Fujifilm is working on a medium format cinema camera with 102 megapixels.
Fujifilm has unexpectedly revealed that it is working on a medium format cinema camera with a resolution of 102 megapixels.
Fujifilm has made an unexpected announcement regarding the development of its new medium format cinema camera, named GFX Eterna, which will feature an impressive resolution of 102 megapixels. This model is expected to launch next year and will showcase a modular and compact design, similar to that of the Sony FX6 or the new Blackmagic Pyxis. In addition, the launch is anticipated to include a top handle, an electronic viewfinder, and other optional accessories.
The GFX Eterna will be equipped with a 102-megapixel CMOS II HS sensor, the same one used in the GFX100 II. Measuring 43.8 mm x 32.9 mm, this sensor is 1.7 times larger than the full-frame sensor found in the FX6 and the Pyxis, making it one of the largest sensors available in cinema cameras, even surpassing RED's V-Raptor XL sensor.
Among the advantages offered by this new sensor are a wider dynamic range, high potential resolution, and very shallow depth of field, which will facilitate capturing cinematic shots as long as the right lens is used. However, Fujifilm currently does not have GFX lenses specifically designed for film production. Still, the company has announced that it is working on a 32-90 mm motorized zoom lens (equivalent to a 24-70 mm in full-frame) and will provide a mount adapter for GFX lenses to PL, which are the most commonly used in cinema.
One aspect to consider is rolling shutter distortion. While RED's V-Raptor XL features a global shutter that eliminates this issue, the sensor that Fujifilm will use presents some distortion. Additionally, the GFX100 II records in 8K with a 1.53x crop, which could counteract some of the advantages of the medium format sensor, so it is expected that Fujifilm will address these challenges in its new cinema camera.
The GFX Eterna will be officially presented at the InterBEE 2024 media exhibition, which will take place in Chiba City, Japan. Its release is expected in 2025, although specific details about the exact date and price have not yet been revealed.
