Irix has just released a very interesting lens designed specifically for the FUJIFILM GFX system: The Irix 45mm f/1.4 GFX covers medium format sensors and offers a fairly wide field of view (approx. 35mm full-frame equivalent). So if full-frame shooting isn’t enough, this might be it!
This is certainly not an everyday lens. Or, to be a bit more specific, it’s not meant to be a lens for every camera. It was designed for exactly three camera models: The FUJIFILM GFX100, GFX 50S, and GFX 50R. Each of these cameras sports a giant medium format sensor (43.8 x 32.9 mm). The new Irix 45mm f/1.4 fits natively on the FUJIFILM G-mount and offers a field of view of 62.64° (diagonal).
The teaser video above was uploaded on January 14 and now the curtain has been lifted on this new 45mm f/1.4 lens for medium format aficionados.
Irix 45mm f/1.4 GFX lens
This lens has two dedicated rings for both aperture and focus control. Video shooters will appreciate the fact that the aperture ring allows smooth adjustments, in other words, it appears to be de-clicked. In addition, you can lock the focus to maintain perfect focus on infinity, or for scenarios where the focus is set once and should not shift again. Nailing focus on a medium format sensor is even more critical than on full frame cameras, so this feature could come in handy.
The Irix 45mm f/1.4 GFX prime lens also features the so-called Dragonfly finish. This means, according to Irix, that the lens sports:
- Reinforced internal construction based on metal elements
- Scratch-resistant finish
- Anti-slip focus ring with special finish for easy focusing
- Sealings to protect against dust and water
- Rigid carrying case included as standard
In Irix terminology, Dragonfly lenses, in contrast to Firefly lenses, have a composite + Al-Mg alloy body material and they also sport weather sealing throughout the lens.
Irix 45mm f/1.4 GFX specifications
The lens offers 9 rounded aperture blades which should result in pleasing bekoh effects, especially on such a large sensor. Read on for a full list of specifications:
- focus: manual
- minimum focus distance: 40cm
- aperture range: f/1.4 – f/22
- lens construction: 11 elements in 9 groups (1 ASP element)
- filter size: 77mm
- dimensions (w x l): 87 x 144mm
- weight: 1120g
- weather-sealing: in 5 key areas
Pricing and availability
The Irix 45mm f/1.4 GFX is available now and it’s selling for $1,022.45 / €845 (including tax). Since this is a dedicated version for exclusive use with the FUJIFILM GFX system, you might also want to check out the regular full-frame “video” version over here.
For reference, the FUJIFILM GF 45mm f/2.8 R WR lens sells for $1,699 (without tax).
Link: Irix Website
Are you a medium format shooter? What do you think of such a lens? Worth a closer look? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
