Why I Fell in Love with the Fujifilm GFX 50s II: A Landscape Photographer's Journey with the Ultimate Lens Selection

As a landscape photographer, discovering the perfect gear to elevate my imagery is an ongoing quest. Recently, I had the pleasure of using the Fujifilm GFX 50s II. This camera has transformed my photography experience. Paired with a versatile selection of lenses, I embarked on a thrilling journey through breathtaking landscapes that left me in awe. In this post, I'll share my personal experience with the GFX 50s II and highlight the lenses that have become my trusted companions for capturing stunning visuals.

The Camera: Fujifilm GFX 50s II

From the moment I picked up the Fujifilm GFX 50s II, I was impressed by its sturdy design and ergonomic grip. This mid-format camera features a 51.4 MP sensor that provides extraordinary detail, making my landscapes come alive. The advanced autofocus system allows for quick and precise focusing, enabling me to capture fleeting moments effortlessly.

The battery life is a highlight as well, lasting up to 400 shots on a single charge. This reliability during long outdoor shoots makes the GFX 50s II feel like an extension of my creative vision rather than just another piece of equipment.

Close-up view of the Fujifilm GFX 50s II camera showing its intricate design and features.

GF 35-70: The Versatile Zoom

One of my favorite lenses to pair with the GFX 50s II is the GF 35-70mm f/4.5-5.6 WR. This lens truly excels in various shooting scenarios. Whether I’m photographing sweeping landscapes or intricate details, its zoom range allows me to adapt quickly to unexpected opportunities.

What stands out about the GF 35-70 is its exceptional sharpness and minimal distortion, which can measure as low as 0.3% at its widest setting. I often camp in diverse locations, and this lens gives me the flexibility to switch between wide-angle vistas and tighter compositions without constantly changing gear.

Its weather-sealed build quality allows me to be fearless in challenging conditions. This versatility makes the GF 35-70 a vital part of my travel photography setup, letting me capture everything from glacier-fed lakes to sunlit meadows without worry.

High angle view of a sprawling landscape showcasing the versatility of the GF 35-70 lens.

GF 50 3.5: The Street Photography Gem

Although my focus often lies in landscapes, I discovered a newfound passion for street photography with the GF 50mm f/3.5 R LM WR lens. Its compact design makes it incredibly portable, which is a significant advantage in bustling urban environments.

This lens’ moderate aperture allows for beautiful shallow depth-of-field effects while keeping subjects sharp. I was drawn to capturing lively moments within the city, and the image quality remained exceptional even in low light, where it performed well at ISO 1600.

Eye-level view of a local vendor in an urban market, exhibiting the charm of street photography with GF 50.

GF 100-200: The Extended Range

For photographers eager to explore diverse landscapes, the GF 100-200mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR lens is a fantastic addition. This lens offers impressive zoom capabilities, allowing me to capture distant details that would otherwise remain unnoticed.

Fujifilm GF 100-200 f/5.6 weather sealing

During a recent mountain trip, I photographed intricate patterns in the trees and rocky outcrops. The optical stabilization reduces camera shake effectively, ensuring clarity even at longer focal lengths. In one shot, I achieved crisp details of a faraway waterfall, with rich colors that elevated my landscape images significantly.

This lens not only expands my shooting range but also allows me to frame my shots creatively, capturing elements that add depth and storytelling to my work.

Mitakon 65 1.4: The Bokeh Monster

When it comes to crafting soft, dreamy backgrounds, the Mitakon 65mm f/1.4 lens excels. This lens is a gem for portrait and artistic photography, transforming ordinary scenes into magical visuals.

I had the chance to test this lens during a sunset photoshoot. The bokeh quality it produces is stunning, making my subjects pop against a backdrop of vibrant oranges and purples. While not specifically a landscape lens, its talent for creating captivating depth allows me to capture intimate portraits surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

The lens perfectly matches the GFX body. Image by Jonas Rask.

With the Mitakon lens, I’ve melded the human experience seamlessly with nature, capturing special moments that resonate deeply.

My Photography Transformation

The Fujifilm GFX 50s II has become a favorite in my photography gear collection. With the GF 35-70 for versatility, GF 50 for street photography, GF 100-200 for enhanced reach, and Mitakon 65 for stunning bokeh, I feel well-equipped to capture any scene that inspires me.

This setup not only delivers outstanding image quality but has also reignited my passion for photography. Whether hiking through picturesque mountains, exploring vibrant city streets, or pausing to capture an intimate moment during travel, the GFX 50s II and its exceptional lenses are the perfect partners on my creative journey.

If you love Fuji or are a landscape photographer wanting to elevate your skills, I genuinely recommend exploring this remarkable camera and its lens selection. With the right gear in hand, the world becomes your canvas to explore and capture incredible moments.

Embrace your photographic adventures, and you may just fall in love with photography all over again!