Fujifilm Finepix S1000fd: An Extended-Zoom Digicam Gets a New Look with the Fujifilm Finepix S1000fd

 The Fujifilm Finepix S1000fd is an extended-zoom digicam, though it looks more like a cross between a dSLR and a point-and-shoot. It looks like a dSLR and it feels like you are holding a dSLR but the fixed lens gives it away.

The body is quite solidly built. It doesn’t have that plasticky feel that plagues other models. It weighs in at a reasonable 11.5 ounces. Under the hood of the S1000fd is a 10-megapixel sensor. For the lens, the SF1000fd comes with the Fujinon 33-396mm f/2.8-5.0 unit. At the back is a 2.7-inch TFT LCD display that sits flush to the body, giving it an additional protection against bumps or scratches. Aside from the LCD display, it also comes with a 200,000-pixel FLCD electronic viewfinder. The images displayed by the LCD are quite sharp, bright and the colors are accurate. While most extended-zoom digicam makers realize the need for an image stabilization system, especially when using longer zooms, the SF1000fd doesn’t come with mechanical stabilization, not even optical image stabilization. On the other hand, Fujifilm did provide what they call as Picture Stabilization mode, though it hardly compensates for true image stabilization.

Fujifilm S1000fd 10.0 Megapixel FinePix US $112.50 (18 Bids) Auction Ends: End Date: Friday Mar-12-2010 7:20:25 PST Add to watch list

NEW! Fujifilm Finepix S1000fd 10 Megapixel LOOK!!! US $73.00 (3 Bids) Auction Ends: End Date: Sunday Mar-14-2010 15:10:52 PDT Add to watch list

The S1000fd is abundant in terms of buttons and knobs, giving it a cluttered look. Nonetheless, operating it is a breeze. To control the camera, there is still the traditional mode dial on top of the camera, a five-way controller, another jog dial and dedicated buttons for specific functions. The menu system is standard, though going around the menus and submenus can be nerve-wracking.

Starting from off to taking the first shot, the S1000fd took a slow 0.7 second and shutter lag is at 0.12 second. When taking full resolution JPEGs under continuous shooting mode, the S1000fd is able to capture three shots in a second. Under infinite continuous, it is able to get three frames in 1.2 seconds. Finally, in high-speed mode, it is able to obtain 15 low-res frames in just 1.6 seconds.

Quality-wise, the images produced by the S1000fd tend to be slightly oversaturated, especially the red tone. On the other hand, the exposures and image processing of the S1000fd remained accurate in any type of outdoor light. The S1000fd has a sensitivity of ISO 64 all the way up to ISO 3200, though you will be limited to just 3 megapixels at the highest level. Noise from ISO 64 to ISO 200 is quite acceptable.

Overall, the Fujifilm Finepix S1000fd is perfect for those are in the market for a camera with an SLR body but don’t want to be bothered with interchangeable lenses.