FUJIFILM’S HIGH-END SHOOTERS feature a bit of tech that makes them unique: The X-Trans sensor that separates green, red, and blue light differently than the chip in nearly every other camera. It gives photos a distinct filmlike, moiré-free look that some photographers love and others hate.

The X-Trans magic gets cheaper this year with two cameras built around the 24-megapixel X-Trans III sensor in last year’s flagship X-Pro2. The interchangeable-lens X-T20 and fixed-lens X100F feature a high-resolution APS-C sensor, shoot RAW in Fujifilm’s own .RAF format, and retain the throwback looks of their predecessors.

The mirrorless X-T20 replaces the X-T10 and offers a higher ISO ceiling (12,800), 4K video recording at 30fps and 24fps, a more powerful autofocus system, and a touchscreen interface. You can tap the adjustable 3-inch LCD to focus and shoot. But don’t worry—the X-T20 offers the same knobs and buttons as the X-T10, and an eye-level 2.3 million dot OLED viewfinder.

Fujifilm’s revamped autofocus system should be plenty responsive to your taps. The hybrid phase- and contrast-detection autofocus system offers greater coverage and more focus points to keep moving subjects sharp. You also get five continuous shooting modes that max out at 14 frames per second.

The X100F is the latest sibling in Fujifilm’s much-loved X100 line of compact, fixed-focal-length cameras. This new “F” model has a 35mm f/2.0 lens and an “advanced hybrid viewfinder” similar to what you see on the X-Pro2. It’s an optical rangefinder-style peephole with up to 6x magnification and digital overlays for extra information about your shot—things like focus peaking and exposure settings. It offers the same hybrid hybrid phase- and contrast-detection autofocus system as the X-T20.

Around the back, the X100F gets a significant redesign over the previous version (the X100T) it replaces. Fujifilm moved most of the buttons to the right of the 3-inch LCD display to make it easier to access all of your settings with right thumb.

While both cameras are cheaper than the X-Pro2, they’ll still set you back. The Fujifilm X100F goes on sale next month for $1,300, while the X-T20 is $900 for the body or $1,200 for a kit that includes an 18-55mm, f/2.8-f/4 zoom lens. Of course, both of these cameras are replacing models that are still excellent. The previous X-T10 and the X100T are still capable shooters, and because they’re a year or two old, they’ll see a price drop now that the new models are out.

FUJIFILM LAUNCHES NEW “MK” SERIES OF CINEMA LENSES

Compact and Lightweight MK18-55mm and MK50-135mm Deliver Advanced Optical Performance with an Excellent Cost/Performance Ratio

Wayne, N.J., February 22, 2017 – The Optical Devices Division of FUJIFILM has unveiled the MK Series of cinema lenses for E-mount cameras, which boast advanced optical performance, ultra-compact and lightweight design, as well as superb cost performance. The first in this series to be introduced, the FUJINON MK18-55mm T2.9, is a standard zoom with an 18-55mm focal length. It will be available in early March at a list price of $3,799. The entire “MK” series is designed with the ‘emerging’ cinematographer in mind, whether shooting a live event, online programming, documentary, corporate video, wedding, independent or short film production.

The next in the series, the FUJINON MK50-135mm T2.9*1, will be available this summer. With a combined focal length range of 18mm-135mm in the Super 35mm format, together the first two “MK” lenses cover the most frequently used range utilized by emerging cinematographers. The series offers fast lenses with T2.9 speed across the entire zoom range, enabling a shallow depth-of-field.

“The rapid growth in popularity of content produced by emerging cinematographers has expanded the use of cinema and digital photographic cameras,” said Tom Fletcher, Director of Sales, Optical Devices Division of FUJIFILM. “And the heightened need for programming has, in turn, boosted demand for high-performance cinema lenses, which are ideal to achieve a shallow depth-of-field and a beautiful bokeh. However, since they are typically large, heavy and expensive, those involved in online and other lower cost productions often opt for interchangeable lenses for digital cameras, which have been more affordable and mobile. The problem is that interchangeable lenses for digital cameras are designed primarily for shooting stills, and therefore prone to focus shift and optical axis shift while zooming.”

The “MK” lenses are designed to maintain consistent color temperature with all FUJINON cinema lenses, which simplifies color grading*2. The series also inherits the FUJINON cine lenses’ advanced edge-to-edge optical performance and low distortion*3, while boasting compact and lightweight design as well as outstanding cost/performance. The MK18-55 and MK50-135mm weigh in at a light 980 grams/2.16 lbs with front diameters of 85mm and lengths of 206mm. The MK18-55mm’s minimum object distance (MOD) is .85 meters/2.78 feet, while the MK 50-135mm’s MOD is 1.2m/3.93 feet.

“Many independent shooters use DSLR lenses, which aren’t designed for moving images. Still lenses breathe considerably, and they have no adjustable manual iris,” said Fletcher. “Our MK’s have a seamless manual iris, zero breathing, no ramping or zoom shift, and 200-degree focus rotation. They maintain focus completely throughout the zoom range while covering Super 35mm sensors.”

In addition to their lightweight and compact build, the “MK” lenses are designed from the ground up with the operator in mind. Only one matte box and one filter size are needed between the lenses. Time-saving features include a macro function that allows for a broader range of close-up shooting, and gears for the three rings are positioned in the exact same place, which eliminates the need to re-position accessories when switching lenses.

The lenses each contain a Flange Focal Distance adjustment function*4 to achieve optimal camera and lens matching. The short flange focal distance contributes to the lenses’ compact size and lightweight. Distances are listed in feet and meters.

The iris supports seamless adjustment that is free of clicking. This enables precise exposure adjustment without any sound from clicking between T-stops.

The lenses also feature three rings for manual and independent adjustment of focus, zoom, and iris (aperture), with the gear pitch*5 of 0.8M (module). The focus ring can rotate fully up to 200 degrees to facilitate precise focusing.

The “MK” lenses are compatible with E-mount*6 cameras with the Super 35mm*/ APS-C sensor.

X Mount versions of the MK lenses (with focal lengths of 18-55mm and 50-135mm) used in the FUJIFILM X Series line of digital cameras (with APS-C sensors) are being developed for launch by the end of this year. Information about the X Mount lenses will be provided as soon as more details are confirmed.

See our latest lens roadmap for the X Series on February 22 for more information:

X Mount Lens Roadmap Fujifilm Global

View footage shot by DP Philip Bloom in Gran Canaria using an MK18-55mm T2.9 lens and Sony FS7, FS5 and A7S II cameras:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Cx66LKDPTc

Watch behind the scenes: FUJINON MK18-55mm T2.9 shot by Bloom:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YX_55s4s6Ro

Key:

*1 T-stop value is an index that indicates brightness of a lens based on its F-stop value and transmission rate. The smaller the value, the greater amount of light the lens transmits.
*2* Processes of correcting colors during movie editing
*3 Distortion refers to a phenomenon in which an image formed through a lens becomes partially contracted or extended at the edges.
*4 The position of lenses’ image-forming plane can be adjusted according to each camera’s flange focal distance (distance from lens mounting reference plane to sensor)
*5 Distance between gear teeth
*6 Lens mount format developed by SONY Corporation

X-T2 version 2.00 & X-Pro2 version 3.00 – due late March 2017

• 1. Shooting RAW in Bracketing and Advanced Filters
  The update enables you to use the RAW format when shooting not only in AE Bracketing but also in other Bracketing modes (ISO, Dynamic Range, White Balance, Film Simulaitons) and also in Advanced Filter modes.

• 2. Extended ISO 125 and 160 selectable
  The update adds ISO125 and ISO160 to extended ISO levels available.

• 3. Programmable long exposure of up to 15 minutes
  Long exposure in the T mode currently goes only up to 30 seconds. The update will allow users to extend it up to 15 minutes.

• 4. ON/OFF for 1/3-step shutter speed adjustment (X-T2 only – already in X-Pro2)
  The update allows you to turn off the Command Dial’s function to adjust shutter speed by 1/3 steps in order to prevent unintended adjustments.

• 5. Full-range ISO adjustments with the Command Dial (X-T2 only)
  With the update, set the ISO “A” position to “Command” to adjust ISO sensitivity across the full range, including extended ISOs, with the Front Command Dial.

• 6. “AUTO” setting added for the minimum shutter speed in the ISO Auto setting
  The update adds an AUTO option for the minimum shutter speed in the ISO Auto setting, that allows the camera to automatically define the minimum shutter speed according to the focal length of the lens attached.

• 7. Faster “Face Detection AF”
  The update enables the use of Phase Detection AF for faster performance in Face Detection AF.

• 8. Improved in-focus indication in the AF-C mode
  The update reduces focus hunting in the AF-C mode, making it easier to track a subject.

• 9. Addition of a smaller Focus Point size in Single Point AF
  The update adds a smaller Focus Point size in Single Point AF, bringing the total number of available sizes to six. The new smallest size facilitates pin-point focusing.

• 10. Addition of “AF Point Display” (X-Pro2 only – already on X-T2)
  With the update, you can choose to have AF Points constantly displayed in Zone AF and Wide / Tracking AF, making it easier to track a subject.

• 11. Addition of “AF-C Custom Setting” (X-Pro2 only – already on X-T2)
  The update adds “AF-C Custom Setting” for specifying focus-tracking characteristics. Choose from five presets according to your subject’s type of movements.

• 12. Addition of “Portrait / Landscape AF Mode Switching” (X-T2 only)
  The update allows you to specify separate AF mode and AF point settings for portrait orientation and landscape orientation.

• 13. Change of focus frame position while enlarging it
  The update allows you to move the position of focus frame while enlarging it in Single Point in the AF-S mode or in the Manual Focus

• 14. Activation of the Eye Sensor in video recording (X-T2 only)
  The update allows you to use the Eye Sensor during video recording to automatically switch between EVF and LCD.

• 15. Change of ISO sensitivity during video recording (X-T2 only)
  The update allows you to change ISO setting during video recording.

• 16. Re-autofocusing in video recording
  With the update, half-press the Shutter Release button or press the button assigned to “AF-ON” function during video recording to re-do autofocusing.

• 17. Display live histogram during video recording (X-T2 only)
  The update allows you to display a live histogram during video recording.

• 18. Optimization of external microphone’s input level (X-T2 only)
  The update optimizes external microphone’s input level (lower limit revised from -12dB to 20dB) to reduce white noise when an external microphone with preamp is connected.

• 19. Addition of “Eye Sensor + LCD Image Display” in the View Mode
  The update gives the “Eye Sensor + LCD Image Display” option in the View Mode that allows you to shoot through the viewfinder and check images on the LCD, just as you would with an SLR.

• 20. Shorter EVF display time-lag (X-Pro2 only – already in X-T2)
  The update shortens EVF’s display time-lag in the AF-C mode so that you will not miss a photo opportunity.

• 21. Constant “Dual” mode display (X-T2 only)
  With the update, the small window in the Dual mode stays on even when you half-press the shutter release button.

• 22. Automatic vertical GUI for LCD (X-T2 only)
  With the update, when you hold the camera in the portrait orientation, the camera will automatically display the GUI on the LCD in the same orientation.

• 23. Name Custom Settings
  The update allows you to assign a specific name to Custom Settings 1 – 7.

• 24. Copyright information in EXIF data
  The update allows you to register the photographer’s name and the copyright holder’s name in advance so that the camera automatically adds the information to EXIF data for each image.

• 25. Voice Memo function
  The update enable you to record 30-second “Voice Memo” clips in the Playback mode.

• 26. Extended AE Bracketing
  The update extends AE Bracketing from the current 3 frames +/-2EV to up to 9 frames +/-3EV.

• 27. Addition of “Shoot Without Card” mode
  With the update, you can have the “Shoot Without Card” mode turned OFF so that the camera can not shoot when there is no SD card inserted.

X-T2 version 2.10 & X-Pro2 version 3.10 – late May 2017

• 28. Support for computer tethering via Wi-Fi (X-T2 only)
  The update adds support for computer tethering via Wi-Fi.

• 29. Addition of “All” AF mode (X-T2 only)
  With the update, select “All” in the AF mode so that you can select the AF mode and Focus Area size by only using the Command Dial.

• 30. Function extension for “Shutter AF” and “Shutter AE” (X-T2 only)
  With the update, you can specify different settings for AF-S and AF-C in “Shutter AF” and for AF-S / MF and AF-C in “Shutter AE.”

• 31. Addition of “-6” and “-7” to EVF’s brightness setting
  Additional options of “-6” and “-7” to the “EVF Brightness” setting so that, even in an extremely low-light condition, the brightness of the EVF does not distract you from shooting.

• 32. Switchover of the main and sub displays in the Dual Display mode (X-T2 only)
  The update allows you to switch between the main and sub displays in the Dual Display mode.

• 33. Function assignment to the Rear Command Dial
  With the update, you can assign a specific function to be activated when the Rear Command Dial is pressed.

GFX MEDIUM FORMAT MIRRORLESS CAMERA SYSTEM ADDS TWO NEW GF LENSES FOR PORTRAITS TO PICTURESQUE SCENES

FUJINON GF110mmF2 R LM WR and GF23mmF4 R LM WR Lenses expand the GFX user experience; updated GF lens roadmap announced and new GFX firmware coming soon

Valhalla, N.Y., April 19, 2017 – As the leader in innovation for photographers, FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announces two new GF lenses for the FUJIFILM GFX 50S medium format mirrorless digital camera system, the GF110mmF2 R LM WR (equivalent to 87mm in 35mm format) and the GF23mmF4 R LM WR (equivalent to 18mm in 35mm format). A new GF lens roadmap is released today, along with plans for a new FUJIFILM GFX 50S firmware update this spring.

FUJINON Lenses Guarantee Image Perfection

As part of the GFX system, Fujifilm is launching newly developed, ultra-high resolution FUJINON GF lenses. Taking advantage of the mirrorless system’s structure, the G Mount has a short flange back distance of just 26.7mm that reduces the back focus distance as much as possible. This prevents vignetting and achieves edge-to-edge sharpness. All FUJINON GF lenses have been designed to support sensors of over 100MP.

New Lenses Deliver Image Excellence

The FUJINON GF110mmF2 R LM WR is a medium telephoto lens perfect for portraits. With a focal length equivalent to 87mm in the 35mm format, it achieves a brightness of F2.0 when used wide open to deliver stunning bokeh.

The FUJINON GF23mmF4 R LM WR has a focal length equivalent to 18mm in the 35mm format and is expertly suited for landscape and architectural photography. Despite the super-wide angle of view, distortion is kept to a minimum, and with the high-resolution performance extending all the way to the edges, sharp depiction as if looking at an actual landscape is achieved.

Both new lenses feature fast and quiet autofocus (AF) by using a linear motor, are dust and weather resistant, and are capable of operating in environments as cold as 14°F / -10°C. The lenses combine high performance and reliability for professionals looking for the ultimate in photography tools.

Current Lens Lineup

1. GF63mmF2.8 R WR (equivalent to 50mm in 35mm format)
2. GF32-64mmF4 R LM WR (equivalent to 25-51mm in 35mm format)
3. GF120mmF4 Macro R LM OIS WR (equivalent to 95mm in 35mm format)

Coming Later in 2017

1. GF45mmF2.8 R WR (equivalent to 35mm in 35mm format)

FUJINON GF110mmF2 R LM WR Key Features

• FUJIFILM G Mount is compatible with the FUJIFILM GFX 50S
• Weather-resistant design capable of operating at temperatures as low as 14°F / -10°C
• 14 elements in 9 groups, including 4 ED lens elements
• Super ED lens and three ED lenses for suppressed chromatic aberration and high resolution performance all the way to the edges
• 9 blade aperture creates smooth and circular bokeh

FUJINON GF23mmF4 R LM WR Key Features

• FUJIFILM G Mount is compatible with the FUJIFILM GFX 50S
• Weather-resistant design capable of operating at temperatures as low as 14°F / -10°C
• 12 groups and 15 elements construction using two aspherical lenses, one super ED lens, and three ED lenses
• 9 blade aperture creates smooth and circular bokeh
• Nano GI coating suppresses ghosting and flare

The GFX 50S and FUJINON GF lenses culminate to create a new camera system capable of creating the world's highest level of photographic expressions by combining the thorough incorporation of knowledge regarding camera operation, optical design, image capture, and image processing.

New FUJINON GF Lens Development Roadmap

Fujifilm has publicly announced six lenses for the G Mount lens lineup this year. After the release of the GFX 50S and three G Mount lenses, Fujifilm is now unveiling a new roadmap with the additions of a telephoto prime lens and tele converter, in order to expand products covering telephoto ranges, an area with many requests from users.

With the addition of the two new lenses, the G Mount system lineup has been expanded to a total of eight lenses, achieving a fulfilling lineup to correspond to a wide range of user needs.

Also coming in June 2017 is a new View Camera Adapter G that can be used when shooting with the GFX 50S when using previous FUJINON large format camera lenses, such as the CM FUJINON. The adapter is mounted in the film camera loading position of the view camera which adopts the film format of the 4x5 size.

New Firmware Update Planned

Fujifilm will release a free firmware update for the FUJIFILM GFX 50S later this spring, adding new functionality and improving operability. New functions include computer tethering via Wi-Fi and improved operability in exposure compensation and autofocus performance in difficult scenes.

Availability and Pricing

The GF110mmF2 R LM WR will be available in Late June, 2017 for USD $2,799.95 and CAD $3,599.99 and the GF23mmF4 R LM WR will be available in Late June, 2017 for USD $2,599.95 and CAD $3,399.99.

The FUJIFILM GFX 50S Medium Format Camera Body is available now in the U.S. and Canada for USD $6,499.95 and CAD $8,499.99.