FUJIFILM Corporation announces that it is currently in the process of developing its first-ever filmmaking camera, the “FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA” (GFX ETERNA), with plans for a release in 2025.
Building on the success of its GFX medium format lineup, Fujifilm has announced the development of a new cinema camera featuring a large 102-megapixel sensor and a new motorized zoom lens. This bold move positions Fujifilm as a serious contender, ready to challenge industry giants like Sony and Canon.
Medium-Format cinema camera
Fujifilm’s renowned GFX series of mirrorless cameras is well-known for its large sensors, which dwarf the size of traditional full-frame (24x36mm) sensors. For instance, the GFX100S II boasts a 43.8 x 32.9 mm sensor, offering a sensitive surface nearly 1.7 times larger than that of a Canon EOS R5 Mark II or a Nikon Z6 III.
Today, Fujifilm has announced the development of its first medium format cinema camera, the GFX ETERNA, set to launch in 2025. The name pays homage to the brand’s ETERNA color negative film, originally designed for cinematic use.
CMOS II Sensor and X-Processor 5 Image Processor
According to Fujifilm’s announcement, the GFX ETERNA is expected to feature the same sensor as the GFX100S II and GFX100 II, a large-format 43.8 x 32.9 mm CMOS II sensor with a resolution of 102 megapixels in its high-speed (HS) version. This will be paired with Fujifilm’s fifth-generation X-Processor.
Notably, the GFX100 II already boasts impressive video capabilities, including 8K at 30p in 4:2:2 10-bit, 4K at 60p, Full HD at 120p, and Apple ProRes 422 HQ recording. Fujifilm has not yet revealed specific advancements the new ETERNA will bring to the table, stating only that it aims to revolutionize film production.
GFX Eterna monitor specs
Although Fujifilm previously revealed the GFX ETERNA body with its dual displays, a main monitor and a secondary menu screen, the exact specifications remained undisclosed until now.
The primary LCD will be a 5-inch 16:9 panel with 6.22 million dots and a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits, ensuring good visibility in bright conditions.
The secondary on-board menu display will measure 3 inches with a 3:2 aspect ratio, featuring 1.04 million dots and a maximum brightness of 700 nits, similar to screens found on other Fujifilm camera backs.
Optical low pass filter
To minimize moiré and false color artifacts, the GFX Eterna will incorporate several filters positioned in front of its 43.8 by 32.9-millimeter 100-megapixel sensor.
These include a wave plate, an IR-cut filter, and two low-pass filters.
Unlike the GFX 100 II, which prioritizes maximum resolution for still photography, the GFX Eterna is designed for filmmaking, where a more natural image, sometimes slightly softer, is preferred.
This is especially relevant since the camera records video up to 8K resolution, not at the full 100-megapixel sensor capability.
GFX Eterna sensor formats
Regarding the 100-megapixel sensor, Fujifilm has detailed the various sensor formats supported by the GFX ETERNA. The camera will record in GF format 4:3 Open Gate, as well as GF DCI, Premista DCI, 35mm DCI, 8K DCI (pixel-for-pixel), and Super35 DCI formats.
The GF format options, which use nearly the full sensor width and GF-format lenses (or those with similar image circles), include Open Gate (3840 x 2880), DCI 8K (8192 x 4320), Cine 5.8K (5824 x 2436), DCI 4K (4096 x 2160), and FHD (2048 x 1080). Most of these modes utilize the full sensor width, except for DCI 8K, which slightly crops in. Open Gate recording supports frame rates up to 48p.
Additionally, the GFX ETERNA will support Premista, 35mm, Anamorphic (35mm), and Super35 formats, with resolutions ranging from FHD up to DCI 8K. While some recording modes overlap with those available on the GFX 100 II, several are exclusive to the GFX ETERNA. Notably, the GF Open Gate mode is a standout feature unique to this camera.
GFX Eterna In-Camera Codecs
Built on the GFX 100 II platform, the GFX ETERNA will support familiar codecs such as ProRes 422, H.265, and H.264. It will be capable of recording Apple ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422, ProRes 422 LT, HEVC/H.265 (4:2:2 10-bit), as well as ProRes and H.264 proxies directly to internal storage (CFexpress Type B and UHS-II SD cards).
Additionally, the camera will offer external recording via HDMI, supporting 4:2:2 10-bit uncompressed video and 12-bit RAW video files.
Film simulations
The GFX ETERNA will support 20 Fujifilm Film Simulations, including classic options like Provia, Velvia, Astia, Classic Chrome, and Acros.
It will also feature the Reala Ace Film Simulation from the GFX 100 II, as well as the video-oriented Eterna simulation first introduced with the Fujifilm X-H1.
GFX Eterna 3D LUT Support
The GFX Eterna will support 3D LUT loading and can store up to 16 custom Lookup Table files.
Alongside Film Simulation support in the GFX Eterna, Fujifilm announced that it is developing new 3D LUTs for select Film Simulations in F-Log2 and F-Log2 C (with ITU-R BT.709). These will be available to download from the web, and the following Film Simulations will be supported:
- Eterna
- Eterna Bleach Bypass
- Provia
- Velvia
- Astia
- Reala Ace
- Classic Chrome
- Classic Neg.
- Acros
Customizable framing guides and remote multi-camera control
The GFX ETERNA will offer customizable framing guides, allowing users to save up to three presets with adjustable aspect ratios (e.g., 2.39:1, 16:9), scaling, colors, and line widths.
Additionally, the camera will support remote multi-camera control through a web browser-based application, enabling local operation over wired or wireless networks.
Bluetooth low energy support for accessories
The GFX ETERNA will feature Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for connectivity with compatible accessories such as the Atomos AirGlu and Fujifilm TG-BT1 Tripod Grip.
It will also support timecode synchronization with select devices, including those connected via USB-C.
