Professional Insights on Using Fujifilm GFX Series for High-Quality Photography
Introduction
Michael shares his valuable experience with the Fujifilm GFX Series, including the GFX 100, GFX 50S, and GFX 50R. As a professional photographer, he highlights the strengths, challenges, and benefits of these medium format cameras, particularly in comparison with other renowned brands. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide for those considering these advanced photography tools.
Taking on the Fujifilm GFX 100
Michael, a keen advocate for medium format photography, acquired the Fujifilm GFX 100 about 2.5 months ago and was among the early users. Despite its impressive specifications, he notes that the 100MP sensor isn't a panacea, and there are other options that strike a better balance between quality and performance. He recommends the GFX 100 for clients who appreciate top-tier quality, emphasizing that it does not inherently make one a better photographer.
Comparing with Hasselblad
Michael has been working with Hasselblad digital since 2005 or 2006 and possesses a deep appreciation for its offerings, including the H4D with a 50MP back and the Hasselblad X1D. Notably, his two main clients still prefer using his Hasselblad setups, highlighting a lingering preference despite the advanced capabilities of the Fuji series. Color reproduction on Hasselblad is easier to achieve, whereas Fuji offers various film simulations, albeit sometimes at the cost of accuracy.
Tethering Workflow and Performance
Michael praises the ease of tethering with the Fujifilm GFX 100, which has been remarkably consistent. Initially, he anticipated needing to upgrade his Mac tower to handle the large uncompressed 16-bit 200MB files, but he’s found that his current setup is still adequate. Slightly slower with big files, his Mac does the job efficiently, even when tethering hundreds of shots per day in fashion photography. While the initial shot in Capture One might take about 3 seconds to appear, subsequent images load swiftly, maintaining the workflow speed.
Post-Processing and Reliability
Post-processing in Adobe Photoshop doesn’t present any noticeable challenges for Michael. Using a 2-year-old MacBook, he finds the process surprisingly smooth, indicating that the machine can handle the workload comfortably. He attributes this to his relatively simple post-processing needs, although he acknowledges that for more intensive work, a more powerful machine might be necessary.
Reliability and Camera Performance
Thus far, Michael has experienced moderate reliability with the camera, noting a few random glitches but attributing these to the camera's complexity. The focus system works exceptionally well, outperforming his Hasselblad cameras, though he says it still trails behind some competitor options like the Sony A7R IV. He concludes with a strong recommendation for those interested in a reliable yet powerful medium format camera.
Conclusion
Michael’s insights provide valuable guidance for professionals considering the Fujifilm GFX Series. While it might not be perfect, the GFX 100 seems to excel in areas that are paramount for high-quality photography, making it a strong contender in the market. Potential buyers might find his detailed experiences and observations particularly helpful in making an informed decision.
Keywords: Fujifilm GFX, Professional Photography, Tethered Workflow