Fujifilm GFX100RF: Medium format meets X100 simplicity

Top image: Mustafa Seven

To many, Fujifilm is synonymous with its X100 range of cameras. Take 2024, for example: the Fujifilm X100VI continued to set new standards for quality and performance in a compact, fixed-lens mirrorless body.

The mission statement for these cameras has always been to provide an intuitive and engaging photographic experience. At the same time, they focus on minimising weight and footprint. This means the X100 range has found firm favour among travel, street and everyday photographers. That design philosophy has historically aligned this style of camera more naturally with Fujifilm’s X Series, where the smaller APS-C sensor size can cement a firm foundation on which to build a lightweight and pocketable design.

For the first time though, innovations in camera design have enabled Fujifilm to create a fixed-lens model for the GFX System – the brand’s line of medium format cameras that were previously the reserve of large, powerful bodies, built to facilitate high-end, professional photography.

Taking inspiration from the design and utility of a range of vintage analogue cameras, the Fujifilm GFX100RF combines the extensive imaging capacity of a 102-megapixel GFX System sensor with the elegant usability of a fixed-lens rangefinder camera. Combining these elements, it sets a new standard for the archetypal everyday carry.

GFX image quality in a compact format

With a vast, 43.9×32.9mm image sensor, GFX System cameras offer an imaging surface that’s almost 70% larger than that of a full-frame camera. With so much room for additional pixels, the GFX100RF grants a resolution of 102 megapixels. This results in lifelike levels of detail in every single photograph.

GFX System sensors are also renowned for their ability to record high-contrast scenes. For this, you can thank their astonishing dynamic range. Combine this with incredible colour accuracy – courtesy of 16-bit files – and the images made using the GFX100RF offer vast scope for exploration in post-production.

A base ISO of 80 enables the creation of beautifully low-noise images when working in low-light scenarios. Meanwhile, the powerful X-Processor 5 enables the use of Fujifilm’s powerful subject detection algorithms. Artificial intelligence is harnessed to automatically lock onto and track everyday subjects such as people, animals and vehicles.

A fixed lens with flexibility

For a fixed-lens camera to work at this scale, the lens needs to be as versatile as the sensor is capable. That’s exactly the case with the GFX100RF. The built-in 35mm f/4 optic – which translates to an approximate 28mm f/3.2 full-frame equivalent – offers a natural, wide-angle view. It’s ideal for travel, street, documentary and environmental portraiture. Expanding its utility, the digital teleconverter function, leverages the GFX100RF’s sensor to deliver 28, 35, 50 and 63mm full-frame-equivalent fields of view.

Meanwhile, a minimum focus distance of just 20cm opens up the ability to render close-up images. Additionally, a built-in four-stop ND filter supports the use of wider apertures and slower shutter speeds in bright conditions. The lens’ leaf shutter also enables high-speed flash sync and near-silent operation – ideal for discreet working.

Refined rangefinder design

The GFX100RF is the lightest-ever GFX System camera. It’s been stripped back to the bare essentials in order to tip the scales at just 735g. But with a machined aluminium top-plate and dials, it still possesses a premium, robust build quality.

The camera has also retained Fujifilm’s commitment to physical, analogue-inspired controls. The top-plate’s push-pull dial allows quick toggling between ISO and shutter speed, maintaining the tactile experience that many photographers seek out. This is complemented by a refined EVF – a large, 0.5in, 5.76-million-dot unit – delivering a crisp and immersive image preview.

The included lens hood completes the classic styling. Additionally, attaching the included adapter ring and filter makes the entire camera weather resistant, for confident outdoor use.

A front lever control provides customisable access to commonly used features, while another physical lever toggles teleconverter settings in an instant – blending digital versatility with satisfying mechanical feedback.

Film Simulations and framing freedom

Much like the X100VI, the GFX100RF is as much about the feel of photography as it is about the final image. This ethos is echoed in the inclusion of Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes – a now-iconic feature that gives photographers instant access to a suite of colour profiles based on classic film stocks.

From the punchy contrast of Velvia to the soft tones of ASTIA or muted vintage look of Classic Chrome, Film Simulations bring character to your imagery at the moment of acquisition, with no need to spend hours editing.

A new analogue-style control dial on the camera’s top plate also allows for direct adjustment of the aspect ratio – offering not just standard 3:2 and 4:3 formats, but also panoramic 65:24 and square 1:1 ratios. This subtle yet effective addition encourages users to think compositionally from the moment they lift the camera to their eye.

Everyday carry, the GFX way

The phrase ‘everyday carry’ might not be the first to spring to mind when talking about a medium format camera. Yet, the GFX100RF rewrites the rulebook. Where these cameras were built for high-end use cases, this model invites photographers to explore a new style of imaging within their everyday photography.

It’s a concept that blends two of Fujifilm’s greatest strengths: the pro-grade image quality of the GFX System and the tactile, experiential form of photography popularised by the X100 series. The result is something entirely new. Fujifilm has produced a creative instrument that allows photographers to slow down, engage with their subject and work with intention. But remarkably, there’s none of the bulk and complexity that has long defined medium format systems.

Whether you’re an experienced GFX user looking for a portable second body or a compact camera devotee considering the world of medium format, the Fujifilm GFX100RF is an enticing proposition.

fujifilm-x.com

Specifications 

• Sensor 102-megapixel GFX CMOS II
• Engine X-Processor 5
• Lens Fixed 35mm f/4 (28mm in 35mm equivalent)
• ISO Auto, Stills: 80-12,800 (expandable to 40-102,400)
• Screen 3.15in tilting touchscreen, 2.1m dots
• EVF 0.5in OLED viewfinder, 5.76m dots
• Shutter speed 60 mins to 1/4000 sec (mechanical) or 1/16,000 sec (electronic)
• Autofocus Intelligent hybrid AF, phase and contrast detection with 425 points
• Frame rates Up to 6fps (mechanical shutter)
• Recording media SD/SDHC/SDXC, UHS-I/II, SSD
• Dimensions (wxhxd) 133.5×90.4×76.5mm
• Weight 735g (with battery and memory card included)