FujiFilm GFX 50S, Mirrorless Camera with Interchangeable Lenses

Characterized by a refined design and excellent operability, the GFX 50S, with FUJINON GF63mmF2.8 R WR, FUJINON GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR, and FUJINON GF120mmF4 R LM OIS WR Macro lenses, offers the highest image quality ever achieved by the Japanese company. The GFX Series represents the pinnacle of Fujifilm’s experience in design, optical engineering, image quality, and circuit design, honed over many years dedicated to the development of photographic films and lenses for large and medium format cameras.

The X Series system, introduced in 2011 with an APS-C sensor, has received praise from leading professional photographers and advanced amateurs for its excellent image quality, portability, and versatility across a wide range of photographic genres, including landscape, portrait, and sports photography. However, many photographers desired a camera with a large format sensor and a higher number of effective pixels, primarily for commercial or studio portrait photography. Responding to these requests, Fujifilm has developed the medium format system, delivering superior image quality, and now introduces the FUJIFILM GFX 50S and the FUJINON GF lens series.

The GFX 50S is equipped with a 43.8×32.9mm CMOS sensor with 51.4 Megapixels, increasing the light-sensitive area by approximately 1.7x compared to “full frame” sensors.

Thanks to its excellent light-gathering capability, stemming from the large size of each pixel, it achieves superior image quality compared to cameras with full-frame sensors and an equivalent number of pixels. Images can thus be reproduced with meticulous detail, rendering the subject’s naturalness, a sense of three-dimensionality, and the atmosphere of the scene.

Equipped with the X Processor Pro image processor, also found in the X-Pro2 and X-T2 cameras, the GFX 50S utilizes Fujifilm’s renowned film simulations for superb color reproduction. The “Movie” function supports Full HD video recording at 30 fps. By using the Film Simulation mode, users can enjoy high-quality video without the need for post-production, just as they would with a photograph.

The GFX 50S, with its magnesium alloy body, weighs 1230g (with the GF63mmF2.8 R WR lens). This is approximately 60% of the weight of a medium format DSLR camera. Compared to a DSLR with a smaller full-frame sensor, the camera is almost the same weight. The overall height and width of the camera body have been minimized for maximum flexibility, changing the common perception of medium format digital cameras.

The GFX 50S is equipped with a 3.69 million-dot organic EL electronic viewfinder and a 2.36 million-dot rear touchscreen LCD. The EVF features a detachable structure to allow for flexible use according to the photographer’s needs. By connecting the optional EVF-TL1 tilt adapter, sold separately, it’s also possible to adjust the viewing angle of the viewfinder relative to the camera (up to a maximum of 90° horizontally and ± 45° when shooting vertically). There is a 3.2-inch, 2.36 million-dot rear “touch” display, which allows users to select the focus point with a touch and view captured images. The inclusion of a three-way tilting LCD display enhances functionality and makes viewing images and controlling focus even easier.

The GFX 50S features a “G Mount” with a diameter of 65mm and a short back-focus distance of only 26.7mm. These dimensions enhance optical design freedom for lenses, contributing to significantly improved image quality and optimized camera body ergonomics.

The GF lens series boasts a resolution capable of supporting sensors up to 100 Megapixels. Like the XF lenses, the lens barrel includes an aperture ring, enhancing the photographer’s intuitive operation. A “C” position allows users to adjust the aperture using the command dial directly on the camera body. To prevent accidental operation, the “A” (Auto) and “C” positions are equipped with a lock/unlock button.

Fujifilm GFX 50S and lenses will be available from late February 2017 at the indicative recommended retail price of:

• GFX 50S at €7,115, including VAT
• GF63MM at €1,625.00 including VAT
• GF32-64MM at €2,545.00 including VAT
• GF120MM at €2,955.00 including VAT

KEY FEATURES

A higher level of image quality, thanks to the 43.8 x 32.9mm CMOS sensor (FUJIFILM G Format) and Fujifilm’s 80+ years of image processing technology

• The medium format sensor has a surface area 1.7 times that of a full-frame sensor. This sensor shows its full potential when used for large format prints or billboards, or for landscape and historical document archiving. Compared to a full-frame sensor with an equivalent number of pixels, resolution and ISO sensitivity are significantly better due to the large size of each individual pixel. The image texture is stunning, thanks to excellent tonal reproduction combined with the three-dimensional effect characteristic of large sensors, delivering extremely high photographic quality.
• The GFX 50S adopts the X Processor Pro image processor, already used in the flagship X Series models, the X-Pro2 and X-T2. The “Film Simulation” option, already known in the X series, which uses digital technology to reproduce the characteristics of past color films, professional color negative film, as well as cinematic black and white tones, can now be experienced with the highest image quality thanks to the medium format sensor.
• The GFX 50S also boasts the new Color Chrome Effect feature. This function can be used, as never before, to reproduce rich tones and colors in highly saturated subjects, in situations often considered challenging.
• To meet the needs of professionals, the file format includes three different JPEG settings (SUPER FINE, FINE, NORMAL) and two RAW settings (uncompressed, compressed). It is also possible to obtain a TIFF file using “in-camera” RAW development.
• The following Full HD settings are supported by “Movie Mode”: 1920×1080 29.97p/25p/24p/23.98p 36Mbps. Users can shoot high-quality videos with excellent color reproduction thanks to the depth of field unique to large format sensors and the film simulation mode.

The GFX 50S is the world’s first medium format mirrorless digital camera*¹ with a focal plane shutter, offering the same mobility as full-frame cameras with incredible image quality

• The extremely robust camera body was developed with the needs of professional photographers working in challenging shooting conditions in mind. Just like with the flagship X Series cameras, Fujifilm guarantees resistance to dust, moisture, and operation in cold environments down to -10 °C.
• The very lightweight body, approximately 825g (including battery and memory card), allows for easy handheld shooting despite being a medium format digital camera, thanks to its compact size and excellent ergonomics.
• A new 0.5-inch 3.69 million-dot “organic EL” panel has been adopted for the electronic viewfinder. Five glass elements have been used to increase the viewfinder magnification to 0.85x; the electronic viewfinder achieves an ultra-high-definition image with a wide viewing angle (40° diagonal) and can be connected to the EVF-TL1 tilt adapter.
• Like the X-T2, the GFX 50S features a 3.2-inch, 2.36 million-pixel LCD screen that tilts in three directions. The display supports “touch” operation, allowing single-finger control for navigating menus, selecting focus points, zooming in and out of images, composing shots, etc.

The focal plane shutter has been specifically developed to achieve a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 sec. (*1/16000 sec. when using the electronic shutter), with a flash sync speed of 1/125 sec. or lower. The mechanics guarantee a lifespan exceeding 150,000 shots*². Low vibration and reduced shutter noise are other features of the camera. Users can also choose between a first-curtain electronic shutter or a fully electronic shutter.

• As with the X Series, SD memory cards (UHS-II recommended) are used for image recording, and a dual slot is present. The camera supports three different recording modes: “Sequential”, where recording continues in shooting order; “Backup”, which records the same data simultaneously on both cards, and “Sorting”, where RAW and JPEG data are recorded on separate cards.
• For extended battery life, a new “NP-T125” battery has been introduced, providing approximately 400 shots on a single charge (with Auto Power Save enabled).

Refined Design for Maximum Operability

• The design of the GFX 50S fundamentally follows the basic concepts of the X Series, refining its ergonomics.
• Just like in the flagship X Series models, the GFX 50S features dedicated dials for independently setting aperture, shutter speed, and ISO sensitivity. Users can easily shoot with a basic understanding of camera operations.
• The aperture ring has a “C” (Command Dial Position)* setting, while the shutter speed dial has a “T” (Time Position). By setting the dials to these positions, users can adjust exposure settings using the command dials on the front and rear of the camera body. Users can choose between these two operating modes based on their preferences.
• The camera is equipped with a 1.28-inch LCD display located on the top of the control section, showing key exposure data such as aperture and shutter speed values. This is very useful when using a tripod, for flexible shooting, or when shooting tethered to a PC.
• For AF, a contrast-detection system with 117 focus points (9×13, expandable to a maximum of 425 points) has been adopted. High-precision AF can be achieved precisely because it is a mirrorless camera that uses the image sensor surface directly for focusing. This significantly improves focusing accuracy in medium format, especially in situations with shallow depth of field. The selection of the focus point can be changed using the rear joystick, adopted for the first time in the X-Pro2. Alternatively, users can select the focus point by operating the LCD “touchscreen”.

G Mount

• With a diameter of 65mm and a back-focus distance of 26.7mm, the “G Mount” is a dedicated mount designed to fully leverage the performance of “GF” lenses. Indeed, the short flange-back distance due to mirrorless technology considerably improves performance, especially for wide-angle lenses. Stainless steel has been adopted for the mount on the camera body, while high-strength brass is used on the lens. Brighter lenses with wide apertures, which tend to be heavier, can be mounted securely.
• To support professional photography in challenging environments, all Fujinon GF lenses are dust-proof, moisture-resistant, and feature a low-temperature resistant structure down to -10 °C.

LENS FEATURES

Standard Lens GF63mmF2.8 R WR

• The lens offers a field of view equivalent to a 50mm focal length in 35mm format. With a compact and elegant design, this small and lightweight lens has a diameter of just 84mm at its widest point, 74mm at the end, and weighs only 405g.
• The optical system features a construction of 8 groups with 10 elements, including one ED lens. It has been developed for a compact size while prioritizing resolution.

Standard Zoom Lens GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR

• The standard zoom lens covers focal lengths equivalent to 25 to 51mm in 35mm format.
• The optical system comprises 14 elements in 11 groups, each employing one of the following three lens types: aspherical lens, ED lens, and super ED lens. This results in high-quality images at both wide-angle and standard focal lengths, comparable to those achieved with fixed focal length lenses. The lens exhibits extremely high performance from the center to the edges.
• The lens adopts an internal focusing system that reduces the inertia of the focusing lens, driven by a linear motor, to achieve fast and quiet AF.

Medium Telephoto Macro Lens GF120mmF4 R LM OIS WR Macro

• Macro telephoto lens with a maximum magnification of 0.5x, equivalent to a 95mm focal length in 35mm format.
• The optical system comprises 14 elements in 9 groups with 3 ED lenses and employs a focusing system using a linear motor; autofocus is fast and quiet. Thanks to the ED lenses, chromatic aberrations are appropriately corrected, contributing to high image quality. The lens delivers extraordinary front and rear bokeh.
• This lens is equipped with an image stabilization system that corrects up to a maximum of 5 stops, allowing handheld shooting in low-light conditions.
• The front lens element features a fluorine coating that acts as an excellent water and stain repellent.

Optional Dedicated Accessories

VG-GFX1

• Vertical Battery Grip that significantly improves operability when shooting in vertical orientation. High-performance, it’s designed to replicate the shutter button, dials, and function keys in the same positions as when shooting horizontally. A dedicated NP-T125 battery can be inserted into the Battery Grip, significantly increasing the camera’s battery life during a shooting session.
• By connecting the AC adapter CA-15V, sold separately, the grip battery can be charged in approximately 2 hours.
• EVF-TL1 Tilt Adapter,
• This system allows for adjusting the viewing angle of the electronic viewfinder and shooting from different angles, greatly increasing the freedom of camera positioning.

H MOUNT ADAPTER G

• By connecting this adapter to the GFX 50S, a total of 9 SUPER EBC FUJINON HC interchangeable lenses and a teleconverter developed for the GX645AF, a medium format film camera (discontinued product), can be used. While the focus mode will be limited to manual, the aperture can be adjusted using the command dial on the camera body; it is also possible to shoot using the shutter incorporated in the lens. Using this shutter will allow for flash sync speeds up to 1/800 sec.
• The adapter also features electrical contacts that can communicate with the camera body, independently creating, saving, and applying correction data for each lens. The adapter supports manual and aperture-priority AE exposure modes.
• A removable tripod bracket is included for mounting on the lens, to ensure good weight balance when attaching particularly heavy lenses.

VIEW CAMERA ADAPTER G

• The adapter*⁴ can be used when shooting with the GFX 50S using older FUJINON lenses for large format cameras, such as the FUJINON CM. The adapter can be mounted on 4×5 film camera bellows.
• The lens shutter or the camera body shutter can be used, allowing the user to choose the optimal mode based on shooting conditions.
• The large image circle of large format optics, along with the camera bellows that allow for optical axis adjustment, can be used for off-center shots, which are crucial for architectural photography.

HS-V5 shooting control software for Windows, essential for professional shooting (sold separately), and Tether Shooting Plug-in PRO for Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® (sold separately)

By connecting the GFX 50S to a PC via USB cable and using this software, captured images can be transferred directly to the computer, and the camera can be controlled from the PC.

Using the newly added Windows Control Panel in Tether Shooting Plug-in PRO for Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®, several improvements are available, such as faster image browsing and the management and saving of various shooting settings.

RAW FILE CONVERTER EX2.0 powered by SILKYPIX (free) and Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® / Adobe® Photoshop® CC (sold separately)

RAW development software used for detailed corrections and advanced image processing not supported by “in-camera” RAW conversion. Both software packages support Fujifilm’s “Film Simulation” mode, enabling the creation of image data that is extremely close to Fujifilm’s advanced color reproduction.