Fujifilm announces a new camera – the flagship medium format mirrorless camera Fufifilm GFX100 II. It has a wide-angle image sensor that is almost 1.7 times larger than the 35mm image sensors used in full-frame cameras. The manufacturer claims that the Fujifilm GFX100 II allows you to create images with a wide dynamic range and a very shallow depth of field (when using the appropriate optics).
The camera received a completely new sensor with a resolution of 102 megapixels and a new generation X-Processor 5 processor. Its goal is to double the signal reading speed compared to the current model.
At the same time, Fujifilm GFX100 II works with an advanced image processing algorithm to provide autofocus based on artificial intelligence. The same system was first implemented in the Fujifilm X-H2S camera.
The algorithm itself is developed using deep learning technology. It also uses a predictive autofocus algorithm. The Fujifilm GFX100 II camera features AI-based object detection to quickly track and detect animals, birds, vehicles and other fast-moving objects.
Continuous shooting performance has been increased from the current 5 fps to 8 fps , expanding the Fujifilm GFX100 II’s applications in a variety of genres, including fashion photography, advertising, landscape photography, sports and photojournalism.
The design of the Fujifilm GFX100 II camera is in the style of other medium format cameras from the manufacturer. The camera looks modern and futuristic.
Video recording on Fujifilm GFX100 II
The Fujifilm GFX100 II’s new sensor allows the camera to be used for video recording. The new product supports recording 10-bit Apple ProRes 4:2:2 video with a resolution of 4K 60 fps or 8K 30 fps. Given the large optical format of the camera sensor, these are quite unique capabilities for such a portable device.
During the announcement, Fujifilm specifically emphasized that when installing an adapter from GF to PL-mount, the new product can be used as a full-fledged movie camera, taking into account the presence of the ProRes codec and support for 8K 30fps. At the same time, wide-format and anamorphic Fujinon Premista ultra-segment lenses can also be installed on the new Fujifilm GFX100 II.
The camera supports Apple ProRes 422 HQ, Apple ProRes 422 and Apple ProRes 422 LT codecs. The camera can also output h.264 and Apple ProRes 422 proxy files when recording in Apple ProRes.
The new Fujifilm GFX100 II also features Ethernet, HDMI Type A and USB-C ports for enhanced external device connectivity. Dual card slots support one CFExpress Type B card and one SD card. CFExpress Type B cards are required to access the GFX100 II’s advanced video production features – i.e. high bitrate shooting.
Another innovation: the camera has a built-in integration system with Frame.io Camera to Cloud. It allows you to systematically and automatically upload recorded files to the cloud virtually right during shooting. Thus, the time on the entire production track is reduced.
The camera has a total of 20 film simulation modes. These include the new REALA ACE mode, which is based on Fujifilm color negative film and offers neutral color reproduction suitable for all types of subjects.
Separately, during the release it was reported that the camera received an “innovative pixel structure.” It allowed ISO 80 to be used as a base value. Fujifilm explains that at this setting, the Fujifilm GFX100 II produces images with “incredible” dynamic range and noise levels that are significantly lower than the GFX100 and GFX100S.
Special optimization work has also reportedly been done around the edges of the sensor to capture light more efficiently. Thus, at the edges of pictures and videos, the quality should be at a high level. The optimization should also have a positive effect on autofocus accuracy (again, compared to the GFX100 and GFX100S camera models).
Fujifilm GFX100 II Matrix Image Stabilization
The medium format camera has built-in image stabilization (IBIS), which provides image stabilization of up to 8 steps. This is a very high figure, which in practice should provide effective handheld shooting without shaking.
At the same time, the company announced right during the announcement that the camera will receive support for installing an additional fan to cool the case (FAN-001). It is powered directly from the Fujifilm GFX100 II camera and is menu configurable.
The new model also features a high-resolution 9.44 million dot electronic viewfinder, a small secondary LCD display on the top of the camera body, and a textured grip for a more comfortable grip. The Fujifilm GFX100 II camera also received a full-size HDMI port for connecting additional monitor-recorders, which will also improve the usability of the camera when shooting video.
A vertical battery grip (VG-GFX II) is available as an accessory. It holds two NP-W235 batteries, extending the shooting time and overall operation of the Fujifilm GFX100 II. And the Fujifilm EVF-TL1’s special EVF-TL1 tilt adapter allows for different shooting angles when using the viewfinder.
The GFX100 II is expected to go on sale in early fall 2023 at an MSRP of $7,499.95. Prices for additional accessories are expected to be as follows:
Additional vertical handle VG-GFXII – $499.95
Additional cooling fan FAN-001 – $199
Adapter for viewfinder EVF-TL1 – $569