Written By Joshua Wilfred Sekar
Introduction
If you're looking for a camera that can take your photography to the next level, the Fuji GW690 III is definitely worth considering. This medium format camera is designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who want the highest quality images possible. In this review, we'll take a closer look at the operation of the camera, including rangefinder focusing, setting aperture and shutter speed, film loading, leaf shutter mechanism, and large 6x9 negatives. We'll also examine the image quality of the fixed lens, and what makes this camera stand out from the competition.
Rangefinder Focusing
One of the first things you'll notice about the Fuji GW690 III is the rangefinder focusing system that looks like a Leica M. It is nick named “Texas Leica” for a good reason. This system requires you to align two images within the viewfinder until they overlap, ensuring that your subject is in focus. While it may take some practice to master, once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to focus quickly and accurately. IMHO, rangefinder focussing is much easier and quicker to focus than SLR focussing. We can talk all day about which focusing system is better! The viewfinder is big and bright with clear frame lines that are mechanically illuminated. The rangefinder patch is not as prominent as a Leica M but definitely does the job.
Shooting Experience
The camera is a joy to use. It feels solid and comfortable in the hands, and the weight is just right. Composing the frame and taking the shot is an absolute pleasure, thanks to the well-designed controls and intuitive interface. Additionally, the camera's versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of photographic styles and situations, from candid street photography to stunning landscapes. Overall, this camera is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, high-performance camera that is both easy to use and capable of producing stunning results.
To aid in capturing level shots for landscape photography, the camera is equipped with a small spirit level that provides an indication of the level. This feature is particularly useful when photographing landscapes with wide horizons or when trying to capture a level shot of a structure. The spirit level is easy to see and provides a quick and convenient way to ensure that the camera is level without the need for additional equipment or time-consuming adjustments.
Setting Aperture and Shutter Speed
If you're looking for a camera that puts you in the driver's seat, the Fuji GW690 III is the way to go. It gives you full manual control over your exposure settings, so you can fine-tune your shots to your heart's content. Sure, adjusting the aperture and shutter speed dials might be a bit fiddly if you've got sausage fingers like me, but trust me, it's worth the effort. With a wide range of shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/500th of a second and T (for time) mode, you have all the control you need to capture the perfect shot. And with an aperture range from f/3.5 to f/32, you can create beautiful bokeh and get everything in focus with ease. So don't be afraid to get your hands dirty with the Fuji GW690 III.
Film Loading
Loading film in the Fuji GW690 is a breeze. It's like a walk in the park compared to a Rolleiflex or a Hasselblad. Seriously, it's so simple and straightforward that even a monkey could do it (well, maybe not a monkey, but you get the point). Just make sure you choose the right film type from the top of the camera. There are three selectors - one for 220 and two for 120 film. If you're shooting 120 medium format film (which you probably are), make sure you keep it at 120. Unless you have a time machine and can travel back to the 70s to buy 220 films (in which case, can I come with you?). But seriously, loading film in the Fuji GW690 is a piece of cake. So don't be afraid!
Leaf Shutter Mechanism
Leaf shutters are the bomb and the one on the Fuji GW690 III is no exception! When you press that button, you get a satisfying click that only leaf shutter camera users will understand. And the best part? You can use flash at any shutter speed! That makes this camera a total boss for portrait and studio photography. You'll be able to capture every detail, every nuance, and every imperfection with ease. Trust me, once you try a leaf shutter camera, you'll never want to go back to those boring old focal plane shutters. Another advantage of using leaf shutter is the ability to use insanely low shutter speeds compared to shutters on Mamiyas and Zenza Bronicas that rival ballistic shockwave of Winchester 73.
Shutter button’s’
Okay, let me tell you about this cool feature on the Fuji GW690 III - it has not one but two shutter buttons! One is located on the top of the camera, and the other is on the front. And get this - the front shutter button even has a lock function, which is perfect for shooting in portrait orientation. How cool is that? Not only does this make it super convenient for the shooter, but both buttons do exactly the same thing - they take pictures. So you can choose whichever button feels more comfortable to you and just start snapping away. It's little details like this that make the Fuji GW690 III such a joy to use.
Shutter Actuations Counter
The Fuji GW690 III has a cool little feature on the bottom of the camera. It's a shutter actuations counter that keeps track of how many times the shutter has been fired. It's a handy tool for keeping track of the camera's usage and maintenance needs. this means, If that counter shows a high number, you know that camera has been put through its paces. But that's what a camera is all about - getting out there, firing away and capturing those amazing shots.
Large 6x9 Negatives
The Fuji GW690 III produces the largest negatives you can get on a medium format camera (unless you're talking about the Fuji G617, but let's not go there). And do you know what that means? More detail, baby! The larger the negative, the greater the resolution, which translates to sharper and more detailed pictures. Film grains are just non-existent at this size! That's right, you get crystal-clear images that look like they were taken with a microscope. This camera is perfect for capturing the insane details of landscapes. If you want to print at the largest size possible and you are looking for a MF (Medium Format) camera that can deliver great resolution, this is all you need!
Crop Factor
For the tech geeks, Fuji GW690 has a crop factor of 0.43. 90mm translates to (90 x 0.43) approximately 39mm in full frame.
Image Quality of the Fixed Lens
Fuji GW690 III has fixed. The previous versions h The EBC Fujinon 90mm f/3.5 lens consists of 5 elements in 5 groups, and is known for producing sharp and detailed images, with excellent color rendering and contrast. The lens makes the pictures look like a work of art.
Build Quality
The Fuji GW690 III is built like a tank. Even though they used a lot of plastic for the body in the third iteration, it still feels super solid and well put together. You can tell they didn't skimp on the quality. And get this - the plastic body actually makes the camera lighter, which is perfect if you're planning on taking it with you on vacation or on a long hike. You won't feel like you're lugging around a brick. You can throw this thing in your bag, drop it (not recommended, but accidents happen), and it will still keep ticking. It is extremely durable so, don't let the plastic body fool you - this camera is a beast.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Fuji GW690 III is a powerful tool for serious photographers who are looking for the highest quality images possible. Its rangefinder focusing, manual shutter speed and aperture controls, leaf shutter mechanism, large 6x9 negatives, and the beautiful lens all work together to create stunning images. While it may take some practice to master, the results are well worth it. If you're looking for a camera that can take your photography to the next level, the Fuji GW690 III is definitely worth considering.
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Joshua Wilfred Sekar
