The Fujifilm GFX100RF is the camera you must buy right now… or maybe not? Let me share my impressions about this new rangefinder medium format camera from Fujifilm and why I am considering buying it—or not. It all depends. So, let’s talk about it.
Fujifilm GFX100RF First Impressions: RAW File Evaluation
After downloading and developing the RAW files, I was able to form a solid impression. Since Lightroom doesn’t yet support these files, I used Affinity Photo for my evaluation. I specifically looked at challenging images: high ISO shots (12,800 and 25,600), portraits, and low-light environments.
From what I observed, the sensor performance is impressive, and I will discuss image quality in more detail later. But first, let’s talk about the GFX100RF itself.
Fujifilm GFX100RF Design and Handling
The GFX100RF is a bold move from Fujifilm, and I like it. It’s a good move. But we need to address the elephant in the room:
- It comes with an F4 lens
- It features a 100-megapixel medium format sensor
- It lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS)
This combination means it is not a point-and-shoot camera. You will not be able to snap quick shots with it. However, that is not necessarily a drawback. The camera’s weight (around 700g+) provides stability, which can compensate for the lack of IBIS. From my experience using a Leica MP240, which also lacks IBIS, I can still capture sharp images handheld at 1/15s on a 24MP full-frame sensor. With the GFX100RF, I estimate it will be possible to shoot handheld at 1/30s or 1/60s.
Fujifilm GFX100RF It’s A Digital Version of Vivian Maier’s Rolleiflex
What makes this camera interesting is how it mimics, in a digital format, the Rolleiflex cameras used by Vivian Maier. While not identical, the similarities are clear:
- A 4:3 medium format sensor
- Distinct medium format compression
- A deliberate, thoughtful shooting experience
Vivian Maier worked without IBIS, and her images had a unique look. From this perspective, the GFX100RF is a significant achievement by Fujifilm. However, as expected, it does suffer in low light and requires precise handling to achieve sharp results due to the large 100MP sensor.
Fujifilm GFX100RF The Price: A Fair Deal?
One of the most surprising aspects of this camera is the price. At $4,900, I feel it is well-priced compared to other Fujifilm APS-C cameras. For comparison, the Leica Q3 costs $6,300.
If you are torn between these two cameras, the decision depends on your needs. As a premium street, documentary, and travel photography camera, the Leica Q3 is the better choice. Why?
- It has a superior lens
- It includes IBIS
- It offers the distinctive Leica color science
- It provides a simplified menu system (unlike Fujifilm’s complex firmware)
If you only want one premium camera, I recommend the Leica Q3. However, that doesn’t mean the GFX100RF lacks value. It serves a different purpose.
Fujifilm GFX100RF Depth of Field & Portrait Photography
Some critics argue that the F4 lens does not provide sufficient depth of field for portraiture. I disagree.
Looking at Vivian Maier’s portraits, her subjects had plenty of separation from the background while remaining in focus. The GFX100RF achieves the same effect. While you won’t get an extreme “melted” bokeh, you get:
- The entire face in focus
- A smooth, buttery background when properly composed
- Excellent subject separation due to medium format compression
For portrait photography, this camera excels. A well-executed portrait should have the subject fully in focus, rather than just the eyes while the rest is blurred.
Fujifilm GFX100RF for Street Photography
For street photography, the Fujifilm GFX100RF is good, but it’s not a “snap machine” like the Ricoh GR, Leica Q3, or Fujifilm X100 series. This isn’t a bad thing. It belongs to a different category:
- A camera that forces you to slow down and compose carefully
- A tool for those who enjoy deliberate framing and storytelling
- A device that encourages thoughtful photography rather than quick snapshots
If you want a compact, fast camera for spontaneous street photography, this is not it. However, if you want a camera that makes you think more about composition and light, the GFX100RF is an excellent choice.
Fujifilm GFX100RF Low-Light Performance
While this camera lacks IBIS, its sensor delivers incredible results in low-light conditions. I reviewed RAW files taken at ISO 12,800 and was blown away:
- Dynamic range: Excellent shadow and highlight recovery, with up to 4 stops of adjustment
- Noise performance: Surprisingly good, with smooth, film-like grain
- Color & detail retention: Textures and colors remain intact even at high ISOs
The noise performance is comparable to the Sony A7S, a 12MP full-frame camera renowned for low-light capabilities. I did not expect such outstanding results.
The Fujifilm GFX100RF Lens: Good, But Not Stellar
Here’s where I have some reservations. The lens is good, but it’s not a top-tier optic. Fujifilm even states in their marketing that it performs similarly to the GFX 50mm F3.5 pancake lens, which is decent but not stellar.
Pros:
- Sharp
- Good contrast
- Maintains excellent detail
Cons:
- Some barrel distortion in RAW files
- Lacks the optical quality of a Leica Q3 lens
Overall, the lens is good but not outstanding. The sensor compensates for its limitations, making the final image quality still impressive.
Fujifilm GFX100RF Conclusion: Should You Buy It?
Is the Fujifilm GFX100RF a success or a flop? Should you buy this camera or opt for the Leica Q3 or something else?
The Fujifilm GFX100RF is not a general-purpose camera. It is designed for professionals and serious hobbyists who want a high-resolution medium format experience. However, if you want just one premium camera, this may not be the right choice.
For my personal needs, I am seriously considering selling my Fujifilm X-T50, X-Pro3, and X100VI to get the GFX100RF alongside an X-M5 with select Fujifilm lenses.
This combination would:
- Give me a high-resolution medium format setup for deliberate photography
- Retain a smaller APS-C setup for everyday use and travel
While the GFX100RF is a fantastic camera, it will not replace a Leica Q3. If you have the budget, both cameras complement each other beautifully. If you need only one, the decision depends on your shooting style and priorities.
Final Thoughts About Fujifilm GFX100RF
Fujifilm has done something remarkable with the GFX100RF. It brings the spirit of classic medium format photography into the digital age. While it has limitations, its image quality, design, and price make it a compelling choice for serious photographers.
If you are looking for a camera that forces you to slow down, think, and compose with intention, the Fujifilm GFX100RF is a worthy investment.
Where To Buy Fujifilm GFX100RF more resources.
- Get it here with my affiliate link https://bhpho.to/4hk39FH
- Samples photos with raw files: click here
- Great pictures from a great photographer: click here
- Fujifilm GFX100RF main product page: click here