Calling the X-S1 a “new breed of bridge camera”, Fujifilm’s snapper has a 26x optical zoom lens and the same 2/3-inch 12MP EXR sensor that’s used in the retro-styled X10 model.
As you can tell from that picture above, it’s the 26x zoom lens that’s the real treat here — it has a range of 24 – 624mm and a f/2.8 aperture. That doesn’t mean it can’t handle close-ups — there’s actually a Super Macro Mode for focusing to 1cm closeness.
Movie-shooting functionality is of course included, because a camera’s hardly worth its salt if it can’t shoot in full HD these days. The X-S1 shoots with stereo sound at 30fps, and as the 3-inch LCD screen is tiltable, users will be able to shoot in “tricky situations”. You know what I mean. One thing I like the sound of with this snapper is that the LCD has a daylight mode when shooting outside, taking a leaf from laptops.
On sale in February, the X-S1 will cost £699 in the UK (roughly $1100). While I personally would rather go for a micro four thirds or other interchangeable lens camera, the X-S1 does sound like it could be well-suited for action photographers who don’t have to worry about carrying spare lenses. [Fujifilm via Gizmodo UK]
Sam D
Friday, November 25, 2011 at 8:09 AMI still don’t understand the market for bridge cameras. They’re priced and sized about the same as an SLR, yet still have a tiny sensor like a point & shoot. Seems like the worst of both worlds to me.
Ben
Friday, November 25, 2011 at 9:09 AMI guess 24-624mm is pretty convenient for someone who doesn’t mind giving up shorter depth of field and low light ability.
TSH
Friday, November 25, 2011 at 10:12 AMLike all niche products, they have their place. It should be remembered, though, that they are *niche* products and intended for a very particular customer. I used to sell cameras like this (“superzoom P&S”, but still similar to this) ONLY after I was quite clear with my customers about the limitations of the device.
Alex
Friday, November 25, 2011 at 10:05 AM2.8 on 624 end ? thats just crazy …. I wonder how well it actually does it
Ollie
Friday, November 25, 2011 at 10:10 AMNo, if you look it’s f2.8-5.6 meaning at the long end it’s only f5.6.
Pete
Friday, December 9, 2011 at 6:48 PMI bought the S100fs when it was released in 2008 because I was going on a long trip to UK/Europe. No choices have to be made about which lenses to take! I’ve been generally happy with the results. If you think the small sensor is a limitation, I can show you some lovely results, especially from RAW. I’ll seriously consider updating to this one, although it’s nearly double the price!