Fujifilm recently introduced the GFX100RF medium format camera, a compact fixed-lens camera that revives a beloved but seldom-explored niche in photography. If you've been waiting for a reasonably sized medium format tool that combines top-tier image quality with genuine portability, this camera might get your attention immediately.
Coming to you from Take Kayo of bigheadtaco, this informative video explores the Fujifilm GFX100RF in depth, contextualizing its significance by referencing Fuji's rich legacy in medium format film cameras. By showing off vintage models such as the GA645Zi, Kayo emphasizes Fujifilm's long-standing tradition of producing medium format cameras that offer convenience without sacrificing image quality. What's especially unique about the new GFX100RF is how thoughtfully Fujifilm has translated their film camera heritage into a modern digital camera with a similar ethos. Kayo explains that unlike most bulky digital medium format cameras we've seen lately, the GFX100RF honors the original 1990s ideal of a compact, fixed-lens model—something truly portable yet uncompromising on quality. This camera not only pays homage to Fujifilm's past but also clearly distinguishes itself from competition like the Leica Q3 without directly confronting it.
The GFX100RF packs the same impressive 102-megapixel medium format CMOS sensor found in Fujifilm's other high-end models. It offers digital stabilization for video shooting, a 35mm f/4 lens (equivalent to a 28mm lens on full-frame), ISO range of 80 to 12,800 (extendable from 40 to 102,400), dual UHS-II SD card slots, and internal recording modes with both H.264 and H.265 encoding—all in a completely weather-resistant body weighing just 735 grams, battery included. Its electronic shutter can go as fast as 1/16,000 second, while flash-sync speeds reach up to 1/4000 second—useful for street and outdoor photography.
One insightful part of the video shows Kayo balancing the trade-off between price, lens design, and features. Considering a $5,000 price tag (versus Leica's higher $6,300 for the Q3), it became apparent Fujifilm carefully positioned the GFX100RF to create a new category rather than directly battle premium fixed-lens options. Kayo argues convincingly that Fuji's choice to forgo internal image stabilization and ultra-bright lenses was intentional: it prioritized size and price balance without sacrificing medium format quality. The resulting camera sits comfortably beneath premium Leica territory, offering a different experience focused more on exceptional image quality, ergonomics, and manual control.
In real-world shooting, Kayo appreciates practical touches like flash compatibility and ergonomic layout. He finds features such as the physical aspect ratio control dial and thoughtful button placement intuitive, making street photography efficient. Kayo also highlights the advantage of Fujifilm's built-in film simulations and extensive digital cropping options. With 102 megapixels, cropping in-camera to different focal lengths—like 35mm or even further cropped formats—offers flexibility without big resolution sacrifices. He spends considerable time demonstrating how Fujifilm designed this camera specifically with street and everyday applications in mind, attesting to its effectiveness in various practical situations.
Throughout the video, Kayo includes historical context and his perspective about who might best enjoy this camera. If you're intrigued by Fujifilm's legendary medium format cameras and value compactness alongside outstanding image quality, this might be your ideal companion on the street, for portraiture, or creative storytelling. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Kayo.
