FUJIFILM has released a new firmware update for the GFX ETERNA 55, bringing a host of exciting features and improvements to the camera's capabilities. This update not only enhances the camera's performance but also provides a glimpse into the future with a detailed roadmap for upcoming enhancements. In this article, I'll delve into the key features of the firmware update, explore the implications of the roadmap, and offer my personal insights and commentary on what this means for filmmakers and photographers alike.
White Balance Stability with PL Lenses
One of the most significant improvements in this firmware update is the stabilization of white balance when shooting through the included genuine PL mount adapter. This is a crucial feature for filmmakers using PL-mount cinema and anamorphic lenses, as it ensures consistent and accurate color reproduction. Personally, I think this is a game-changer for professionals who rely on PL lenses, as it eliminates the need for manual adjustments and reduces the risk of color shifts during production.
However, there's a catch. FUJIFILM explicitly warns users to finish any project shot on previous firmware before updating, as the color tone may change after installing version 1.10. This is a sensible precaution, but it does raise a deeper question: how can filmmakers effectively manage the transition between firmware versions without disrupting their workflow? In my opinion, this highlights the importance of careful planning and communication between camera operators and post-production teams.
MXF Playback and Settings Backup
The roadmap for future firmware updates is equally exciting. Version 1.20 or later, expected later in 2026, will add support for in-camera playback of MXF (Material eXchange Format) files. This is a significant development, as MXF playback allows filmmakers to review and assess their footage directly on the camera, streamlining the review process and reducing the need for external equipment. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for remote playback and review, which could revolutionize the way teams collaborate on set.
Additionally, the update will introduce backup and restore of camera settings via a dedicated app. This is a welcome feature for rental houses and multi-camera productions that need to replicate configurations quickly. In my experience, efficient settings management is crucial for maintaining consistency across different shoots and teams, and this feature could significantly streamline the process.
Automatic ND Control and LANC Support
Looking further ahead, version 1.30 or later, scheduled for January 2027 or later, focuses on operability. FUJIFILM plans additional preset options for coarse adjustments of the electronic variable ND filter, and, more notably, automatic in-camera adjustment of ND filter density while maintaining constant values for iris, shutter angle, and ISO sensitivity. This amounts to an auto ND mode, a feature that will be invaluable for documentary and run-and-gun shooters who need to adapt quickly to changing light conditions.
The same update is slated to bring LANC (Local Application Control Bus System) support for wired remote operation, along with remote control of FUJINON Duvo series lenses through the multi-function dial located on both the camera body and the handle. The Duvo integration makes sense given the camera's growing presence in documentary and broadcast-style setups, and it builds on earlier firmware work that resolved a freeze issue when operating the Duvo expander while recording.
Updated Media Compatibility Chart
Alongside the firmware release, FUJIFILM has refreshed the GFX ETERNA 55 recording media compatibility chart, listing approved media for reliable performance with this and future updates. This is a sensible precaution, as the camera has already earned an official "Filmed for IMAX" certification and is increasingly showing up on demanding productions. Checking your cards against the current chart before the next shoot is a sensible habit, and it ensures that you're using the right media for optimal performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 firmware update and roadmap are significant developments for filmmakers and photographers. The improvements to white balance stability, MXF playback, settings backup, automatic ND control, and LANC support are all exciting features that enhance the camera's capabilities and streamline the workflow. As we look to the future, it's clear that FUJIFILM is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible with this camera, and I'm eager to see how these updates will shape the industry.
Personally, I'm most excited about the MXF playback feature, as it has the potential to revolutionize the way teams collaborate on set. I can't wait to see how this technology evolves and how it will impact the way we work in the future. What about you? Are you shooting with the GFX ETERNA 55, and which roadmap feature would improve your workflow the most? Don't hesitate to let us know in the comments below!
