Your dedication to the craft comes through in spades, you're an absolute legend. Not only is the camera no compromise (sort of) but also are you! (100%) Your VOs are so good, you need to do more youtube work man, seriously.
That is very kind and encouraging. Thank you so much. I definitely want to do more TH-cam, and find ways to keep incorporating more story driven videos. It's just hard to find the time when client work has to take priority to pay the bills.
That's quite flattering! Thank you. i appreciate your precious time. I know ppl don't have the attention spans that they used to, but I was hoping the video would be informative enough to keep ppl watching.
Such a beautiful review!! It's almost as if you were reviewing a vintage medium format camera in terms of passion :) Way more than I expected. And yet also so thorough. Was very helpful to see the comparison w R5C and Red Komodo. I never thought the GFX100-II would produce such good footage. I've a GFX100S and R5C, so this left me w lots to think about. The R5Cs RAW video is so good though (once you wrestle it in post).
Thank you!! and absolutely. The R5C is still a very good image, it just requires a bit more effort to get there in post when compared to the other cameras I tested. But i still really love using it. Just will never forgive Canon for omitting C-LOG 2 from it. Fuji have come such a long way in their video application. I knew the XH2S packs a hell of a punch in image quality and dynamic range, but I was not expecting this camera to have the same level of quality.
Beautiful video man! Congrats. I can tell (and I also saw in person) the amount of efforts and dedication you put on cooking this. If someone told me a just few years ago that a camera like or the Xh2s this would be real I would probably would not believe it.
I appreciate it man, and I appreciate all your help too! Thank you for letting me join you at the sandcastle house and for helping me shoot in LB! It really is incredible how far we've come in terms of camera tech. To think that there really is no excuse now because anything on the market is going to give you at least 90% of the image quality of the very best products.
What an absolutely stunning video, man. Here’s me hoping you post a lot more on youtube! Also, I’m almost selling all my sony gear I’ve collected since the a7ii and going all in on this camera and system. Unfortunately in my country it’s a lot more complicated, I don’t even think I could get it serviced if something went wrong. All that being said, I’m almost ready to ignore all the warning flags and still go for it very soon hahahah
Thank you! I am gonna do my best to be more active on this platform. It's just hard to find the time in between client work. I really respect people who can manage both and admire their time management skills haha
Really good review thank you ! Also really good images and overall story telling, you nailed the way to show how it shine instead of boring technical details
Absolutely love this video!! would love to see more of your process when shooting and blending images such as the house photo you took in 11:32 portion of the video where you blended multiple exposures.
It's a good idea for a future video. I didin't think there would be demand for it given there are a plethora of other videos that cover it, and my process isnt dramatically different. The difference ultimately comes down to personal taste in how much ambient vs flash one prefers. But if people really are interested in seeing how I approach it, i would be happy to make a video and show them.
First off… great review. Nice to hear another GFX100 II owners opinion. I’ve had my GFX100 II since launch, and I will echo most of what you said. Though, I’m not sure about the dynamic range statement. While I haven’t shot head to head, comparing to my Reds, I think the Fujifilm might be on par when it comes to dynamic range. I’m curious what format you shot in. I generally shoot in ProRes LT 422. I’m also curious what sensor aspect ratios you shot. I find myself gravitating to the 5.8K cine format… as it reminds me of an X-Pan. I recall being surprised at the latitude of the image. It appears quite flexible for both shadows and highlights. I’ll agree that the GFX100 II send to work best in boost mode for video. I think it’s happy on a tripod or in boost IBIS mode... Which I’ve had some success with. Out of all the cameras I’ve owned in the past couple years, the GFX100 II is the one that I’ve been most excited about. There is definitely something special about this camera. Enjoy shooting! PS: I plan to post as video with my shooting experiences thus far on my channel, if curious.
I shot in prores 422. My comments about dynamic range really were just splitting hairs. The C70, Komodo, and GFX all hold so much detail in the shadows and highlights that on any given day you wouldn't really be able to tell the difference. But RED RAW has this pliabilitly and, smoothness and quality that I can't quite put into words. It's just so easy to get to a good starting point. And if you shoot alot of hand held, RED's global shutter produces the best looking footage at this price point, and above in many cases, for high action and movement. And trust me, I am no fan of RED or their business practices. But like i said, that's a neglible variable. The GFX is also incredible to work with in post and as an overall camera, I definitely prefer using it over RED for most applications.
It’s hard to beat Red’s R3D… but if you get WB close enough you probably won’t need it. That said, who can argue with global shutter? But this Fujifilm also shoots stills… and I’ve used the Red to shoot stills… it was an interesting experience, but nothing I will be repeating any time soon. I’m glad that Fujifilm took the bold step to make this such a powerful video hybrid. Enjoy!
I'm not a professional photographer or filmmaker, so I have 0 reason to get a medium format camera...but MAN those shots look amazing. I'd be lying if I said I'm not at least a little tempted. Very well done video and thanks for sharing!
This is amazing! Thankyou for your great review. Hard to find someone posting GFX reviews on YT who shoots & edits in a similar style, especially architecture and human built landscapes! Hoping I can pick up a used older GFX system to slowly make the switch from the Canon 5dsR... who knows perhaps I can finally capture my interior images with 1 exposure instead of 2 and save time & the headache in post!
If image quality and dynamic range are your top priority, then picking up a used GFX will definitley be a great value. I should know, I am currently having to sell mine at a fraction of what i got for lol
I can’t confirm your observation regarding the flash trigger. I used the camera in combination with an Elinchrom Flash trigger and had absolutely no issues with the viewfinder.
The issue has since been fixed via firmware, but as i mentioned in the video, I was using a Godox trigger and couldn't confirm whether it affected other brands.
@2:32” i love what you said! Bravo. I have an issue that you might help me to make my final decision: in short, after switching from sonya1 because I didn’t like colours and also a7cR that was slow, still i own gfx100s with all gf lenses and i love 16bit images BUT it’s bulky and slow to be enough versatile for all kinds of photography! Recently i tested Nikon Z8 that I believe is all in one camera for what i meed and reliable for any scenarios. BUT 14 vs 16bit image! Although in theory humane yes cannot see more that 8bit but I believe i can see and appreciate how much is deep 16bit image in camera, monitor and print! So, shall I sacrifice 16bit IQ to have all in one camera gear to cover all kinds of photography i need, or i should forget about all in one and focus on landscape and still life photography (only) and maybe portraits, but achieve 16bit image for best cropping possibility and also x-large printing?
I often do as well. And when I am shooting portraits I find it easier to connect with my subject when I am not glued to the viewfinder, but I still like it for shooting landscapes, and sometimes it's just so bright outside that the LCD isn't practical.
With your comment about remote trigger, did you change the settings to be mechanical shutter? If left in electronic shutter (with exposure and white balance preview) that tends to happen with Profoto triggers too.
Very well done and very informative. Just started fazing with mine and particularly impressed with the dynamic range (still). Pedestrian question. I saw you using an L Bracket. It looked like a TLT one. Is that adapted from the 100s?
@@johnarborio that’s an excellent question. I still have my. GFX 100s and haven’t yet sold it because the resale value is in the toilet. At this point I might just find more value in keeping it as a backup Another option depending on the type of shooting you do would be Fujis crop sensor cameras. The 40 megapixel one seems enticing. Not practical for me as I need at least a FF sensor for my tilt shift lenses to get their intended field of view. But for a lot of ppl I am sure it would work great.
Omg that was awesome you’re pictures and also you’re video skills are amazing really outstanding and shows me how much I still have to learn …wish you would also explain some of your knowledge in further videos…:) you’ve got another follower and definitely a like 👍
hello. As a foreigner, I watched the video twice and I think I understood about 90% of it. I shot and color graded a feature film with the Canon R5 RAW 8K and used the C500 MK2 for a while. I switched to the x-h2s a year ago because I was so angry at the news that Canon's annoying heat problem had been fixed with firmware. The x-h2s is a cost-effective camera with built-in ProRes and 4K 60p without cropping, so there were no major problems. My experience with flog2 prores is somewhere between canon's raw(clog2) and clog3. As I was using a Fuji camera, I was relieved to discover that the colors I wanted to produce in Canon raw turned out to be Fuji colors. I don't take any photos, just videos. I have no interest in medium format cameras and have never used them, but this time I am interested and thinking about them. Let me ask you a question If you go from x-h2s to 100 II, are there any noticeable changes in terms of flog2 color grading (such as more colors that are not normally seen, or better ability to create thicker textures)? When recording with the same ProRes HQ. I'm using a Canon. Have you ever used a Canon lens with an adapter like a printer? If so, is autofocus useful? As a final aside, the newly released iPhone 15 has ProRes recording, so I'm having a hard time watching the results on TH-cam. Since an image sensor smaller than the x-h2s produces such results, I wonder if Prolass has done everything, and I wonder if it will be used a lot when it goes from x-h2s to 100 ii. I've been thinking about it a lot, so the post is long, but thank you for reading. There is a person filming cosplay in Korea haha (All videos on my channel within a year are shot by x-h2s Pro Res.) I hope that Google Translate will interpret my native language well by about 90%, and I believe that you will understand it well as a Canon and Fuji user. ^^
I think the X-H2s and the GXF with Flog 2 to will give you as much dynamic range as a Komodo though I think the stacked sensor on the X-H2s gives it the endge between the two fuji options, as well as the ability to shoot open gate. It'll definitley be the better video camera. If you're not interested in stills at all, i would absolutely see no reason for you to get a GFX unless you really really want that medium format, shallow DOF look at wider focal lengths. I do currently use a couple of canon tilt shift lenses with adapters on the GFX, but mostly for photography, they work really well, but don't have the same capability of producing the type of resolution that the GFX does with native lenses since they're made for Full frame sensors. I think having a proper LOG profile is everything, and apple have done some amazing things with the new 15, but I don't think the prores itself is what gives the footage the thickness in color. It's the data and bit rate that does that. Prores just makes it more of an industry standard for ppl to work with in post.
Are you saying that studying color correction more easily to create more cinematic colors and textures is better than buying the 100II, which is four times more expensive and heavier, making it difficult to use a gimbal? (I always use a gimbal.) This reminds me of the old days of wondering if it is right to buy a bundled lens since the L lens is 4 times more expensive. Haha thank you for the reply. I’m in love with your amazing photos and videos!@@ChristianSantiagophoto
@@CMVFactory I really appreciate the kind words. I didn’t have trouble balancing this on a gimbal. But if you’re only concerned is video, I don’t think it’s worth paying the price for this camera since what makes it really special is the photos it can take. I think that while the video quality is excellent, it’s on par with other cameras like black magic or xh2s or an FX3 which I feel provide much better value if the focus is solely on video
We have the same problems now. I just got a big brand deal, and now i can get all the cameras I ever dreamed about, and I have the rational side of my brain being overpowered by so many options. I want a cinema camera and two hybrid bodies, I'm learning C400 and two R3s for internal raw recording, but a Nikon Z8 and Z9 duo also looks good, paired with a Ronin 4D for faster paced action. I want to be a film maker primarily, photo second, it's difficult trying not to overspend.
What I've decided to do is have a GFX100 s ii camera which I will be purchasing soon and I'll be selling off all of my other camera gear except for my Fiji form XT5 which will be my fun holiday camera quick jobs whatever I need to do but just having the two cameras is much better than having four or five cameras and way too much gear. It gets too much sometimes and that means I'll have the cash back as well. I love the Fiji colours so having the XT5 match with the GFX camera I can get similar images in terms of look in colours so if I needed to use both cameras on a shoot I can do that
I 100% took some notes with this video. I love the vibe and and feel you bring to the video. You get a sub from me! I see you with that amazing sunset shot at the PIKE!
So did you end up investing into this? What lenses? Curious if you tried the x2d or if you've ever played with the Phase One systems? I own Phase One but am craving something lighter to hold, however lack of sync beyond 1/125th greatly hinders commercial work
Christian, an impressive review!!! your voiceover is so good, especially since you are being so authentic. Yes, it has helped me answer my questions, so I won't be DMing you :) If only my post skills are as good as yours.
@@ChristianSantiagophoto Another question, if you love shooting on 24-70mm lens in 35mm world, what do you equivalent recommendation do you have for GFX?
@@mrveeral options are quite limited. Fuji have a 45-100 and a 32-64 F/4 And a 35-70 F/4.5-5.6 . none will give you that true 24-70 experience. There will unfortunately be a sacrifice of versatility going medium format. And it’s an omission that hits hard when I find myself shooting on the r5 with my RF zooms. But it makes up for it with world class image quality. As for wireless tethering. It’s not as fast as with my canons. But my cam ranger does a solid job.
Great video! The intro was funny to me because everything you said is me except I have a wife so that's why I don't have a GFX 100ii 😭Also interesting about the R5C comparison, I had one for a while. Terrible camera with lots of issues and bad AF.
I have yet to do a hotel shoot with this camera but I shot several hotels with the 100s. The results were stellar. Have yet to test it with the cam ranger
Great video! Love all the thought put into your shots. Also love all the details about the camera, but for sure out of most of our price points. Now I see why you were selling some of your canon gear. 😂
Holy shit, the good flash trigger issue is incredibly huge. I use godox flash and viewfinder for literally 90 percent of my images. Super bummed about this.
@@ChristianSantiagophoto That's fantastic to hear. For someone who shoots Architecture, and also some real estate, would you recommend this for my big upgrade from my Canon 5D mkIV? My only experience with Fuji is my X100V, which I just truly love. I think possibly Canon R series would be a good upgrade, but I am leaning towards the GFX series (particularly for my focus in architecture).
I think architecture is one of the genres of photograhy wehre this system really really shines. It's perfect for it. It would definitley be a huge upgrade over your current canon. But is it a necessary one? I'd find it hard to justify given how good canon's current Full frame models are. If you can justify the financial commitment to the fuji system without compromising yourself, then yea I think you'd be happy. It's a wondeful platform. But I would stop short of saying anyone "needs" to upgrade to it. @@Ancaja123
mindblowing IQ.. great video. 👏🏼 what do you think about using an external recorder like the blackmagic or ninja? Would be even better.. what do you think about battery life?
Battery life is something i forogt to touch on. I ended up cutting it for time, but it's very very good. I did one take that was like 30 minutes long and when i looked the battery was still more than half full. It's soooo much better than the R5C I personally hate using external recorders. not a fan of it all. It's jsut always one more thing that can go wrong. ONe more thing that needs to be rigged and powered etc. Prores RAW is not compatible with resolve either, which sucks, otherwise it might be more appealing, but atm i really don't feel like grading in final cut or premier or doing any time of XML worflow. And honestly the testing I've done with the prores files from the fuji have me convinced that it's not really necessary. I don't think you'll see that much of an improvement shooting in BRAW or ProresRAW than when the camera can already do internally given how well it holds up to even RED Raw
@@ChristianSantiagophoto Thank you so moch for that detailed answer! That’s good news. So 5 Batteries on a regular production day should be fine I guess. Don’t you think BRAW would make a difference because of 12bin? Also changing Iso and white balance nativity in post is pretty convenient. I use the BMPCC6K it’s probably very similar if you say it comes close to the red. Or does the GFX look more digital in terms of sharpness and details? Blackmagic and Reds look pretty "cinematic".
Theoretically yes 12bit raw should make a difference. But in my testing it really doesn't. Refer to the clip i have of the video where i really screwed up the white balance and was able to easily bring it back. And that was an extreme error. I normally wouldn't need to change my white balance in post to that degree. And if you nail your white balance on set, it won't really matter anyway. So yea the ability to change ISO and WB would be nice, but for me it isn't worth the inconvenience of an external recorder. Also, judging from other articles and videos I've seen, the BRAW from the external recorders isn't quite as good as the native in camera results from BM cameras. The GFX definitely looks more digital straight out of camera. I've always found blackmagic to have a much better cinematic look. The GFX is very detailed, so you'll have to work a little harder: e.g. pick the right lenses, experiment with diffusion on set and in post. But you can definitely get there. @@DavWoe
@@ChristianSantiagophoto Thanks for the interesting insight! I mean using the native GF lenses has the benefit of autofocus. I think using a Mattebox with a BlackProMist filter could make it look more smooth an cinematic but still having the benefit ot the gf lenses.
@@DavWoe yea diffusion filters can definitely smooth out some of that detail, but I don't always want the other effects they create, most notably around light sources. Which is why i woud probably prefer using specific lenses when needing that "look." I've been using a plugin in resolve called "scatter" that does an incredible job of recreating the look of specific diffusion filters, and i prefer that workflow becuase I am not locked into it if i decide i don't like it later on. If I want to insist on the functinoality of the GF lenses, another option is Tiffen Black diffusion filters, they give a beautiful blend of softness to skin tones, but without all of the blooming of highlights that other filters seem to create.
Awesome man thank you. But, STILLS?! So many great video clips and examples but I have yet to see a video of someone pixel peeping (not so important) and pushing and pulling these files yet in real world conditions. WOuld love a video about the stills files and low light capabilities. Great video though man, so much more than the typical review videos. Also, by the looks of it we live in basically the same neighborhood.
I appreciate the kind words. However, there is a section where I talked about the stills including a timelapse of me blending exposures, as well as, a series of images at the beginning of the video and throughout of photos taken in "real world" scenarios both controlled and uncontrolled as they were taken everywhere from Monument Valley to Barcelona and Iceland. A handful of those shoots were for international campaigns for Fortune 500 brands. Trust me I put the 100s through the gauntlet testing its prowess for stills. The photos I took at the house were shot the same way I would shoot for a paying client. And I did mention that images are clean af up until 1600 iso. Even at up to 2500 the grain is barely noticeable. I regularly shoot at 640 comfortably. Pixel peeping isn't really my thing, and really these days I don't lose much sleep over noise or image quality because every camera is great by default. It's just not what really excites me about photography. The truth is that there really isn't anything new to report for photos beyond the improved buffer, AF, and the improved FPS. Image quality is as good as it was on its predecessor, and it's the best photo quality money can buy atm ( since most of us aren't springing for phase one systems). When it comes down to it, the stills IQ of this system will blow you away, and your decision to buy into it should depend on other variables as they relate to your preferred shooting experience and workflow. All of the things that distinguish this camera are improved performance and new video features in relation to the sensor size since we've never had an MF system with the performance of a full-frame system and the features of a cinema camera.
@@ChristianSantiagophoto oh awesome I'll rewatch that, I was multitasking (eating lunch) while I watched. I've used the 100S extensively so was really just curious about the claimed "30% increase in light gathering, low light performance" of the 100II and what the improvement over the S was since I shoot a lot in low light and my personal setup just falls apart when you push anything underexposed too much. Again, thanks for the great video.
Tethering is about the same...these are massive files. But the consistency is better. It doesn't disconnect as frequently, which is all i really wanted. I Have not tried wireless tethering other than with a Cam Ranger, which i have yet to test. Does C1 do wireless tethering with Fuji? I need to educate myself on the latest tethering options lol
Can you use the screen to compose the shot if you are using a godox trigger or does that black out as well? I often use the screen while shooting on the 50s II when using my godox strobes.
Yes, of course the EVF would be ideal. I was just making sure that until a firmware is released that there is another option. Appreciate you responding.@@ChristianSantiagophoto
Appy to provide that reassurance. And yea, if you're not using that money can be invested handsomly elsewhere, so if you have a camera with this price tag, it better be something you like to use or something that will make you money.
You didn’t say what type of photographer this camera would be great for. Sounds like this camera is good for photographers that shoot still objects, landscape, food,
i hear you. But i am not ready to go that far. I've spent enough money on this system hahahah and am already so invested in godox products. Praying they figure it out soon
@@hankdinardo4308 I have the AD 300,400, 600 all pro versions with the Xpro trigger. I didn’t realize there was an updated version of it. I’ll buy it and try it
@@ChristianSantiagophoto I have the 700 with the Xpro trigger but can’t test it because I’m in Florida and the Strobes are in Virginia but the V1 flash works
I recommend kids. Even if it means less gear. You have a world class skill set, (which is obvious by this video) which you can pass onto the next generation. But with your skill set you may not need to sacrifice less gear, even with kids.
Hey C. In case you missed it, Petapixel published an article revealing that the GFX100-II goes into 12bit mode when shooting in high frame rate mode. I still think the camera is amazing, but I figure people would want to know this before hiring it for a commercial shoot. To me, the 16bit color has been the most amazing part of my GFX100s, so I’d stick w single shot mode. Ps. Your review is still the best 🤌
I saw that article, but the noise it created doesn't reflect my experience. I am not too worried about it. I had been shooting in the burst mode without that knowledge this whole time and did not feel limited in any way by the flexibility of the files in post. I think this is an example of real-world photographers creating actual work as being a better indicator of performance than nerds with test charts. For my own personal workflow, I mostly shoot in the single shot mode anyway and only switch to the burst mode when I need to capture a moving element to composite into a scene like a cyclist passing by.
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Sheesh this video does justice to this camera. I’ve casually watched a handful of reviews and this blows them out of the water
Best review of this camera to date by a mile.
Thank you!
this video is pure perfection.
Your dedication to the craft comes through in spades, you're an absolute legend. Not only is the camera no compromise (sort of) but also are you! (100%)
Your VOs are so good, you need to do more youtube work man, seriously.
That is very kind and encouraging. Thank you so much. I definitely want to do more TH-cam, and find ways to keep incorporating more story driven videos. It's just hard to find the time when client work has to take priority to pay the bills.
Great video! First time I have ever watched a camera review longer than 10 minutes. The information and imagery was amazing.
That's quite flattering! Thank you. i appreciate your precious time. I know ppl don't have the attention spans that they used to, but I was hoping the video would be informative enough to keep ppl watching.
Subscribed within the first minute man! Please continue creating content
I really appreciate the support. Thank you! The intention is def to create more stuff.
Four minutes and twelve seconds in and this is one of the best reviews I've ever seen. Clearly the best on this camera.
Man that's some mighty kind praise. Thank you. !
best review, 100%, downloaded and watched on desktop
Such a beautiful review!! It's almost as if you were reviewing a vintage medium format camera in terms of passion :) Way more than I expected. And yet also so thorough. Was very helpful to see the comparison w R5C and Red Komodo. I never thought the GFX100-II would produce such good footage. I've a GFX100S and R5C, so this left me w lots to think about. The R5Cs RAW video is so good though (once you wrestle it in post).
Thank you!! and absolutely. The R5C is still a very good image, it just requires a bit more effort to get there in post when compared to the other cameras I tested. But i still really love using it. Just will never forgive Canon for omitting C-LOG 2 from it. Fuji have come such a long way in their video application. I knew the XH2S packs a hell of a punch in image quality and dynamic range, but I was not expecting this camera to have the same level of quality.
Excellent video. Very nice comparison and so much info in this video.
A really really good video man. Be proud of this - this is goals! I love it.
@@Louishouiller thank you good sir. Thank you for fanning the flames that keep me motivated
Bro, your aerial footage is incredible! If I had the money to spare, I'd buy this camera in a heartbeat.
Thank you! It's definitely a treat of a camera but by no means necessary
This is the first camera i’d consider as no flaws, perfect one.
Beautiful video man! Congrats. I can tell (and I also saw in person) the amount of efforts and dedication you put on cooking this. If someone told me a just few years ago that a camera like or the Xh2s this would be real I would probably would not believe it.
I appreciate it man, and I appreciate all your help too! Thank you for letting me join you at the sandcastle house and for helping me shoot in LB!
It really is incredible how far we've come in terms of camera tech. To think that there really is no excuse now because anything on the market is going to give you at least 90% of the image quality of the very best products.
Thanks for mentioning the flash problems. Hopefully Godox can provide a fix soon.
Agreed. It's quite frustrating that fuji would allow this to go into production with such a glaring issue.
Malibu , freaking beautiful, thanks for sharing, nice camera,No is my dream camera coming from Rb67 since 1990s . Please keep sharing!!
oh man, thank you so much. This is the info we needed!
Great perspective and review. Thank you as you have helped me to make a buying decision!
What an absolutely stunning video, man. Here’s me hoping you post a lot more on youtube!
Also, I’m almost selling all my sony gear I’ve collected since the a7ii and going all in on this camera and system.
Unfortunately in my country it’s a lot more complicated, I don’t even think I could get it serviced if something went wrong. All that being said, I’m almost ready to ignore all the warning flags and still go for it very soon hahahah
Thank you! I am gonna do my best to be more active on this platform. It's just hard to find the time in between client work. I really respect people who can manage both and admire their time management skills haha
How is it possible you don't have more subscribers. Brilliant review
I appreciate the kind words! Hopefully, the subs will come with more content to come!
Great review and saved me a bunch of money! Totally agree this camera is not something anyone should consider purchasing! Thanks again
Really good review thank you ! Also really good images and overall story telling, you nailed the way to show how it shine instead of boring technical details
Ps. Bastian Woudt (the dutch art photographer) just published a review of the GFX100s a week ago! Good photographers take their time ;)
Yes, and he now used the 100ii.
Absolutely love this video!! would love to see more of your process when shooting and blending images such as the house photo you took in 11:32 portion of the video where you blended multiple exposures.
It's a good idea for a future video. I didin't think there would be demand for it given there are a plethora of other videos that cover it, and my process isnt dramatically different. The difference ultimately comes down to personal taste in how much ambient vs flash one prefers. But if people really are interested in seeing how I approach it, i would be happy to make a video and show them.
Well I’m sold! Looks like I know what my next camera is going to be. Thank you for sharing your experience with the camera
Thank you. Happy to help. You’ll be very happy with this camera.
Best gfx review. Great video man 😊
Appreciate that. Thank you!
Would you recommend the 55 or 80 as a first lens 😊
@@DavidWagelmans I would definitely go with the 55. Very versatile lens !!
those portraits in the beginning were great
Stunning shots! This film is an artwork
That's very kind! Thank you
The Godox Flash issue is something that needs more noise/hot fix!
Agreed! Can't believe Fuji would let this out into production without addressing it
First off… great review. Nice to hear another GFX100 II owners opinion.
I’ve had my GFX100 II since launch, and I will echo most of what you said. Though, I’m not sure about the dynamic range statement. While I haven’t shot head to head, comparing to my Reds, I think the Fujifilm might be on par when it comes to dynamic range. I’m curious what format you shot in. I generally shoot in ProRes LT 422. I’m also curious what sensor aspect ratios you shot. I find myself gravitating to the 5.8K cine format… as it reminds me of an X-Pan. I recall being surprised at the latitude of the image. It appears quite flexible for both shadows and highlights.
I’ll agree that the GFX100 II send to work best in boost mode for video. I think it’s happy on a tripod or in boost IBIS mode... Which I’ve had some success with.
Out of all the cameras I’ve owned in the past couple years, the GFX100 II is the one that I’ve been most excited about. There is definitely something special about this camera. Enjoy shooting!
PS: I plan to post as video with my shooting experiences thus far on my channel, if curious.
I shot in prores 422. My comments about dynamic range really were just splitting hairs. The C70, Komodo, and GFX all hold so much detail in the shadows and highlights that on any given day you wouldn't really be able to tell the difference. But RED RAW has this pliabilitly and, smoothness and quality that I can't quite put into words. It's just so easy to get to a good starting point. And if you shoot alot of hand held, RED's global shutter produces the best looking footage at this price point, and above in many cases, for high action and movement. And trust me, I am no fan of RED or their business practices. But like i said, that's a neglible variable. The GFX is also incredible to work with in post and as an overall camera, I definitely prefer using it over RED for most applications.
It’s hard to beat Red’s R3D… but if you get WB close enough you probably won’t need it. That said, who can argue with global shutter? But this Fujifilm also shoots stills… and I’ve used the Red to shoot stills… it was an interesting experience, but nothing I will be repeating any time soon.
I’m glad that Fujifilm took the bold step to make this such a powerful video hybrid. Enjoy!
I'm not a professional photographer or filmmaker, so I have 0 reason to get a medium format camera...but MAN those shots look amazing. I'd be lying if I said I'm not at least a little tempted. Very well done video and thanks for sharing!
This is amazing! Thankyou for your great review. Hard to find someone posting GFX reviews on YT who shoots & edits in a similar style, especially architecture and human built landscapes! Hoping I can pick up a used older GFX system to slowly make the switch from the Canon 5dsR... who knows perhaps I can finally capture my interior images with 1 exposure instead of 2 and save time & the headache in post!
If image quality and dynamic range are your top priority, then picking up a used GFX will definitley be a great value. I should know, I am currently having to sell mine at a fraction of what i got for lol
I can’t confirm your observation regarding the flash trigger. I used the camera in combination with an Elinchrom Flash trigger and had absolutely no issues with the viewfinder.
The issue has since been fixed via firmware, but as i mentioned in the video, I was using a Godox trigger and couldn't confirm whether it affected other brands.
I'm about to purchase the GFX 100 S2
Very well done video Christian! Keep it up 🙌🏼
Thank you!
@2:32” i love what you said! Bravo. I have an issue that you might help me to make my final decision: in short, after switching from sonya1 because I didn’t like colours and also a7cR that was slow, still i own gfx100s with all gf lenses and i love 16bit images BUT it’s bulky and slow to be enough versatile for all kinds of photography! Recently i tested Nikon Z8 that I believe is all in one camera for what i meed and reliable for any scenarios. BUT 14 vs 16bit image! Although in theory humane yes cannot see more that 8bit but I believe i can see and appreciate how much is deep 16bit image in camera, monitor and print! So, shall I sacrifice 16bit IQ to have all in one camera gear to cover all kinds of photography i need, or i should forget about all in one and focus on landscape and still life photography (only) and maybe portraits, but achieve 16bit image for best cropping possibility and also x-large printing?
This is really good. Very well done. I don't need to make a review now :) oh and the Godox trigger issue drives me crazy, too.
I like using mines without the EVF similar to an FX three when shooting video
I often do as well. And when I am shooting portraits I find it easier to connect with my subject when I am not glued to the viewfinder, but I still like it for shooting landscapes, and sometimes it's just so bright outside that the LCD isn't practical.
With your comment about remote trigger, did you change the settings to be mechanical shutter? If left in electronic shutter (with exposure and white balance preview) that tends to happen with Profoto triggers too.
I never use the E- Shutter
Very well done and very informative. Just started fazing with mine and particularly impressed with the dynamic range (still). Pedestrian question. I saw you using an L Bracket. It looked like a TLT one. Is that adapted from the 100s?
Yes it is one from TLT but it isn't the one from the 100s, it's their Ellie Version
@@ChristianSantiagophotocool. Thanks. Looking forward to hear more about your experiences with the GFX system.
Sold my Canon R5 kit for a Fuji GFX 100 ii kit. I'm so excited to dive into the bright new world of medium format!
I will likely be doing the same very soon. Cant wait to have all that cash back in my pocket lol
I'm almost there but what to use for a backup on a job?@@ChristianSantiagophoto
@@johnarborio that’s an excellent question. I still have my. GFX 100s and haven’t yet sold it because the resale value is in the toilet. At this point I might just find more value in keeping it as a backup
Another option depending on the type of shooting you do would be Fujis crop sensor cameras. The 40 megapixel one seems enticing. Not practical for me as I need at least a FF sensor for my tilt shift lenses to get their intended field of view. But for a lot of ppl I am sure it would work great.
Yeah, I also use the Canon TS lenses and would rather keep the R5 Body than move to a crop sensor.@@ChristianSantiagophoto
The dog steals the show.
She always does
Omg that was awesome you’re pictures and also you’re video skills are amazing really outstanding and shows me how much I still have to learn …wish you would also explain some of your knowledge in further videos…:) you’ve got another follower and definitely a like 👍
Excellent review @ChristianSantiagophoto ! Can you tell me if the Godox transmitter issue fixed now?
Yes it has been fixed
hello. As a foreigner, I watched the video twice and I think I understood about 90% of it.
I shot and color graded a feature film with the Canon R5 RAW 8K and used the C500 MK2 for a while. I switched to the x-h2s a year ago because I was so angry at the news that Canon's annoying heat problem had been fixed with firmware.
The x-h2s is a cost-effective camera with built-in ProRes and 4K 60p without cropping, so there were no major problems. My experience with flog2 prores is somewhere between canon's raw(clog2) and clog3. As I was using a Fuji camera, I was relieved to discover that the colors I wanted to produce in Canon raw turned out to be Fuji colors. I don't take any photos, just videos.
I have no interest in medium format cameras and have never used them, but this time I am interested and thinking about them.
Let me ask you a question
If you go from x-h2s to 100 II, are there any noticeable changes in terms of flog2 color grading (such as more colors that are not normally seen, or better ability to create thicker textures)? When recording with the same ProRes HQ.
I'm using a Canon. Have you ever used a Canon lens with an adapter like a printer? If so, is autofocus useful?
As a final aside, the newly released iPhone 15 has ProRes recording, so I'm having a hard time watching the results on TH-cam. Since an image sensor smaller than the x-h2s produces such results, I wonder if Prolass has done everything, and I wonder if it will be used a lot when it goes from x-h2s to 100 ii.
I've been thinking about it a lot, so the post is long, but thank you for reading. There is a person filming cosplay in Korea haha (All videos on my channel within a year are shot by x-h2s Pro Res.)
I hope that Google Translate will interpret my native language well by about 90%, and I believe that you will understand it well as a Canon and Fuji user. ^^
I think the X-H2s and the GXF with Flog 2 to will give you as much dynamic range as a Komodo though I think the stacked sensor on the X-H2s gives it the endge between the two fuji options, as well as the ability to shoot open gate. It'll definitley be the better video camera. If you're not interested in stills at all, i would absolutely see no reason for you to get a GFX unless you really really want that medium format, shallow DOF look at wider focal lengths. I do currently use a couple of canon tilt shift lenses with adapters on the GFX, but mostly for photography, they work really well, but don't have the same capability of producing the type of resolution that the GFX does with native lenses since they're made for Full frame sensors.
I think having a proper LOG profile is everything, and apple have done some amazing things with the new 15, but I don't think the prores itself is what gives the footage the thickness in color. It's the data and bit rate that does that. Prores just makes it more of an industry standard for ppl to work with in post.
Are you saying that studying color correction more easily to create more cinematic colors and textures is better than buying the 100II, which is four times more expensive and heavier, making it difficult to use a gimbal? (I always use a gimbal.) This reminds me of the old days of wondering if it is right to buy a bundled lens since the L lens is 4 times more expensive. Haha thank you for the reply. I’m in love with your amazing photos and videos!@@ChristianSantiagophoto
@@CMVFactory I really appreciate the kind words. I didn’t have trouble balancing this on a gimbal. But if you’re only concerned is video, I don’t think it’s worth paying the price for this camera since what makes it really special is the photos it can take. I think that while the video quality is excellent, it’s on par with other cameras like black magic or xh2s or an FX3 which I feel provide much better value if the focus is solely on video
Very nicely packaged and paced video. 🤌💪🙏
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!
We have the same problems now. I just got a big brand deal, and now i can get all the cameras I ever dreamed about, and I have the rational side of my brain being overpowered by so many options. I want a cinema camera and two hybrid bodies, I'm learning C400 and two R3s for internal raw recording, but a Nikon Z8 and Z9 duo also looks good, paired with a Ronin 4D for faster paced action. I want to be a film maker primarily, photo second, it's difficult trying not to overspend.
What I've decided to do is have a GFX100 s ii camera which I will be purchasing soon and I'll be selling off all of my other camera gear except for my Fiji form XT5 which will be my fun holiday camera quick jobs whatever I need to do but just having the two cameras is much better than having four or five cameras and way too much gear. It gets too much sometimes and that means I'll have the cash back as well. I love the Fiji colours so having the XT5 match with the GFX camera I can get similar images in terms of look in colours so if I needed to use both cameras on a shoot I can do that
Hey Christian, have the issues with the Godox Flash been resolved yet? also, is HSS available ?
I 100% took some notes with this video. I love the vibe and and feel you bring to the video. You get a sub from me! I see you with that amazing sunset shot at the PIKE!
So did you end up investing into this? What lenses? Curious if you tried the x2d or if you've ever played with the Phase One systems? I own Phase One but am craving something lighter to hold, however lack of sync beyond 1/125th greatly hinders commercial work
have you performed any tethering tests?
Christian, an impressive review!!! your voiceover is so good, especially since you are being so authentic. Yes, it has helped me answer my questions, so I won't be DMing you :) If only my post skills are as good as yours.
@@mrveeral don’t ever apologize for your DMs, sir. I look forward to the exchanges! And thank you 😊 I am glad it’s helpful.
@@ChristianSantiagophoto Another question, if you love shooting on 24-70mm lens in 35mm world, what do you equivalent recommendation do you have for GFX?
@@ChristianSantiagophoto Also what is the wireless tethering like?
@@mrveeral options are quite limited. Fuji have a 45-100 and a 32-64 F/4 And a 35-70 F/4.5-5.6 . none will give you that true 24-70 experience. There will unfortunately be a sacrifice of versatility going medium format. And it’s an omission that hits hard when I find myself shooting on the r5 with my RF zooms. But it makes up for it with world class image quality.
As for wireless tethering. It’s not as fast as with my canons. But my cam ranger does a solid job.
@@ChristianSantiagophoto thank you
You made a nice detailed video
The big problem is that if you put the GFX100ll in continua mode your bit depth drops from 16bit to 14and 12 bit. Fujifilm never disclosed this issue
Great video! The intro was funny to me because everything you said is me except I have a wife so that's why I don't have a GFX 100ii 😭Also interesting about the R5C comparison, I had one for a while. Terrible camera with lots of issues and bad AF.
And some descent photos too
Christian, do you know if the GFX 100 ii works with the dji lidar or raven eye?
Holy shit dude. Immediately subscribed.
Can you use a preview LUT in camera?
Such a good video!
Could you provide some download links to some flog 2 shots?
So can I see the 100s files?
Can you compare 12bit raw against the Komodo?
With the use of an external recorder if possible braw
Nice review!
Question, just to verify. You said when you use a Godox trigger the viewfinder goes black. But are you saying the back LCD goes black too?
just the viewfinder. but it has been fixed via firmware
Good stuff, have you tried it for hotel stuff and camranger 2?
I have yet to do a hotel shoot with this camera but I shot several hotels with the 100s. The results were stellar. Have yet to test it with the cam ranger
Great video! Love all the thought put into your shots. Also love all the details about the camera, but for sure out of most of our price points. Now I see why you were selling some of your canon gear. 😂
Thank you!, as much as I would like to keep all of it, I do have to behave like a responsible adult at times
Holy shit, the good flash trigger issue is incredibly huge. I use godox flash and viewfinder for literally 90 percent of my images. Super bummed about this.
The issue has since been fixed since i posted the video. Or so i've heard. I've been traveling and haven't had a chance to test it!
@@ChristianSantiagophoto That's fantastic to hear. For someone who shoots Architecture, and also some real estate, would you recommend this for my big upgrade from my Canon 5D mkIV? My only experience with Fuji is my X100V, which I just truly love. I think possibly Canon R series would be a good upgrade, but I am leaning towards the GFX series (particularly for my focus in architecture).
I think architecture is one of the genres of photograhy wehre this system really really shines. It's perfect for it. It would definitley be a huge upgrade over your current canon. But is it a necessary one? I'd find it hard to justify given how good canon's current Full frame models are. If you can justify the financial commitment to the fuji system without compromising yourself, then yea I think you'd be happy. It's a wondeful platform. But I would stop short of saying anyone "needs" to upgrade to it. @@Ancaja123
My Godox V1 works perfectly on the GFX 100 II
Can you update some original footage？
mindblowing IQ.. great video. 👏🏼
what do you think about using an external recorder like the blackmagic or ninja? Would be even better..
what do you think about battery life?
Battery life is something i forogt to touch on. I ended up cutting it for time, but it's very very good. I did one take that was like 30 minutes long and when i looked the battery was still more than half full. It's soooo much better than the R5C
I personally hate using external recorders. not a fan of it all. It's jsut always one more thing that can go wrong. ONe more thing that needs to be rigged and powered etc. Prores RAW is not compatible with resolve either, which sucks, otherwise it might be more appealing, but atm i really don't feel like grading in final cut or premier or doing any time of XML worflow. And honestly the testing I've done with the prores files from the fuji have me convinced that it's not really necessary. I don't think you'll see that much of an improvement shooting in BRAW or ProresRAW than when the camera can already do internally given how well it holds up to even RED Raw
@@ChristianSantiagophoto Thank you so moch for that detailed answer!
That’s good news. So 5 Batteries on a regular production day should be fine I guess.
Don’t you think BRAW would make a difference because of 12bin? Also changing Iso and white balance nativity in post is pretty convenient. I use the BMPCC6K it’s probably very similar if you say it comes close to the red. Or does the GFX look more digital in terms of sharpness and details? Blackmagic and Reds look pretty "cinematic".
Theoretically yes 12bit raw should make a difference. But in my testing it really doesn't. Refer to the clip i have of the video where i really screwed up the white balance and was able to easily bring it back. And that was an extreme error. I normally wouldn't need to change my white balance in post to that degree. And if you nail your white balance on set, it won't really matter anyway. So yea the ability to change ISO and WB would be nice, but for me it isn't worth the inconvenience of an external recorder. Also, judging from other articles and videos I've seen, the BRAW from the external recorders isn't quite as good as the native in camera results from BM cameras.
The GFX definitely looks more digital straight out of camera. I've always found blackmagic to have a much better cinematic look. The GFX is very detailed, so you'll have to work a little harder: e.g. pick the right lenses, experiment with diffusion on set and in post. But you can definitely get there. @@DavWoe
@@ChristianSantiagophoto Thanks for the interesting insight! I mean using the native GF lenses has the benefit of autofocus. I think using a Mattebox with a BlackProMist filter could make it look more smooth an cinematic but still having the benefit ot the gf lenses.
@@DavWoe yea diffusion filters can definitely smooth out some of that detail, but I don't always want the other effects they create, most notably around light sources. Which is why i woud probably prefer using specific lenses when needing that "look." I've been using a plugin in resolve called "scatter" that does an incredible job of recreating the look of specific diffusion filters, and i prefer that workflow becuase I am not locked into it if i decide i don't like it later on.
If I want to insist on the functinoality of the GF lenses, another option is Tiffen Black diffusion filters, they give a beautiful blend of softness to skin tones, but without all of the blooming of highlights that other filters seem to create.
Awesome man thank you. But, STILLS?! So many great video clips and examples but I have yet to see a video of someone pixel peeping (not so important) and pushing and pulling these files yet in real world conditions. WOuld love a video about the stills files and low light capabilities. Great video though man, so much more than the typical review videos. Also, by the looks of it we live in basically the same neighborhood.
I appreciate the kind words. However, there is a section where I talked about the stills including a timelapse of me blending exposures, as well as, a series of images at the beginning of the video and throughout of photos taken in "real world" scenarios both controlled and uncontrolled as they were taken everywhere from Monument Valley to Barcelona and Iceland. A handful of those shoots were for international campaigns for Fortune 500 brands. Trust me I put the 100s through the gauntlet testing its prowess for stills.
The photos I took at the house were shot the same way I would shoot for a paying client. And I did mention that images are clean af up until 1600 iso. Even at up to 2500 the grain is barely noticeable. I regularly shoot at 640 comfortably. Pixel peeping isn't really my thing, and really these days I don't lose much sleep over noise or image quality because every camera is great by default. It's just not what really excites me about photography.
The truth is that there really isn't anything new to report for photos beyond the improved buffer, AF, and the improved FPS. Image quality is as good as it was on its predecessor, and it's the best photo quality money can buy atm ( since most of us aren't springing for phase one systems). When it comes down to it, the stills IQ of this system will blow you away, and your decision to buy into it should depend on other variables as they relate to your preferred shooting experience and workflow.
All of the things that distinguish this camera are improved performance and new video features in relation to the sensor size since we've never had an MF system with the performance of a full-frame system and the features of a cinema camera.
@@ChristianSantiagophoto oh awesome I'll rewatch that, I was multitasking (eating lunch) while I watched. I've used the 100S extensively so was really just curious about the claimed "30% increase in light gathering, low light performance" of the 100II and what the improvement over the S was since I shoot a lot in low light and my personal setup just falls apart when you push anything underexposed too much. Again, thanks for the great video.
how fast was tethering with capture one? did you try wireless? 🙏🏼
Tethering is about the same...these are massive files. But the consistency is better. It doesn't disconnect as frequently, which is all i really wanted. I Have not tried wireless tethering other than with a Cam Ranger, which i have yet to test. Does C1 do wireless tethering with Fuji? I need to educate myself on the latest tethering options lol
How you feel about it vs the Komodo ? What would you rather have for video?
21:37 - Do you mean "...this is like Victor Wembanyama"?
Hah, after what he did to my Miami Heat in preseason i don't even wanna think about him lol just glad he's not in our conference lol
What is the L bracket you are using for the new Fuji?
It's the Ellie by three legged thing
Can you use the screen to compose the shot if you are using a godox trigger or does that black out as well? I often use the screen while shooting on the 50s II when using my godox strobes.
You can still use the LCD, it's jsut not always ideal and there are many instances where I and i am sure others would rather use the viewfinder
Yes, of course the EVF would be ideal. I was just making sure that until a firmware is released that there is another option. Appreciate you responding.@@ChristianSantiagophoto
if you using flash on mirrorless cameras, it`s need just deactivate "exposition imitation" in menu. It`s simple...
Everything right but...but how You placed gfx and its lense on the drone??😂
That’s what I wanted to hear, that you want to use a camera this expensive. This would be my first MF.
Appy to provide that reassurance. And yea, if you're not using that money can be invested handsomly elsewhere, so if you have a camera with this price tag, it better be something you like to use or something that will make you money.
@@ChristianSantiagophoto Should get mine tomorrow
You might need a Sory for video and Fuji for still photos
You didn’t say what type of photographer this camera would be great for. Sounds like this camera is good for photographers that shoot still objects, landscape, food,
You seem disappointed.
I think it can handle weddings pretty well
10:15 IT is bait, right? just turn off exposition simulation in menu ... how camera can simulate flash without releasing it?
Is your story about Video or Photography?
This camera probably is just one iteration away from bringing medium format to the prosumer class
No wife no kids, got it. Not for me :P
Still watching this video though!
Loved the review and I am kinda sold. Now I need to find that extra cash.
Sell your full frame kit (Lightsabers and your kidneys) and get the PREMISTA 28-100 T2.9 :P
You have a radio voice.
I fucking hate the goddox issue, it's driving me insane. I'm thinking of upgrading to profoto just because of that.
i hear you. But i am not ready to go that far. I've spent enough money on this system hahahah and am already so invested in godox products. Praying they figure it out soon
@@ChristianSantiagophoto what Godox products are not working with the Fuji??
@@hankdinardo4308 I have the AD 300,400, 600 all pro versions with the Xpro trigger. I didn’t realize there was an updated version of it. I’ll buy it and try it
@@ChristianSantiagophoto I have the 700 with the Xpro trigger but can’t test it because I’m in Florida and the Strobes are in Virginia but the V1 flash works
I meant the 600
I recommend kids. Even if it means less gear. You have a world class skill set, (which is obvious by this video) which you can pass onto the next generation. But with your skill set you may not need to sacrifice less gear, even with kids.
Hey C. In case you missed it, Petapixel published an article revealing that the GFX100-II goes into 12bit mode when shooting in high frame rate mode. I still think the camera is amazing, but I figure people would want to know this before hiring it for a commercial shoot. To me, the 16bit color has been the most amazing part of my GFX100s, so I’d stick w single shot mode. Ps. Your review is still the best 🤌
I saw that article, but the noise it created doesn't reflect my experience. I am not too worried about it. I had been shooting in the burst mode without that knowledge this whole time and did not feel limited in any way by the flexibility of the files in post. I think this is an example of real-world photographers creating actual work as being a better indicator of performance than nerds with test charts. For my own personal workflow, I mostly shoot in the single shot mode anyway and only switch to the burst mode when I need to capture a moving element to composite into a scene like a cyclist passing by.
@@ChristianSantiagophoto great to hear that it doesn’t show in real use! Especially about the flexibility of the files still being there.