I use my 50S for landscape, I'm not a pro like you but here's my view. The 50S is far more versatile for the Landscape Photographer with the additional axis of tilt in the LCD, the Tilt ans Swivel adapter for the viewfinder and the fact that with an Arca Swiss Plate fitted you can still change the battery without removing the camera from the tripod. I would say that the R is probably a good compromise for the Travel Photographer who wants to include Landscape as part of their portfolio but is space saving conscious. That said the R although thinner than the S is actually a larger profile from the front and only marginally lighter. Keep in mind that the bulk of the weight of the GFX sytsem is in the lenses anyway. On the plus side the R is about £1,000 cheaper which will pay for some extra travel.
It is an amazing camera. I have been using it for a while and fell in love with it more than GFX50s I must say. However each one has its use for me. Enjoy GFX50R
Fotos absolutamente magníficas. What an amazing camera. Still love my X-T2 and X-E3 but this appears to be in a different level. The gradations are absolutely amazing. What an amazing achievement by Fuji. The X-Transn system is one of the best of the market and this new medium format is a full frame killer in a lot of cases. Never seen to much interest in Full Frame because I never saw huge advantages but this is something different. Congratulations on the video. Very concise and gives a general honest review about the equipment.
It certainly looks like a fabulous camera. I’ve just recently got an X-T30ii and I’m blown away with the quality that it can produce. While I see the compelling arguments for medium format, I’m very tempted to sell my other camera (X-H1) and replace it with an X-T4 or X-H2. The sensor in the t30ii is brilliant and produces images of a standard I’ve not encountered before. Great video though Andy and I’m not entirely giving up on getting a GFX 50r!
Andy, thank you for your review. Your review is one of the better ones I've seen on this camera. I always look forward to your reviews, thanks again for such a clear and concise review.
Lovely video Andy. The pictures are stunning. A camera like that sure does get me exited about getting more back to basics and thinking more and taking less. Cheers from Oz.
Great review. Thank you! For landscapes it is PERFECT! I love the form of the camera. The way you have dials, buttons, change the aperture on the lens and don’t waste time in menus. I felt that the newer Fujis have regressed in this respect. The 50R handles beautifully and I sold my D810 because of this and the superior quality of the landscape images the GFX50R produces and its out of camera colour. (I don’t like spending hours behind a monitor processing photos and only do this for my best ones I want to print). I got mine used for USD2500 area. Amazing value. I use the 50mm lens if I want to save weight or the 45 if not. My only criticisms are, a) it would be nice to have IBIS. B) I wish the compensation button had a lock. C) would be nice if the camera had a labelled button like the X100 which allows rapid and easy change of the key variables rather than having to self assign them to non labelled button.
Thanks for the comment, glad you enjoyed the review. The 50R is indeed a lovely camera. I suspect if it was released now it would have IBIS (like the 50S II), but at the time Fuji still hadn’t worked out how to get the IBIS small enough to fit into the smaller body. They’ve since got really good at this.
Great video, as always! 😊 Just remember that with a medium format camera, you can stop down the aperture more, without losing image quality. So regarding depth of field, there will be an "equivalent aperture" that's similar to "equivalent focal length".
I've been finding myself wanting this camera more and more lately. I just completed a hike up Giant Mountain in the Adirondacks and the photos I got from my X-T3 are good but the detail of the trees and rock faces on the adjacent mountains were lost to the limitations of the crop sensor. I found myself wanting more resolution while editing in post. The image reviews really helped me decide of this was the right camera. That detail is astounding
Love the GFX 50R! Agree with your comments about use, weight, image quality, dynamic range, and depth of focus. Really do wish it had the XT series LCD vertical feature, especially when doing night skies vertically while trying to include a close-to-camera foreground. Yes, a couple of frames for focus stacking for near-far compositions is desirable, but that's very easy! Thanks for your practical, informative, and down to earth review.
Stunning photo's and clearly the image quality can't be beat. But for me, I'm happy with the XT3. Excellent IQ, compact, reasonably priced. Andy, you were a big part of the reason why I switched to Fuji from Canon and I don't regret it for a moment. Off on my first trip with the new system and can't believe how light and easy my kit is now! But my oh my - the images from the medium format are spectacular.
Great review! I miss shooting film with my medium format cameras, especially my Fuji GW690II. Your review (among others) is leading me down the new Fuji medium format path. Keep up the great reviews!
I too have been seriously considering picking up a Fuji GFX, but I have been waiting for a few more lens options to arrive before I make my final call. I would primarily be using it for landscape and architectural work, and would also consider a Cambo Actus GFX kit as an add on for the view camera movements. Ah.. tough choices when one is on a budget.
Nice video Andy! Can't wait to see all your photos. A pity that there was so less snow in the dolomites... definitely a good reason to come back in winter :)
Where I recorded review in the valley there was very little snow, but up on the peaks there was quite a bit, and it snowed a few days later so by time I left ther was snow everywhere
Andy great review I have had my GFX 50r with the 45mm lens for about two months now and have the new 100-200mm on order I also have the XT3 and love it but there is something special about shooting the 50r.... you just have to hold it to feel it....
I have been shooting with an XT-2 and an X-H1 but keep finding that I need to keep cranking up the ISO to shoot handheld and also keep seeing artifacts in my images (possibly because of that). Hence, I am starting to look at getting a bigger sensor. I assume this will give me better low-light performance? I also do print photography so that is a big plus for me. Although I do wonder whether maybe I should wait for the X-H2R coming soon instead.
Thanks for the comment. The GFX will certainly give you significantly better low light performance (I'm using the GFX100S at the moment, and it's noise performance is very impressive). As for the X-H2R, it's hard to say whether that will have better high ISO performance, and it also now looks like it won't be out till at least September
Always informative..great video. Thanks for your input. While I shoot the Fuji X Series I am looking to add the medium format GFX system when I shoot Landscape and Portraits. Thanks again.
Thanks for the comment, glad you enjoyed the video. There are rumours of a GFX 100S announcing soon, so if I can get my hands on one I'll be giving that a test as well
Dear Andy,- great video once again.... I love your shots and your ideas. Why arent you a Fuji X-photographer? You are a great pro and inspirational guy with a Fuji..... so whats keeping you?
Thanks for the very informative review. I sitting on the fence right now wanting to move into medium format. I currently use a D800e and the Sigma DP Merrills (what awesome cameras!). I do a lot of very remote photography (long sled pulls in ice-fields and such) and some aerial photography and I always seem to be looking for more resolution. But I have to admit this is more of a "want" need than a realistic need. I do occasionally sell very large prints and canvases (40" x 50"ish) but what people always want are my B&W images from my scanned Mamiya 7 negs! No one cares about the resolution. Sigh... The 50r looks to be a perfect camera for me - except it doesn't have the resolution I want! I WANT the resolution of the GFX 100 in a 50r size package at a price between the current 50r and the gfx 100. So I sit on the fence wondering if maybe this winter Fuji will release an "r" version of the gfx 100? Thanks again for your informative video.
For the XT-3, I agree with your observation that the wide zooms (in my case 10-24) & the telephoto (55-200) are the 2 most important lenses to take in the field. With the GFX system, your wide angle selection seems limited (for now).
Indeed, the GFX system could really do with a wide zoom. I used the 32-64 and was often frustrated that it wasn't quite wide enough. The 23mm is great, but it lacks flexibility, so you really need to have the 32-64 as well.
As much as I love my X-T3 and X-H1 cameras I find it incredibly hard to force myself to use them over my GFX … the IQ from the medium format body is just astounding. I don't vlog ( but do sometimes carry a drone ) so I don't have to carry much apart from the camera and two or three lenses. As you say, it really doesn't weigh any more than a full-frame set-up. With the locations you visit, Andy, I'd be bringing along the GFX every time.
Indeed it’s a lovely camera, but as a system I doubt I’d ever take it it’s me on many trips. For example Fuji offered to lend me the whole range of lenses, including the new 100-200mm, but as I knew I’d be shooting videos I only had space for the body and one lens, and my backpack was still up to 16kg, which limited us a little. It’s a lovely system, but for me it’s still too big and heavy to be my first choice kit
You mention the depth of field being an issue, but don't note that the lenses can stop down much further before defraction begins to occur. It does mean longer exposures, but it also means you can still match the apsc dof without needing two exposures.
Not really. In order to reach “full frame DoF” on wide angle lense, you would have to use aperture like F32 ( at least on my GFX 23 mm). However, the image quality becomes significantly deteriorared when using such a high aperture. Thus, you thus loose the benefit of incredible image quality that GFX S or R can produce.
If I were shooting handheld more then I'm pretty sure I'd soon regret not having any strap on any of my cameras, but with landscapes when the camera is on a tripod most straps just get in the way, and when it's windy are a bit of a liability.
Regarding the performance in low temperatures, I think manufacturers are very conservative in specifying usable range. I just spent a couple of weeks shooting in -20 to -30 deg C with an xpro1 - rated to 0 deg C - without any problems. The hands regularly gave up though
The only significant differences really are in the controls and the grip. The sensor and all round performance is exactly the same, but the GFX S is probably more ergonomic, although it's also heavier. For that reason I prefer the 50 R
Thanks for sharing your impressions of the GFX and images of the Dolomites. In view of your comments in the video about depth of field have you had a chance to try the focus bracketing? Is it worth using or is manual focus stacking better?
Yes, on the other occasions I used it the battery life was excellent. I spent a couple of hours shooting with it the following day and the battery used only one bar.
Thanks, Andy, I always enjoy your reviews. It is quite camera and it would be fun to try one out. I remember that in your review of the GFX 50S in Tuscany you comment how big and heavy that camera, so obviously, you like the weight of the 50R much more. Were you using it on your Gitzo Traveler tripod or something else? The biggest problem for me is the cost of this camera-the lenses are also quite expensive. The images you took in the Dolomites were just stunning! Cheers.
Nice review Andy I think for a lot of us we’ll be maybe be looking at the gfxr and just a couple lenses especially for those of us doing landscapes and stock. I know I’ll be looking once some of them appear second hand. How’d you find the weight and the end of a day?
Hi Jim, I found the camera to be pretty light, the problem is that when I add it to my XT3 and lenses, which I need for video, other kit for video like microphones and a drone...THEN it starts to get too heavy. If you don’t have that extra stuff then with three lenses (23mm, 32-64mm and 100-200mm), it’s probably lighter than a full frame kit.
Fantastic review! As an XT3 shooter I'm considering the upcoming GFX 50S. I'm non-pro but passionate hobbyist travel/landscapes/documentary photographer. Am I nuts? I love the 4:3 ratio and I've been floored by the resolution of online sample images. My plan would be to keep one of my X camera bodies along with the 10-24 and 55-200 but use the 50R with a 30mm 3.5 the vast majority of the time. I'd love your input!
It's really hard to say, I think everyone has different reasons for getting cameras and takes different things from them. For me resolution isn't something I care about too much, it does't affect my income, and I prefer to go as light as possible. Hence I'm not really interested in the GFX as a couple of bodies and decent lens coverage is going to get really heavy and slow me down. However, that's just my use case, and if you find you can't resist the GFX 50R, and if you can afford it, then why not
question: why are all of Fuji's 'meduim format' lenses so slow? is there something about the larger sensor that makes is difficult to make fast lenses?
Well, I think a couple of reasons really. First, it's still a very new system with a relatively small user base, so Fuji first aimed at getting decent coverage of the focal lengths before they started putting out fast lenses, and the other thing is that it is a little more difficult to make fast glass for a bigger sensor because the glass has to be bigger. f2.8 glass on a full frame lens is bigger than on an APS-C because it has more sensor to cover and get light onto, and with full frame there's a step up in size and weight again. An f2.8 zoom for the GFX would necessarily be a really big heavy piece of glass.
Great Review Sir! Im moving from the A7R2 & want YOUR advise. I will get the GFX 50S & the 23mm. What do you recommend for a longer reach; 32-64, or 100-200 or 250?
Just curious. Do you use a iMac when you edit photos once home or your MacBook Pro? I’m trying to decide what to upgrade my old 17in iMac to. I’m just wondering if you like using a larger screen for landscapes...? Thanks!!
Hey Andy - like to VLOG! Have you considered shooting with the Hasseblad X1D? Also - a camera that size as a rangefinder??? It's a bit ENORMOUS. I would go for a Leica M for something like that.
You appear to be using Capture One rather than Lightroom? In the past you used Lightroom with other reviews, what is your opinion of C1? I’m aware that Lightroom gave RAF files problems, especially with sharpening at least historically, have you noticed a difference between the two?
I use them both to be honest and like them both. C1 appears to render better detail and color with the XTrans sensors, but the GFX has a bayer sensor so I couldn’t see any difference
Can you review the image for focus/depth of field sharpness on the screen? On my Nikon, one push of a button and it blows the image up 100% and I can move around the image and inspect the focus. Also, do you have to compose with the rear screen or is the viewfinder accurate enough? Back focus button?
Yes, it has one button zoom, as well as “pinch to zoom” on the touch screen. The Viewfinder is excellent for focusing, and in manual focus can also zoom in if you’ve got it set to split focus or focus peaking. I’m not sure about back button focus, but I think it’s assignable through the function button (not sure about that though)
Now that I have spent all my money on a complete X system with a lot of lenses and accessories , I don’t have any left to switch or sell it and buy 1 GFX with 1 lens! Would Fuji help me?? I have been waiting for an affordable MF system for decades, but now it seems to late...
Wow seems like this is a beast of a camera, I have the Fuji xt-3 and so far I am very happy. I would like to buy this camera. Do you know if there is a tilt shift lenses for this system? Thanks for doing these videos very helpful and your content is great 👍
Hi Andy, love your channel and spectacular images !! To keep focus throughout the entire image would the following work without too much complexity: Focus stacking and bracketing (1 stop) each focus point , i.e foreground focus and bracket 3 images and then mid ground bracket 3 images and horizon focus then bracket 3 images , combine all 9 images in post for improved dynamic range and focusing ? I have a canon fullframe 5dsr and not sure if this will work well in post. Thanks Andy.
They print really well, but when you say is APS-C quality enough? Enough for what? Professional level prints publications? Yes, you won't be able to tell a difference. Prints bigger than a meter wide? You'll see the difference, but the APS-C is still going to be very good. Whether it's good enough is a very subjective issue
Andy Mumford Thanks for your thoughtful response! I guess is it enough also for future longevity. For example, are photos from the first DSLRs that only had a few megapixels printable now? Do they have enough color depth? I guess I am wondering why people shoot digital medium format. Is it because of image longevity for whatever innovations may come in the future, is it because of the increased color information, etc?
1:37 (ish) 'it's not an f/2.8 lens' I'm willing to be corrected here, but isn't f/4 on the Fuji medium format roughly the 35mm equivalent of a f/3.1? Not as far from 2.8 as it first appears.
I still shoot film on an RZ67 and for digital and travel I'm more than happy with my Xe3, so i don't tend to suffer with GAS but man this thing is testing me.
I also received my 50R a week ago. Wasn't too excited at first, the size and weight compared to the X-T3 but the image quality has won me over. I am curious how your using the iPad Pro I seen in the video. Maybe that could be another video tutorial 😁.
I’ve been using iPad Pro to travel with instead of a laptop. I’ve done a bit of editing in Lightroom and use it to keep up with emails and write. For this video I wrote a few notes that I used while I was speaking. Its,great for image review when paired with a wireless external HD like the WD MyPassport Wireless, and I actually did plan to make a videos about it, but after writing it I wasn’t really sure there was enough interesting content for it to be a worthwhile video.
Thanks for the comment. I can’t remember the model number and I’m replying to these comments from the airport, but it’s the ball head which usually comes with the Gitzo GT1545T.
For landscape photography, I don't see any selling points here. The latest mirrorless fullframes of Sony and Nikon (A7R3, Z7) give you basically the same pixel density/noise/dynamic range performance on a sensor level, while being smaller, lighter with smaller and lighter lenses (14-30f/4 nikon or 16-35f/4 sony for wide, 24-70f/4 nikon or 28-75/2.8 tamron for midrange). And they are cheaper as well. Don't get me wrong, I love competition, but I don't see why any landscaper would pick this over Sony or Nikon.
Probably, because people buy cameras for all kinds of reasons. The cameras you mention are indeed excellent, but I would argue that for the vast majority of people, and I include many professionals like myself in this, can get what they actually “need” from an APS-C camera. I’ve been using the XT1/2/3 professionally for 4 years now and switching to a smaller sensor (I used to use a D800) hasn’t had any negative impact on my work creatively or commercially at all. The thing is, what we need, what we think we need and what we want often aren’t the same thing and camera manufacturers know this and market their stuff accordingly. This camera isn’t for you, to be honest much as I liked it, it’s not for me either, but there are plenty of people who are attracted to it and it will certainly sell.
Your Sony/Nikon FF camera has no chance over GFX medium format. 48 megapixel on FF vs 50 megapixel on medium format sensor , how can you say they have same pixel density LOL. 24-70 will have more distortion, corners will be soft, colours will be lack of richness , noisy . Just watch some videos to learn because you just don't know anything about that.
The pixel density is not the same! The GFX lenses are certainly better than Sony, Nikon, Canon. That said, so far I haven’t been able to see much difference between Nikon/ Sony and the GFX. I don’t understand why. Maybe sensor technology. That is based only on reviews though and not personal experience.
@@chrisjames7489 Same? Just shoot at 3200 ISO on D850 at night , you will see how much color noise with your Nikon and Sony. There is no true medium format on this planet. 645 is true? oh you have 6*6 and then 6*7 and then 6*9. So which one is true medium format. 35mm users will cry because it is 1.7 times bigger sensor. Big enough
@@GKhanKutar A combination of BSI and better processing leaves the DR of the FF Sony systems slightly more than the GFX. Also the ISO performance is significantly better on the Sony FF systems. There is about a stop of better shadow recovery in GFX, but honestly the point is they trade blows. And trading blows is not what you want for such a huge price/weight differential.
oh dear while we all realise the sensor is so much better but most of us changed to Fuji to reduce size and weight so most comments could apply to a full frame/Nikon/Canon and no joystick I love my Fuji XT2 but Fuji could have really taken a leap and didn't shame
Respectfully I would have to disagree as for the first time Fuji have put Medium format at a price that is affordable. As far as full frame is concerned the difference between aps-c and full frame for most of us is negligible but to medium format the jump is massive in IQ Fuji have got it right IMHO with modern aps-c and medium format. Full frame is over priced when you can get a Medium format for the price of the daft Z7 series.
@moo With all that techy stuff you are only convincing yourself! I have used both Full frame and fuji aps-c and have printed out large prints and side by side the only only people who would tell the difference are the ones who are continually feeding the Full frame over priced and over saturated market. I got a loan of the fuji med format and there is no comparison to my D810 & 24-70mm. The IQ is amazing and further my X-T2 & 50-140mm beats my Nikon equivalent at least for landscapes imo
@moo Read my comment again and you will see the following within the comment, 'Most of us' & 'Negligible' jeezo you full frame guys are so defensive. The only Fact is, I am making more money since I have been mostly using Fuji. Its a tool nothing more I don't really bother about anything else. For the short time I had the gfx I did a side by side three identical images landscape as close to the matched settings as I could and the X-T2 and D810 were almost identical but the gfx detail was amazing, simple as that! and... I don't think you are arguing using facts a lot of people better than me could easily dispute what you claim to be fact! I suspect you are having to justify the cost of your full frame FINE but stop getting your knickers in a twist cause at the end of the day as I said its only a tool ;-)
From the Fujifilm website; "the GFX 50R has been developed in pursuit of a compact and lightweight system while delivering the ultimate picture quality for everyday snapshots and street photography" fujifilm-x.com/global/products/cameras/gfx-50r/
The French website I trust on reviews noticed a few issues that no reviewer I've seen noticed www.lesnumeriques.com/appareil-photo-numerique/fujifilm-gfx-50r-p46305/test.html . The first one is moiré in the details of the images, like on textured book covers and crosshairs. They were also disappointed that you can't recover much when you overexpose a bit, compared to other medium format cameras. But it's a "budget" medium format so the sensor is not as good as the 10k+ € medium format cameras I guess... The other issue is continuous AF and subject tracking that are not really good. Most people who tested this camera did it for landscape, not for wildlife (I'm not even sure there is a telephoto lens for this). And lastly, the video capabilities are weak, but I don't really care about that, no one will use this for video. Sounds like it's the ultimate landscape camera, but I'd still like some feedback on the moiré issues.
if you are canon shooter with tons of lenses, and want a hig res camera and don t know the advantage of medium format, 5ds is a great cam for sure, and you can find a used one around 1800$, wich is unbeatable. But in term of image quality the gfx is another level, but yes, another price.
Indeed you could get that. You could also get the Nikon D850, or the Sony...they’re all great cameras, but in the end the camera you prefer often comes down to other things than bare performance; things like how intuitive it is, familiarity with a brand and being in a particular lens eco-system, or just emotional factors about how it feels to shoot with the camera. All of these are subjective and different for each person, so I make a point not to compare or criticize other cameras because that’s not what photography is about for me. No doubt the Canon is an excellent camera, I don’t know, I’ve never used it and probably never will because I’ve never got on with their system (personally speaking], but I’m sure there are many people who love it. I’ll leave that for those reviewers who use Canon though.
It's the best camera I've ever used. It gets me excited to shoot and the files blow me away ever time I look at them.
I use my 50S for landscape, I'm not a pro like you but here's my view. The 50S is far more versatile for the Landscape Photographer with the additional axis of tilt in the LCD, the Tilt ans Swivel adapter for the viewfinder and the fact that with an Arca Swiss Plate fitted you can still change the battery without removing the camera from the tripod. I would say that the R is probably a good compromise for the Travel Photographer who wants to include Landscape as part of their portfolio but is space saving conscious. That said the R although thinner than the S is actually a larger profile from the front and only marginally lighter. Keep in mind that the bulk of the weight of the GFX sytsem is in the lenses anyway. On the plus side the R is about £1,000 cheaper which will pay for some extra travel.
really enjoyed this. I'VE HAD MY GFX50R and 32-64 for around 2 months now and love the IQ
Amazing photos Fujifilm have produced an incredible camera. Will keep using my Fujifilm XT2 as I like the size and the results are great for my needs.
Indeed, the XT2 is still a wonderful camera
It is an amazing camera. I have been using it for a while and fell in love with it more than GFX50s I must say. However each one has its use for me. Enjoy GFX50R
Fotos absolutamente magníficas. What an amazing camera. Still love my X-T2 and X-E3 but this appears to be in a different level. The gradations are absolutely amazing. What an amazing achievement by Fuji. The X-Transn system is one of the best of the market and this new medium format is a full frame killer in a lot of cases.
Never seen to much interest in Full Frame because I never saw huge advantages but this is something different.
Congratulations on the video. Very concise and gives a general honest review about the equipment.
Thanks for watching Fernando
It certainly looks like a fabulous camera. I’ve just recently got an X-T30ii and I’m blown away with the quality that it can produce. While I see the compelling arguments for medium format, I’m very tempted to sell my other camera (X-H1) and replace it with an X-T4 or X-H2. The sensor in the t30ii is brilliant and produces images of a standard I’ve not encountered before. Great video though Andy and I’m not entirely giving up on getting a GFX 50r!
Thanks for the comment, really glad you enjoyed the video
Andy, thank you for your review. Your review is one of the better ones I've seen on this camera. I always look forward to your reviews, thanks again for such a clear and concise review.
Steve Glennan so pleasant to follow, and I’m not getting irrelevant information I already know shoved down my throat for 3/4 of the video
Lovely video Andy. The pictures are stunning. A camera like that sure does get me exited about getting more back to basics and thinking more and taking less. Cheers from Oz.
Thanks for the comment, glad you enjoyed the review
Great review. Thank you! For landscapes it is PERFECT! I love the form of the camera. The way you have dials, buttons, change the aperture on the lens and don’t waste time in menus. I felt that the newer Fujis have regressed in this respect. The 50R handles beautifully and I sold my D810 because of this and the superior quality of the landscape images the GFX50R produces and its out of camera colour. (I don’t like spending hours behind a monitor processing photos and only do this for my best ones I want to print). I got mine used for USD2500 area. Amazing value. I use the 50mm lens if I want to save weight or the 45 if not. My only criticisms are, a) it would be nice to have IBIS. B) I wish the compensation button had a lock. C) would be nice if the camera had a labelled button like the X100 which allows rapid and easy change of the key variables rather than having to self assign them to non labelled button.
Thanks for the comment, glad you enjoyed the review. The 50R is indeed a lovely camera. I suspect if it was released now it would have IBIS (like the 50S II), but at the time Fuji still hadn’t worked out how to get the IBIS small enough to fit into the smaller body. They’ve since got really good at this.
Great video, as always! 😊 Just remember that with a medium format camera, you can stop down the aperture more, without losing image quality. So regarding depth of field, there will be an "equivalent aperture" that's similar to "equivalent focal length".
exactly the effects of diffraction are reduced
Another very practical review. Thanks for sharing your expertise!
I've been finding myself wanting this camera more and more lately. I just completed a hike up Giant Mountain in the Adirondacks and the photos I got from my X-T3 are good but the detail of the trees and rock faces on the adjacent mountains were lost to the limitations of the crop sensor. I found myself wanting more resolution while editing in post. The image reviews really helped me decide of this was the right camera. That detail is astounding
It's a great camera and the resolution certainly is impressive. I'm sure you'll love it
great video, as always!! Keep on the good work)
Love the GFX 50R! Agree with your comments about use, weight, image quality, dynamic range, and depth of focus. Really do wish it had the XT series LCD vertical feature, especially when doing night skies vertically while trying to include a close-to-camera foreground. Yes, a couple of frames for focus stacking for near-far compositions is desirable, but that's very easy! Thanks for your practical, informative, and down to earth review.
Thanks for the comment, glad you liked the review. It’s an awesome camera isn’t it
Stunning photo's and clearly the image quality can't be beat. But for me, I'm happy with the XT3. Excellent IQ, compact, reasonably priced. Andy, you were a big part of the reason why I switched to Fuji from Canon and I don't regret it for a moment. Off on my first trip with the new system and can't believe how light and easy my kit is now! But my oh my - the images from the medium format are spectacular.
Indeed. I’m just heading out on a trip myself and just have the XT3 and XT2 with me. They do pretty much everything I need
Another great video Andy!
Great hands on review, appreciate it being very in depth!
I see you shot several images at iso 50. Nice.
Great review! I miss shooting film with my medium format cameras, especially my Fuji GW690II. Your review (among others) is leading me down the new Fuji medium format path. Keep up the great reviews!
Thanks for the comment, glad you found it useful
I too have been seriously considering picking up a Fuji GFX, but I have been waiting for a few more lens options to arrive before I make my final call. I would primarily be using it for landscape and architectural work, and would also consider a Cambo Actus GFX kit as an add on for the view camera movements. Ah.. tough choices when one is on a budget.
Breathtaking images Andy. Enjoyed the review.
Thanks
Nice video Andy! Can't wait to see all your photos. A pity that there was so less snow in the dolomites... definitely a good reason to come back in winter :)
Where I recorded review in the valley there was very little snow, but up on the peaks there was quite a bit, and it snowed a few days later so by time I left ther was snow everywhere
Andy great review I have had my GFX 50r with the 45mm lens for about two months now and have the new 100-200mm on order I also have the XT3 and love it but there is something special about shooting the 50r.... you just have to hold it to feel it....
I have been shooting with an XT-2 and an X-H1 but keep finding that I need to keep cranking up the ISO to shoot handheld and also keep seeing artifacts in my images (possibly because of that). Hence, I am starting to look at getting a bigger sensor. I assume this will give me better low-light performance? I also do print photography so that is a big plus for me. Although I do wonder whether maybe I should wait for the X-H2R coming soon instead.
Thanks for the comment. The GFX will certainly give you significantly better low light performance (I'm using the GFX100S at the moment, and it's noise performance is very impressive). As for the X-H2R, it's hard to say whether that will have better high ISO performance, and it also now looks like it won't be out till at least September
Always informative..great video. Thanks for your input. While I shoot the Fuji X Series I am looking to add the medium format GFX system when I shoot Landscape and Portraits. Thanks again.
Thanks for the comment, glad you enjoyed the video. There are rumours of a GFX 100S announcing soon, so if I can get my hands on one I'll be giving that a test as well
@@AndyMumford Look forward to it.
Love my GFXR werd Andy
Dear Andy,- great video once again.... I love your shots and your ideas. Why arent you a Fuji X-photographer? You are a great pro and inspirational guy with a Fuji..... so whats keeping you?
Thanks for the comment. I actually AM a Fuji X Photographer...I have been for about 4 years. That’s why they lend me the cameras like this one :-)
It's hard to believe this entire video was shot with Fujinons 18-55 kit lens. A testament to how incredible their gear really is.
Yeah, that 18-55 is a fantastic little lens
Very helpful video Andy, thank you.
Thanks for watching
Thanks for the very informative review. I sitting on the fence right now wanting to move into medium format. I currently use a D800e and the Sigma DP Merrills (what awesome cameras!). I do a lot of very remote photography (long sled pulls in ice-fields and such) and some aerial photography and I always seem to be looking for more resolution. But I have to admit this is more of a "want" need than a realistic need. I do occasionally sell very large prints and canvases (40" x 50"ish) but what people always want are my B&W images from my scanned Mamiya 7 negs! No one cares about the resolution. Sigh... The 50r looks to be a perfect camera for me - except it doesn't have the resolution I want! I WANT the resolution of the GFX 100 in a 50r size package at a price between the current 50r and the gfx 100. So I sit on the fence wondering if maybe this winter Fuji will release an "r" version of the gfx 100? Thanks again for your informative video.
Thanks for the comment, glad you found it useful
For the XT-3, I agree with your observation that the wide zooms (in my case 10-24) & the telephoto (55-200) are the 2 most important lenses to take in the field. With the GFX system, your wide angle selection seems limited (for now).
Indeed, the GFX system could really do with a wide zoom. I used the 32-64 and was often frustrated that it wasn't quite wide enough. The 23mm is great, but it lacks flexibility, so you really need to have the 32-64 as well.
Don’t you just love how Capture One supports the GFx cameras now?!?
As much as I love my X-T3 and X-H1 cameras I find it incredibly hard to force myself to use them over my GFX … the IQ from the medium format body is just astounding. I don't vlog ( but do sometimes carry a drone ) so I don't have to carry much apart from the camera and two or three lenses. As you say, it really doesn't weigh any more than a full-frame set-up. With the locations you visit, Andy, I'd be bringing along the GFX every time.
Indeed it’s a lovely camera, but as a system I doubt I’d ever take it it’s me on many trips. For example Fuji offered to lend me the whole range of lenses, including the new 100-200mm, but as I knew I’d be shooting videos I only had space for the body and one lens, and my backpack was still up to 16kg, which limited us a little. It’s a lovely system, but for me it’s still too big and heavy to be my first choice kit
today i watch the video, tomorrow i buy it :D .great videos, and the final pictures are awesome.
Great info and thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed the video
You mention the depth of field being an issue, but don't note that the lenses can stop down much further before defraction begins to occur. It does mean longer exposures, but it also means you can still match the apsc dof without needing two exposures.
Not really. In order to reach “full frame DoF” on wide angle lense, you would have to use aperture like F32 ( at least on my GFX 23 mm). However, the image quality becomes significantly deteriorared when using such a high aperture. Thus, you thus loose the benefit of incredible image quality that GFX S or R can produce.
Hi can I ask what camera you used to film this video because it looks stunning. Thanks.🙂
Thanks so much. The video was filmed with an X-T3
@@AndyMumford Wow, thanks mate.🙂
If Fuji puts the same technology into this camera sensor and processor as the XT3, this thing will be expensive but well worth it to pros!!!
100MP version is coming out soon. Just be ready to shell out the $$$. Sensor wise I still take my GFX50s over XT-3 but then I don't shoot ISO12800.
you need to buy teh fuji GB-100 handstrap (they call it the grip belt) for the GFXR, its really a necessity
If I were shooting handheld more then I'm pretty sure I'd soon regret not having any strap on any of my cameras, but with landscapes when the camera is on a tripod most straps just get in the way, and when it's windy are a bit of a liability.
shut up Ken, you shouldnt be telling anyone what they need to buy. If you think he needs it, then you buy it for him.
@@eccentricsmithy2746 Oh take it coool man
Have you tried the z7? I wonder if the image quality is comparable
I haven't tried the Z7 so can't give a comparison
It isn't. You are comparing a FF sensor that is smaller. The Z7 is crap to the GFX system.
Regarding the performance in low temperatures, I think manufacturers are very conservative in specifying usable range. I just spent a couple of weeks shooting in -20 to -30 deg C with an xpro1 - rated to 0 deg C - without any problems. The hands regularly gave up though
Me too. We were well below freezing all week and it was never a problem. I’m in Norway now and it’s -10 and the XT3 is fine
Would you kindly advise what the main differences between the 50R and the 50S for landscape are as per your experience with both?
The only significant differences really are in the controls and the grip. The sensor and all round performance is exactly the same, but the GFX S is probably more ergonomic, although it's also heavier. For that reason I prefer the 50 R
Many thanks @@AndyMumford... pretty clear! Would you expect Fuji to get a 50S in the way coming?
Love it great video
Thanks so much
thank you so much for sharing, outstanding images! I am just thinking of taking advantage that the Gfx now is not so high in price ;)
Thanks so much for the comment. The GFX is a wonderful camera, I’m sure you’ll love it
Thanks for sharing your impressions of the GFX and images of the Dolomites. In view of your comments in the video about depth of field have you had a chance to try the focus bracketing? Is it worth using or is manual focus stacking better?
I prefer to manual focus a couple of images (as in the example here) as its relatively simple to blend them together.
Great vid! Thank you. One question. Were you able to assess battery life when it’s NOT -23 degrees?
Yes, on the other occasions I used it the battery life was excellent. I spent a couple of hours shooting with it the following day and the battery used only one bar.
I would use it with a hand strap. Great review!
Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed it
Fantastic review ... wondering if you would invest and switch to GFX 50R system all together.
brilliant review.
Thanks so much for watching
Thanks, Andy, I always enjoy your reviews. It is quite camera and it would be fun to try one out. I remember that in your review of the GFX 50S in Tuscany you comment how big and heavy that camera, so obviously, you like the weight of the 50R much more. Were you using it on your Gitzo Traveler tripod or something else? The biggest problem for me is the cost of this camera-the lenses are also quite expensive. The images you took in the Dolomites were just stunning! Cheers.
Hi Robert, thanks for the comment. I was using the same Gitzo Traveller 1545 I usually use.
Would it be possible to give the ISO/F/Speed settings for the landscape pictures?
what editing program are you using?
I use both Lightroom and Capture One Pro
Excellent review and gorgeous images. You don't have to give it back. You're already in a foreign country. How would they track you down?
True...but too late now. I’ve given it back
Nice review Andy I think for a lot of us we’ll be maybe be looking at the gfxr and just a couple lenses especially for those of us doing landscapes and stock. I know I’ll be looking once some of them appear second hand. How’d you find the weight and the end of a day?
Hi Jim, I found the camera to be pretty light, the problem is that when I add it to my XT3 and lenses, which I need for video, other kit for video like microphones and a drone...THEN it starts to get too heavy. If you don’t have that extra stuff then with three lenses (23mm, 32-64mm and 100-200mm), it’s probably lighter than a full frame kit.
Thanks Andy for that, weight is an issue for me due to age ;-)
Awesome video!
Fantastic review! As an XT3 shooter I'm considering the upcoming GFX 50S. I'm non-pro but passionate hobbyist travel/landscapes/documentary photographer. Am I nuts? I love the 4:3 ratio and I've been floored by the resolution of online sample images. My plan would be to keep one of my X camera bodies along with the 10-24 and 55-200 but use the 50R with a 30mm 3.5 the vast majority of the time. I'd love your input!
It's really hard to say, I think everyone has different reasons for getting cameras and takes different things from them. For me resolution isn't something I care about too much, it does't affect my income, and I prefer to go as light as possible. Hence I'm not really interested in the GFX as a couple of bodies and decent lens coverage is going to get really heavy and slow me down.
However, that's just my use case, and if you find you can't resist the GFX 50R, and if you can afford it, then why not
It has the same 4 year old Sony sensor as the Pentax 645Z, amazing sensor.
question: why are all of Fuji's 'meduim format' lenses so slow? is there something about the larger sensor that makes is difficult to make fast lenses?
Well, I think a couple of reasons really. First, it's still a very new system with a relatively small user base, so Fuji first aimed at getting decent coverage of the focal lengths before they started putting out fast lenses, and the other thing is that it is a little more difficult to make fast glass for a bigger sensor because the glass has to be bigger. f2.8 glass on a full frame lens is bigger than on an APS-C because it has more sensor to cover and get light onto, and with full frame there's a step up in size and weight again. An f2.8 zoom for the GFX would necessarily be a really big heavy piece of glass.
Great Review Sir! Im moving from the A7R2 & want YOUR advise. I will get the GFX 50S & the 23mm. What do you recommend for a longer reach; 32-64, or 100-200 or 250?
I think I would recommend the 100-200 as it gives you more options to make landscape abstracts and lens compression than the 32-64mm
Just curious. Do you use a iMac when you edit photos once home or your MacBook Pro? I’m trying to decide what to upgrade my old 17in iMac to. I’m just wondering if you like using a larger screen for landscapes...? Thanks!!
I use a 15” Macbook Pro.
Hey Andy - like to VLOG! Have you considered shooting with the Hasseblad X1D? Also - a camera that size as a rangefinder??? It's a bit ENORMOUS. I would go for a Leica M for something like that.
You appear to be using Capture One rather than Lightroom? In the past you used Lightroom with other reviews, what is your opinion of C1? I’m aware that Lightroom gave RAF files problems, especially with sharpening at least historically, have you noticed a difference between the two?
I use them both to be honest and like them both. C1 appears to render better detail and color with the XTrans sensors, but the GFX has a bayer sensor so I couldn’t see any difference
Can you review the image for focus/depth of field sharpness on the screen? On my Nikon, one push of a button and it blows the image up 100% and I can move around the image and inspect the focus. Also, do you have to compose with the rear screen or is the viewfinder accurate enough? Back focus button?
Yes, it has one button zoom, as well as “pinch to zoom” on the touch screen. The Viewfinder is excellent for focusing, and in manual focus can also zoom in if you’ve got it set to split focus or focus peaking. I’m not sure about back button focus, but I think it’s assignable through the function button (not sure about that though)
Now that I have spent all my money on a complete X system with a lot of lenses and accessories , I don’t have any left to switch or sell it and buy 1 GFX with 1 lens! Would Fuji help me?? I have been waiting for an affordable MF system for decades, but now it seems to late...
Wow seems like this is a beast of a camera, I have the Fuji xt-3 and so far I am very happy. I would like to buy this camera. Do you know if there is a tilt shift lenses for this system? Thanks for doing these videos very helpful and your content is great 👍
Its a great camera, and I'm glad you enjoy the videos. There aren't any tilt/shift lenses available at the moment for the GFX system
Hi Andy, love your channel and spectacular images !!
To keep focus throughout the entire image would the following work without too much complexity: Focus stacking and bracketing (1 stop) each focus point , i.e foreground focus and bracket 3 images and then mid ground bracket 3 images and horizon focus then bracket 3 images , combine all 9 images in post for improved dynamic range and focusing ? I have a canon fullframe 5dsr and not sure if this will work well in post.
Thanks Andy.
I’m pretty sure that would work. Depending on the shot you could probably do it with just two focus points, as was the case here
Gorgeous images. I've been wanting to get my hands on that camera! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on it. 👍😉
How do the files print? In comparison with your XT3? Is APSC quality enough?
They print really well, but when you say is APS-C quality enough? Enough for what? Professional level prints publications? Yes, you won't be able to tell a difference. Prints bigger than a meter wide? You'll see the difference, but the APS-C is still going to be very good. Whether it's good enough is a very subjective issue
Andy Mumford Thanks for your thoughtful response! I guess is it enough also for future longevity. For example, are photos from the first DSLRs that only had a few megapixels printable now? Do they have enough color depth? I guess I am wondering why people shoot digital medium format. Is it because of image longevity for whatever innovations may come in the future, is it because of the increased color information, etc?
1:37 (ish) 'it's not an f/2.8 lens'
I'm willing to be corrected here, but isn't f/4 on the Fuji medium format roughly the 35mm equivalent of a f/3.1? Not as far from 2.8 as it first appears.
Ur right
I’m guessing that you we’re likely more focused on the X-T3 at the Colorfoto launch event.
Were you at the event? The one a few months ago? At that point I already had the XT3, but I was really curious to see the 8-16mm as well as the 50R.
Yes, I was late and snuck in at the back. My focus was the 50R because having bought the X-H1 I'd decided that I'd skip the X-T3.
If you Could only have two lens which two would it be and why? Thank you.
Wide angle and tele zoom
All joking aside,have you done a review on the xt3 yet?
Yep, there’s one on my channel
thanks
I still shoot film on an RZ67 and for digital and travel I'm more than happy with my Xe3, so i don't tend to suffer with GAS but man this thing is testing me.
I also received my 50R a week ago. Wasn't too excited at first, the size and weight compared to the X-T3 but the image quality has won me over. I am curious how your using the iPad Pro I seen in the video. Maybe that could be another video tutorial 😁.
I’ve been using iPad Pro to travel with instead of a laptop. I’ve done a bit of editing in Lightroom and use it to keep up with emails and write. For this video I wrote a few notes that I used while I was speaking. Its,great for image review when paired with a wireless external HD like the WD MyPassport Wireless, and I actually did plan to make a videos about it, but after writing it I wasn’t really sure there was enough interesting content for it to be a worthwhile video.
Andy Mumford I’d be interested!
What tablet is on the table? Thanks for the nice video!
It’s an iPad Pro. Thanks so much.
Great camera - but I'm sticking with my XT2 as it suits my style of photography.
I’m sitting in Oslo airport now with just my XT3 and XT2 for the next trip. They’re indeed wonderful cameras
Oh no, why do I think I’m about to have a serious bout of GAS...
Maybe I should see a doctor about that actually...
Goughie's Photography lol same here.
Where is the snow?
I live about 60 miles in the north (tyrol), here its nearly impossible to get on Mountain because of the avalanche Situation 😂
Where I recorded this in the valley there was no snow, up it the upper peaks had plenty. by the time I left there was lots in the valley too.
Nice video Andy, the GFX50R is just amazing....witch Gitzo ballhead was on the tripod when you using the GFX50?
Thanks for the comment. I can’t remember the model number and I’m replying to these comments from the airport, but it’s the ball head which usually comes with the Gitzo GT1545T.
For landscape photography, I don't see any selling points here. The latest mirrorless fullframes of Sony and Nikon (A7R3, Z7) give you basically the same pixel density/noise/dynamic range performance on a sensor level, while being smaller, lighter with smaller and lighter lenses (14-30f/4 nikon or 16-35f/4 sony for wide, 24-70f/4 nikon or 28-75/2.8 tamron for midrange). And they are cheaper as well. Don't get me wrong, I love competition, but I don't see why any landscaper would pick this over Sony or Nikon.
Probably, because people buy cameras for all kinds of reasons. The cameras you mention are indeed excellent, but I would argue that for the vast majority of people, and I include many professionals like myself in this, can get what they actually “need” from an APS-C camera. I’ve been using the XT1/2/3 professionally for 4 years now and switching to a smaller sensor (I used to use a D800) hasn’t had any negative impact on my work creatively or commercially at all. The thing is, what we need, what we think we need and what we want often aren’t the same thing and camera manufacturers know this and market their stuff accordingly. This camera isn’t for you, to be honest much as I liked it, it’s not for me either, but there are plenty of people who are attracted to it and it will certainly sell.
Your Sony/Nikon FF camera has no chance over GFX medium format. 48 megapixel on FF vs 50 megapixel on medium format sensor , how can you say they have same pixel density LOL. 24-70 will have more distortion, corners will be soft, colours will be lack of richness , noisy . Just watch some videos to learn because you just don't know anything about that.
The pixel density is not the same! The GFX lenses are certainly better than Sony, Nikon, Canon. That said, so far I haven’t been able to see much difference between Nikon/ Sony and the GFX. I don’t understand why. Maybe sensor technology. That is based only on reviews though and not personal experience.
@@chrisjames7489 Same? Just shoot at 3200 ISO on D850 at night , you will see how much color noise with your Nikon and Sony. There is no true medium format on this planet. 645 is true? oh you have 6*6 and then 6*7 and then 6*9. So which one is true medium format. 35mm users will cry because it is 1.7 times bigger sensor. Big enough
@@GKhanKutar A combination of BSI and better processing leaves the DR of the FF Sony systems slightly more than the GFX. Also the ISO performance is significantly better on the Sony FF systems. There is about a stop of better shadow recovery in GFX, but honestly the point is they trade blows. And trading blows is not what you want for such a huge price/weight differential.
How much do you want for your XT-3.........lol
Sorry Sandy, but I’m keeping my XT3. I only borrowed the GFX for this video and it’s gone back to Fuji now
Exhibitors dream
Wait. Is it ISO or IZO?!
Iso
Don’t bother buying the XF -8-16mm ,it is over priced anyway,spent the money on the 50R.....lol
oh dear
while we all realise the sensor is so much better
but
most of us changed to Fuji to reduce size and weight
so
most comments could apply to a full frame/Nikon/Canon
and
no joystick
I love my Fuji XT2 but
Fuji could have really taken a leap
and didn't
shame
Respectfully I would have to disagree as for the first time Fuji have put Medium format at a price that is affordable. As far as full frame is concerned the difference between aps-c and full frame for most of us is negligible but to medium format the jump is massive in IQ
Fuji have got it right IMHO with modern aps-c and medium format. Full frame is over priced when you can get a Medium format for the price of the daft Z7 series.
@moo With all that techy stuff you are only convincing yourself! I have used both Full frame and fuji aps-c and have printed out large prints and side by side the only only people who would tell the difference are the ones who are continually feeding the Full frame over priced and over saturated market. I got a loan of the fuji med format and there is no comparison to my D810 & 24-70mm. The IQ is amazing and further my X-T2 & 50-140mm beats my Nikon equivalent at least for landscapes imo
@moo Read my comment again and you will see the following within the comment, 'Most of us' & 'Negligible' jeezo you full frame guys are so defensive. The only Fact is, I am making more money since I have been mostly using Fuji. Its a tool nothing more I don't really bother about anything else. For the short time I had the gfx I did a side by side three identical images landscape as close to the matched settings as I could and the X-T2 and D810 were almost identical but the gfx detail was amazing, simple as that! and... I don't think you are arguing using facts a lot of people better than me could easily dispute what you claim to be fact! I suspect you are having to justify the cost of your full frame FINE but stop getting your knickers in a twist cause at the end of the day as I said its only a tool ;-)
Coni Glione many thanks did wonder 😁
@moo Nah you don't your a wee boy who sits at home playin games on a consul. troll yer laughable change yer name you appear everywhere!
paying $5000 and not having a d-pad is really irksome...
Yeah, it's a bit of an oversight.
it wasnt designed for street photography....
From the Fujifilm website; "the GFX 50R has been developed in pursuit of a compact and lightweight system while delivering the ultimate picture quality for everyday snapshots and street photography"
fujifilm-x.com/global/products/cameras/gfx-50r/
I think its ok for street with the smalll 50mm lens.
The French website I trust on reviews noticed a few issues that no reviewer I've seen noticed www.lesnumeriques.com/appareil-photo-numerique/fujifilm-gfx-50r-p46305/test.html . The first one is moiré in the details of the images, like on textured book covers and crosshairs. They were also disappointed that you can't recover much when you overexpose a bit, compared to other medium format cameras. But it's a "budget" medium format so the sensor is not as good as the 10k+ € medium format cameras I guess... The other issue is continuous AF and subject tracking that are not really good. Most people who tested this camera did it for landscape, not for wildlife (I'm not even sure there is a telephoto lens for this). And lastly, the video capabilities are weak, but I don't really care about that, no one will use this for video. Sounds like it's the ultimate landscape camera, but I'd still like some feedback on the moiré issues.
"keeping cost low" on a 5000€ camera ... lol
it's a medium format camera it's dirt cheap compared to other medium format cameras
Might as well get the Canon 5d 50meg
For what? They are not even close in performance. I've owned both and kept the GFX 50s.
Rambling Tog An inferior camera for similar price? I’ll stick the my 50R thanks :)
if you are canon shooter with tons of lenses, and want a hig res camera and don t know the advantage of medium format, 5ds is a great cam for sure, and you can find a used one around 1800$, wich is unbeatable. But in term of image quality the gfx is another level, but yes, another price.
Indeed you could get that. You could also get the Nikon D850, or the Sony...they’re all great cameras, but in the end the camera you prefer often comes down to other things than bare performance; things like how intuitive it is, familiarity with a brand and being in a particular lens eco-system, or just emotional factors about how it feels to shoot with the camera. All of these are subjective and different for each person, so I make a point not to compare or criticize other cameras because that’s not what photography is about for me. No doubt the Canon is an excellent camera, I don’t know, I’ve never used it and probably never will because I’ve never got on with their system (personally speaking], but I’m sure there are many people who love it. I’ll leave that for those reviewers who use Canon though.
Some just do not understand how one feels to have a Fujifilm in the hands APC or Medium Format.