Fujifilm has fielded the Fujifilm X-S1 superzoom, what some are calling a “bridge” camera that falls in between point-and-shoot and full size DSLRs.
While the Fujifilm X-S1 is a fixed-lens camera, it sports an impressive 26x zoom range with a lens that has a 35mm equivalent of 24mm to an impressive 624mm. With a range like that how often would you really miss having interchangeable lenses? On top of that Fujifilm has layered Intelligent Digital Zoom which takes the telephoto end out to an eye-popping 1248mm (35mm equivalent).
If the long range doesn’t lure you in, you can get in as close as 1cm by selecting Super Macro Mode for monster close up images.
Inside the X-S1 packs a 2/3 in 12-megapixel EXR CMOS sensor, the same one in the X10, which yields much better low light performance. The EXR CMOS technology allows the user to switch between automatic modes such as High Resolution, Wide Dynamic Range, and High Sensitivity with the flick of a button and Fujifilm claims a shutter lag of just 0.01 sec in high speed continuous shooting mode.
For video the X-S1 offers full 1920×1080 video, with stereo sound, at 30 fps.
On the back the X-S1 has a tiltable 3 inch LCD screen with a special daylight mode to make it easier to see during the day, a feature I wish Canon would emulate.
The Fujifilm X-S1 offers an impressive array of automatic shooting modes along with a full range of manual controls.
Priced at just under $1,200, the Fujifilm X-S1 is an ambitious offering, giving consumers the option of paying a little more for full DSLR functionality without the DSLR weight and need to carry separate lens.
It’s for sure, with the zoom capability, that parents on the sidelines of their kid’s soccer game will find this camera can put them right in the action all the way from the bleachers. It should also appeal to weekend nature photographers and bird watchers.
Compare to:
Fujifilm X-S1 vs Canon SX20 IS
Fujifilm X-S1 vs Nikon Coolpix P100