FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 Receives IMAX Certification – Joins Elite “Filmed For IMAX” Program

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by Nino LeitnerJanuary 20^th, 2026

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FUJIFILM’s new large format cinema camera, the GFX ETERNA 55, has officially joined the roster of IMAX-certified digital cameras, making it an approved motion imaging system for productions targeting IMAX’s premium theatrical format.

The certification positions the GFX ETERNA 55 alongside established cinema cameras like the ARRI ALEXA LF, Sony Venice, and RED V-RAPTOR in the “Filmed For IMAX” program. For cinematographers who have been following the development of FUJIFILM’s first dedicated cinema camera since its announcement, this certification adds significant production credibility to an already intriguing large format option.

Please note that we will soon release our real-life review of the GFX ETERNA 55 – check back to CineD in the coming days. Our Lab Test of the camera will follow at a later point.

The tallest digital filmmaking sensor on the market

The GFX ETERNA 55‘s IMAX certification centers on one key attribute: its 32.71mm sensor height in Open Gate mode. According to IMAX, this makes it the tallest digital filmmaking sensor currently available on the open market, a specification that aligns directly with IMAX’s emphasis on image area and vertical scale.

The camera’s native 4:3 Open Gate sensor (measuring 43.8 × 33.9mm with a 55mm diagonal) gives filmmakers considerable flexibility when shooting for IMAX’s Expanded Aspect Ratios. This format supports both spherical and anamorphic lens workflows, allowing cinematographers to choose their preferred glass while maintaining compatibility with IMAX’s proprietary mastering process.

What “Filmed For IMAX” means

IMAX launched the “Filmed For IMAX” program in September 2020 as an end-to-end partnership that certifies high-end digital cameras meeting the company’s quality standards. The program differs from content shot with IMAX’s proprietary 15/70mm film cameras, instead focusing on digital acquisition systems capable of delivering images suitable for IMAX’s premium theatrical presentation.

Certified cameras are carefully selected for their high-quality image capture capabilities, and productions using these cameras work with IMAX’s proprietary post-production pipeline to optimize the final output for IMAX screens. Recent high-profile releases shot with IMAX-certified cameras include Dune: Part Two ( ARRI ALEXA LF and Mini LF), Top Gun: Maverick (Sony Venice), and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (RED V-RAPTOR).

Jonathan Fischer, Chief Content Officer at IMAX, commented on the certification, noting that it expands the ecosystem of cameras available to filmmakers creating content specifically for IMAX presentation.

Production-ready features

The GFX ETERNA 55 arrives production-ready with a cinema-style build featuring industry-standard connections including SDI and HDMI outputs, timecode and genlock inputs, and USB-C connectivity for SSD recording. The camera’s adaptable native G mount accepts FUJIFILM’s GFX lens lineup directly or can be converted to PL mount using the included adapter.

One of the camera’s distinguishing features is its built-in electronic variable ND filter, offering density from ND0.6 to ND2.1 in what FUJIFILM describes as “visually stepless” 0.015 f-stop increments. The recent firmware update also added external RAW recording support to Atomos devices via both HDMI and SDI, expanding the camera’s capture options.

FUJIFILM color science for theatrical release

For filmmakers working toward IMAX theatrical release, the GFX ETERNA 55 offers FUJIFILM’s F-Log2 C logarithmic profile, designed to deliver maximum flexibility in post-production color grading. The camera claims 14+ stops of dynamic range at dual base ISO values of 800 and 3200.

Beyond the log profile, FUJIFILM has developed 10 new Film Simulation 3D LUTs specifically for the ETERNA 55, which we covered when they were released. These can be applied in-camera, through external monitors, or in post-production. Additionally, 20 internal film simulation modes provide creative looks inspired by FUJIFILM’s film heritage for fast-turnaround workflows.

Yuji Igarashi-san, General Manager of FUJIFILM’s Professional Imaging Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to theatrical exhibition, noting that the certification provides filmmakers an accessible pathway to creating content with what he described as an “epic cinematic perspective” for IMAX screens.

Pricing and availability

The FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 is currently available for $16,499.95 in the United States. FUJIFILM offers downloadable 3D Film Simulation LUTs, a technical white paper, and an interactive anamorphic module through their website for filmmakers exploring the system.

The IMAX certification adds an interesting dimension to the GFX ETERNA 55’s value proposition, particularly for independent filmmakers eyeing theatrical distribution.

Does IMAX certification factor into your camera selection for narrative projects? Are you considering the GFX ETERNA 55 for future productions? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!