After briefly making fun of its looks and girth (it’s quite fat, apparently), the reviewer dives straight into hyperbole, saying he’s “just handled the future,” and that the device is the “odds-on coolest camera of the year.” This sounds like a little much, until you read what it can do:

[T]he amazing bit, the bit that you’ll want to show all your friends, is that you can see the photos popping out of the rear LCD in proper 3D, without any need to wear stupid glasses. That is the wonder of a lenticular screen…And I turned it off and on again. And again. A 3D logo kept popping up on (or out of) the LCD and I had to keep doing it to persuade myself that it wasn’t my imagination.

Yeah, ok, this sounds pretty fantastic. Fuji’s using this same lenticular glasses-less tech across the Real 3D line, so you’ll get the same results on the 8-inch V1 digital frame, or on Fuji’s special-order paper prints, which Stuff says look like the “free 3D pictures you used to get with packets of cereal, with dinosaurs and things on them,” except “much better.”

It’s not all wonder and whimsy and OH MY GOD, and it’s easy to pick out a few early annoyances that could grow into full-fledged problems: the effect isn’t as spectacular when the photos don’t have seriously pronounced depth of field, and the dual lens system doesn’t really work in macro mode, necessitating and awkward workaround. And what about video? Stuff is suspiciously mum on this.

With release set for September and a price expected to fall at around $US600, this bifocal beast—which, don’t forget, is a regular point-and-shoot underneath it all—looks like it’s definitely more than just a gimmick. [Stuff]
http://stuff.tv/blogs/cool/archive/2009/07/30/unboxed-fujifilm-finepix-real-3d-w1.aspx

Atop 3D capabilities and bevy of standard point and shoot features, the FinePix Real 3D W1 attempts to get some use out of its humanoid eyes during non-3D shooting as well, allowing you to snap pictures in two colour modes at once, with two different focal points—essentially, it’s two synchronised cameras in one.

3D viewing comes by means of the camera’s built-in screen, and optional 8-inch LCD picture frame called the FinePix Real 3D V1, or custom prints ordered from Fuji, all of which use the same lenticular lens system, which doesn’t need any kind of 3D glasses to work.

Just as expected, the Real 3D system will hit stores in September, but despite Time’s “guess” at a $US600 price (for the camera, that is), Fuji’s mum on that front. Considering the device’s potential—pocket 3D movies, anyone?—and the fact that this is basically the first consumer 3D p&s, that pricepoint isn’t be too bad at all, assuming that the glasses-less viewing system is any good.*

*This assumption, it is large.

[DPReview]

Fujifilm launch a pioneering digital “Real 3D System” that lets you enjoy incredible 3D images with the naked eye.

“FinePix Real 3D W1″, “FinePix Real 3D V1″, “3D Prints”

22 July 2009: Fujifilm are extremely proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking new imaging technology: the “FinePix Real 3D System”. The World’s first three dimensional (3D) digital imaging system that lets you enjoy three dimensional images without the need to wear special 3D glasses. The FinePix Real 3D system incorporates a 3D digital camera “FinePix Real 3D W1″, a 3D picture viewer “FinePix Real 3D V1″, and 3D prints.

As a pioneer in the digital imaging sector, in 2009, Fujifilm will be able to offer the complete 3D package: from digital photography, to digital prints. Fujifilm is once again breaking new ground and continuing to raise expectations in the development of new imaging products.

Aiming to “capture precious moments just as the eyes see them”, over the last decade Fujifilm has developed unique lenses, CCDs and Processors, amongst other key digital camera technologies. Today heralds the launch of the world’s first digital camera that can capture 3D stills and movies, the “FinePix Real 3D W1″, and the “Fine Pix Real 3D V1″, an 8-inch viewer on which spectacular 3D images can be displayed. Additionally, with advances in high precision production technology, Fujifilm has successfully developed a 3D Print service enabling you to enjoy and share your 3D images.

World’s first digital camera to capture realistic 3D stills and movies.

3D Photography
The Real 3D W1 camera features the newly developed “Real 3D Lens System.” To achieve a natural, 3D image, it was necessary to flawlessly layer together two images, so two Fujinon lenses, renowned for their high resolution and exquisite rendering, were installed. A robust aluminium die-cast frame has been used to protect the lenses from vibration and impact.

A 3x optical zoom, deemed difficult to achieve in 3D photography because of the precision required to align two lenses, is also possible. Moreover, the “RP (Real Photo) Processor 3D” which is based on photo technology that Fujifilm has developed over the years, synchronizes data passed to it by the two lenses and two CCD sensors, to determine shooting conditions such as focus, brightness and tonality to instantaneously blend this information into a single symmetrical image, for both stills and movies.

The 3D/2D LCD monitor features Fujifilm’s own LCD panel, exclusively for the display of 3D/2D images on digital cameras, allowing you to see beautiful, natural 3D images with the naked eye. As the camera performs a series of image processing steps automatically, anyone can take 3D stills and videos with superb picture quality by just pointing the camera and pressing the shutter button.

Creative controls
The Real 3D camera allows you to adjust the settings to suit the scene being photographed. When using the 3D two-shot function, the camera shifts to take the second shot after taking the first shot, and saves a single 3D image in the camera manually. This allows you to edit the 3D images, particularly useful for long zoom telephoto shots where a 3D image is difficult to achieve, or conversely, macro shots, where the 3D effect can be too strong.

3D “Interval Shooting” allows further flexibility; it is possible to take two shots from different viewpoints continuously while the photographer is moving, for example by train, aeroplane, or car, etc., to achieve 3D images of long-distance views. Users can enjoy more dynamic 3D shots, whether they are capturing a sea of clouds from an aeroplane, or taking 3D shots of distant views from a car window. By using the “Parallax Control” function, the 3D images can be manually adjusted, either during filming or while viewing the images on the LCD monitor; this simplicity-of-use lets users really get creative when shooting in 3D!

2D photography
Don’t overlook the fact that this camera also brings fun new possibilities in 2D photography! You can really take advantage of the fact that this is actually two digital cameras in one. The “Advanced 2D Mode” uses Dual Capture simultaneous shooting which lets users take two different shots simultaneously by pressing the shutter once. With “Tele+Wide Shooting”, it is possible to take a close-up photo of the subject and, at the same time, a photo with a wider span – just by changing the settings of the two lenses. With “Colour Mode” Dual Shooting users can take photos of the same scene with different colour tonalities, for example, “Standard” and “Fujichrome”, which works by changing the processing signals on the two sensors.

“Sensitivity Mode Dual Shooting” mode enables you to change the sensitivity setting of the two shooting systems, which expands the range of photographic expression. In scenes where it is difficult to determine the optimal camera settings, users can take shots with image stabilisation priority and then with picture quality priority and choose the best image later, or in panned shots, change the image stabilisation levels to take two different shots simultaneously.

A beautiful, cutting-edge exterior design that is durable yet easy to use.
You can’t deny this is a good-looking camera, with cutting-edge style. The sleek metal sliding cover which protects the two lenses is specially formed so that it can be firmly gripped with both hands. The exterior finish is a luxurious Piano Black with a superb, high-gloss, elegant shine. To add to the glamour, the neon blue “3D” logo illuminates when the camera is switched on. On the back of the camera, operating buttons such as the one-touch 3D/2D switch button, are placed on both sides of the camera for simple operation using both hands. The newly developed 2.8-inch Real 3D LCD monitor displays natural and beautiful 2D and 3D images, enabling you to compose and playback your pictures easily.

Main Features

* Capture and enjoy realistic 3D stills and movies
* Take 3D telephoto and macro shots with 3D Advanced 3D Mode
* Standard 2D photographs can also be taken, just like on conventional digital cameras
* Dual Capture Shooting Mode lets you simultaneously take two shots at different settings
* Featuring the 3D LCD system, allowing 3D images to be viewed live whilst shooting
* Cutting edge design and the very latest, pioneering technology

FinePix Real 3D V1

8.0 inch 3D Picture viewer that allows you to enjoy 3D images on a high resolution screen.
The 8.0-inch 3D Picture Viewer “FinePix Real 3D V1″ features Fujifilm’s newly developed 3D/2D display 8.0-inch LCD panel, which allows users to enjoy and playback 3D images without needing to wear special 3D glasses. Insert a SD memory card on to which 3D images have been saved, and enjoy a 3D slideshow just by switching on the power. If the “Disparity Adjustment Function” is used, you can adjust the 3D effect on the viewer manually.

The 3D Picture Viewer will suit any living room with its slim & minimalistic design. With various playback functions, you can enjoy more than 20 kinds of 3D and 2D slideshows, plus a MicroThumbnailView, and an easy-to-use “Picture Search” feature.

With an adjustable stand you can change the angle for clearer 3D viewing, and enjoy simple operation with the intuitive remote control included. The displayed data can be transferred not only to a memory card, but also by high-speed infrared transmission, and batch transmission by connecting to the 3D camera via a USB connection. What’s more you can display & playback all the images on your computer by transferring them to the camera using a USB connection.

Key Features

* Supports playback of natural 3D stills and movies
* 3D/2D LCD panel with 480,000 dots (800 x 600 dots)
* Easy-to-use touch operation
* Transfer images to other devices; SD/SDHC cards, Real 3D camera, and also your computer via USB or via high speed infrared communication.

PLUS, print your 3D images with high precision Fujifilm technology!
With spectacular results, Fujifilm has integrated high precision prints into its 3D offering. Through the use of lenticular sheets Fuji have the ability to produce stunning high resolution 3D images. The process involves the 3D image data being integrated using advanced technology and projected through a lenticular sheet lens to produce an image with binocular disparity.
“Fujifilm will be launching a print service to the purchasers of the 3-D camera as a direct service from Fujifilm because of the newness and complexity of the print system” explained Adrian Clarke, Director of Digital Imaging. He continued, “Whilst volume from the uptake of 3D camera users is so small, it doesn’t make sense to commercialise the print system yet. Once Fujifilm can provide a sustainable market demand for 3D prints and other services, the company will be able to consider print production devices for the wider processing industry”.

Availability & pricing
The FinePix Real 3D W1 and FinePix Real 3D V1 will be available from September 2009 Pricing will be announced nearer to the date of the launch.

From the bottom: The A170 and its 12MP brother, the A220, are the base models at only $US90 and $US100, respectively. Next is the 12.2MP FinePix J38 at $US130, rounding out the low end of the lineup. The mid-range have a new focus on style, all being very thin and quite good-looking, with the FinePix F70EXR at $US280 and the FinePix Z37 at $US150. They’re probably all decent; Fuji has a fairly good track record with point-and-shoots, having been awarded a best buy by JD Power last year. But none of them are very interesting.

The FinePix S200EXR, on the other hand, is a bit of an odd bird. At $US600, it’s at the same price as some very low-end DSLRs, but it’s not actually one itself, described instead as an “SLR-type” camera. Nevertheless, the 12MP camera has tons of features and a 14.3x lens and will shoot in RAW, and Fuji gloats that the lens and body are “perfectly aligned” instead of rammed in by your clumsy, Dorito’s-stained hands. Check out the full, exhaustive press release below. [Fujifilm]

FUJIFILM’S UNVEILS ITS FIRST LONG-ZOOM DIGITAL COMPACT CAMERA:
THE FINEPIX F70EXR

Powerful New Addition to Fujifilm’s Award-Winning F-Series Offers DSLR-like Capabilities in an Affordable, Stylish Package

Valhalla, NY, July 22, 2009 – FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today announced the FinePix F70EXR, a sleek, compact digital camera that combines intuitive use with the most advanced features and technology available in a point-and-shoot digital camera. The announcement of the FinePix F70EXR also marks Fujifilm’s first model in the growing long-zoom compact segment with an impressive Fujinon 10x wide angle optical zoom.

Encased in a beautifully sculpted metal shell with a double coated lacquer finish and measuring only 22.7mm thick, the FinePix F70EXR offers several enhancements over its predecessor, the FinePix F60 and boasts marked improvements over competing long-zoom digital cameras, particularly in the areas of design, image quality and capture technology.

“The FinePix F70EXR, which has been designed specifically for taking demanding shots in challenging conditions, requires a sophisticated sensor and control algorithms to ensure every shot looks the very best,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “By adding our EXR technology to the FinePix F70EXR, users will achieve outstanding images in virtually any lighting condition, and have the advantages of a 10x zoom that fits in your shirt pocket.”

Super CCD EXR
Long zoom compact cameras, as opposed to standard compact digital cameras, typically use a smaller sensor that is vulnerable to difficult lighting conditions since light has a harder time reaching the CCD sensor. To mitigate this vulnerability, Fujifilm has introduced its award-winning EXR technology into the FinePix F70EXR, allowing for significant improvement in image quality against the competition.
Introduced earlier this year with the FinePix F200EXR, Fujifilm’s EXR technology uses the human eye as the basis for the perfect camera sensor, creating a Super CCD sensor capable of registering excellent levels of detail when switched to its HR (High Resolution) mode. The FinePix F70EXR is also capable of offering excellent quality in low light and superb highlight detail in contrast light when switched to its SN (High Sensitivity and Low Noise) mode and DR (Wide Dynamic Range) modes respectively.

EXR Modes
An advanced feature on the FinePix F70EXR, ‘EXR Auto’ helps take the guesswork out of setting the camera by doing it for you. EXR Auto is a sophisticated set of program modes that can automatically detect six different types of scenes – Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Backlit Portrait, Night, and Night Portrait. The camera will recognise the scene and optimise focus, colour balance, exposure, flash and sensitivity and will automatically switch the sensor to HR, SN or DR mode depending on the lighting conditions of the scene. By using EXR Auto, users can let the camera do all the hard work and concentrate more on getting the best shot possible.

Multi Frame Technology: Pro Focus Mode / Pro Low-light Mode
New Fujifilm EXR digital cameras, including the FinePix F70EXR will offer several new shooting modes that combine the power of Super CCD EXR with Multi Frame Technology to enable users to capture exceptional images that rival the most expensive professional D-SLR cameras.

Typically, one of the ways to distinguish ‘D-SLR’ photography from ‘compact’ photography has been the use of ‘wide aperture’ to create mood and depth in a picture. These ‘professional’ shots are now possible on the FinePix F70EXR, which uses Pro Focus Mode to combine two or three burst shots together. Through complex digital imaging technology, a crisp shot of the subject is synthesized against a defocused background and foreground. Ideal for portraiture, nature photography or any subject that needs ‘lifting’ from its background, the FinePix F70EXR Pro Focus Mode provides satisfying professional results at the touch of a button.

Meanwhile, Pro Low-light Mode is applied to solving the problems of noisy low light shots. With current cameras, it is possible to achieve relatively blur-free low light shots using high ISO and CCD shift mechanical image stabilisation. However, high ISO settings typically come at a cost, as the ISO 1600 setting will invariably produce distracting and ugly noise. In Pro Low-light Mode, the camera will take bursts of four high sensitivity images using Pixel Fusion Technology[*1] in quick succession. With Multi Frame Technology, the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th images are overlapped to create one image with extremely low noise.

Super Slim 10x Zoom Lens
In conjunction with the Super CCD EXR sensor, the FinePix F70EXR features a Fujinon 10x optical zoom lens that produces crisp high resolution results throughout the focal range, from 27mm wide-angle to 270mm telephoto. The lens of the FinePix F70EXR features Super EBC Coating that keeps ghosting and flare to minimum to allow for optimal picture quality.

Film Simulation Modes
Similar to other high-end FinePix models, the FinePix F70EXR offers five different film ‘modes’ to allow the photographer full creative expression to explore a variety of pre-set colour and contrast modes designed around Fujifilm’s most famous film emulsions. The modes are:

• Velvia/Vivid mode for rich and luscious landscapes
• PROVIA/Standard mode for excellent, sharp, standard photography
• ASTIA/Soft mode for soft, fine, smooth tonality
• Black & White mode captures the dramatic honesty of your image in black and white
• Sepia mode creates a sense of nostalgia with the warm brown “antique” tones of Sepia

In the Provia, Velvia and Astia modes, the dynamic range can now be set to 800% to improve and highlight details further.

New ‘Super Intelligent’ Flash
The FinePix F70EXR offers a radically improved flash control system which efficiently controls the level of flash for a given exposure to produce beautifully balanced flash illumination across the foreground and background. Gone are the ugly washout shots where the subject is blasted with light and the background dark and unexposed. Super Intelligent Flash is most useful in macro photography where the contrast between subject and background can be especially challenging, but is also effective for night and backlit photography.

New High Contrast LCD
The FinePix F70EXR is fitted with an improved high contrast 230K-pixel 2.7″ LCD. The high contrast LCD is a considerable benefit in bright light, and means that the camera can be pitched
at various shooting angles to enable framing of awkward shots. Viewable at 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally, the LCD is bright and clear for beautiful rendition of shots in playback.

Dual Stabilization
Long zoom cameras need stabilisation more than any other compact, with handshake and subject movement a particular problem in low light at telephoto range. The FinePix F70EXR reduces blur to a minimum by deploying Picture stabilisation to automatically increase shutter speeds to freeze action, and CCD Image stabilisation to counteract the problems of handshake. By cleverly combining these two, blur is reduced to an absolute minimum.

Face Detection 3.0 and Automatic Red-eye Removal
To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, the FinePix F70EXR is fitted with Fujifilm’s latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 10 faces simultaneously, at almost any angle to the camera. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.

The FinePix F70EXR will be available August 2009 at a retail price of $US279.95.

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FUJIFILM BLENDS FASHION AND FLAIR WITH THE FINEPIX Z37

SR Auto Mode Keeps Users Snapping and Blog Mode Keeps Users Sharing

Valhalla, N.Y., July 22, 2009 – FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today announced the launch of FinePix Z37, their latest addition to their top-selling range of Z-series digital cameras targeted at the tech-savvy, fashionista consumer. With a new, cutting edge design, the FinePix Z37 not only looks good, but it also offers all the features necessary to take great pictures and share them easily, bringing out the social butterfly in everyone.

“Meeting the demands of today’s tech savvy youths, Fujifilm is offering its young consumers an affordable camera with social networking tools and features making it easier to take and share the best pictures possible.” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “And like the previous Z-series cameras, the FinePix Z37 maintains the visual appeal that this demographic likes.”

Style & Substance
Thinner, sexier and bolder than previous Z-series models, the FinePix Z37 is a party camera that loves to be the centre of attention. The FinePix Z37 combines a 10-MegaPixel CCD sensor, a sharp 3x optical zoom lens and a 2.7″ LCD screen in its incredibly thin 19.1 mm metal front body, making it easy to be stashed in the tightest of jean pockets. Available in a choice of blue, green or violet, the FinePix Z37 is able to match anyone’s style and personality.

The FinePix Z37 has many great features to highlight – the ‘Blog Mode’ is a social networker’s staple, allowing users to automatically resize images and movies making them ready for web use. In addition, Fujifilm’s ‘Scene Recognition Auto’ (SR AUTO) Mode’ cleverly detects the correct scene setting without the need to pre-select the mode on the camera, making it even easier to take the best pictures possible.

The FinePix Z37 is also packed with the following noteworthy features:

• Maximum ISO sensitivity up to 1600: With the high ISO of up to 1600, the FinePix Z37 can capture quality shots in low light situations.
• Scene Recognition AUTO (SR AUTO): Enables the camera to intelligently recognise six types of scenes automatically – Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Backlit Portrait, Night and Night Portrait modes.
• Face Detection with Automatic Red-Eye Removal: The FinePix Z37 identifies up to 10 human faces in a scene and sets the correct focus and exposure, regardless of where subjects are located within the frame. After a shot is captured, the camera automatically checks for red eye and self-corrects it in each and every person in the photo, saving time on post-editing.
• Picture stabilisation Mode: Picture stabilisation uses the heightened sensitivity of the FinePix Z37 to reduce blur caused by hand-shake or subject movement. It allows the camera to automatically choose the correct light sensitivity and optimal shutter speed to produce clear, blur-free images.
• One Touch Movie: With a separate one touch movie shutter, it’s easy to capture movies at VGA quality 30 frames per second with sound.
• Micro Thumbnail: The FinePix Z37 displays up to 100 thumbnail images on its 2.7″ LCD screen.
• SD/SDHC Compatible slot: A single media slot that accepts SD/SD-HC media cards.
• Battery Life: Long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery.

The FinePix Z37 will debut in August 2009 at a retail price of $US149.95.

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FUJIFILM UNVEILS ITS MOST ADVANCED CONSUMER MODEL TO DATE:
THE FINEPIX S200EXR DIGITAL CAMERA

SUPER CCD EXR Sensor and Fujinon Lens Combination Pushes Picture Quality to New Levels

Valhalla, NY, July 22, 2009 – FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today unveiled the FinePix S200EXR digital camera, its most advanced SLR-styled camera to date. Combining the pin-sharp 14.3x Fujinon optical zoom lens (30.5mm-436mm equivalent) so popular in its predecessor, the award-winning FinePix S100FS, with Fujifilm’s latest 12-MegaPixel Super CCD EXR sensor, the FinePix S200EXR is aimed at top-end camera enthusiasts looking for excellent picture quality without the hassle, bulk and expense of a D-SLR system.

Compact, lightweight ‘bridge’ cameras offering long zoom and high image quality have proved a big hit with those looking for an alternative to bulky interchangeable lens systems. Users of the FinePix S200EXR will find their results equal or superior to D-SLRs, principally due to the revolutionary design of Fujifilm’s EXR CCD sensor technology. The key improvements of the FinePix S200EXR over the FinePix S100FS are:

• 1/1.6″ 12 megapixel Super CCD EXR sensor
• EXR Priority modes and EXR Auto
• Pro Focus Mode and Pro Lowlight Mode
• 5 Film Simulation Modes (Black & White mode and Sepia mode is added)
• A new 2.7″ high contrast 230k-pixel LCD
• New ‘Super Intelligent Flash’
• Improved battery life – almost a 50% increase on the FinePix S100FS
• Combined CCD-RAW (EXR)/JPEG shooting

“This camera benefits from the culmination of Fujifilm’s Super CCD EXR technology and EXR Processor development,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “This powerful combination allows the FinePix S200EXR, with its wide dynamic range, to capture the subtleties in colour, tone and detail to deliver perfect shot conditions every time.”

Super CCD EXR
The EXR sensor on the FinePix S200EXR was built to perfectly match the optical qualities of its 14.3x Fujinon optical zoom lens. The goal was to produce a sensor/lens combination that works as close to that of the human eye as possible. The EXR sensor is essentially a switchable sensor; changing its complex electronic behaviour to suit the subject, changing its characteristics as the photographer demands, and producing the very best picture without making compromises.

This sensor has already won great acclaim with the FinePix F200EXR. Combined with the much bigger, more powerful 14.3x lens, it delivers quite astounding results. The FinePix S200EXR offers 3 switchable modes in one sensor:

High Resolution (HR) Mode: Deploys all 12 million pixels and is designed to offer the finest detail of intricate subjects when light is full and even.

Wide Dynamic Range (DR) Mode: Captures different exposures with two sets of 6 million pixels, which, when combined, gives an excellent level of detail in highlights that would otherwise be lost.

High Sensitivity and Low Noise (SN) Mode: Caps two adjacent pixels together to produce 6 million large photodiodes, which are big enough to absorb light in the darkest of conditions, to produce low-light shots of extraordinary quality with minimal noise and grain.

Advanced Intelligence
The FinePix S200EXR also offers EXR Priority Mode, which is the most efficient mechanism yet invented to quickly optimise the camera’s settings to allow the photographer to concentrate on capturing the perfect shot. The photographer can decide which sensor setting is preferable by choosing High Resolution Priority (HR) to maximize resolution, High ISO and Low Noise Priority (SN) for high quality low-light work or D-Range Priority (DR) for the best detail with contrasting subjects.

In addition, the FinePix S200EXR features the EXR Auto Mode, which offers 6 different modes depending on the setting: Portrait, Night, Macro, Landscape, Night Portrait and Backlit Portrait. The camera will automatically recognise the scene and not only optimise focus, colour balance, exposure, flash and sensitivity, but will also automatically switch the sensor to HR, SN or DR mode depending on the lighting conditions of the scene.

Super Sharp Lens
The massive 14.3x Fujinon manual zoom lens is truly a delight to use in such a compact, lightweight design. The ultra-high precision Fujinon lens achieves maximum resolution at all focal lengths of 30.5mm-436mm equivalent with maximum aperture of a bright F2.8 (wide angle) to F5.3 (telephoto). Because of the composite body and lens structure, there is no need to worry about dirt or dust on the Super CCD EXR sensor and they are perfectly aligned for the very best results. The manual zoom offers faster image framing with fingertip precision as well as offering a user experience that closely matches the use of a high-end DSLR.

Pro Focus Mode / Pro Low-light Mode
The FinePix S200EXR also sports a Pro Focus Mode which is created by using Fujifilm’s new Multi-Frame Technology. A burst of two or three frames is taken and by taking the distance information off, the main subject is crisply matted against a defocused foreground and background. This mode is perfect for portrait or nature photography, where professional results are needed quickly with minimal adjustment to the camera and without the need to use a PC.

Meanwhile, Pro Low-light Mode can be applied to help solve the problems of noisy low light shots. With current digital cameras, it is possible to achieve relatively blur-free low light shots using high ISO and CCD shift (or optical image) stabilisation, but this comes at a cost, as the ISO 1600 setting will invariably produce distracting and ugly noise.

Once switched to Pro Low-light Mode, the FinePix F200EXR will take a burst of four high sensitivity images using Pixel Fusion Technology [*1] in quick succession. By using the camera’s Multi Frame Technology, the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th images are overlapped to create one image with extremely low noise.

Film Simulation Modes
One of the more popular features on the FinePix S100FS is reproduced and extended on the FinePix S200EXR. The FinePix S200EXR offers five modes as follows:

• Velvia/Vivid mode for rich and luscious landscapes
• PROVIA/Standard mode for excellent, sharp, standard photography
• ASTIA/Soft mode for soft, fine, smooth tonality
• Black & White mode captures the dramatic honesty of your image in black and white
• Sepia mode creates a sense of nostalgia with the warm brown “antique” tones of Sepia

In Provia, Velvia and Astia modes, the dynamic range can be now be set to 800% to improve and highlight details further.

New High Contrast 2.7″ LCD
The FinePix S200EXR is fitted with an improved high contrast 230k-pixel 2.7″ LCD. The high contrast LCD is a considerable benefit in bright light and the camera can be pitched at various shooting angles to enable framing of awkward shots. Viewable at 160-degrees both vertically and horizontally, the LCD is bright and clear for beautiful rendition of shots in playback.

Super Intelligent Flash
Fujifilm’s Super Intelligent Flash system is a flash control technology that lets you take flash-assisted shots without the danger of flash wash-out. Integrated into the AUTO mode, this next-generation flash system makes it easy to capture both subjects and background in bright, clear and natural detail over the full flash range. This allows for much better flash control when shooting in macro and makes sure that the subject is brightly lit and the background clearly defined when shooting in night mode.

Dual Image Stabilization
The FinePix S200EXR features Fujifilm’s Optical Image stabilisation technology to ensure clean, sharp and blur-free images, even in low-light conditions. This combines image stabilisation by Optical Image stabilisation to reduce blur from the photographer’s hand-shake, with Fujifilm High ISO, to reduce blur caused by subject movement (by automatically increasing ISO), for the ultimate in stabilisation technology.

Manual Settings
The FinePix S200EXR also allows you full manual control with the ability to set shutter speeds of between 1/4,000 second and 30 seconds. It is possible to take photos with combinations of ISO sensitivity, which has a broad range of setting choices, and multiple apertures of between F2.8 – F11 at 1/3EV steps. Using the manual exposure setting, bulb exposure of up to 30 seconds is possible. The colour, noise reduction control, tone and the sharpness can all be individually set as well.

Multi Bracketing
The FinePix S200EXR has 3 bracketing functions useful for high level photography: Film Simulation Bracketing (which automatically sets Film Simulation to PROVIA, Velvia and ASTIA for simultaneous capture of 3 frames), Dynamic Range Bracketing (which automatically sets dynamic range to 100%, 200% and 400% for simultaneous capture of 3 frames) and AE Bracketing (which automatically sets exposure range to even, under and over for simultaneous capture of 3 frames).

Other noteworthy features in the FinePix S200EXR:
• Combined CCD RAW (EXR)/JPEG shooting: New to the FinePix S200EXR is the ability to shoot both a RAW and JPEG shot simultaneously [*2], like the award-winning S5Pro digital camera. RAW is for ultimate quality shots via post processing, JPEG is for great quality with no need for further work.
• Battery life extended: With improved power management, the FinePix S200EXR can now provide 370 shots per charge of the included NP-140 Lithium Ion battery, so there is no need to worry about power running out half way through a photo shoot.
• Movie Mode: The FinePix S200EXR can record movies in 640 x 480 at 30 frames per second. The optical zoom can be used during movie recording.
• Electronic View Finder: The camera is fitted with a 0.2″ 200K-pixel EVF, for sharp and clear images.

The FinePix S200EXR will debut in August 2009 at a retail price of $US599.95.

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FUJIFILM EXPANDS J-SERIES DIGITAL CAMERA LINE
FOR BUDGET CONCIOUS CONSUMERS

New FinePix J38 Continues J-Series Momentum
by Merging Style with the Latest Technologies at Value Price Point

Valhalla, NY, July 22, 2009 – FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today announced the newest addition to its popular J-series line-up with the FinePix J38 digital camera. With its sleek design and powerful features, the FinePix J38 is a great digital camera option for the consumer on a budget who doesn’t want to sacrifice great quality or style for a lower price.

At only 20 mm thick, the FinePix J38 is the perfect on-the-go camera fitting easily into a shirt pocket or hand bag. Despite its size, the FinePix J38 black metal front body houses a 12-MegaPixel CCD, a 3x Fujinon optical zoom lens and a brilliant 2.7″ high resolution LCD which displays images with sharpness and clarity. The J38 also has new SR Auto, Face Detection with Auto Red Eye Correction and Panoramic Shooting Modes.

Automatic Scene Recognition
The FinePix J38 features Fujifilm’s new SR Auto mode (Automatic Scene Recognition), which enables the cameras to intelligently recognise six types of scenes automatically. For each picture taken in this mode, the camera will optimise the ideal exposure, focus, white balance and ISO, and engage Face Detection and Picture stabilisation as needed, for the scene to ensure the best quality picture is captured with ease.

Fujifilm’s FinePix J38 also offers the following value-adding features:

• Face Detection Technology: Fujifilm’s renowned Face Detection Technology with Automatic Red Eye correction also comes standard on the FinePix J38.
• Panoramic Shooting Mode: Let’s you capture and combine up to three consecutive shots, creating one large panoramic shot.
• Picture Stabilization: The FinePix J38 has Fujifilm’s Picture stabilisation which ensures clear blur-free photos.
• Scene modes: Pre-programmed scene modes provide top-quality photos in a wide-range of shooting conditions.
• Low Light Shooting: Utilizes ISO settings of up to 3200 at 3MP, to capture stunning images even in low light.
• Battery Life: Long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery for extended shot life.

“It’s important to offer an affordable digital camera without compromising performance or style,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “With an overwhelming consumer response to the initial J-series cameras, we wanted to give our customers even better features for the same low prices.”

The FinePix J38 will debut in late August 2009 with a retail price of $US129.95.

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FUJIFILM OFFERS ADVANCED FEATURES ON ENTRY-LEVEL
A170 AND A220 DIGITAL CAMERAS

Slim (21.9 mm), AA Battery Powered Digital Still Cameras
Shine with 10-MP and 12-MP, 3x Optical Zoom and SR AUTO

Valhalla, N.Y., July 22, 2009 – FUJIFILM U.S.A. Inc. today announced the launch of two new entry-level digital cameras – the A170 and A220. Designed specifically for consumers seeking an affordable, user-friendly upgrade to their current digital camera, the A170 and A220 encompass all the necessary features essential to today’s users. These include the SR Auto Mode (Automatic Scene Recognition), Panoramic Shooting Mode, Face Detection technology and come in at a slim 21.9 mm for quick, convenient, photography on the go.

The 10-MegaPixel A170 and 12-MegaPixel A220 both feature a 3.0x optical zoom lens that was developed specifically for the A-series by Fujinon and large, 2.7″, 230k-pixel resolution LCD They also offer Fujifilm’s Picture stabilisation with ISO levels of up to 1600 that automatically chooses the correct light sensitivity and compatible shutter speed, producing the highest quality digital pictures without blur and noise.

Automatic Scene Recognition
Both the A170 and A220 feature Fujifilm’s new SR Auto Mode (Automatic Scene Recognition), which enables the cameras to intelligently recognise six types of scenes automatically. For each picture taken in this mode, the cameras will optimise the ideal exposure, focus, white balance and ISO for the scene to ensure the best quality picture is captured with ease.

Other noteworthy features found on the A170 and A220 include:
• Face Detection Technology: Fujifilm’s renowned Face Detection Technology comes standard in both models.
• Panoramic Shooting Mode: Captures and combines up to three consecutive shots, creating one large panoramic shot.
• Movie Mode: Captures movies with zoom and sound at 30 frames per second with sound.
• Internal Memory: When the SD memory card (sold separately) is filled with images, users have extra internal storage space approx. 20MB on each camera to capture additional pictures.
• AA Battery: Using AA batteries is often most convenient for on-the-go digital camera users as it eliminates the need to charge battery packs, allowing for lots of picture-taking and the ease of battery replacement.

“We wanted to provide consumers with an affordable, easy to use digital camera that still offered a competitive feature set,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “The new A170 and A220 combine this in a highly portable form factor making it easier than ever to ensure that you never miss a shot and the convenience of AA battery power.”

The A170 will debut in late July 2009 with a retail price of $US89.95, and the A220 will be available in mid-August 2009 at the retail price of $US99.95.

Why the qualification? Because the $US600 camera is just part of a new ecosystem, including special plastic-lens-coated 3D prints (expensive!) and an eight-inch 3D-enabled photo frame (also expensive!). It’ll work as a regular 10-megapixel camera as well, though $US600 prices it well out of the “why not” range, especially when compared to the bevy of solid cameras available for much, much less. [Time via Digicam Review]

Plus, if purple’s not your style, the Z30 also comes in pink, white, black and orange. Not sure if any of those offer the same level of lickability as the purple, but I reckon I’d be willing to find out…

The stylish new FUJIFILM FinePix Z30 has it all – …Fashion…Features…Flair…

The stylish new FUJIFILM FinePix Z30 is the perfect blend of fashion, features and flair – ideal for the tech-savvy, fashion conscious digital camera enthusiast who is keen to stand out in the crowd with this eye-pleasing accessory.

Available in a choice of five colours – Pink, Purple, White, Black & Orange – the FinePix Z30 has merged fashion with technology to meet the demands of today’s style conscious generation.

FUJIFILM Senior Category Manager – Consumer & Professional Products, Matt Dole, said the FinePix Z30 is the third instalment in FUJIFILM’s popular Z-series ultra-glam camera range and is even sleeker than its predecessors.

“Wrapped in stylish smooth curves with a metallic surface, the FinePix Z30 is equipped with 10-megapixels, 3x zoom, Face Detection Technology with auto red-eye removal, Picture Stabilisation (anti-blur) and ISO sensitivity to 1600,” he said.

“The new six scene SR AUTO (Scene Recognition Auto) feature enables framed scenes to be automatically detected and selected into appropriate camera settings such as Portrait, Landscape, Night, Macro, Night Portrait and Backlit Portrait.

“The new Dual Blog Mode adds an artistic dimension to any recorded image on the FinePix Z30 by offering a choice of special effects. For instance, any subject can be transformed into an illustration or painting, you can create a zoom-in effect on a scene, or even a miniature model. Dual Blog Mode automatically resizes any still image or movie you’ve captured for posting photos and videos to blogs, video-sharing or emailing to friends with ease.

“When using the Successive Movie Mode, in-camera editing allows for the creation of a 60-second movie clip, even when shooting in two or more scenes. You can start and restart multiple times to build a 60-second compilation, as well as edit the start and end points.

“The FinePix Z30 incorporates two self-timer modes – Couple Timer and Group Timer. Working in conjunction with Face Detection Technology, the self-timer automatically activates after the camera has detected faces in a frame. Cleverly, the camera won’t capture the photo if one of the faces is out of frame.

“The Couple Timer mode will automatically release the shutter button as two faces come close together. It can be set at various distances, whether the subjects are standing side by side or cheek to cheek.

“The Group Timer Mode can detect up to four faces in a frame and automatically sets the timer to capture the shot, only firing when all faces are in frame.”

Mr Dole said for ease of use and convenience, the FinePix Z30 also offers Dual Shutter releases – one button for still image capture and one for movie record.

“There are also 13 Special Scene Modes including Fireworks, Beach and Snow, offering a one-touch setting for almost any situation.

“Other FinePix Z30 features include a 2.7-inch LCD screen, SD / SD-HC compatible slot and long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery,” he said.

Mr Dole said the FinePix Z30 is the complete package for the style conscious enthusiast who requires up-to-the-minute technology combined with fashion and flair.

The FUJIFILM FinePix Z30 has a recommended retail price of $299 including GST.

[Fujifilm]

The buttons. No fiddling with dials, switches or toggles, hoping you’re cranking the right one—just eight buttons in a clean, dual-row setup provide direct access to everything on the camera, from playback to its VGA video mode at a glance.

The waterproof-ness works to three metres.

Also, it’s small and bright and kind of reminds me of a Jolly Rancher, which, along with simplicity, is about all you can hope for in a camera that’s under $US200.

‘Life-Proof’ FinePix Z33WP Captures Treasured Moments Anytime, Anywhere, and in Any Conditions

Valhalla, N.Y., February 17, 2009 – Expanding the popular Z-series digital cameras for young-at-heart, trend-savvy consumers, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. delivers flexible functionality and form to active and hip users with the launch of the FinePix Z33WP digital camera. Perfect for budding photographers who want to experience life to the fullest, the FinePix Z33WP enables users to capture those precious moments, regardless of the conditions and share them easily with their extended network of friends and family members.

Life-Proof
The 10-Megapixel FinePix Z33WP is available in three striking colours – green, pink and black – and is ready for any adventure including underwater activity up to approximately 10 feet (3M)! A 2.7″, 230,000 dots resolution LCD screen – the largest of any Z-series camera yet – and Fujinon 3x Optical Zoom lens allows for a clearer view of those not-to-be-missed moments on the beach, on the ski slopes, hiking in the mountains or boating at the lake. It’s also perfect for everyday activities in the rain, the pool or any other place you might think twice about taking a conventional digital camera.

Intelligent Scene Recognition
Adding ease to outdoor navigation, the FinePix Z33WP is equipped with a new SR Auto (Automatic Scene Recognition) mode that enables the camera to intelligently recognise six types of scenes automatically. For each picture taken in this mode, the Z33WP will optimise the ideal exposure, focus, white balance and ISO for the scene to ensure the best quality picture is captured with ease. In addition, Fujifilm’s Picture Stabilisation is powered by high sensitivity for faster shutter and operational speeds to help reduce camera shake, keeping real life moments as true to form as possible.

Easy Sharing
The family-friendly Z33WP also features Fujifilm’s handy Blog Mode which allows for easier sharing with friends and family members. The Blog mode automatically resizes a photo to a standard 640×480 pixels (VGA) or 320×240 pixels (QVGA) image size and enables 12 in-camera editing features such as Zooming, Miniature effect, Illustration and Painting, cutting the need for extra time with home editing.

In addition to these innovations, the FinePix Z33WP is loaded with the following handy features:
• Face Detection Technology: Operating in tandem with automatic red-eye removal, the FinePix Z33WP identifies up to 10 human faces in a scene, and sets the correct focus and exposure, regardless of where subjects are located within the frame.
• Automatic Red Eye Removal accents the aforementioned features by lending an extra touch to that group shot. The Z33WP automatically checks for red eye and self-corrects it in each and every person in the photo, saving time on post-editing.
• Couple and Group Timer Modes: Working in conjunction with Face Detection technology detects two faces in ‘Couple Timer Mode’ and up to four faces in ‘Group Timer Mode’ in a frame.
• One Touch MOVIE Button: Capture VGA quality movie clips at 30 frames per second with sound to capture all of those once-in-a-lifetime moments.
• Battery Life: The long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery (up to 200 shots) allows for extended use without worrying if the camera is going to last for the duration of the trip.

“With the success of the FinePix Z20fd for the Gen Y crowd, it is only a natural progression for Fujifilm to provide active, technology-savvy families with the unparalleled style and function that everyone demands in the 21st century,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “Today’s users not only want to experience everything life has to offer, but they also want their camera to be able to experience and capture it with them.”

The FinePix Z33WP will debut in late March at a retail price of $199.95.

PMA is an annual show where we get to see tomorrow’s digital cameras—the ones that’ll be populating pockets and purses for the rest of the year. We’ll be here for the next couple of days.

[Fujifilm]

The big news is the fancy new Super CCD EXR sensor found in the F200EXR. It promises to deliver low-noise shots and great image quality in low light, along with better colours and a higher dynamic range. It looks to be a pretty hot point-and-shoot, so check the details in the presser below.

FUJIFLM DEBUTS SUPER CCD EXR TECHNOLOGY WITH FINEPIX F200EXR

Top-of-the-Line Professional Features in a Compact Digital Camera

Valhalla, N.Y., February 4, 2009 – Following the long line of award-winning F-series models, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc., today announced its latest and greatest, the FinePix F200EXR digital camera, introducing the world to Super CCD EXR technology. Combining the 12-MegaPixel, Super CCD EXR with a powerful Fujinon 5.0x wide angle optical zoom lens and a larger 3.0″ high-resolution LCD, the FinePix F200EXR is Fujifilm’s most advanced compact digital camera yet.

First announced in September 2008 on the tenth anniversary of Fujifilm’s FinePix cameras, Super CCD EXR is a revolutionary new sensor developed in the rigorous pursuit of high image quality.

“There is strong demand in the digital camera market to increase the number of pixels on a sensor, which, all too often, is used as a convenient yardstick for image quality,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “Consumers have realised there’s more to a good picture than just the number of MegaPixels, and with our Super CCD EXR sensor we prove that true image quality is about a combination of many factors like tone, hue, colour fidelity, dynamic range, sharpness, and resolution – all brought to life vividly in the FinePix F200EXR.”

As with previous award-winning F-series models such as the FinePix F10, F31fd, F50fd and F100fd, the F200EXR is a powerful, feature-packed compact digital camera aimed at consumers looking for the most sophisticated in feature-rich point and shoots.

The FinePix F200EXR offers 3 selectable modes in one sensor:

Fine Capture Mode (High Resolution), which deploys all twelve million pixels, and is designed to offer the finest detail of intricate subjects when light is full and even;

Pixel Fusion Mode (High Sensitivity and Low Noise), which caps two adjacent pixels together to produce six million large photodiodes, which are big enough to absorb light in the darkest of conditions, to produce low-light shots of extraordinary quality with minimal noise and grain; and

Dual Capture (Wide Dynamic Range), which captures different exposures with two sets of six million pixels, which, when combined, gives an excellent level of detail in highlights and low lights that would otherwise be lost.

In addition to the new Super CCD EXR sensor, the F200EXR offers the most advanced technologies available, including Dynamic Range Bracketing, Dual Image Stabilisation, Face Detection 3.0, and ISO settings of up to an unprecedented ISO 12800, allowing you to capture any shot, any place and at any time with the lowest noise signature to date.

EXR AUTO

With EXR AUTO, the F200EXR recognises the subject and scene, and automatically decides the optimum EXR shooting mode. With three options of Fine Capture Technology with High Resolution, Pixel Fusion Technology for High Sensitivity and Low Noise, and Dual Capture Technology for Wide Dynamic Range – that users can also select manually – the camera combines the best of EXR selectable sensor modes with SR Auto Automatic Scene Recognition.

New to the F200EXR are an extra-large 3.0″ LCD (the better to see all your great photos), HD Photo to capture still photos at 1920 x 1080, HD output (to view high image quality on your HDTV) and new film simulation modes (based on Fujifilm’s legendary Velvia, Provia and Soft lines), including Sepia and Black and White modes.

Wider Dynamic Range – Up to 800%

Dynamic Range, or the gradations of light that exist between bright and dark in any setting, can be easily detected by the human eye, but not by most cameras. Through a combination of advances in Fujifilm’s new Super CCD EXR and Real Photo Processor, this wide dynamic range dramatically broadens tonal capability and guarantees exceptional rendition of photos with both bright highlights and dark shadows. This expansion of sensitivity captures greater detail, and subtle nuances of brightness and tonality that bring the photo closer to what the human eye actually sees.

In addition to these advances, the FinePix F200EXR has a number of other impressive features:

• Super Intelligent Flash: The new “Super Intelligent Flash” is the flash control technology that lets you take flash-assisted macro shots without flash washout. Integrated in the AUTO mode, this next-generation flash system makes it easy to capture subjects and background in bright, clear and natural detail over the full flash range including ultra close-ups.
• Face Detection 3.0: Featuring automatic red eye removal, it can detect up to 10 human faces in a scene with super fast speed, automatically correcting focus, exposure, and white balance, regardless of where subjects are located within the frame.
• Dual Image Stabilization: Combines mechanical sensor shift image stabilisation with the effects produced with higher ISO.
• Continuous Shooting: Top 3 /Final 3 at 1.4 frames per second at full resolution and Top 12/ Final 5 frames per second at 3-MegaPixels.
• High Speed Playback: No waiting for high resolution images to load during playback. The FinePix F200EXR can display images at full resolution at 10 frames per second.
• Portrait Enhancer Mode: Mimicking a professional photo studio setting, by using Face Detection and preset camera settings, Portrait Enhancer minimizes fine lines and small skin blemishes for smooth, natural looking portraits.
• Dual Shot Mode: In this selectable mode, the FinePix F200EXR quickly shoots two images in rapid succession – one with the flash and one without – and saves both. This convenient function lets users perform a comparison at their convenience and select the most pleasing image.
• Special Scene: The FinePix F200EXR has 17 pre-programmed scenes, including a special underwater scene mode for use with a special underwater casing.
• White Balance (Underwater): Adjusts colour temperature for more beautiful blues; you are ready to dive into another world of photography.
• Micro Thumbnail: A playback feature that allows for viewing an index-style print on the LCD. The FinePix F200EXR will show up to 100 images in micro form, and the control buttons are used to select specific images.
• xD / SD / SD-HC Compatible slot: The FinePix F200 EXR features a “xD/SD Compatible slot” which accepts not only Fujifilm’s traditional xD-Picture Cards but also Secure Digital (SD) and SD-High Capacity/SD-HC cards too.

The FinePix F200EXR will debut in February 2009 at a retail price of $399.95.

For additional information or hi-res images, go to www.fujifilmusa.com/pma.

FUJFILM OFFERS ADVANCED FEATURES ON ENTRY-LEVEL A150 DIGITAL CAMERA

Slim, AA Battery Powered Digital Still Camera Shines with 10-MP, 3x Optical Zoom and 3.0″ LCD

Valhalla, N.Y., February 4, 2009 – FUJIFILM U.S.A. Inc. today announced the launch of the 10-MegaPixel A150 digital camera. Designed specifically for the digital camera buyer and consumers seeking an affordable, user-friendly upgrade to their current digital camera, the A150 encompasses all the necessary features essential to today’s consumers, including Face Detection technology, a 3.0x optical zoom lens and large 3.0″ LCD.

Following its advanced, entry-level predecessors, the A150 features a 3.0x optical zoom lens, with 230,000 dots resolution, that was developed specifically for the A-series by Fujinon. The A150 also offers Picture Stabilisation that chooses the correct light sensitivity and compatible shutter speed, producing the highest quality digital pictures without blur and noise.

Face Detect
ion Technology
The A150 also utilizes Fujifilm’s acclaimed Face Detection Technology that identifies and prioritizes up to 6 faces in a framed scene and then adjusts the focus and exposure accordingly to ensure the sharpness and clarity of human subjects in the picture, regardless of background. After the shot is captured, the A150 instantly checks each detected face for red eye, and if found, corrects it automatically in the camera, avoiding the process of editing later.

Other noteworthy features found on the A150 include:
• Movie Mode: Captures movies with sound at 30 frames per second.
• New Design and Slim Body: Very slim 21.7mm body and sleek casing allows for portability and photography on-the-go.
• Internal Memory: When the SD memory card (sold separately) is filled with images, users have extra internal storage space approx. 20MB on each camera to capture additional pictures.
• AA Battery: Using AA batteries is often most convenient for on-the-go digital camera users as it eliminates the need to charge battery packs, allowing for lots of picture-taking and the ease of battery replacement.

“We wanted to provide consumers with an affordable, easy to use digital camera that still offered a competitive feature set,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “The new A150 combines this in a highly portable form factor making it easier than ever to ensure that you never miss a shot and the convenience of AA battery power.”

The A150 will debut in February 2009 with a retail price of $129.95.

For additional information or hi-res images, go to www.fujifilmusa.com/pma.

The stereoscopic camera features two optical lenses, each with its own CCD, and a processor that syncs the two images to create a 3D image. On top of that, the screen on the camera is capable of showing 3D images without the stupid glasses, while a 3D printing solution will also be offered that allows you to view printed images in 3D from multiple angles.

And if the idea of still 3D images des nothing for you, the FinePix Real 3D also lets you record 3D video. Of course, there’s no word on pricing or when it will be released yet, but we’ll keep you posted when we hear more from Fujifilm.

[Giz3D]

PHOTOKINA 2008, COLOGNE, GERMANY, September 23, 2008 –FUJIFILM Corporation, on the anniversary of 10 years of FinePix cameras, has developed “Super CCD EXR,” a revolutionary new sensor developed in the rigorous pursuit of high image quality.

There is strong demand in the digital camera market to increase the number of pixels on a sensor, which, all too often, is used as a convenient yardstick for image quality. While introducing excellent 12-megapixel cameras such as the FinePix F50fd and the FinePix F100fd, Fujifilm has had great success in increasing pixel density while at the same time controlling noise and optimizing sensitivity. Fujifilm’s campaign to improve overall image quality, while at the same time increasing sensor resolution, has been
coordinated under the program of ‘Real Photo Technology.’

‘Real Photo Technology’ is underpinned by the belief that experienced photographers, many brought up using famous reversal films like FUJICHROME Velvia or PROVIA, understand that true image quality is about a combination of many factors like tone, hue, colour fidelity, dynamic range, sharpness, and resolution. It is well known that increasing the pixel count on a sensor actually makes it more difficult to achieve high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. As the photodiode gets smaller, the problems of increased noise, blooming and clipping increase.

It is widely believed that ‘high resolution’ and ‘high sensitivity’ are irreconcilable opposites, and impossible to optimise on the same sensor, particularly for compact cameras, where sensors are necessarily smaller. High quality pictures are dependent on the subject. Excellent low light pictures need high sensitivity; high contrast pictures need wide dynamic range, while fine details, like the leaves of a tree or strands of a model’s hair, depend on high resolution. Fujifilm engineers set about the task of building a Flexible sensor to match the demands of the photographer. The end-goal is to produce a sensor that works as close to that of the human eye as possible. Whatever nuance of colour or sensitivity of tone that makes the scene so special to the photographer should be the continual challenge of the
sensor engineer. The EXR sensor is essentially a switchable sensor; changing its complex electronic behaviour to suit the subject, changing its characteristics as the photographer demands, and producing the very best picture without making compromises.

“Super CCD EXR” is the latest new generation of Super CCD to be produced by Fujifilm. Over the years, Fujifilm has excelled in high resolution sensors through ‘HR’ technology (F50fd, F100fd) and high sensitivity/wide dynamic range through ‘SR’ sensors (S3 Pro, S5 Pro). The direction in the future will be to combine HR and SR technology together to produce one universal sensor suitable for all high quality
photography.

The Technology of Super CCD EXR
Super CCD EXR offers three main changes from previous Fujifilm sensors:
1. A new arrangement of the mosaic colour filter
2. A new method of pixel binning
3. A complete revision of the electronic charge control

1. EXR: ‘Pixel Fusion Technology’ for High Sensitivity and Low Noise
Boosting sensitivity by increasing gain causes the generation of random increased noise, and conventional efforts to control this noise have resulted in blurred images and loss of resolution. On the other hand, a low-noise signal can be obtained by pixel binning. However, the conventional approach to binning (along the horizontal and vertical axis) generates false colours because of the separation of pixels of the same colour. Because it is necessary to suppress this phenomenon, the result is a significant drop in sharpness.

EXR changes the colour filter arrangement. Two side-by-side, same-coloured pixels are taken together as a single pixel. With this design, the area of imaging elements is doubled, the sensitivity is twice the normal level, and ‘dark noise’ is extremely small. Therefore it is possible to create a high sensitivity image with little noise, instead of increasing the gain from a single pixel and increasing the noise.

Another problem with traditional pixel binning is the distance between same-coloured pixels. Since the pixels are combined vertically or horizontally, the distance between combined same-colour pixels is large, resulting in the generation of false colours. Boasting a new technology called Close Incline Pixel Coupling, the new Super CCD EXR can prevent the generation of false colours by mixing two adjoining pixels as one, and managing to achieve both low noise and excellent sharpness.

2. EXR: ‘Dual Capture Technology’ for Wide Dynamic Range
Super CCD EXR uses flexible and high-precision exposure control to simultaneously capture two images of the same scene: one taken at high sensitivity and the other at low sensitivity. It then merges the two images to generate a photo that has excellent depth and range.

Previously, Fujifilm used two different methods to improve dynamic range. The first was Super CCD SR. Through the adoption of a “double pixel structure” based on silver halide film, which comprises an “S pixel” with a large area and high sensitivity and an “R pixel” with a small area, a dynamic range four times that of conventional sensors was achieved. The second was based on Super CCD HR, where the gradation of shadows was gradually adjusted while raising the sensitivity of signal processing, and where highlights were softened to delineate an optimal curve. Similar to Super CCD SR, the new EXR sensor uses Dual Exposure Control to impart two differing sensitivities by controlling the light exposure time (the time in which charge accumulates). Unlike SR, the imaging elements are the same (large) size, which means the potential for widened dynamic range is even greater, and facilitates a greater spectrum of graduated
expression.

3. EXR: ‘Fine Capture Technology’ for High Resolution
The distinctive structure of the new Super CCD EXR fully exploits all the pixels in the layer beneath the new colour filter matrix and takes advantage of the optimised signal processing of the new RP processor to create an image with the highest possible resolution quality. Even though the sensor has been designed for ‘Dual Capture’ for Wide Dynamic Range and ‘Pixel Fusion’ for Low Noise, it actually performs as well as previous 12-megapixel Super CCD sensors due to the new filter and photodiode design.

When light is full and even, and when fine detail is required, EXR can deliver exquisite detailed expression for landscape or architectural photography, and render the finest details of clothes, hair or jewelry in portrait photography.

EXR: The Future
Fujifilm is determined to use decades of imaging know-how gained through the development of film to push the boundaries of what is possible to achieve with an imaging sensor. The market for digital cameras is only around a decade old, and Fujifilm believes that it is possible to follow the holy grail of ‘absolute image quality’ in the domain of electronic imaging, just as it did with conventional imaging.
With EXR, Fujifilm can choose one engineering direction, rather than developing separate sensors for high sensitivity and high resolution. Fujifilm looks forward with excitement to introducing this sensor into its range of high quality cameras, and expects enthusiasts to see a quantum leap in image quality from anything they have seen before.