like to inform you of two hands-on events at our Rancho Mirage and Walnut Creek stores coming up quickly. These are great opportunities for you to experience these products in person!
- Walnut Creek | Monday, May 20, 11am – 2pm | CLICK FOR MORE INFO
- Rancho Mirage | Tuesday, May 28, 11am – 2pm | CLICK FOR MORE INFO
The Fujifilm GFX 100s II
The first notable release is the new GFX100S II, which boasts nearly the same features as the GFX 100 II but in a smaller, lighter-weight package. Fujifilm has managed to incorporate all the technology from the GFX 100 II into a camera that is 100g lighter and significantly smaller in the hand. The new GFX100S II can shoot 7 frames per second with Processor 5 AI-based Autofocusing and in-body image stabilization good for up to 8 stops.
The GFX100S II packs most of the punch inside it as it’s larger, more full-featured sibling, the GFX100 II. There are some key differences to keep in mind. Ultimately, it is a matter of your needs and whether you value the size of the GFX100S II vs. the GFX100 II or if the added benefits of the larger camera are more in line with your needs.
| GFX100S II | GFX100 II | |
| MAX FPS | 7fps | 8fps |
| Video | 4k/30fps | 4k/60fps |
| EVF | 5.76m Dot | 9.44m Dot |
The GFX100S II represents a significant advancement in reducing the size of the technology found in the robust and powerful GFX100 II. The size of this new model aligns with that of other full-frame DSLRs and some full-frame mirrorless cameras. Additionally, the GFX100S II features a new film simulation profile, REALA ACE, joining the existing film simulations that Fujifilm cameras are known for.
Fujifilm GFX100S II Features at a Glance
- Newly-developed GFX 102MP CMOS II sensor paired with X-Processor 5 imaging engine
- Small, light, ergonomic body weighing 883g1 (1.95lbs) that is comparable in weight and size to a full-frame camera system body
- 5.76 million dot high-resolution EVF
- AI-assisted subject tracking autofocus down to -5.5EV
- 4K/30p video resolution with 4:2:2 10-bit in-camera recording
- Native Frame.io Camera to Cloud functionality
The Fujifilm GF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS
In addition to the GFX100s II, Fujifilm has announced a remarkable GF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR lens (that’s a mouthful!). From here on, we’ll refer to this lens simply as the GF 500mm F5.6. This lens is a fantastic addition to the GF line-up and showcases Fujifilm’s commitment to creating a full-featured, DSLR-competing mirrorless medium-format camera.
The GF 500mm F5.6 weighs just 1375g and has a minimum length of 9.4 inches. It features a rugged, weather-resistant construction, making it reliable in various conditions. The built-in OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) feature of this lens allows users with GFX cameras that already have in-body image stabilization (IBIS) to enhance image stabilization with both OIS and IBIS. The OIS featured on the GF 500mm F5.6 offers an additional 6 stops of image stabilization.
Though not many might be interested in an 800mm f5.6 GF equivalent medium format lens due to its bulk, the balance of weight, optical power, and speed on the new 500mm f5.6 could make it an interesting combination when paired with the new GFX 100 cameras. The GF 500mm f5.6 is roughly equivalent to a 400mm lens on a full-frame camera. With 102-megapixel digital files, you’re certainly able to crop down to achieve an even more telephoto focal length virtually. This could be a compelling argument for this lens if you’re considering a medium format camera but don’t want to give up your 600mm on the full frame.
Fujifilm GF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS Features at a Glance
- Compact and lightweight design, just 1375g (3.03lb) and 24.7cm (9.4in) long
- Far reaching 396mm equivalent focal length – ideal for sports and wildlife
- Fast and accurate linear autofocus motor with presets designed to minimize focusing times
- 6.0 stop optical image stabilizer offers assured handholding
- Five ED and two Super ED elements offer high optical quality
- Weather-resistant design for use outdoors in adverse conditions
The Fujifilm X-T50 & XF 16-80mm f2.8-4.8 R LM WR
Fujifilm has announced two exciting new additions to their X series products: the X-T50 camera body and the XF 16-80mm f2.8-4.8 R LM WR zoom lens. The X-T50, an interesting addition to the Fujifilm X series lineup of cameras, shares much of the same technology found in both the Fujifilm X-T5 and the Fujifilm X100VI.
Fujifilm X-T50 Features at a Glance
- Dedicated Film Simulation dial offering fast access to 20 Film Simulations (including REALA ACE mode)
- 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor
- Supports all X Series lenses and includes a 1.4x and 2x Digital Teleconverter
- 6.2K/30P, 4K/60P, FHD/240P, 4:2:2 10-Bit Video
- Native Frame.io Camera to Cloud integration with no accessory requirements
- Deep Learning AI-assisted autofocus for subject detection
Despite the X100VI being a great camera, it’s not the only option for photographers seeking a capable, compact, and ideal everyday carry camera with the ability to use a wide array of Fujifilm’s extensive XF lens lineup.
The Fujifilm X-T50, weighing approximately 390g without the battery, can be both a compact camera for those seeking an everyday carry camera like the X100VI and a more fully featured camera like its larger sibling, the X-T5, when used with one of the F2 WR prime lenses or even the impressive 27mm f2.8 WR.
The X-T50 will feature the same 40mp X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor as the X-T5 and X100VI. It will also have a dial on the left-hand side, allowing for quick changes between film simulation modes, including the new REALE ACE profile.
You can pre-order the Fujifilm X-T50 here from Camera West or by contacting us directly
The 16-50mm f2.8-4.8 R LM WR is a welcome upgrade to the 18-55mm F2.8 kit lens commonly found on many X series kits. This new lens will feature better optics that are best suited for the new 40mp X-Trans sensor, along with a 24-76mm 35mm equivalent focal range in a compact and easy-to-use zoom. One of the stand-out features we noticed is the 9.44in or 0.24-meter minimum focus distance, not just at the wide or telephoto end of the lens but rather throughout the entire focal range of the lens. We’ve been saying for a long time to first timers to the X-Series system that the 18-55mm f2.8-4 wasn’t a wrong move for a first lens and you might find yourself holding to it for a long time even after expanding the lenses for your camera. The new XFD 16-80mm is no exception and is an excellent improvement on the 18-55mm.
Fujifilm 16-50mm f2.8-4.8 R LM WR Features at a Glance
- Ideal for a broad range of scenes and subjects thanks to 24-76mm equivalent focal length
- Supports the latest 40-megapixel high-resolution Fujifilm sensors
- Minimum focus distance of 0.24m (9.44in) – great for close-ups
- Compact and lightweight design, just – 7.14cm (2.8in) long, 240g (0.53lb)
- Internal zoom mechanism designed to keep length of lens consistent
- Weather-resistant design that’s perfect for using outdoors in most weather conditions
You can pre-order the XF 16-50mm f2.8-4.8 R LM WR here from Camera West or by contacting us directly. The new 16-80mm will also be available as a kit option on the X-T50 camera!