Fuji Finepix S100fs Digital Camera
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In February 2008, Fujifilm announced the release of the Finepix S100FS - a point-and-shoot camera that functions beyond its kind. In this report, we will outline the various features of the Finepix S100FS. We then collate 14 reviews from Imaging Resource, Digital Camera Resource Page, Steve's Digicams,Digital Camera Review, Photoxels, Neocamera and more. Finally, we offer you some buying advice regarding the Finepix S100FS.
With the Finepix S100FS, Fujifilm claimed to have developed a digital camera with DSLR-like properties. It is equipped with a 14.3x Fujinon manual zoom lens that can shoot at high resolutions at any focal length from 28mm to 400mm equivalent and aperture stop settings.
A major technological boost in the Finepix S100FS is the built-in 8th Generation Super CCD sensors and the 3rd Generation RP (Real Photo) Processor III. In addition, Fujifilm has integrated Film Simulation modes consisting of general use (Provia), low-contrast (soft), portraiture or vibrant colors (Velvia) for more flexibility with regards to image tones and colors.
Other features loaded in the Finepix S100FS include:
1. Face Detection 2.0 with Automatic Red Eye Removal, which can auto-correct focus, exposure, and red-eye on up to 10 recognized faces in a scene.
2. 2.5 inches Tiltable LCD
3. Dual Image Stabilization, which minimizes blur caused by handshake or low-light conditions.
4. Movie Mode, which records at 30 frames per second in VGA mode.
5. xD/SD/SD-HC Compatible Slot, which allows storage of camera files in xD-Picture Card, Secure Digital and SD-High Capacity memory cards.
The image quality of the Finepix S100FS received a huge thumbs-up from all reviews for high color accuracy, ample saturation and balanced exposure. Neocamera and Digital Camera Review compared the photo quality to that of DSLRs, with the latter specifically pointing to those in Four Thirds format image sensor and affirms that they are at par. Digital Camera Resource Page further commented that image stabilization was also employed in Movie Mode.
While Pop Photo and Digital Camera Resource Page positively responded to the video quality of the Finepix S100FS, Digital Camera Review responded otherwise as the resolution of video clips were low in both 640x480 and 320x240 formats.
Not a single flaw was found by the experts in this category. Digital Camera Resource Page highlights the 14.3x optical zoom lens as the principal feature of the Finepix S100FS. The auto-focus performed well in both fairly-lit and slightly dim conditions according to Photoxels, adding that there was no noticeable shutter lag.
While Infosync found the menus quite smart and simple as well as its 4-way button and dedicated keys, Digital Camera Review said otherwise and remarked that the multiple menus would be complex and thereby inconvenient for users. Meanwhile, its 2.5-inch LCD was commended by Photoxels, Digital Camera Resource Page and Imaging Resource for its brightness and wide shooting frames.
Digital Camera Resource Page noted that users might need extra batteries as the Finepix S100FS' power tends to drain easily.
The Finepix S100FS's ISO performance was reportedly better than its competitors, according to Digital Camera Resource Page. Images captured at ISO 400 in particular were of DSLR quality as commented by Digital Camera Review. They further remarked that as levels increased to as high as ISO 3200, noise was kept to a minimum through the double noise reduction system. However, Imaging Resource noted significant blurring and noise at ISO 800.
Experts from Imaging Resource, Digital Camera Resource Page and Digital Camera Review commonly lauded the zoom capability of the Finepix S100FS. With a zoom range equivalent to 28mm to 400mm, shooting coverage is quite expansive. Its focusing capability was excellent as well, according to Infosync.
Basing on the experts' close analysis of the Finepix S100FS, it can be inferred that Fujifilm has indeed created a compact camera that doesn't only resemble DSLRs but can actually compete with entry-level DSLRS.
Powered by outstanding assets, the Finepix S100FS answers the photographer's need of a point-and-shoot camera that captures images and videos of superior quality without the inconvenience of bulky DSLRs. The sole drawback would be its low battery life which a spare battery can easily remedy.
The Finepix S100FS is equipped with a technology atypical of a digital camera. The S100FS is just the kind of model suited for non-professional photographers who want to enjoy the perks of a DSLR without having to avail of additional accessories. Users are guaranteed to get their money's worth as the Finepix S100FS is packed with several useful features.
Among the best standard point-and-shoot cameras in the market, the Finepix S100FS is closely rivaled by the Canon Powershot SX10 IS. While both level off in the image quality, there is a stark difference in video quality as the latter reportedly captures high quality videos with excellent focus and zoom. The SX10 has a rather long battery life which can accommodate 340 shots per charge whereas the Finepix S100FS can only take around 250 before it fully drains. In addition, the SX10 has 20x optical zoom. These advantages, however, come at a heftier price at $780.
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Fuji Finepix S100fs Digital Camera