Last Updated on 12/06/2024 by Chris Gampat
Fujifilm has strived to innovate itself despite the challenges thrown its way. There is the X series, which has some of the best rangefinder-style powerful cameras, and then there is the medium-format series, the GFX. Then, we have the equally famous Instax series and its printers. And now, it appears the company is launching another camera in 2025, which could revolutionize the way we use medium-format cameras.
Fujifilm To Launch a Compact Medium Format
According to Fujifilm Rumors (via TechRadar), their trusted sources said a new GFX camera, called the GFX 100RF, will be launched. The new camera is said to be revolutionary as it will feature a 100MP sensor, as seen in other GFX cameras, but the catch is the body. Unlike the usual massive build, the company will launch a size that’s close to the X-Pro 3. This means that the GFX100 series could have its own range finder body, which explains the “RF” in the title.
Since the X-Pro 3 looks similar to the X100VI, it will have a retro aesthetic that people absolutely adore. The X100VI was immediately sold out, and its resale value increased threefold on many platforms. So, having a GXF100RF look the same way with a 35mm lens can be great.
The article also goes on to talk about the specs, which are as follows:
- 100MP GFX sensor
- GF35mm f/4 lens
- No in-body stabilization
- March 2025 launch
In some ways, the camera also sounds like a successor to the GFX50S II. In our review of the device, we had said: “One of the things I love most about shooting with Fujifilm is the lack of post-processing. Color adjustments and skin corrections are minimal, meaning I can get back out shooting. Being able to shift previously allocated computer time for the joy of shooting is priceless.” So, it is possible that its successor would take things further ahead.
What Could This Mean?
This sounds like an idea move from Fujifilm, especially considering range finder cameras and smaller digital cameras are making a comeback. Moreover, since the Leica Q3 has been quite a popular choice for many professionals, it also shows that Fujifilm is gearing up to expand its footing in the premium camera market. If the Q3 performed well, Fujifilm may want a similar success in the medium format segment.
Furthermore, the company would like to repeat the success they had with the X100VI. Thus, they would create a device that can meet consumer demands, if not the same number of sales. After all, a GFX series is highly niche and only professional photographers who want something light during their travels would opt for it. In addition, there are rumors that one of the cameras launching next year will be a fixed-lens GFX series, so it makes perfect sense that the GFX100RF could be a range-finder-style compact device.
If this is certainly happening next year, Leica may also face some competition from Fujifilm. After all, the series has no direct competitor. The only demand is that the Fujifilm variant costs far less than $6000.
Other than that, the question of image stabilization does spell trouble. Why? Because Leica Q3 depends on optical image stabilization. The GF50S II also features an in-body image stabilisation. So, if you can’t have either of the two, then it would put a dent. The f4 aperture raises questions, especially when portrait photographers prefer a brighter lens, something around 1.8 or 2.8. There is also the question of weather sealing, which must match the standard on which the GFX series has been built.
It remains to be seen what Fujifilm is for the future. But we do hope they don’t disappoint us, as they did with the X-M5. A GFX device is a dream kit for many photographers, and it should cater to their needs first before we have something for content creators.