With the rising cost of film emulsions, it’s not surprising that some film photographers are already thinking of either getting a digital alternate or switching to digital (for now or for good) altogether. But then, there are also long-time hybrid photographers who shoot both film and digital. Fujifilm offerings such as the Fujifilm GFX system have been especially popular for both cases, and today’s featured video gives a good idea why.
Canadian film photographer Kyle McDougall has been working primarily with film for the past five years. But, he also shoots with digital cameras here and there, and also uses them for digitizing negatives. Recently, however, he ended up investing in the Fujifilm GFX100S. In his latest video, he talks about what six months of shooting with the Fujifilm GFX system was like.
“I wanted to put together this review to share my thoughts about this digital system, as someone who has worked primarily with film for the past five years,” McDougall said in his introduction.
He covers things like image quality compared to film, lens adaptability, if it has a “look” and whether he’d consider switching to the system entirely. Of course, he also touched on what he dislikes about it from a film photographer’s point of view. So, if you’re also considering the Fujifilm GFX system as a digital “alternate” to your medium format film camera, hopefully, his insights will help you come to a decision.
Are you also a film photographer with a preferred digital camera? Tell us about it in the comments below, or in our group discussions if you’re already part of the Photofocus Community!
A digital system for a film user
The Pentax 645z is the perfect side by side system with the 645Nii etc film bodies. Same lenses, and a familiar feel. The operating system is infinitely simpler than the Fuji GFX 100 ( which I have and enjoy ) and most importantly – actually, the only important thing, is the image output. At 50MP, it remains spectacular. I regularly print at 30 by 40 inches, and have gone larger frequently.
While still learning the gfx ecosystem, the Pentax remains an everyday shooter both in studio and on the street.
I love my Hasselblad V system but autofocus,white balance and fantastic zoom lenses “forced” me into GFX100s. I can mount my Hassy and Canon lenses but really just Canon. No $3/shot and stupendous colour. Cant part with the SWC and 30mm yet but the day will come.