Within a new edition of the X Summit from Fujifilm, the Japanese house has presented product innovations, in this case no less than two new cameras and three lenses from its X and GFX families. The cameras are the Fujifilm X-T30 II and GFX50S II, in both cases a renewal of an existing model adding some improvements that, apparently, do not justify a name change; for their part, the new objectives Fujinon XF23mm F1.4 R LM WR, XF33mm F1.4 R LM WR and GF35-70mmF4.5-5.6 WR, They are a new version of an existing lens and two novelties that join the Fujifilm lens portfolio.
The new cameras come with a certain surprise (despite the fact that their names, data and even photographs had already been leaked) because, if we are not mistaken, it is the first time that the brand uses this formula to name its cameras (they could have been called X-T30S and GFX50X or similar). In any case, what seems clear is that these are minor renovations to keep the cameras up to date in terms of technology. Let’s see its news:
Fujifilm X-T30 II
An update of the Fujifilm X-T30, the new model arrives with three main novelties: an improvement in its LCD screen (which goes from 1.04 to 1.62 million points), a faster and more precise AF system (which, using phase detection , you can focus in near-dark conditions at -7.0EV) and a higher 4K 30P and HD 240P video recording capacity (now reaching 30 minutes of continuous recording).
Externally, as you can see, there is nothing new in the Fujifilm X-T30 II that it is identical to the original (we don’t even see the silkscreen that announces that the model “II”); therefore a small and light body is maintained that has even slightly thinned (four grams) and inside which houses the same sensor X-Processor 4 which is the most advanced of the house.
But in addition to the improvements mentioned there are other minor novelties: two more film simulation modes (added Classic Neg and Eterna Bleach Bypass to make a total of 18 modes available), greater compatibility with SD cards (now up to 2 TB), improvements to the double exposure mode, a new automatic HDR mode, and a slight increase in shooting speed and autonomy.
Fujifilm GFX50S II
The camera that marked the new era of the house by launching into the medium format (“large format” they call it) is also renewed to update itself with the new times. And if the previous model was identical to the one being renewed, in this case the biggest change is in the appearance, since the Fujifilm GFX50S II it’s basically a move to the body of a GFX100S.
This implies that it will now be a much more compact and lighter camera (about 900 grams the body), without losing its best capabilities, including its 51.4 MP large-format sensor, and powered by some features like a built-in image stabilizer that can compensate for up to 6.5 light steps. All this is supported by a more powerful processor, the X-Processor 4as well as the inclusion of the latest in-house AF algorithm for better performance.
Fujinon XF23mm F1.4 R LM WR and XF33mm F1.4 R LM WR
As for the new lenses for the house’s APS-C mirrorless cameras, they are two very similar fixed lenses, both with high luminosity and a sealed body that belong to the same line (in which there is also the XF18mm F1. 4 R LM WR). Of course, while the Fujinon XF33mm F1.4 R LM WR yes it is a novelty in the strict sense, the XF23mm F1.4 R LM WR comes to improve the XF23mmF1.4 R with “a complete optical performance review“.
In any case, these are two new fixed grand opening objectives. “new generation […] Engineered with superior image resolution, mobility and ruggedness to drive the evolution of the X Series over the next decade and beyond, setting a new benchmark for X-mount lenses“Thus, according to the house, they will offer.”exceptional image sharpness, even when wide open at F1.4, with AF performance that delivers fast, high-precision focusing on both stills and movies to suit any shooting situation“.
Regarding the optical construction, both are made with 15 elements in 10 groups. And while the XF23mm F1.4 weighs roughly 375 grams and measure 77.8 mm long, the XF33mm F1.4 weighs approximately 360 grams and a length of 73.5 mm. The filter thread of both is 58 mm and they both have a sturdy construction to dust and humidity that withstands temperatures as low as -10º.
Fujinon GF35-70mmF4.5-5.6 WR
As for the new optics for large format systems, it is a standard lens with a focal length range that spans the most common distances (28 to 55mm) in 35mm photography. The Fujinon GF35-70mmF4.5-5.6 WR promises “exceptional image resolution performance“and is presented as” compact and light “, weighing approximately 390 grams, a filter diameter of 62 mm and a body resistant to dust and humidity and temperatures down to ten degrees below zero.
Its retractable barrel structure reduces the length from about 96 to 73.9mm when fully folded for added portability, “making it a perfect lens to wear when traveling“Its stepping motor promises an operation.”quiet, fast and highly accurate“. And the 35cm minimum focusing distance throughout the zoom range allows for good close-ups of subjects. All of this, always according to Fujifilm, makes it possible.”adapt to a variety of situations at an ideal angle of view, from still-life photography to snapshots, portraits and landscapes“.
Pricing and availability
The Fujifilm GFX50S II should be the first to hit stores, at the end of this month of September, and with a price of 3,999 euros just the body and 4,499 euros with the Fujinon GF35-70mmF4.5-5.6 WR lens.
For its part, Fujifilm X-T30 II will arrive throughout the month of October with a price of 899 euros for the body (slightly lower than its predecessor), 999 euros in the kit with the Fujinon XC15-45mm F3.5-5.6 OIS PZ and 1,299 euros with the XF18-55mm F2.8-4 R LM OIS.
Regarding the new objectives, the Fujinon XF33mm F1.4 R LM WR will arrive at the end of September with a recommended retail price of 799 euros, while the XF23mm F1.4 R LM WR and the GF35-70mmF4.5-5.6 WR will come out during the month of November with a price of 949 and 999 euros, respectively.
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