The FinePix S200EXR, a worthy successor to the award-winning FinePix S100FS. Aimed at high-end enthusiasts looking for excellent picture quality without the expense of a DSLR system, the FinePix S200EXR combines the pin-sharp long-range optically stabilized 14.3x manual zoom lens so popular in the FinePix S100FS with the latest 1/1.6″ 12 megapixel Super CCD EXR sensor, which has won a string of awards since its introduction in the FinePix F200EXR.
The S200EXR is intended to be more than that however, and is being pitched as a simpler alternative to interchangeable- lens DSLR cameras.Users of the FinePix S200EXR will find their results equal or superior to DSLRs, principally due to revolutionary design of the EXR sensor.The EXR sensor on the FinePix S200EXR was built to perfectly match the optical qualities of the 14.3x 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 behavior to suit the subject, changing its characteristics as the photographer demands, and producing the very best picture without making compromises.
A new arrangement of the color filter mosaic provides more image data than conventional arrays. Combined with new 3-way Capture Technology, the result is a single EXR sensor that can operate in three modes: High Resolution (HR), Wide Dynamic Range (DR), or High Sensitivity and Low Noise (SN).
The EXR Processor and the Super CCD EXR sensor work closely together to guarantee exceptional image quality. In the latest models including the FinePix S200EXR, newly researched Multi Frame Technology has been added, and along with it Pro Focus Mode and Pro Lowlight Mode.
Pro Focus Mode works by taking a burst of 2 or 3 frames, and analysing the distance between the subject and the background. The camera then is able to take the main subject and crisply matt it against a defocused foreground and background. Perfect for portrait or nature photography, Pro Focus Mode should be used when professional results are desired, with minimal adjustment to the camera, and without the need to edit your photos afterwards on a PC. The results from the FinePix S200EXR will look as good as those from a DSLR, or better!
Pro Lowlight Mode should be used when you are trying to avoid noisy low light shots. With conventional camera models, it is possible to achieve relatively blur-free low light shots using high ISO and CCD shift (or optical image) stabilization. But this comes at a cost, as the ISO 1600 setting will invariably produce distracting and ugly noise. Once switched to Pro Lowlight Mode, the camera will take burst of 4 high sensitivity images using Pixel Fusion Technology in quick succession. It will then deploy Multi Frame Technology to overlap the 4 images to create one, single image with extremely low noise.
The massive 14.3x 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 mechanical zoom offers image framing with fingertip precision as well as offering a user experience that closely matches the use of a high-end DSLR.
The FinePix S200EXR will be available from August 25, 2009, with pricing announced nearer to the date of the launch (should be around RM2,500.00?).
