Back at Photokina in September, Fujifilm took the wraps off of its new mirrorless medium-format camera, the GFX 50S. Today they're released all of the details, including price and ship date.
The GFX 50S uses a 51.4MP 'Fujifilm G Format' medium-format sensor (43.8 x 32.9mm), which is 1.7x the area of a full-frame sensor. The lens mount is known as G-mount and, like all medium-format cameras, it has a 'reverse' crop factor of 0.79x, so that new 63mm F2.8 lens is equivalent to 50mm. The camera has a 117-point contrast-detect AF system, and users can set the focus point using the touchscreen or a joystick on the rear plate. Its NP-T125 lithium-ion battery is rated for 400 shots on a single charge (meaning you'll probably get many more in most real-world usage).
The weather-sealed body is made of a magnesium alloy and weighs just 825g/43oz with battery and memory card installed. It has a 3.2" dual-tilt touchscreen LCD display and a 2.36M-dot OLED viewfinder, to which you can add a 'tilt adapter' allowing it to tilt upward by 90° and rotated left or right by 45° (that's a lot of tilting). On the top plate is a 1.28" LCD which displays current shooting settings. There are two SD card slots, both of which support high-speed UHS-II media.
The GFX 50S has Fujifilm's Film Simulation modes, including a new Color Chrome Effect option. It can capture Full HD video at up to 30p, with a bit rate of 36 Mbps. As one would expect from a camera in this class, the GFX 50S supports tethered shooting from a PC. Optional accessories include a battery grip, H-Mount adapter for use with classic Fujinon HC lenses and a 'View Camera Adapter G' that lets you use the GFX as a digital back.
Along with the GFX come three new lenses, with three more to follow by the end of the year. The initial trio of lenses including a 110mm F2 (equivalent to 87mm), 23mm F4 (18mm equiv.) and 45mm F2.8 (35mm equiv.).
The GFX 50S will ship in late February at an MSRP of $6499/£6199.
GROUNDBREAKING FUJIFILM GFX 50S MEDIUM FORMAT MIRRORLESS CAMERA DELIVERS ULTRA-HIGH IMAGE QUALITY
FUJIFILM GFX 50S combines an extraordinary sensor, processor and design with FUJINON lenses to give users the ultimate photography experience
Valhalla, N.Y., January 19, 2017 – As the leader in innovation for photographers, FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announces the FUJIFILM GFX 50S medium format mirrorless digital camera that will launch late February, 2017 with an initial selection of three FUJINON lenses - the GF63mmF2.8 R WR, the GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR, and the GF120mmF4 R LM OIS WR Macro. These lenses encapsulate the design philosophy of FUJINON lenses that are renowned by photographers around the world.
The innovative GFX system utilizes a Fujifilm exclusive 43.8 x 32.9mm (FUJIFILM G Format) 51.4MP CMOS sensor. The GFX 50S combines the heritage of over 80 years of imaging and the innovative award-winning functional design of our X Series digital camera system in the relentless pursuit of image quality.
The FUJIFILM GFX 50S Revealed
The FUJIFILM GFX 50S mirrorless digital camera uses the new 51.4MP FUJIFILM G Format 43.8 x 32.9mm sensor with approximately 1.7x the area of a 35mm sensor. In addition to the camera are three new FUJINON GF Lenses that will be followed by three additional lenses later in 2017.
The GFX 50S 51.4MP sensor shows its true potential when making large format prints, capturing majestic landscape photos or reproducing historical documents. Compared to a full size sensor with equivalent megapixels, both resolution and sensitivity are dramatically better due to the larger size of each pixel. As a result, the sensor captures great textures and subtlety of tone that is unique to large size sensors. The texture and tone combine to give a unique three-dimensional effect creating extremely high quality photography. Images captured can be reproduced down to the smallest detail, conveying the texture of the subject, a three-dimensional feeling, and the atmosphere of the scene.
For flash photography in the studio or outdoors during the day, the GFX 50S sensor has a native ISO of 100. The sensor can also be adapted to various aspect ratios, including 4:3, 3:2, 16:9, 1:1, 65:24, 5:4, 7:6, all of which are available in large and medium format film cameras.
The FUJIFILM GFX 50S uses the X Processor Pro (also used in the X-Pro2 and X-T2 cameras) and allows photographers to use Fujifilm's proprietary Film Simulations with a Medium Format sensor. The camera supports Full HD recording at 29.97p/25p/24p/23.98p. Users can enjoy high quality video with no post-processing required by using Film Simulation modes just like they would with a still image. The GFX 50S introduces a new Color Chrome Effect feature that reproduces subtle tones in highly saturated subjects.
Ultimate Performance in a Compact Body
With a compact and lightweight body constructed from magnesium alloy, the FUJIFILM GFX 50S weighs approximately 43 ounces when paired with the FUJINON GF63mmF2.8 R WR, and weighs approximately 60% of a medium format DSLR camera equipped with a sensor of the same size. When compared to a full frame, the weight is almost identical. Overall camera body height and width have also been minimized for maximum flexibility, overturning the common perceptions regarding the mobility of medium format digital cameras.
Bright, Crystal Clear Viewfinder and Large Touchscreen
The FUJIFILM GFX 50S gives users a 3.69M dot organic EL electronic viewfinder and 2.36M dot touchscreen LCD back panel for easy viewing. The EVF is detachable to allow for flexible operation. Users can attach the accessory EVF-TL1 EVF tilt adapter (sold separately) to allow the finder to be tilted to 90° vertically and swung ±45°. A 3.2 inch, 2.36M dot touch panel is used for the rear monitor, with touch operation for the menu, focusing points and image playback. A three-directional tilting LCD screen improves operability and makes viewing images and checking focus even easier.
FUJINON Lenses Guarantee Image Perfection
As part of the GFX system, Fujifilm is launching newly developed, ultra-high resolution FUJINON GF lenses. Taking advantage of the mirrorless system’s structure, the G Mount has a short flange back distance of just 26.7mm that reduces the back focus distance as much as possible. This prevents vignetting and achieves edge-to-edge sharpness. All FUJINON GF Lenses have been designed to support sensors of over 100MP.
GFX lens barrels feature an aperture ring in the same manner as FUJINON XF lenses, for intuitive operation. A new C (Command) Position has been added to the aperture ring, allowing users to change the aperture with the camera’s command dial. The A (Auto) Position and C Position feature a locking button installed on the aperture ring that must be disabled to implement changes.
Built for the Professional, and the Enthusiast
Just as with the flagship X Series models, the FUJIFILM GFX 50S features dedicated dials to independently set aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, the important factors in determining exposure.
Aperture and ISO feature a C (Command) and the shutter speed dial has a T (Time) Position. Setting the dial to this position allows the user to change exposure settings using the command dials on the front and rear of the camera body. The user can choose between these two operation methods according to their preference, ease of use, and the shooting environment.
The GFX 50S is equipped with a 1.28 inch LCD sub monitor on the top of the body. Important exposure data such as aperture and shutter speed is displayed on this screen. This display is extremely useful when shooting on a tripod or tethered to a computer.
A 117-point (9 x 13 / maximum of 425 points when miniaturized) contrast AF system is used on the GFX 50S. High-precision AF on the imaging sensor dramatically improves focusing accuracy with the shallow depth of field produced by medium format lenses. First adopted in the FUJIFILM X-Pro2, focus point selection can be performed by using the Focus Lever, which allows intuitive movement of the focus point. Alternatively, users can select the focus point from the touch panel LCD screen.
Initial Lens Lineup Will Include the Following Three FUJINON Options:
GF63mmF2.8 R WR (equivalent to 50mm in 35mm format)
GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR (equivalent to 25-51mm in 35mm format)
GF120mmF4 Macro R LM OIS WR (equivalent to 95mm in 35mm format)
FUJINON GF63mmF2.8 R WR
The optical system features a construction of 8 groups and 10 elements, including 1 ED lens element. This lens construction is the most suitable for high resolution in compact and stylish design, the external form of this small and lightweight lens has a diameter of just 84.0 x 71.0mm with a weight of only 14.2 ounces \ 405 grams. Using the front group for the focus, aberrations due to focus distance are suppressed, achieving high resolution performance even when wide open from the center to the edges of the lens.
FUJINON GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR
The FUJINON GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR features a construction of 11 groups and 14 elements, 3 aspheric elements, 1 ED lens and 1 super ED lens, allowing this lens to achieve image quality rivalling prime lenses. As a result, the lens demonstrates extremely high performance from the center all the way to the edges. The lens uses internal focusing, reducing the weight of the focus lens and achieving fast and silent AF by driving focus using a linear motor.
FUJINON GF120mmF4 R LM OIS WR Macro
The FUJINON GF120mmF4 R LM OIS WR Macro has a construction of 9 groups and 14 elements, including 3 ED lens elements. By adopting a floating focus method using a linear motor, silent high-speed autofocusing is achieved while aberrations are corrected, dramatically increasing the resolution. Furthermore, by arranging the ED lenses properly, chromatic aberrations are also properly corrected, contributing to high quality images. In designing this lens the quality of the out of focus area both in front and behind the plane of focus were considered, giving this lens beautiful bokeh. This lens is equipped with optical image stabilization (OIS) effective up to 5.0-stops, making this lens perfect for handheld shooting in low-light situations.
Three Additional FUJINON GF Lenses to be Announced Later in 2017:
GF110mmF2 R LM WR (equivalent to 87mm in 35mm format)
GF23mmF4 R LM WR (equivalent to 18mm in 35mm format)
GF45mmF2.8 R WR (equivalent to 35mm in 35mm format)
GFX 50S Accessories (sold separately)
Vertical Battery Grip VG-GFX1 – high-performance battery grip is designed to place the release button, dials, and function buttons in the same positions when shooting vertically. The battery grip can be loaded with one NP-T125 dedicated battery, lowering the frequency that batteries need replacing. Also, by connecting the AC-15V accessory (sold separately), it is possible to charge the battery within the grip in approximately 2 hours.
EVF Tilt Adapter EVF-TL1 – mounting this accessory between the camera body and EVF, the angle of the EVF can be changed to angles from 0°〜90° vertically and from -45°〜+45° horizontally. Doing this allows the user to shoot at various angles while using the viewfinder, greatly increasing the versatility of the finder for different subjects.
H Mount Adapter G – allows you to use SUPER EBC FUJINON HC interchangeable lenses developed for the FUJIFILM GX645AF medium format film camera (discontinued). By attaching this adapter to the GFX 50S, a total of 9 SUPER EBC FUJINON HC interchangeable lenses and 1 tele-converter developed for the GX645AF can be used. While the focusing method will be limited to manual focusing, the lens aperture can be changed using the command dial on the camera body, and shooting with the leaf shutter built in to the lenses is also possible. Using this lens shutter will allow high speed flash synchronization up to a maximum speed of 1/800 sec.
Also, the adapter is equipped with electrical contacts that can communicate with the camera body, independently creating, saving, and applying correctional data for each lens. The adapter supports Manual and Aperture Priority AE exposure modes.
*A removable tripod foot is included to mount the camera with a heavy or long focal length lens.
View Camera Adapter G – allows the GFX 50S to be used as a digital back. The view camera adapter allows the GFX 50S to be mounted to the standard universal-type back of a view camera. This allows the use of FUJINON large format camera lenses, such as the CM-W FUJINON lens series. The camera or lens shutter can be triggered, allowing the user to choose the optimum method. The large image circle and the bellows of the view camera can be used with tilt, shift and swing movements, effective for product and architectural photography.
*There may be instances in which the adapter cannot be mounted depending on the shape of the view camera.
Tethered Shooting Solutions – We have the following tethering solutions for photographers, including: X Acquire to transfer images from the camera to a hot folder on your computer for use with your preferred imaging software, Tether Shooting Plug-in PRO for Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® and HS-V5 for Windows (sold separately).
By connecting the GFX 50S to a PC via USB cable and using this software, it is possible to transfer photographed images directly to the PC, as well as control the camera from the PC. Also, by using the Control Panel Window newly added to Tether Shooting Plug-in PRO for Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®, additional camera functions become available.
RAW FILE CONVERTER EX2.0 – powered by SILKYPIX (free of charge) RAW development software and Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® / Adobe® Photoshop® CC (sold separately). RAW development software is used for detailed corrections and advanced image processing that isn't supported by the in-camera RAW conversion. Both software support Fujifilm's "Film Simulation" modes, allowing creation of image data that is extremely close to Fujifilm’s advanced color reproduction.
FUJIFILM GFX 50S Key Features:
51.4MP Medium Format 43.8 x 32.9mm sensor for superior sharpness and image quality for all photographers
Adaptable to various aspect ratios, including 4:3 (default), 3:2, 16:9, 1:1, 65:24, 5:4, 7:6
FUJIFILM G Mount with short flange back distance of just 26.7mm
X-Processor Pro imaging processor
Detachable electronic viewfinder
Weather and dust resistant; operation to as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit \ -10 degrees Celsius
File formats include three different JPEG settings (SUPER FINE, FINE, NORMAL), as well as two different RAW settings (uncompressed, compressed). TIFF output is also possible with in-camera RAW development
Full HD for Movie Mode: 1920x1080 29.97p/25p/24p/23.98p 36Mbps, in Film Simulation modes
Light body weighs approximately 43oz. \ 825g (including battery and memory card)
Uses SD Cards (UHS-II recommended)
Equipped with dual slots
Supports three different types of recording methods, "Sequential," in which recording can be continued according to shooting order, "Backup," which records the same data on two cards simultaneously, and "Sorting," which records RAW and JPEG data on separate cards
Uses newly developed NP-T125 high capacity battery for approximately 400 photos (with Auto Power Save ON)
All FUJINON GF Lenses are dust and weather resistant, built to withstand operation at temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit \ -10 degrees Celsius allowing photographers to take them outdoors with confidence in challenging weather conditions.
The new FUJINON GF Lenses feature an aperture ring, a popular feature in the X Series, and have a new C (Command) Position on the ring to enable aperture adjustments with the Command Dial on the camera body
A Fluorine coating applied to the front lens element creates a hydrophobic coating that repels moisture.
The GFX 50S and FUJINON GF lenses culminate to create a new camera system capable of creating the world's highest level of photographic expressions by combining the thorough incorporation of knowledge regarding camera operation, optical design, image capture, and image processing.
Availability and Pricing
The new FUJIFILM GFX 50S Medium Format Camera Body will be available Late February, 2017 in the U.S. and Canada for USD $6,499.95 and CAD $8,499.99.
Also available in February, 2017 will be the first three FUJINON GF lenses. GF63mmF2.8 R WR for USD $1,499.95 and CAD $1,899.99, GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR for USD $2,299.95 and CAD $2,999.99, and GF120mmF4 R LM OIS WR Macro for USD $2,699.95 and CAD $3,499.99.
Fujifilm GFX 50S specifications
Price
MSRP
$6499/£6199
Body type
Body type
Mid-size SLR
Body material
Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution
8256 x 6192
Image ratio w:h
1:1, 5:4, 4:3, 3:2
Effective pixels
51 megapixels
Sensor size
Medium format (44 x 33 mm)
Sensor type
CMOS
Processor
X Processor Pro
Color space
sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array
Primary color filter
Image
ISO
Auto, 100-12800 (expands up to 102400)
Boosted ISO (maximum)
102400
White balance presets
7
Custom white balance
Yes
Image stabilization
No
Uncompressed format
RAW + TIFF
JPEG quality levels
Super fine, fine, normal
File format
JPEG (Exif v2.3)
Raw (14-bit RAF)
TIFF (via Raw conversion)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
Contrast Detect (sensor)
Multi-area
Center
Selective single-point
Tracking
Single
Continuous
Touch
Face Detection
Live View
Manual focus
Yes
Number of focus points
117
Focal length multiplier
0.79×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD
Tilting
Screen size
3.2″
Screen dots
2,360,000
Touch screen
Yes
Screen type
OLED
Live view
Yes
Viewfinder type
Electronic
Viewfinder coverage
100%
Viewfinder magnification
0.85×
Viewfinder resolution
3,690,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed
360 sec
Maximum shutter speed
1/4000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic)
1/16000 sec
Exposure modes
Program
Aperture priority
Shutter priority
Manual
Built-in flash
No
External flash
Yes (via hot shoe or flash sync terminal)
Flash modes
Auto, standard, slow sync, manual, off
Flash X sync speed
1/125 sec
Drive modes
Single
Continuous
Self-timer
Remote
Continuous drive
3.0 fps
Self-timer
Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Metering modes
Multi
Center-weighted
Average
Spot
Exposure compensation
±5 (at 1/3 EV steps)
AE Bracketing
±5 (2, 3, 5, 7 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps)
WB Bracketing
Yes
Videography features
Format
MPEG-4, H.264
Modes
1920 x 1080 @ 30p / Mbps, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
1920 x 1080 @ 25p / Mbps, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
1920 x 1080 @ 24p / Mbps, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / Mbps, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone
Stereo
Speaker
Mono
Storage
Storage types
SD/SDHC/SDXC (dual slots, UHS-II supported)
Connectivity
USB
USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
HDMI
Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port
Yes
Headphone port
Yes
Wireless
Built-In
Wireless notes
802.11b/g/n
Remote control
Yes (via cable or smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed
Yes
Battery
Battery Pack
Battery description
NP-T125 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA)
400
Weight (inc. batteries)
740 g (1.63 lb / 26.10 oz)
Dimensions
148 x 94 x 91 mm (5.83 x 3.7 x 3.58″)
Other features
Orientation sensor
Yes
Timelapse recording
Yes
GPS
None