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Jan. 23, 2008 - Fujifilm today adds the 10-megapixel FinePix S8100*fd* to its line of ultra-zooms. With the exception of resolution, the S8100*fd* is very similar to its predecessor, the 8-megapixel S8000*fd*, released in July 2007. The highlighting feature of the S8100*fd* is its 18x optical zoom lens. It will retail for $399 when it is available in March.
Last year, Fujifilm was one of several manufacturers to offer a compact with an 18x optical zoom lens. At the time, it was the longest lens available on a non-SLR. Earlier this week, Olympus lengthened the benchmark to 20x (26-520mm 35mm equivalent) with the SP-570 UZ, which retails for $499.99; $100 more than the new Fujifilm model.
"This is a work-horse camera for photographers who want the convenience of an SLR-like model, a powerful zoom, high-speed continuous shooting and the ease of use that is often relegated to more compact model," said David Troy, senior product manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. "The bonus that comes with the S8100*fd* is the set of features made possible by Fujifilm’s advances in Face Detection and Dual Image Stabilization technology."
Like its predecessor, the S8100*fd* uses Dual Image Stabilization, combining sensor-shift and digital image stabilization, to combat blur caused by camera shake. The new Continuous Shooting Mode fires off 33 3-megapixel frames at 13.5 frames per second (fps) or 5-megapixel images at 6.8 fps.
The S8100*fd* features Fuji’s face detection, capable of detecting up to 10 faces in a scene. Red-eye removal works in conjunction with face detection to automatically remove red eyes post capture.
Fujifilm’s iFlash also makes appearance in this model. According to Fujifilm, iFlash, or Intelligent Flash, automatically adjusts its output so it doesn’t overpower a scene.
The S8100*fd* has the same basic components as its predecessor: an 18x Fujinon optical zoom lens (27-486mm 35mm equivalent), 2.5-inch, 230,000-pixel LCD, and 0.24-inch electronic viewfinder with a 60 fps refresh rate.
The camera offers full manual control for advanced users and 13 beginner-friendly Scene modes. It accepts AA batteries, which are considered the most convenient power source; xD-Picture Cards, as well as SD and SDHC cards; and has 58 MB of internal memory.