While there was a lot of noise about Fujifilm's new 100-megapixel medium format G-size sensor, there was also an updated 50-megapixel body which is smaller and lighter than the original GFX 50S.

The new GFX 50R also uses the G format sensor, a medium format sensor with approximately 1.7 times the area of a full-size 35mm sensor. It achieves high image quality with 51.40 million pixels, while also providing a 'wide range tone reproduction' (dynamic range) which produces ultra-high quality images.

Image processing in the new camera uses the well-received X-Processor Pro, which is used with Fujifilm’s X-Series digital cameras with the smaller APS-C size sensors, and naturally it includes Fujifilm's film simulation mode. While you might think this is of limited use because the film simulations are only applied to JPEG files, the settings also follow the raw files and the new tie-up with Capture One includes these film simulations as part of the world's leading raw processing.

So, some improvements to image quality, but of most interest is the new, smaller body. 'Rangefinder' in design means the photographer can look through the electronic viewfinder with their right eye while seeing the subject with their left eye, an approach Fujifilm suggests will help the photographer shoot while taking in the atmosphere of their chosen scene.

The camera weighs just 775 g. This is 145 g lighter than the GFX 50S, so medium format photography is incredibly easy to carry around, anywhere and everywhere.

The electronic viewfinder has a magnification of 0.77x and uses a high resolution 3.69 million dot organic EL panel.

The GFX 50R includes a focus lever, as found on the popular X-Series models, which provides instantaneous control of the focus point while letting the photographer maintain a firm hold on the camera.

The upper deck of the body includes both shutter speed and exposure compensation control dials for simple operation and the strong magnesium alloy body is sealed in 64 different places to provide dust and weather resistance, down to -10°C.

The camera has access to all 11 Fujinon GF interchangeable lenses included in the development roadmap, from 23mm (equivalent to 18mm in the 35mm film format) to 350 mm (equivalent to 277mm in the 35mm film format).

For more information visit www.fujifilm.com.au