The FinePix S2000HD from Fujifilm comes with a 10-MegaPixel 1/2.3" CCD, a powerful 15x wide-angle optical zoom (27.6mm-414mm equivalent) and an extra large 2.7" wide-view LCD. This makes the new camera a serious contender for those who want a camera with enough options for successful photography in a wide variety of conditions, without the commitment a DSLR demands.
The key attribute of the new FinePix S2000HD is in its video capabilities, rather than its main still image ability. While limited video is a common feature of many compact digital cameras, the S2000HD can record up to 15 minutes of video in high definition widescreen format. This includes sound, although it is only mono, not stereo or better.
The FinePix S2000HD records in HD quality 1280x720pixels, in a true widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio. The S2000HD uses a new signal processor to convert still images and movies in-camera into a HDTV signal output compatible with 1080i (interlaced) for still and 720p (progressive) for movies giving photographers the full benefits of their home theater system for sharing all their special moments. An HDTV set is needed to display high-resolution images at their best, but images captured in the 4:3 aspect ratio of regular digital cameras become distorted when forced into the 16:9 ratio of an HDTV monitor. The FinePix S2000HD avoids this problem by capturing images in a 16:9 format, enabling distortion-free, full screen playback.
“With the rapidly increasing adoption of HDTV, consumers have changed how they use their digital photographs and movies. Fujifilm's superior image quality of the S2000HD enables the user to capture still images and shoot video in true HD and realize the benefit of superior image quality with their home entertainment system,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc.
“With the FinePix S2000HD, users are not only getting an affordable, long zoom digital camera with a powerful feature set but also the ability to realize the full benefits of their home theater system.”
In its main guise as a digital still camera the FinePix S2000HD offers a number of features for photographers.
Big Zoom Lens
The FinePix S2000HD is equipped with a 15x wide-angle optical zoom offering a range of focal lengths from 27.6mm-414mm in 35 mm equivalent terms. This gives great wide angle coverage for group or landscapes through to the long end for close ups of wildlife or sports.
Dual Image Stabilization
This is a marriage of mechanical sensor shift stabilization, to combat camera shake when the photographing hand held, as is normal for this class of camera. Fujifilm's Picture Stabilization Technology uses fast shutter speeds and ISO levels of up to ISO1600 at full resolution, or ISO6400 at a reduced 5MP resolution from the FinePix S2000HD’s normal 10MP resolution. This helps reduce blur and provides an increase in clarity and sharpness in low light conditions.
Face Detection with Automatic Red Eye Removal
Face Detection identifies up to 10 faces in the scene and adjusts the focus and exposure. After the shot each detected face is instantly checked for red eye; if it is found, it is corrected automatically.
Pre-programmed Scene Modes
The FinePix S2000HD features 13 pre-programmed scene modes, plus 11 shooting modes on the mode dial, offering one-touch setting for most common situations, including: Portrait, Sport, Landscape and Sunset.
Manual Photographic Control
Photo enthusiasts and advanced photographers have the option of taking more control of their pictures with manual adjustment options for various camera settings including resolution, ISO, aperture, shutter speed and more.
The FinePix S2000HD will debut in September 2008 at a retail price of $299.95.
Blink Media works have produced this short video clip on the Finepix S2000HD
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