Unleashing the Power of Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro: A Comparison with Fujifilm GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two systems as distinct as the Canon EOS R with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Fujifilm GFX 100 with the Fujifilm GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR. Both offer unique advantages and cater to different photographic styles. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison, exploring the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each system to help you make an informed decision.

Sensor Size and Image Quality

The fundamental difference between these two systems lies in their sensor size. The Canon EOS R utilizes a full-frame sensor, while the Fujifilm GFX 100 boasts a medium format sensor, significantly larger than its full-frame counterpart. This size difference translates into noticeable advantages for the GFX 100 in terms of image quality.
The larger sensor allows for better light gathering, resulting in lower noise levels and improved dynamic range, particularly in low-light conditions. The GFX 100 also excels in detail and sharpness, offering exceptional resolution and clarity that are unmatched by the EOS R. This is particularly evident in landscapes, portraits, and architectural photography where intricate details are crucial.
However, the EOS R with its full-frame sensor still delivers excellent image quality, especially when paired with the sharp RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens. The lens’s fast aperture allows for shallow depth of field, making it ideal for portraiture and isolating subjects. Its macro capabilities provide versatility for close-up photography.

Lens Selection and Versatility

The Canon EOS R system has a growing lens lineup, offering a variety of focal lengths and specialized options. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is a versatile lens, suitable for everyday photography, portraiture, and close-up work. Its compact size and lightweight design make it a great choice for travel and street photography.
The Fujifilm GFX 100 system, while still developing, has a smaller but increasingly impressive lens selection. The GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR is a wide-angle lens known for its sharpness, weather resistance, and exceptional image quality. It is a perfect choice for landscape photography, architecture, and astrophotography.
The GFX 100 system’s smaller lens selection might be a drawback for some photographers who require a wider range of focal lengths. However, the quality and versatility of the available lenses are undeniable.

Autofocus Performance and Speed

The Canon EOS R system has a reputation for fast and accurate autofocus, especially with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens. Its Dual Pixel CMOS AF system provides excellent subject tracking and focus accuracy, even in challenging lighting conditions. The EOS R also boasts continuous shooting speeds of up to 8 frames per second, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.
The Fujifilm GFX 100, while not as fast as the EOS R, offers reliable autofocus performance. Its phase-detection autofocus system is accurate and dependable, especially in well-lit conditions. The GFX 100’s continuous shooting speed is slightly slower at 5 frames per second, which may not be ideal for capturing fast-paced action.

Ergonomics and Handling

The Canon EOS R is a relatively compact and lightweight camera, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. Its controls are well-placed and intuitive, allowing for easy access to key settings. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens complements the camera’s size and weight, making it a portable and convenient combination.
The Fujifilm GFX 100 is a larger and heavier camera, reflecting its medium format sensor. While its size may feel cumbersome for some, it also provides a more stable platform for shooting, particularly when using heavier lenses. The GFX 100’s controls are well-designed and responsive, offering a professional feel.

Features and Connectivity

Both cameras offer a range of features and connectivity options. The Canon EOS R features a touchscreen LCD, a built-in electronic viewfinder, and 4K video recording capabilities. It also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy image transfer and remote control.
The Fujifilm GFX 100 boasts a high-resolution touchscreen LCD, a tilting electronic viewfinder, and 10-bit 4K video recording. It also features advanced features like in-body image stabilization and film simulation modes, offering creative control over the final image.

Price and Value

The Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens is significantly more affordable than the Fujifilm GFX 100 with the GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR. This makes the EOS R a more accessible option for photographers on a budget. However, the GFX 100’s exceptional image quality and medium format capabilities justify its higher price for professionals and enthusiasts who prioritize image quality and detail.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right System

The choice between the Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Fujifilm GFX 100 with the GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR ultimately comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize image quality, detail, and low-light performance, the GFX 100 is the clear winner. Its medium format sensor delivers exceptional results, particularly for landscape, portrait, and architectural photography.
However, if you prefer a more portable and affordable system with excellent autofocus performance and a wider lens selection, the Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is a compelling choice. Its versatility and affordability make it an ideal camera for everyday photography, travel, and street photography.

Questions You May Have

Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Fujifilm GFX 100 excels in low-light photography due to its larger sensor, which allows for better light gathering and lower noise levels.
Q: Which camera has a better autofocus system?
A: The Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens offers faster and more accurate autofocus, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Q: Which camera is better for landscapes?
A: The Fujifilm GFX 100 with the GF 23mm f/4 R LM WR is a superior choice for landscapes due to its exceptional image quality, sharpness, and wide-angle lens.
Q: Which camera is better for portraits?
A: Both cameras are capable of producing excellent portraits. The Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens offers a faster aperture for shallow depth of field, while the GFX 100 provides exceptional detail and clarity.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS R is a more beginner-friendly camera due to its user-friendly interface, affordable price, and wider lens selection.