FUJIFILM Launches Super CCD EXR, New Cameras

Yesterday, Nikon announced eight new point and shoot cameras. Today, FUJIFILM is entering the spotlight with three new models that should be available just before the big PMA (Photo Marketing Association International) show in early March. Here’s a look at the new cameras and the features they offer.

FinePix F200EXR

The first new model, the FinePix F200EXR, introduces the Super CCD EXR sensor, which was developed to produce higher image quality instead of focusing on an increase in megapixels as other manufacturers have done in the past.  “Consumers have realized 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, color fidelity, dynamic range, sharpness, and resolution – all brought to life vividly in the FinePix F200EXR,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM.

In addition to the Super CCD EXR technology, the F200EXR features a 12MP sensor, a Fujinon 5.0x wide angle optical zoom lens, and a 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD. This camera offers three selectable modes: Fine Capture Mode, Pixel Fusion Mode, and Dual Capture. Fine Capture Mode utilizes all twelve million pixels to capture the finest detail of intricate subjects. Pixel Fusion Mode caps two adjacent pixels together to produce six million large photodiodes. This mode is designed for low-light shooting conditions and produces quality shots without a lot of grain or noise. As you might expect from its name, Dual Capture mode records different exposures with two sets of six million pixels. When combined, these exposures give good highlights and low light detail that would otherwise be lost.

With EXR AUTO, the F200EXR can recognize the scene and choose the optimum EXR shooting mode to match. The FinePix F200EXR also incorporates Super Intelligent Flash technology, Face Detection 3.0, Dual Image Stabilization, continuous shooting up to 5 frames per second at 3 megapixels, Dual Shot Mode, and more. Look for the FinePix F200EXR sometime this month for $399.95.

FUJIFILM A150 & A100

FUJIFILM also launched the 10MP A150. This affordable camera is powered by AA batteries and encompasses many popular features, including Face Detection technology, a large 3-inch LCD, 3x optical zoom, and Picture Stabilization. The A150’s Face Detection Technology can identify up to six faces within a frame and will automatically detect and fix red eye after a shot is captured. The A150 can capture movies with sound at 30 frames per second. The A150 will make its debut this month with a retail price of $129.95.

The A100 also has a 10MP sensor and up to ISO 1600 for low light shooting conditions. Other A100 features include Face Detection, Picture Stabilization, Fujinon 3x zoom capabilities. At 2.7-inches, the A100 has a slightly smaller screen than the A150. FUJIFILM claims the A100 has the world’s slimmest body among digital cameras operating on AA type alkaline batteries as of January 2009. The A100 should be available in the coming weeks. Pricing will be available closer to the launch date.