I am bracing myself for the onslaught of "how dare you have a different opinion, you fool..." comments... This is not click bait. I have shot with this camera over months in many different scenarios, and whilst it is groundbreaking, great value and will NO DOUBT suit the wants of many photographers - I don't like shooting with it. See if it suits you - you can rent it at LensProToGo: www.lensprotogo.com/search/?q=gfx100 Use code GEAROUT15 for 15% off.
I think Fuji's least appealing cameras are those that are made to appeal to pros - this one and the X-H1 for example. While they're not bad and try to do everything people demand, like IBIS and a less vintage style, they're also lacking any kind of charm and I couldn't bring myself to use them regardless the specs. I'm willing to sacrifice a lot of features for a camera that I simply love to have in my bag and to shoot with.
Just wanted to share my experience/story with GFX100. I had 2 opportunities to test/use it. Once at a FujiFilm event where i was invited, and the second time in the camera shop with the full range of lenses. i would start by saying that i really wanted the camera to be the one for me. I really hope it would be good, but unfortunately, it is not. The ergonomics of the camera is really... strange, and this is coming from a guy who owns and uses a X-T1 since end 2014! It felt "off". Secondly, it is not as dependable as my X-T1, or my Sony a7Riii to nail focus and get everything sharp. I found myself starring at 100 blurry megapixels more often than 100 beautiful megapixels. Prior to the GFX100, i also had the opportunity to try the 50S and 50R. The 50R was the best of the 3, but it is still weird. If i am on holiday, ie. not work, i will only use my Leica Q2. It is absolutely a joy to use and shoot. (and i pray every time i use the Q2 that Leica will come up with a 50mm version with an add-on adaptor to push it to 85mm).
You made some good points about the gfx that were valuable to me. I was holding out to get a gfx 100 at one point. The recall/short supply may have saved me from ordering one after selling my Sony kit. I went with the Pany S1R/S1 combo. They feel so good in hand and are a joy to use. After using the S1R's high res modes for landscapes, I haven't thought about the Fujis again.
Thank you for an honest review and also for not bowing down to pressure from any company, by simply sending their stuff back. This is why I watch this photography channel more than any other. 👍👍👍
Matt, this series is my ABSOLUTE favourite of all the camera videos on youtube. REAL WORLD FIELD TEST! That's all people should care about. Not lengthy discussions about Dynamic range and how you can recover a horrendously under exposed shot haha.
The reason people want to be able to recover extreme shadows is to be able to shoot a high dynamic range situation without needing exposure stacking. If I wanted to shoot a photo of an animal walking into a sunset I will have to choose between a silouette shot and completely blowing out the sky. But the higher dynamic range a camera has the closer you get to being able to capture it in one shot in more situations.
Amazing review, honest and totally unbiased. I am honestly sick of gear review but this is a joy to watch and you actually have meaningful opinion. Keep it up.
I am watching youtube videos on a 42" TV which supports 4K. And MAN the quality of image, the colors, all that crispness are just insane in this video. Wow.
Weird to see the comment section. I find you to be an honest person when reviewing. I also have the complete opposite taste but respect your opinion. Thanks for making these reviews. I know it takes a lot of work.
Matt, this comment is just my opinion so don’t get angry about it. I prefer the loud Ka-Th-Uk sound of a DSLR mirror slapping me across the face, so everyone in the vicinity knows i just took a shot. I just don’t get that from mirrorless. I don’t need IBIS when i have a heavy tripod to lump around all day. I’ll take 24~50 megapixels over 102 any day. More image resolution is just a total waste of time, ask any instagram user. I also agree, they should have used those eye watering expensive and impossibly hard to find XQD cards instead of 300MB/s common as much SD cards, because I need to shoot landscapes, people and cats at 10+ frames a second.
I love this video mainly for the Bhutan content. I am looking forward to many more videos featuring this trip including accommodations, places visited and hopefully video of the people travelling in your group. I have been to Bhutan in 2018 and it was one of the most interesting and worthwhile trips I ever took. There is some misconception about the tourist fee. The way it applies is that there is a minimum daily total of 250 dollars per day in non winter months and 200 dollars per day in the winter months (Dec, Jan, Feb). I went towards the end of February when the weather was actually pretty good, And as long as the total package tour prices was more than 200 dollars per day then you're good to go. And everything counts such as airfare, hotel, all meals, all transportation etc. Our trip included flights from Saigon where I live to Paro, five full days of activities, four nights of accommodation in 4 star and 5 star hotels, trips to Punhakha, Thimpu, Paro including museums, Dzongs, the Tiger's nest. The trip cost was 1,750 USD each for myself and my wife being not so expensive for all that we got. Matt and the people who participated on this trip know exactly what I am talking about here... you feel overwhelmed in Bhutan by nature and the spirit of the Himalaya including also the people who are friendly and speak much better English that you might expect...
Marvelous images! I love how you seem to be able to take images that are familiar and seemingly just travel photos but somehow are so much more. Perhaps it’s just how comfortable you are around people. You clearly make them relax. As far as format size, I do use full frame cameras, but am eagerly awaiting the A6600 that I preordered to replace my A6500. I just love those small Zeiss and Sony primes.
To me, its all purely about "feel" and character in the images, and literally nothing coming out of the GFX system evokes any sense of awe and wonder that we got from traditional film medium format. I can shoot a pile of mud in the backyard with a hasselblad 503 or mamiya 7, and stare at the print I get back for ages. The roll off - that eerie 3d pop, the colour rendition, the sharpness quality and ultra "realness" of the images, its all there in film medium format and completely lacking in digital "medium format" (its not medium format afterall when its cropped). I can totally appreciate the GFX system and I've used them - absolutely stellar for product photography, but for everything else the images just totally underwhelm me. Yes lenses, lighting, composition, general photography acumen and knowing how to create beautiful thought provoking images all comes into play obviously, but taking all that into consideration I'm just not sold on the notion that "medium format" digital can/does outshine full frame digital, and absolutely does not compete with medium format film. I dont think it ever will. My dream would be for Hasselblad to develop a true medium format 6x6 digital back for the 500 series, 60mpx would be more than enough, but use a Foveon array sensor. If you've ever used a Sigma with a Foveon, you'll know that they have quite an extraordinary medium format feel. Coupled with a hasselblad 503, it would be photographic Nirvana! Wont ever happen of course.
Looking at images, the image quality of the GFX100 is mind blowing... But I'm happy with my A7R3. I don't need bigger files, and I don't need even bigger camera bodies and lenses. All in all, the A7R3 is the sweet spot for me. Very good resolution and detail, one of the best full frame low light performers and top of the line dynamic range, files are big but manageable, and the camera itself has treated me well. Also, it's something that I was able to save up for and sell older equipment to be able to afford.
Finally subscribed. Great reviews and tech. Old photog that grew up with MF manual cameras, and Fuji (and Sony) adding in-camera stabilization is awesome news. I have it in my Oly OMD. I chose the Pentax 645z to get MF images and use mostly legacy manual lenses (that are very affordable). I feel more connected to the process with f-stop clicks ;) and the manual focus is aided by a Focus Point Beep, which is good enough for me. My first autofocus/auto-exposure camera was a Nikon 8008s, and it was so effortless and worked perfectly. But, the control of click-stops and manual focus cannot totally be replaced by automation. Of course, with the avalanche of mirrorless cameras, the Pentax 645 will probably be neglected in the future, by Pentax.
You are correct - the buttons are just awful. I have used this after the 50S for mountain photography through the autumn and now into the winter. The DR and colour depth of the sensor is simply stunning. The dampened shutter coupled to IBIS liberates large sensor cameras from the tripod. However, there really is not a single credible excuse for the small, fiddly, cheap, difficult to access buttons strewn all over the acres of camera space where big, tactile buttons should be.
Let me start with, I hope you got a camera that is defective, why do I start with that? because out of all of the issues you mentioned non of the have happened to me with my GF50s and GFX100. I had my 50s and had no issues at all. I had my GFX 100 since the end of July with over 10 thousand images taken and not a single issue with freezing, issues with menu lock up, view finder locking up, or having to be super stable while holding my GFX100. Like other have noticed, you are using a cheap card on the second slot. The problem with Rent a camera review channels/borrow equipment is that you don’t know how to use the tools that are in front of you. You as many other think that because you have use many cameras in the past, are in the believe that all of them work the same. You don’t put in the effort to read the manual, experiment with settings and probably don’t care enough to spend some time to use the equipment properly. You can ask why did my camera lock up while doing X and see if others are having the same issue. You believe that all SD cards are created equal and it should work properly on all cameras. I only use 300mb cards on both SD slots. You are talking huge files that the camera is writing to the card and the same with video files, so you need the best. You need to remember that a camera is a tool and nothing else. You should only get a Medium Format camera because your work requires those type of files or you know what you are doing. It is ok to say that you don’t know how to use the equipment but don’t blame the equipment for your failures. You don’t also don’t get exited about the files because your excitement stops at pixel peeping. If you were a type of photographer that actually prints its work and makes large prints, you would know the difference. It’s like seeing someone who owns a corvette test drive a formula 1 car and say that it’s just not driveable because it uses too much gas, tires are too expensive and you can’t take the car on the streets. That’s how you sound.
I was writing jpeg to second card, and had 95-300mb cards in second slot - usually 300mb. (Poor choice to put that one in for filming). I have used the camera in many different situations, it wasn't a 'unknown' rental situation. Glad you enjoy yours.
Matt Granger I can tell you for sure the only issue I had with my GFX50s and GFX100 is with the tilt shift adapter when using a flash trigger on top of the adapter where the screen goes black, never without it. You should have tried Sandisk 300mb cards, they never fail, and I only use 32gb cards.
Matt Granger it’s more of a guaranteed to work properly. Remember that you are working with large files, so a guaranteed write speed is crucial. I had Lexmark cards rated at 300mb and my camera (gfx50s) would lock up and act stupid. I knew not to buy them as per recommendation but I still did it and wasted money on it.
Matt Granger . Great content as always. That is one of the problems with FujiFilm. There were X-H1’s that used to lock up with weird memory cards. Fuji always goes out of their way to list compatible cards. www.fujifilm.com/support/digital_cameras/compatibility/card/x/ That said, if the camera was unreliable for you, you should say so. Only by pointing it out can Fuji work on fixing it.
Thank for the video with really great places you visited. I do wonder about the technical issues you have had with this camera. I have been shooting with it since it came out and never encountered them. That goes for the other several Fuji Cameras I have. I do believe the GFX 100 is a niche camera and not so easy to use in a street environment. The biggest issue I have with it is to remember to check the IS to assure I am not using it at the wrong time. Contrary to you I do not find the form and the ergonomics offensive, although I agree there is a learning curve caming of the
I thought the Whole idea with “Cameras” was to use the right “tool” to do the job at hand !?!? Nikon D850 is possibly the “Best” DSLR at present !! Fijifilm X - T3 is possibly the “ Best” all round camera at present!!! Everyone for themselves. We are So Lucky that we have So Much to Choose from !!!! Variety Is the Spice of Life !!! 👍✅😎
"We are So Lucky that we have So Much to Choose from !!!! " - Yeah. Say that to someone who's got the GAS, owns 10+ camera bodies and 50+ lenses. And speedlights. Don't get me started on speedlights. So, Fuji X-T3 and Nikon D850 you say? I don't own those... yet... maybe a third mortgage...
Nice article, you are fortunate to be able to travel so widely. For me, the process of visualising and creating the image is most important. Coming from a medium format film background I've found the results from my first modern camera (Z7) are great, I never owned a DSLR, just a pocket Lumix 10 years ago, which drove me nuts. For me any camera must be simple to use, even the Z7 has way too many menu options, but it can be customised, and as it's comfortable to carry/use so gets taken most places. As I'm a resolution nut, loving really large prints (Richard Learoyd pinhole prints for instance) I'm currently considering a Phase One which my local dealer is willing to sell with a 10k discount 😲. So a slightly larger backpack and I can go off exploring engineering landscapes. It's more important for me to visualise, take, and instantly be able to re-compose, than to spend hours post processing, or just sorting through hundreds of pics. Keep up the good work, would add more but just off to the "The Independent Photographer" expo around the corner :)
I enjoy the process and the results. I enjoy taking images (I have Nikon DSLRs D700, D750 & D7000). I enjoy taking pictures with these three cameras. I also enjoy processing the images with Photoshop / Lightroom. Having hundreds (sometimes thousands) of images to process means that I can always come back to a shoot weeks, months even years later and process more images that I had not processed yet.
I think Fuji is on a good path here but I still don't think this is a travel/ street photo camera. Still primarily for the studio and landscape (when you have time to wait). Good review. 👍
I think Matt will say that it has ibis and good autofocus it is designed to be used that way. The size for me pretty much negates this imo although this is a valid argument i believe that for me at least i would use primarily for landscapes but if i did go into a town or something it has the option to do so.
Cheers Keto - FujiFilm arent advertising it as only for studio or landscapes. www.fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/gfx/fujifilm_gfx100/ * Compact and lightweight body * Weather resistant structure "The GFX 100 has six AF modes that cater for all types of subject movement. The AF-S locks focus while the AF-C focuses continuously on a moving subject." Movement and video: th-cam.com/video/vy0tqLVKbR0/w-d-xo.html
I respect your honesty about not being too fond of the GFX ! But let's think outside of the box and push the envelope even further ! How about shooting Wildlife photography with this new GFX camera , with a 2X converter to 400 mm plus lenses ! Let's face it . The GFX was design for doing photography outside of the studio ! I would love to see what the GFX can do in a wildlife environment ! Can't wait to see who take the challenge !!! Now "Who" will it be ?
I don’t need 100 mp for my work. But once they incorporate that AF and IBIS in the GFX 50s mk II, I will probably upgrade to that. I currently use the 50s for my work and enjoy using it. From the sound of it, the 100s is just something to rent when actually needed.
Nine years ago I moved from cheap compact cameras with small sensors to more expensive Sony -NEX-3 APS-C camera with the Sony E 16mm f/2.8 pancake lens. Four years ago I moved from my APS-C camera to the more expensive full frame Sony a7 and the small Sony FE 35mm f/2.8 T* ZA lens. Now it's time to move to even a bigger sensor. It is a bold and expensive step. I save money for the relatively small and affordable medium format Fujifilm GFX-50R and the relatively small and affordable forthcoming Fujinon 50mm (40mm equivalent) f/3.5 lens. I hope that the difference between 16bit raw files and 14bit raw files is significant during processing with Lightroom.
Hopefully not a stupid comment from me. Make sure your monitor accurately displays 16bits or else the only difference will be in prints (if they support 16bits).
xie4lu4duo1 The 16bit raw files are irrelevant with the monitor. 16bit raw files permit greater adjustment of dynamic range in Lightroom and other programs that can process raw photo files. For example the adjustment of highlights and shadows is much more efficient with 16bit raw files than 14bit raw files in Lightroom. Most monitors and smartphone screen can only show 8bit photos. There are some exceptions with adobeRGB or HDR monitor but this are very expensive. Most people are satisfied with the 8bit jpeg photos and are ignorant with dynamic range or what raw files can offer.
I love Fujifilm, and if you dedicated user, you must love the bad too... but to be honest, If I had to choose, I rather pick X-H1 as my main gear and X-T3 as my second body. those body are amazing, both on the sensor and system, again, both for photo and video. GFX 100 it seems a little bit pushing for what I liking, the images quality like you said, hands down amazing... but again, do I need that? unfortunately, no... my work doesn't need 100MP sensor. X-H1 and X-T3 does more fit to my works compared to GFX line-up in general. but if you seeking Hasselblad Alternatif, then yes, GFX line-up seems will serve you right. and as you said, Fujifilm does offer firmware upgrade quite often, so any bug that firmware related can be erased down at some point. basicaly, GFX 100 similar to Finepix X100 when first launched... buggy and not perfect, but the images quality hands down one of the best. back again, is depend the user, if you invested to this camera, then we must love it both ends...
About the fuel gauge... I mean battery indicators. I had the same trouble on my last Fuji X-T2 camera, 3 new and fresh NP-W126S batteries fully charged. Fire up the camera, none of the batteries were visible - shows empty batteries 0% in red - Shut down the camera, power up a number of times then it shows batteries charged at 60 or 75%. Shut down again, power up, shows the batteries fully charged at 100%. This X-T2 with the VPB-XT2 was a real nightmare to me. Fuji changed the grip, the batteries, no way, updated the FW to last specs no way... I am slowly get rid of all my Fuji gear except my X-PRO2 who is working fine. I had two X-T1 and two X-T2 kits... Today, I can see than in a $10000 camera, the fuel gauge is still erratic ! My gosh. Love the Fuji images btw, but they experience some hardware troubles too. By chance I still have all my Nikon ecosystem with lenses and 2 big Full Frame DSLR. heavy at the end of the day, but no battery issues anytime, anywhere !
@@mattgranger I sold my GFX50S with 45mm and 43-64mm. I now have 30/45/90mm lenses with the X1DII. Dynamic range and colors seem better. That's probably the glass though. The ergonomics, weight, interface blows the GFX away. It's more of a joy and inspirational and so I'm very happy about the change.
I'm surprised you like the Leica "medium format" but frowned on the GFX100. A few of your issues are easily solved, I think the latest firmware help with stability, better memory cards that have been tested to work well, and a L bracket fixes the grip. I had to try a couple brands of high speed cards as my first try with Lexmark's 2000x cards caused freezing needing a battery pull to reset. Amplim 2000x & Prograde 250 MB/s are both in the GFX100 with no stability issues. I've noticed random freezing when using both auto and manual adapted lenses...
I continue to follow your channel because you give such unvarnished feedback on cameras that you shoot with. For me, your comments on how the camera locked up on you crystalizes my reticence to move to a mirrorless body. Your comments, and feedback also remind me that cameras are tools, and while we may want a certain tool, for it to maximize value, it needs to serve a purpose in the workflow, and make it better. Clearly, this one needs hands-on experience to judge.
thanks Matt - you gave voice to several of my visual observations re ergonomics and physical issues - and I am a Fujifilm fan. good video, again - thanks.
Thank you for your honest review of the GFX100. As soon as I heard about it, and 100 Megapixels I wanted one. And the images quality! I'm a huge Fuji fan, with an XT1 which I still use, and XT2. A Fuji Rep came to my camera club, and he had the GFX100. It was ver heavy compared to my XT2. And the raw file sizes are crazy big. I don't need it either. Oh. I'd also need to win the lottery to buy into the GFX system, and buy a new computer to handle the large files, and buy loads more hard drives to store the files. It's a very big, expensive vicious circle. I'm happy with the gear I've got. J :-)
Another great video. Wish I can join your tour in Bhutan someday. I agree with your comment on the ergonomics. I have been having issues with Fuji cameras in general, GFX100 being the worst. GFX50S and XH-1 were great but some critical functions missing (IBIS 50S, battery life XH) preventing me to purchase and ended up with Panasonic S1H. After using several formats and companies I feel full-frame mirrorless has the best balance of size, function, and ergonomics.
Absolutely agree - the shooting experience is more important than technical refinement! Great how you point out how shooting styles and needs are different. After that it is good and adaquate to express your personal preference! What irritates me about that video - it looks like much of the footage was distorted, barrel. A cheap camera mounted on top of the Fuji? So switching between the high quality glass of the stills and the rest felt strange. When towards the end video from the gfx100 was used, it had a calming effect on me. But that's also just personal
Would you rule out the GFX 100 as a concert photography camera? Let's say for an indoor pop concert with rapid and constant lighting changes. And also for an outdoor pop concert. You remarked at just after 3:08 that the auto focus is a bit in slow light so I assume it's unsuitable? I recently attended a pop concert and the official photographer was shooting with a Nikon Z7. I assume a Z7 would be superior to the GFX 100, for concerts, as an example?
no doubt the camera has several shortcomings but what people do not realize this is not one full format camera FX but medium format and they are slower thanks Matt you saved me for 10,000usd
This was a disingenuous review. Such severe lockup failures show you have a faulty, not a representative, camera or your experience comes from not reading the manual and faulty settings. This was an irresponsible review. You lost a subscriber.
The funny thing is that it's a cheap camera compared to other medium format cameras so every flaw is kinda justified and in some ways it's still a superior camera to those much more expensive :D
Of course value plays into it - I think I addressed this. Yes price does account for a lot - but its still worth pointing out the plusses and minuses, imo.
My D850 is OVERKILL most of the time. I would think the best use for the GFX100 is Landscape or product photography. I wouldn't use it for street or action photography. How was the battery life Matt?
Thanks for the nice work! Wish I could go there one day. Fuji seems to really listen to their critics. I think the next versions will have some very good improvements. At least I am hoping for further refinement in the design and maybe a future purchase. I have the XT4 now and that is all I can afford. Jus took advantage of the great sale Fuji is having on some of the zoom lens. I think the 50R is also on sale. Keep up the great work. Thanks.
Thank you matt. Although I know you are a Nikon shooter but honestly what would be your best daily camera for experiencing, processing, result, trustable for studio, traveling, business?
I am fascinated by the idea that you get special access to religious and cultural venues and ceremonies. I am certain that your easygoing and respectful personality helps a lot, but what about shutter noise? Is a silent shutter a must, or are monks just so mentally disciplined that they ignore such trivialities?
Your review was appreciated. Post processing is not where I want to spend my time / yet necessary to get final. So my field time needs have the equipment to get done. Any field testing on any OM cameras?
Thanks for the review. However, not convinced by the photos or the video produced by the camera. I am just not seeing the benefit of using this camera over the full-frame camera based on the results I am seeing on this video. Maybe it is because the photos are just part of the video, but still not seeing that epic dynamic range that you are mentioning. Also, the flickering in the video was annoying. Nevertheless, Bhutan seems like an amazing country to visit.
Very nice video quality, so far best colors for amateur video I saw and no oversharpening & other artifacts visible and good dimensionality.Close to life vision.BTW I like colors on this video more than on stills,stills looks for me IMHO bit cold & some magenda cast.May video & stills using different color profile settings?
That camera is strictly for portrait or landscape, not travel, street or action photography!! And differently not for video. If you want to do what Peter Lik does on a budget, then this is the camera. It’s a tripod camera!!
Cool video Matt , great location and pics , the people look nice and pretty easy going too . I`m guessing the altitude that location is pretty high ? did you have any trouble acclimatizing to it ? Although i`m only really a hobby snapper (hoping to get better though :) ) , looking at lots of camera and gear video`s , it is easy to always want the higher rated models , but for me , i`m pretty happy and still learning to use my A73 , it just works( and in truth it is more camera than i can fully utilize just yet ) , and sometimes i go out and come home with a load of photo`s due to my lack of skills that end up in delete bin for various reasons , but i know the next time i might get some good shots , and have smile on my face ( i love trying my hand at sunsets on the south beach of Williamstown melbourne ). Re: the camera gear , it would just piss me off if the camera was not getting the basics right , battery gauge not correct , the camera crashing or locking up , I would not go near it . That is why i bought the A73 , runs on the board , at buy camera time , i had the nikon Z7 in one hand and A73 in the other . And in all honesty i absolutely liked/loved the feel of the Z7 better , but i`m an old codger , and there where some tiny niggles with the newish nikon Z7 according to some YT video`s at the time , and i nearly always go for the practical/sure thing(more or less ) , if that makes sense . And to this day , i still find it arduous work learning sonys menu system :) , but now and again the penny drops and i conquer a bit more of the camera ( and feel a bit good about that :) . The ergonomics also for a big handed bugger can be a bit awkward at times , but learning to cope with some hardships apparently is character building dear old dad said :) . Yes the big fuji seems to take a nice photo(with you operating it :) ) , but those bugs in the camera , I`d go with something proven runs on the board , or wait a year to see if they sort it out . Apologies for my rambling on .
Those Lock up issues as well as the SD card errors seem to be a reoccurring problem across Fuji Cameras - this summer my Fujifilm X-T20 was sent in and had it's motherboard replaced (for free) while being 6 months out of warranty due to how notorious of a problem it is. They are amazing cameras - when they work.
Outstanding review, best I have seen yet! I can see renting this for certain projects, but not buying it. And if I am renting then I may as well go PhaseOne.
I thing you nailed it in your statement. Yes great the 100mg supper lenses. But in the hand the button and feel are just wrong. know when I try it there was something I did not like. Saying the when the first GFX came out I tried it with the Hasselbleds X1D side by side and the Fuji just did not feel right. Same thing button grip both gave outstanding results but I could no live with the GFX. But I love my X1D but still I checked the GFX 100 to see if I would swap but NO not for me. I staying with a camera that I love to use. Thanks Matt.
Some beautiful images from a beautiful part of the world. The GFX line is too much camera for me; I’m intrigued by the 50r, being rangefinder-style, but then the X-Pro would probably suit me more for street, being less attention-grabbing. Theoretically at least, since they are all well beyond what I can afford. The vertical hand grip is one of those things every reviewer complains about, and I can see why. Style over functionality. Canon and Nikon both have ergonomics and durability down pat, something Fuji and Sony has to work on.
You need to report your findings. The good and bad experiences with the camer. Otherwise, what’s the point of a review. Also, curious to know if this camera had the latest firmware installed, since Fuji did acknowledge a problem with the shutter mechanism and has firmware to fix it. I enjoy your reviews, and those trips to far away places.
Matt, good job by you. Keep up the interesting trips, footage, attempt at balance. For me you're output over the last year (despite your torrid workflow) continues to improve in quality and your honesty (even if it brings the wrath of some) is what makes watching your channel feel more worth watching in limited time. One question (if you see this and have the time) about the beloved lens and expensive lens many might never own (no, not the Noct 0.95). You use to say the Nikkor 200mm f/2 was "your baby". I have spoken to many who use to own it and sold it for the Sigma 135mm f/1.8 Art because of the closer working distance and quality of output and weight. If you had to choose between those lenses today for the Z or the D850 or D5/6, which would it be? (or do you have another in mind). Thanks for the content here. Rest up.
1. Amazing video! I love the story and content of your reviews. You are using the gear in real world situations. 2. I would like this system but not as my main system. It would be something on I used sparingly. There are very few instances I want to deal with files that large. It seems buggy as well. Cool camera but a hard pass for me.
It seems so strange that the same company who makes the SUPER beautiful, charming and useful X-T series also makes this camera. It looks like an early prototype before they add the Fuji-magic and charm to one of their cameras and apparently it also functions that way. They really need to put some polish on their high-end cameras.
Ive got one, its the ultimate studio and tripod camera, youre not supposed to take it on holiday. It needs the RRS grip on the base then its perfect. Just selling my 50S, Ive now interest in it now Ive got the 100. My sony a7R iv bodies dont even come close
It's a fantastic camera, except for flash enthusiasts it will do just 1/125 native flash sync, but besides that an excellent package at a very competitive price.
I find his complaints about the camera to be rather miniscule overall. He seems to be using it as if he'd get the same convenience as when using a smaller format. Furthermore, it's not exactly meant to be used as a point and shoot camera. A totally different beast. Stabilization on such a camera? No. Any such expectation is utterly ridiculous. This sort of camera is meant to be used on a tripod 90% of the time. Misusing this camera is like using a 4 cylinder engine to pull a semi. I'd love to hear him complain about it when using it as a sports photography camera. He needs to compare it strictly against other medium format professional cameras, in which case he'd find the other offerings to be mere tinker toys. And Fuji has, by the way, recently blown other offerings out of the water, standing head and tails above the rest. The same is now true of Fuji's DX format cameras, also. And given the fact that Nikon has taken a very serious nose dive in recent years, Fuji is going to reemerge as the most serious of offerings. Not an overstatement to compare it to a Sherman tank. Build quality? Nothing comes close.
Kind of obvious but: Judging from the sample pictures, the camera seems stellar for landscape and staged (!) portraits/people shots. Not so much for reportage.
As per photography I enjoy the process but what I enjoy more is seeing people enjoy my work. Would I love a medium format and the answer is probably. My D700 is capable sure but the reality of it as it is 11 years old and hasn’t had a very charmed life as I know the previous owner dropped it at least twice so I’m looking for a replacement for it to have up and running in the next 18 months probably. Also my Tamron 24-70 G1 is pretty good for the price but I definitely could have taken better care of it and I find it lacking in certain aspects so I will want to update that too. A GFX100 wouldn’t revolutionize how I shoot but it would certainly be interesting to try out but I don’t know how well it would work as a general purpose camera especially when size and weight is considered.
Matt this is a good story, nice footage, makes sense. Now back to uncle Festers dark dungeons of Kentucky , for some regular BS, rants and see how he draws the"Benjamin Kanarack" card to substantiate Fuji MF cause he can't make a decent image himself . hanks for sharing. ;-)
I think if you only shoot landscape/cityscape or architecture doing very large prints then the 100mp couple be worth it if your well established in selling prints. But next month I will be getting a Z7 for landscape/cityscape, a couple new tamron 2.8 lenses a D500 and 150-600 lens with it and extra batteries with 3 grand to spare compared to the price of that Fuji. So way more bang for my buck then 1 camera and no lenses
Bachmann Manuel I don’t buy Sandisk anymore so I wouldn’t know. But I’ve used pro master velocity and the Sony tough and regular Sony cards in all my Fuji cameras including this one and never had issues.
Some of your commenters seem pretty miffed and accuse you of being biased against this camera. I thought it was an honest appraisal of this system. Granted, though, you're probably used to using more conventional imaging systems which also have more robustness and reliability. Anyway, interesting review of a camera that I'll certainly never buy because I'm a Nikon dude.
A question, would you consider the Canon 5D mark 4 a good focuser in low light? Because my Sony RX-100 5A beats our college 5D consistently in both noise and focus in low light. Both of these are situations I shoot in often (both for stills and video). Just trying to understand what you meant by relatively poor focus in low light.
Older dslr and most if not all contrast detection af systems cameras struggle a lot in low light conditions. It dosent have to be that dark to be a challenge. Whenever you use one you will know right away.
@@ivankiefer3886 5D isn't that old though, especially since Canon hasn't updated it. Which means that it's comparable at least to the D850 (it compares badly, but it does still compare) so does the GFX100 perform worse in low light focusing than the 5D mark 4? 5D, in the mirror down mode of course, and the GFX100, are using PDAF, and even with the mirror up the 5D has Dual Pixel AF, which is Canon's special PDAF. Both should be comparable. I'm just trying to understand the degree comparison Matt made.
@@xmlthegreat i thought you where referring to the original 5d. Well im surprise that the 5dmk4 is worst that the sony rx100 "5A?". Well The lense makes the difference too. I mean a kit lense probably sucks for low light but a fast new lenses are hard to beat in low light.
I am bracing myself for the onslaught of "how dare you have a different opinion, you fool..." comments... This is not click bait. I have shot with this camera over months in many different scenarios, and whilst it is groundbreaking, great value and will NO DOUBT suit the wants of many photographers - I don't like shooting with it.
See if it suits you - you can rent it at LensProToGo: www.lensprotogo.com/search/?q=gfx100
Use code GEAROUT15 for 15% off.
Well, you can't like all of them. 🙂
I think Fuji's least appealing cameras are those that are made to appeal to pros - this one and the X-H1 for example. While they're not bad and try to do everything people demand, like IBIS and a less vintage style, they're also lacking any kind of charm and I couldn't bring myself to use them regardless the specs. I'm willing to sacrifice a lot of features for a camera that I simply love to have in my bag and to shoot with.
Just wanted to share my experience/story with GFX100. I had 2 opportunities to test/use it. Once at a FujiFilm event where i was invited, and the second time in the camera shop with the full range of lenses.
i would start by saying that i really wanted the camera to be the one for me. I really hope it would be good, but unfortunately, it is not. The ergonomics of the camera is really... strange, and this is coming from a guy who owns and uses a X-T1 since end 2014! It felt "off".
Secondly, it is not as dependable as my X-T1, or my Sony a7Riii to nail focus and get everything sharp. I found myself starring at 100 blurry megapixels more often than 100 beautiful megapixels.
Prior to the GFX100, i also had the opportunity to try the 50S and 50R. The 50R was the best of the 3, but it is still weird. If i am on holiday, ie. not work, i will only use my Leica Q2. It is absolutely a joy to use and shoot. (and i pray every time i use the Q2 that Leica will come up with a 50mm version with an add-on adaptor to push it to 85mm).
You made some good points about the gfx that were valuable to me. I was holding out to get a gfx 100 at one point. The recall/short supply may have saved me from ordering one after selling my Sony kit. I went with the Pany S1R/S1 combo. They feel so good in hand and are a joy to use. After using the S1R's high res modes for landscapes, I haven't thought about the Fujis again.
Thank you for an honest review and also for not bowing down to pressure from any company, by simply sending their stuff back. This is why I watch this photography channel more than any other. 👍👍👍
Love the mix between gear stuff and learning about the country.
Matt, this series is my ABSOLUTE favourite of all the camera videos on youtube. REAL WORLD FIELD TEST! That's all people should care about. Not lengthy discussions about Dynamic range and how you can recover a horrendously under exposed shot haha.
The reason people want to be able to recover extreme shadows is to be able to shoot a high dynamic range situation without needing exposure stacking. If I wanted to shoot a photo of an animal walking into a sunset I will have to choose between a silouette shot and completely blowing out the sky. But the higher dynamic range a camera has the closer you get to being able to capture it in one shot in more situations.
Amazing review, honest and totally unbiased. I am honestly sick of gear review but this is a joy to watch and you actually have meaningful opinion. Keep it up.
This camera is about getting the ONE GREAT SHOT, the cover photo, the epic landscape, not about schlepping it around for travel photos.
I am watching youtube videos on a 42" TV which supports 4K. And MAN the quality of image, the colors, all that crispness are just insane in this video. Wow.
Weird to see the comment section. I find you to be an honest person when reviewing. I also have the complete opposite taste but respect your opinion. Thanks for making these reviews. I know it takes a lot of work.
Thank's Matt for taking the juxtaposition to uncle Fester who can't see flaws on any Fuji camera anymore. It was really refreshing.
Matt, this comment is just my opinion so don’t get angry about it. I prefer the loud Ka-Th-Uk sound of a DSLR mirror slapping me across the face, so everyone in the vicinity knows i just took a shot. I just don’t get that from mirrorless. I don’t need IBIS when i have a heavy tripod to lump around all day. I’ll take 24~50 megapixels over 102 any day. More image resolution is just a total waste of time, ask any instagram user. I also agree, they should have used those eye watering expensive and impossibly hard to find XQD cards instead of 300MB/s common as much SD cards, because I need to shoot landscapes, people and cats at 10+ frames a second.
I'm glad you always point out the good and bad of equipment when there is both.
I love this video mainly for the Bhutan content. I am looking forward to many more videos featuring this trip including accommodations, places visited and hopefully video of the people travelling in your group. I have been to Bhutan in 2018 and it was one of the most interesting and worthwhile trips I ever took. There is some misconception about the tourist fee. The way it applies is that there is a minimum daily total of 250 dollars per day in non winter months and 200 dollars per day in the winter months (Dec, Jan, Feb). I went towards the end of February when the weather was actually pretty good, And as long as the total package tour prices was more than 200 dollars per day then you're good to go. And everything counts such as airfare, hotel, all meals, all transportation etc. Our trip included flights from Saigon where I live to Paro, five full days of activities, four nights of accommodation in 4 star and 5 star hotels, trips to Punhakha, Thimpu, Paro including museums, Dzongs, the Tiger's nest. The trip cost was 1,750 USD each for myself and my wife being not so expensive for all that we got. Matt and the people who participated on this trip know exactly what I am talking about here... you feel overwhelmed in Bhutan by nature and the spirit of the Himalaya including also the people who are friendly and speak much better English that you might expect...
Danke für dein ehrlichen Bericht.
Grüße aus Deutschland 🇩🇪
Marvelous images! I love how you seem to be able to take images that are familiar and seemingly just travel photos but somehow are so much more. Perhaps it’s just how comfortable you are around people. You clearly make them relax. As far as format size, I do use full frame cameras, but am eagerly awaiting the A6600 that I preordered to replace my A6500. I just love those small Zeiss and Sony primes.
To me, its all purely about "feel" and character in the images, and literally nothing coming out of the GFX system evokes any sense of awe and wonder that we got from traditional film medium format. I can shoot a pile of mud in the backyard with a hasselblad 503 or mamiya 7, and stare at the print I get back for ages. The roll off - that eerie 3d pop, the colour rendition, the sharpness quality and ultra "realness" of the images, its all there in film medium format and completely lacking in digital "medium format" (its not medium format afterall when its cropped). I can totally appreciate the GFX system and I've used them - absolutely stellar for product photography, but for everything else the images just totally underwhelm me. Yes lenses, lighting, composition, general photography acumen and knowing how to create beautiful thought provoking images all comes into play obviously, but taking all that into consideration I'm just not sold on the notion that "medium format" digital can/does outshine full frame digital, and absolutely does not compete with medium format film. I dont think it ever will. My dream would be for Hasselblad to develop a true medium format 6x6 digital back for the 500 series, 60mpx would be more than enough, but use a Foveon array sensor. If you've ever used a Sigma with a Foveon, you'll know that they have quite an extraordinary medium format feel. Coupled with a hasselblad 503, it would be photographic Nirvana! Wont ever happen of course.
Sounds like Jeremy Clarkson - "the most amazing camera... that I'd never buy" :)
now you say that.... i hear his voice.
@@joelgermain1988 +1
"...In the world!" lol
Felt like I was back in Bhutan. I still find bits if rice from the festival in the bags I took. Seriously-not joking!
Refreshingly honest. Thank you!
Looking at images, the image quality of the GFX100 is mind blowing... But I'm happy with my A7R3. I don't need bigger files, and I don't need even bigger camera bodies and lenses. All in all, the A7R3 is the sweet spot for me. Very good resolution and detail, one of the best full frame low light performers and top of the line dynamic range, files are big but manageable, and the camera itself has treated me well. Also, it's something that I was able to save up for and sell older equipment to be able to afford.
Finally subscribed. Great reviews and tech. Old photog that grew up with MF manual cameras, and Fuji (and Sony) adding in-camera stabilization is awesome news. I have it in my Oly OMD. I chose the Pentax 645z to get MF images and use mostly legacy manual lenses (that are very affordable). I feel more connected to the process with f-stop clicks ;) and the manual focus is aided by a Focus Point Beep, which is good enough for me. My first autofocus/auto-exposure camera was a Nikon 8008s, and it was so effortless and worked perfectly. But, the control of click-stops and manual focus cannot totally be replaced by automation. Of course, with the avalanche of mirrorless cameras, the Pentax 645 will probably be neglected in the future, by Pentax.
You are correct - the buttons are just awful. I have used this after the 50S for mountain photography through the autumn and now into the winter. The DR and colour depth of the sensor is simply stunning. The dampened shutter coupled to IBIS liberates large sensor cameras from the tripod. However, there really is not a single credible excuse for the small, fiddly, cheap, difficult to access buttons strewn all over the acres of camera space where big, tactile buttons should be.
Let me start with, I hope you got a camera that is defective, why do I start with that? because out of all of the issues you mentioned non of the have happened to me with my GF50s and GFX100. I had my 50s and had no issues at all. I had my GFX 100 since the end of July with over 10 thousand images taken and not a single issue with freezing, issues with menu lock up, view finder locking up, or having to be super stable while holding my GFX100.
Like other have noticed, you are using a cheap card on the second slot. The problem with Rent a camera review channels/borrow equipment is that you don’t know how to use the tools that are in front of you. You as many other think that because you have use many cameras in the past, are in the believe that all of them work the same. You don’t put in the effort to read the manual, experiment with settings and probably don’t care enough to spend some time to use the equipment properly. You can ask why did my camera lock up while doing X and see if others are having the same issue. You believe that all SD cards are created equal and it should work properly on all cameras. I only use 300mb cards on both SD slots. You are talking huge files that the camera is writing to the card and the same with video files, so you need the best. You need to remember that a camera is a tool and nothing else. You should only get a Medium Format camera because your work requires those type of files or you know what you are doing. It is ok to say that you don’t know how to use the equipment but don’t blame the equipment for your failures.
You don’t also don’t get exited about the files because your excitement stops at pixel peeping. If you were a type of photographer that actually prints its work and makes large prints, you would know the difference.
It’s like seeing someone who owns a corvette test drive a formula 1 car and say that it’s just not driveable because it uses too much gas, tires are too expensive and you can’t take the car on the streets. That’s how you sound.
I was writing jpeg to second card, and had 95-300mb cards in second slot - usually 300mb. (Poor choice to put that one in for filming).
I have used the camera in many different situations, it wasn't a 'unknown' rental situation.
Glad you enjoy yours.
Matt Granger I can tell you for sure the only issue I had with my GFX50s and GFX100 is with the tilt shift adapter when using a flash trigger on top of the adapter where the screen goes black, never without it. You should have tried Sandisk 300mb cards, they never fail, and I only use 32gb cards.
burn1nator thanks for the tip. Strange if a high end camera in 2019 only works smoothly with specific cards.
Matt Granger it’s more of a guaranteed to work properly. Remember that you are working with large files, so a guaranteed write speed is crucial. I had Lexmark cards rated at 300mb and my camera (gfx50s) would lock up and act stupid. I knew not to buy them as per recommendation but I still did it and wasted money on it.
Matt Granger . Great content as always. That is one of the problems with FujiFilm. There were X-H1’s that used to lock up with weird memory cards. Fuji always goes out of their way to list compatible cards.
www.fujifilm.com/support/digital_cameras/compatibility/card/x/
That said, if the camera was unreliable for you, you should say so. Only by pointing it out can Fuji work on fixing it.
Thank for the video with really great places you visited. I do wonder about the technical issues you have had with this camera. I have been shooting with it since it came out and never encountered them. That goes for the other several Fuji Cameras I have. I do believe the GFX 100 is a niche camera and not so easy to use in a street environment. The biggest issue I have with it is to remember to check the IS to assure I am not using it at the wrong time. Contrary to you I do not find the form and the ergonomics offensive, although I agree there is a learning curve caming of the
I thought the Whole idea with “Cameras” was to use the right “tool” to do the job at hand !?!?
Nikon D850 is possibly the “Best” DSLR at present !!
Fijifilm X - T3 is possibly the “ Best” all round camera at present!!!
Everyone for themselves.
We are So Lucky that we have So Much to Choose from !!!!
Variety Is the Spice of Life !!! 👍✅😎
"We are So Lucky that we have So Much to Choose from !!!! " - Yeah. Say that to someone who's got the GAS, owns 10+ camera bodies and 50+ lenses. And speedlights. Don't get me started on speedlights. So, Fuji X-T3 and Nikon D850 you say? I don't own those... yet... maybe a third mortgage...
Nice article, you are fortunate to be able to travel so widely. For me, the process of visualising and creating the image is most important. Coming from a medium format film background I've found the results from my first modern camera (Z7) are great, I never owned a DSLR, just a pocket Lumix 10 years ago, which drove me nuts. For me any camera must be simple to use, even the Z7 has way too many menu options, but it can be customised, and as it's comfortable to carry/use so gets taken most places. As I'm a resolution nut, loving really large prints (Richard Learoyd pinhole prints for instance) I'm currently considering a Phase One which my local dealer is willing to sell with a 10k discount 😲. So a slightly larger backpack and I can go off exploring engineering landscapes. It's more important for me to visualise, take, and instantly be able to re-compose, than to spend hours post processing, or just sorting through hundreds of pics. Keep up the good work, would add more but just off to the "The Independent Photographer" expo around the corner :)
I enjoy the process and the results. I enjoy taking images (I have Nikon DSLRs D700, D750 & D7000). I enjoy taking pictures with these three cameras.
I also enjoy processing the images with Photoshop / Lightroom.
Having hundreds (sometimes thousands) of images to process means that I can always come back to a shoot weeks, months even years later and process more images that I had not processed yet.
I think Fuji is on a good path here but I still don't think this is a travel/ street photo camera. Still primarily for the studio and landscape (when you have time to wait). Good review. 👍
Duh!!! Although Matt Granger fancies himself as some sort of *Camera Genius,* he could very well learn from your common sense wisdom.
I think Matt will say that it has ibis and good autofocus it is designed to be used that way. The size for me pretty much negates this imo although this is a valid argument i believe that for me at least i would use primarily for landscapes but if i did go into a town or something it has the option to do so.
Cheers Keto - FujiFilm arent advertising it as only for studio or landscapes.
www.fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/gfx/fujifilm_gfx100/
* Compact and lightweight body
* Weather resistant structure
"The GFX 100 has six AF modes that cater for all types of subject movement. The AF-S locks focus while the AF-C focuses continuously on a moving subject."
Movement and video: th-cam.com/video/vy0tqLVKbR0/w-d-xo.html
I respect your honesty about not being too fond of the GFX ! But let's think outside of the box and push the envelope even further ! How about shooting Wildlife photography with this new GFX camera , with a 2X converter to 400 mm plus lenses ! Let's face it . The GFX was design for doing photography outside of the studio ! I would love to see what the GFX can do in a wildlife environment ! Can't wait to see who take the challenge !!! Now "Who" will it be ?
I don’t need 100 mp for my work. But once they incorporate that AF and IBIS in the GFX 50s mk II, I will probably upgrade to that. I currently use the 50s for my work and enjoy using it. From the sound of it, the 100s is just something to rent when actually needed.
That'd be a killer cam - the 50s with these updates. Maybe shrink the body depth a bit too.
I agree with you Matt, to me too, GFX50S is the best in the hands of they three :)
beautiful trip by the way!
Nine years ago I moved from cheap compact cameras with small sensors to more expensive Sony -NEX-3 APS-C camera with the Sony E 16mm f/2.8 pancake lens. Four years ago I moved from my APS-C camera to the more expensive full frame Sony a7 and the small Sony FE 35mm f/2.8 T* ZA lens.
Now it's time to move to even a bigger sensor. It is a bold and expensive step. I save money for the relatively small and affordable medium format Fujifilm GFX-50R and the relatively small and affordable forthcoming Fujinon 50mm (40mm equivalent) f/3.5 lens.
I hope that the difference between 16bit raw files and 14bit raw files is significant during processing with Lightroom.
Hopefully not a stupid comment from me. Make sure your monitor accurately displays 16bits or else the only difference will be in prints (if they support 16bits).
xie4lu4duo1 The 16bit raw files are irrelevant with the monitor. 16bit raw files permit greater adjustment of dynamic range in Lightroom and other programs that can process raw photo files. For example the adjustment of highlights and shadows is much more efficient with 16bit raw files than 14bit raw files in Lightroom. Most monitors and smartphone screen can only show 8bit photos. There are some exceptions with adobeRGB or HDR monitor but this are very expensive.
Most people are satisfied with the 8bit jpeg photos and are ignorant with dynamic range or what raw files can offer.
I love Fujifilm, and if you dedicated user, you must love the bad too... but to be honest, If I had to choose, I rather pick X-H1 as my main gear and X-T3 as my second body. those body are amazing, both on the sensor and system, again, both for photo and video. GFX 100 it seems a little bit pushing for what I liking, the images quality like you said, hands down amazing... but again, do I need that? unfortunately, no... my work doesn't need 100MP sensor. X-H1 and X-T3 does more fit to my works compared to GFX line-up in general.
but if you seeking Hasselblad Alternatif, then yes, GFX line-up seems will serve you right. and as you said, Fujifilm does offer firmware upgrade quite often, so any bug that firmware related can be erased down at some point. basicaly, GFX 100 similar to Finepix X100 when first launched... buggy and not perfect, but the images quality hands down one of the best. back again, is depend the user, if you invested to this camera, then we must love it both ends...
Thanks for the tour. You have been to amazing places
About the fuel gauge... I mean battery indicators. I had the same trouble on my last Fuji X-T2 camera, 3 new and fresh NP-W126S batteries fully charged. Fire up the camera, none of the batteries were visible - shows empty batteries 0% in red - Shut down the camera, power up a number of times then it shows batteries charged at 60 or 75%. Shut down again, power up, shows the batteries fully charged at 100%. This X-T2 with the VPB-XT2 was a real nightmare to me. Fuji changed the grip, the batteries, no way, updated the FW to last specs no way... I am slowly get rid of all my Fuji gear except my X-PRO2 who is working fine. I had two X-T1 and two X-T2 kits... Today, I can see than in a $10000 camera, the fuel gauge is still erratic ! My gosh. Love the Fuji images btw, but they experience some hardware troubles too. By chance I still have all my Nikon ecosystem with lenses and 2 big Full Frame DSLR. heavy at the end of the day, but no battery issues anytime, anywhere !
It'a about the process. That's why I sold all my FujiFilm GFX gear and bougt the Hasselblad XiD II with 3 lenses.
Oh really? What did you sell? And happy with the change?
@@mattgranger I sold my GFX50S with 45mm and 43-64mm. I now have 30/45/90mm lenses with the X1DII. Dynamic range and colors seem better. That's probably the glass though. The ergonomics, weight, interface blows the GFX away. It's more of a joy and inspirational and so I'm very happy about the change.
@@HasselbladAS Be sure to check out my Instagram feed: PRMNTHR. I'm sure there's much to come:
instagram.com/prmnthr/
I'm surprised you like the Leica "medium format" but frowned on the GFX100. A few of your issues are easily solved, I think the latest firmware help with stability, better memory cards that have been tested to work well, and a L bracket fixes the grip. I had to try a couple brands of high speed cards as my first try with Lexmark's 2000x cards caused freezing needing a battery pull to reset. Amplim 2000x & Prograde 250 MB/s are both in the GFX100 with no stability issues. I've noticed random freezing when using both auto and manual adapted lenses...
I continue to follow your channel because you give such unvarnished feedback on cameras that you shoot with.
For me, your comments on how the camera locked up on you crystalizes my reticence to move to a mirrorless body. Your comments, and feedback also remind me that cameras are tools, and while we may want a certain tool, for it to maximize value, it needs to serve a purpose in the workflow, and make it better. Clearly, this one needs hands-on experience to judge.
Absolutely beautiful, Matt. Thank you. I'm not really a Fuji guy, but the images are wonderful.
thanks Matt - you gave voice to several of my visual observations re ergonomics and physical issues - and I am a Fujifilm fan. good video, again - thanks.
Thank you for your honest review of the GFX100. As soon as I heard about it, and 100 Megapixels I wanted one. And the images quality! I'm a huge Fuji fan, with an XT1 which I still use, and XT2. A Fuji Rep came to my camera club, and he had the GFX100. It was ver heavy compared to my XT2. And the raw file sizes are crazy big. I don't need it either. Oh. I'd also need to win the lottery to buy into the GFX system, and buy a new computer to handle the large files, and buy loads more hard drives to store the files. It's a very big, expensive vicious circle. I'm happy with the gear I've got. J :-)
Another great video. Wish I can join your tour in Bhutan someday. I agree with your comment on the ergonomics. I have been having issues with Fuji cameras in general, GFX100 being the worst. GFX50S and XH-1 were great but some critical functions missing (IBIS 50S, battery life XH) preventing me to purchase and ended up with Panasonic S1H. After using several formats and companies I feel full-frame mirrorless has the best balance of size, function, and ergonomics.
Thx for the video! I wasn't so interested in the camera. But the images and stories of buthan were amazing.
Absolutely agree - the shooting experience is more important than technical refinement!
Great how you point out how shooting styles and needs are different. After that it is good and adaquate to express your personal preference!
What irritates me about that video - it looks like much of the footage was distorted, barrel. A cheap camera mounted on top of the Fuji? So switching between the high quality glass of the stills and the rest felt strange. When towards the end video from the gfx100 was used, it had a calming effect on me. But that's also just personal
Would you rule out the GFX 100 as a concert photography camera? Let's say for an indoor pop concert with rapid and constant lighting changes. And also for an outdoor pop concert.
You remarked at just after 3:08 that the auto focus is a bit in slow light so I assume it's unsuitable? I recently attended a pop concert and the official photographer was shooting with a Nikon Z7. I assume a Z7 would be superior to the GFX 100, for concerts, as an example?
I always enjoyed watching your Bhutan videos. It really calms me down.
no doubt the camera has several shortcomings but what people do not realize this is not one full format camera FX but medium format and they are slower thanks Matt you saved me for 10,000usd
This was a disingenuous review. Such severe lockup failures show you have a faulty, not a representative, camera or your experience comes from not reading the manual and faulty settings. This was an irresponsible review. You lost a subscriber.
Strange - some viewers report same issues.
The funny thing is that it's a cheap camera compared to other medium format cameras so every flaw is kinda justified and in some ways it's still a superior camera to those much more expensive :D
Of course value plays into it - I think I addressed this. Yes price does account for a lot - but its still worth pointing out the plusses and minuses, imo.
A nikon 850 could have taken all the same shots. Do we all need a 100 mp camera? NO
I have a Nikon z7ii on order already own the z6 and love it. That should be a perfect travel set up for me?
Love an honest opinion coupled with beautiful shots
My D850 is OVERKILL most of the time. I would think the best use for the GFX100 is Landscape or product photography. I wouldn't use it for street or action photography. How was the battery life Matt?
Thanks for the nice work! Wish I could go there one day. Fuji seems to really listen to their critics. I think the next versions will have some very good improvements. At least I am hoping for further refinement in the design and maybe a future purchase. I have the XT4 now and that is all I can afford. Jus took advantage of the great sale Fuji is having on some of the zoom lens. I think the 50R is also on sale. Keep up the great work. Thanks.
Thank you matt. Although I know you are a Nikon shooter but honestly what would be your best daily camera for experiencing, processing, result, trustable for studio, traveling, business?
I am fascinated by the idea that you get special access to religious and cultural venues and ceremonies. I am certain that your easygoing and respectful personality helps a lot, but what about shutter noise? Is a silent shutter a must, or are monks just so mentally disciplined that they ignore such trivialities?
Good old days of being able to go outside
Your review was appreciated. Post processing is not where I want to spend my time / yet necessary to get final. So my field time needs have the equipment to get done. Any field testing on any OM cameras?
Excellent review from the real photographer point of view 👍💪. Love the Butan. Keep up the good work!
Pretty damn fine images no matter what the reason!
Detail doesn't fade for me
Thanks for the review. However, not convinced by the photos or the video produced by the camera. I am just not seeing the benefit of using this camera over the full-frame camera based on the results I am seeing on this video. Maybe it is because the photos are just part of the video, but still not seeing that epic dynamic range that you are mentioning. Also, the flickering in the video was annoying. Nevertheless, Bhutan seems like an amazing country to visit.
Very nice video quality, so far best colors for amateur video I saw and no oversharpening & other artifacts visible and good dimensionality.Close to life vision.BTW I like colors on this video more than on stills,stills looks for me IMHO bit cold & some magenda cast.May video & stills using different color profile settings?
Disappointing to hear. I'm in love with the ergos on the XH-1, and I was hoping some of that would have carried over.
I also love the XH1 ergonomics
And then there’s a complaint that the camera is missing with this and that 😂
That camera is strictly for portrait or landscape, not travel, street or action photography!! And differently not for video. If you want to do what Peter Lik does on a budget, then this is the camera. It’s a tripod camera!!
With all the freezing up you experienced, you may have recieved a damaged ( considering it's a rental), or defective unit.
It was provided by FujiFilm USA
Cool video Matt , great location and pics , the people look nice and pretty easy going too .
I`m guessing the altitude that location is pretty high ? did you have any trouble acclimatizing to it ?
Although i`m only really a hobby snapper (hoping to get better though :) ) , looking at lots of camera and gear video`s , it is easy to always want the higher rated models ,
but for me , i`m pretty happy and still learning to use my A73 , it just works( and in truth it is more camera than i can fully utilize just yet )
, and sometimes i go out and come home with a load of photo`s due to my lack of skills that end up in delete bin for various reasons , but i know the next time i might get some good shots , and have smile on my face ( i love trying my hand at sunsets on the south beach of Williamstown melbourne ).
Re: the camera gear , it would just piss me off if the camera was not getting the basics right , battery gauge not correct , the camera crashing or locking up , I would not go near it .
That is why i bought the A73 , runs on the board ,
at buy camera time , i had the nikon Z7 in one hand and A73 in the other .
And in all honesty i absolutely liked/loved the feel of the Z7 better , but i`m an old codger , and there where some tiny niggles with the newish nikon Z7 according to some YT video`s at the time , and i nearly always go for the practical/sure thing(more or less ) , if that makes sense .
And to this day , i still find it arduous work learning sonys menu system :) , but now and again the penny drops and i conquer a bit more of the camera ( and feel a bit good about that :) .
The ergonomics also for a big handed bugger can be a bit awkward at times , but learning to cope with some hardships apparently is character building dear old dad said :) .
Yes the big fuji seems to take a nice photo(with you operating it :) ) , but those bugs in the camera , I`d go with something proven runs on the board , or wait a year to see if they sort it out .
Apologies for my rambling on .
9:34 my goodness that is adorable!
Those Lock up issues as well as the SD card errors seem to be a reoccurring problem across Fuji Cameras - this summer my Fujifilm X-T20 was sent in and had it's motherboard replaced (for free) while being 6 months out of warranty due to how notorious of a problem it is. They are amazing cameras - when they work.
cant imagine how heavy the camera bag was
Outstanding review, best I have seen yet!
I can see renting this for certain projects, but not buying it. And if I am renting then I may as well go PhaseOne.
I thing you nailed it in your statement. Yes great the 100mg supper lenses. But in the hand the button and feel are just wrong. know when I try it there was something I did not like. Saying the when the first GFX came out I tried it with the Hasselbleds X1D side by side and the Fuji just did not feel right. Same thing button grip both gave outstanding results but I could no live with the GFX. But I love my X1D but still I checked the GFX 100 to see if I would swap but NO not for me. I staying with a camera that I love to use. Thanks Matt.
Some beautiful images from a beautiful part of the world. The GFX line is too much camera for me; I’m intrigued by the 50r, being rangefinder-style, but then the X-Pro would probably suit me more for street, being less attention-grabbing. Theoretically at least, since they are all well beyond what I can afford. The vertical hand grip is one of those things every reviewer complains about, and I can see why. Style over functionality. Canon and Nikon both have ergonomics and durability down pat, something Fuji and Sony has to work on.
You need to report your findings. The good and bad experiences with the camer. Otherwise, what’s the point of a review. Also, curious to know if this camera had the latest firmware installed, since Fuji did acknowledge a problem with the shutter mechanism and has firmware to fix it. I enjoy your reviews, and those trips to far away places.
It had the latest firmware. FYI the shutter issue was hardware. They did repairs, not firmware update.
Matt, good job by you. Keep up the interesting trips, footage, attempt at balance. For me you're output over the last year (despite your torrid workflow) continues to improve in quality and your honesty (even if it brings the wrath of some) is what makes watching your channel feel more worth watching in limited time. One question (if you see this and have the time) about the beloved lens and expensive lens many might never own (no, not the Noct 0.95). You use to say the Nikkor 200mm f/2 was "your baby". I have spoken to many who use to own it and sold it for the Sigma 135mm f/1.8 Art because of the closer working distance and quality of output and weight. If you had to choose between those lenses today for the Z or the D850 or D5/6, which would it be? (or do you have another in mind). Thanks for the content here. Rest up.
1. Amazing video! I love the story and content of your reviews. You are using the gear in real world situations.
2. I would like this system but not as my main system. It would be something on I used sparingly. There are very few instances I want to deal with files that large. It seems buggy as well. Cool camera but a hard pass for me.
It looks beautiful there and lovely people. 👍
It seems so strange that the same company who makes the SUPER beautiful, charming and useful X-T series also makes this camera. It looks like an early prototype before they add the Fuji-magic and charm to one of their cameras and apparently it also functions that way. They really need to put some polish on their high-end cameras.
Ive got one, its the ultimate studio and tripod camera, youre not supposed to take it on holiday. It needs the RRS grip on the base then its perfect. Just selling my 50S, Ive now interest in it now Ive got the 100. My sony a7R iv bodies dont even come close
‘You’re not supposed to take it on holiday’ - really? How about a location work assignment?
@@mattgranger Need a more portable faster option for travel. a7R4? :-)
Agreed ! this camera is overkill...
It's a fantastic camera, except for flash enthusiasts it will do just 1/125 native flash sync, but besides that an excellent package at a very competitive price.
Highlight of the video: 7:37 - who cares for camera specs. :)
Nice video Matt!
My opinion is the camera is irrelevant. You just use what you like.
Valid points, and much the same as my feelings on it. I thought the 50 mp was and is a much more viable proposition. Its not for me either.
I find his complaints about the camera to be rather miniscule overall. He seems to be using it as if he'd get the same convenience as when using a smaller format. Furthermore, it's not exactly meant to be used as a point and shoot camera. A totally different beast. Stabilization on such a camera? No. Any such expectation is utterly ridiculous. This sort of camera is meant to be used on a tripod 90% of the time. Misusing this camera is like using a 4 cylinder engine to pull a semi. I'd love to hear him complain about it when using it as a sports photography camera. He needs to compare it strictly against other medium format professional cameras, in which case he'd find the other offerings to be mere tinker toys.
And Fuji has, by the way, recently blown other offerings out of the water, standing head and tails above the rest. The same is now true of Fuji's DX format cameras, also. And given the fact that Nikon has taken a very serious nose dive in recent years, Fuji is going to reemerge as the most serious of offerings. Not an overstatement to compare it to a Sherman tank. Build quality? Nothing comes close.
Kind of obvious but: Judging from the sample pictures, the camera seems stellar for landscape and staged (!) portraits/people shots. Not so much for reportage.
I do not like the colors/tone of the gfx here in this video. It's too tinted dark.
As per photography I enjoy the process but what I enjoy more is seeing people enjoy my work. Would I love a medium format and the answer is probably. My D700 is capable sure but the reality of it as it is 11 years old and hasn’t had a very charmed life as I know the previous owner dropped it at least twice so I’m looking for a replacement for it to have up and running in the next 18 months probably. Also my Tamron 24-70 G1 is pretty good for the price but I definitely could have taken better care of it and I find it lacking in certain aspects so I will want to update that too. A GFX100 wouldn’t revolutionize how I shoot but it would certainly be interesting to try out but I don’t know how well it would work as a general purpose camera especially when size and weight is considered.
8:25 That's the money shot.
Did the Noctilux cover the whole sensor or did you (center-) crop in post?
soft vignette at edges only
Canon needs to do medium format for consumers
You forgot to mention the $250 a day tourist tax.
Taxation is theft
Matt this is a good story, nice footage, makes sense.
Now back to uncle Festers dark dungeons of Kentucky , for some regular BS, rants and see how he draws the"Benjamin Kanarack" card to substantiate Fuji MF cause he can't make a decent image himself .
hanks for sharing. ;-)
Good on you for saying how u feel regardless of others opinions
I think if you only shoot landscape/cityscape or architecture doing very large prints then the 100mp couple be worth it if your well established in selling prints. But next month I will be getting a Z7 for landscape/cityscape, a couple new tamron 2.8 lenses a D500 and 150-600 lens with it and extra batteries with 3 grand to spare compared to the price of that Fuji. So way more bang for my buck then 1 camera and no lenses
Do you use SanDisk cards? Fujis can lock up when using anything other than Sandisk.
Bachmann Manuel I can testify that my x-t2 locks up WITH Sandisk also. 😊
Bachmann Manuel I don’t buy Sandisk anymore so I wouldn’t know. But I’ve used pro master velocity and the Sony tough and regular Sony cards in all my Fuji cameras including this one and never had issues.
Some of your commenters seem pretty miffed and accuse you of being biased against this camera. I thought it was an honest appraisal of this system. Granted, though, you're probably used to using more conventional imaging systems which also have more robustness and reliability. Anyway, interesting review of a camera that I'll certainly never buy because I'm a Nikon dude.
why not, buy it in 2025 when it'll sell for $300 on ebay :-)))
Matt, despite I have access to the internet and all, I do need sponsor too!
I think your reviews are excellent.
A question, would you consider the Canon 5D mark 4 a good focuser in low light? Because my Sony RX-100 5A beats our college 5D consistently in both noise and focus in low light. Both of these are situations I shoot in often (both for stills and video).
Just trying to understand what you meant by relatively poor focus in low light.
Older dslr and most if not all contrast detection af systems cameras struggle a lot in low light conditions. It dosent have to be that dark to be a challenge. Whenever you use one you will know right away.
@@ivankiefer3886 5D isn't that old though, especially since Canon hasn't updated it. Which means that it's comparable at least to the D850 (it compares badly, but it does still compare) so does the GFX100 perform worse in low light focusing than the 5D mark 4? 5D, in the mirror down mode of course, and the GFX100, are using PDAF, and even with the mirror up the 5D has Dual Pixel AF, which is Canon's special PDAF. Both should be comparable. I'm just trying to understand the degree comparison Matt made.
@@xmlthegreat i thought you where referring to the original 5d. Well im surprise that the 5dmk4 is worst that the sony rx100 "5A?". Well The lense makes the difference too. I mean a kit lense probably sucks for low light but a fast new lenses are hard to beat in low light.
said the Chinese Hasselblad shill
Good one 👍🏼