Fujifilm’s GFX100RF came with a bang, turning heads in the world of photography. A fixed-lens medium format camera, a chic and diminutive body, and a rangefinder-inspired build—shortly after, those words would have been science fiction. Through time spent shooting it and testing it in genuine conditions, the GFX100RF shows us that daring engineering and sensitive design can go hand in hand.
Medium format cameras used to be lumbering, studio-oriented beasts, suited for landscape and pro work where mobility was an afterthought. The GFX100RF flips that script on its head. Weighing only 735 grams, it’s roughly the same weight as a Leica Q3 but with a sensor around 70% bigger than that of a full-frame camera. Now, medium format quality is mobile enough for street shooting, travel, and daily use.
The GFX100RF’s design is both premium and functional. Its aluminum body is milled from a single block, imparting sharp, precise edges and a highly quality, solid feel. All the dials, ranging from shutter speed to the new aspect ratio selector, are tactile and well-positioned. Even smaller components, such as the battery door and hot shoe cover, are of aluminum construction, adding to the impression of quality. The near-square aspect ratio of the camera is reflected in its 4:3 sensor, giving it a look that is both utilitarian and unique. All the included accessories, such as the simple strap, 49mm filter, and lens hood, are in keeping with the design and functionality of the camera. Weather sealing is included with the adapter ring and filter, so the GFX100RF is capable of outdoor work immediately.
Camera handling is intuitive, particularly for Fujifilm X100 series photographers. The camera is nicely balanced, with a comfortable hold and well-located controls. The rear 3.1-inch tilting LCD is sharp, and the electronic viewfinder is big and bright, which makes it a pleasure to compose images. There are some tiny annoyances, such as the extending power switch that’s so easy to knock, but they don’t detract from the experience.
At the center of the GFX100RF is a 44x33mm, 102-megapixel CMOS II sensor and Fujifilm’s X-Processor 5. The quality of the images is breathtaking, with wide dynamic range, minimal noise, and rich, accurate color. The sensor’s 16-bit color depth produces smooth tonal shifts and outstanding shadow detail even at higher ISOs. The fixed 35mm f/4 lens, which is equivalent to 28mm in full-frame measurements, is remarkably sharp throughout the frame. It has an inherent leaf shutter for flash synchronization at any shutter speed and a four-stop neutral density filter, allowing photographers’ flexibility in sunny situations. Although the f/4 maximum aperture and lack of in-body stabilization are compromises for portability, image quality is superb in bright light, with the need for higher ISOs or use of a tripod making up for it in low light.
The GFX100RF promotes artistic liberty in-camera. With 102 megapixels, you can crop down to 45mm, 63mm, or even 80mm equivalents without sacrificing detail. The aspect ratio dial makes it easy to try different compositions, square, cinematic, or panoramic. Fujifilm’s 20 film simulations, including old favorites Velvia and Acros, enable photographers to get the look they desire straight out of the camera, often eliminating the need for post-processing.
In real-world shooting, the GFX100RF is excellent. It’s especially capable in landscape, architecture, and street photography. The leaf shutter is virtually quiet, ideal for candid exposures. Autofocus is quick and consistent, with sophisticated face and eye detection. Battery life is good, and dual SD card slots add storage insurance. Some aspects, such as the absence of stabilization and an f/4 lens, necessitate careful technique in low-light conditions, but overall, the camera excels.
The GFX100RF is for photographers who demand the highest image quality in a small, portable package. It’s perfect for travel, street, or as a second body that’s lighter than the bigger GFX models for pros who already have those larger cameras. Priced under the Leica Q3 while delivering a larger sensor and more megapixels, the GFX100RF may be one of Fujifilm’s best-selling medium format cameras. It demonstrates that challenging conventional boundaries in design and engineering can render what was previously impossible not only possible but enjoyable to use.
