The Fujifilm GF500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR lens is a recent addition to Fujifilm’s GFX series, designed to offer exceptional reach for medium-format photography, particularly in sports, wildlife, and bird photography. Here are some key features and specifications:
- Focal Length and Compatibility: With a 500mm focal length, equivalent to 396mm in the 35mm format, it is the longest super-telephoto lens in the GFX lineup. The lens can also be used with the GF1.4X teleconverter, extending its focal length to 700mm (equivalent to 554mm in the 35mm format).
- Optical Design: The lens comprises 21 elements in 14 groups, including two Super ED elements and five ED elements, which help minimize chromatic aberrations and deliver high-resolution performance.
- Lightweight and Durable: Despite its super-telephoto reach, the lens is relatively lightweight at approximately 1.375 kg (3.03 lbs). It’s designed to be durable, with 18 weather-sealed points making it dustproof, drip-proof, and resistant to temperatures as low as -10°C.
- Image Stabilization: The GF500mm features a powerful 6-stop optical image stabilization (OIS) system, which is crucial for handheld shooting at such long focal lengths.
- Autofocus Performance: The lens utilizes a linear motor for fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus. It also includes features like a focus preset button and focus limiter to enhance operational convenience.
- Compatibility with GFX Cameras: The lens is optimized for use with the latest GFX cameras, such as the GFX100S II, which supports features like bird detection AF and animal detection AF, further enhancing its utility for wildlife photography.
- Price and Availability: The lens is priced at around $3,500 and started shipping in June 2024 (Fujifilm) (Shotkit) (Amateur Photographer) (Amateur Photographer).
This lens is a significant addition for GFX users, providing new possibilities for capturing distant subjects with excellent detail and clarity.
