HS30EXR

Fujifilm HS30EXR has announced the new FinePix HS30EXR; a 30x optical zoom bridge camera which is set to replace the HS20EXR. What Digital Camera is on hand at the Consumer Electronics Show 2012, where we've been able to get hold of a working sample. The HS30EXRfeatures a host of key improvements on what was already a popular superzoom, so it looks set to prove popular.First up there's the improved 16-megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor which, Fujifilm claims, will deliver 30% less digital noise at higher ISO settings, thus displaying smoother tones and better low light images. HS30EXR It's not something we've been able to thoroughly test at the show, however, as the model isn't a final product and Fuji wouldn't allow us to take sample images away for publication.

What is a big improvement, and one that immediately stands out, however, is the HS30EXR's brand new electronic viewfinder (EVF). It's an all-new 0.26-inch, 920k-dot version that ups the ante compared to the HS20EXR's 0.20-inch, 200k-dot model. HS30EXR The viewing angle is an improvement and the increase in physical size make for a better experience. It's still fairly small though, but this is a step in the right direction and one of the very things we were hoping that Fujifilm would address in the series. Although the HS30 may not quite match up to the X-S1's impressive 1.44m-dot viewfinder, it's other small improvements such as an increased 22 degrees viewing angle that help make the experience all the better.

The HS30EXR keeps the same 3in, 460k-dot LCD screen as found on the HS20EXR although it now features a ‘Sunny Day' mode for improved visibility in difficult conditions. This is the same mode as per the X-S1, but it wasn't possible to test this to a high degree in the artificial light on the Fujifilm stand.

Several new elements of functionality with a view towards improved usability have also been added. These include a new Intelligent Digital Zoom function, the option to manually focus during movie recording and a customisable function (Fn) key, as well as an electronic level gauge.
HS30EXR
There's one other big change - a new rechargeable li-ion battery replaces the previous generation of AA batteries and we think this is a big step forward. It makes the camera seem like a far more serious snapper. Fuji claims this will up the capacity from 350 shots to 600 shots per charge. None too bad.

Fans of the HS20EXR's 30x optical zoom with be pleased to know that the optics remain unchanged, with the 24-720mm focal range in tact, while Raw and 1080p HD video capture also remain unaltered.

All in all the HS30EXR isn't too different compared to the HS20EXR, but the all important adjustment of viewfinder and battery are big steps forward.

Price and availability have yet to be announced, so stay tuned for more information as and when we get it as well as a full What Digital Camera HS30EXR review.
Fujifilm is delighted to announce the launch of the FinePix HS30EXR and FinePix HS25EXR, the latest in a long line of market-leading bridge cameras. Loved by photo enthusiasts all over the world, the HS range has become synonymous with versatility and optical quality among those photographers who don't want the lens-changing capability of a DSLR, but still want total control over their images.

These HS-series have a number of key specification improvements over the HS20EXR it replaces. The Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) of FinePix HS30EXR is improved. In addition, the FinePix HS30EXR has a switch in power supply to a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery, which is capable of delivering up to 600 pictures per charge. These are just some of the changes that will ensure the HS30EXR keeps the Fujifilm name at the forefront of the bridge camera market in 2012.

HS30EXR
New sensor, even better pictures

When it comes to versatility, Fujifilm's EXR CMOS sensor is second to none. Its unique design allows it to change its characteristics according to the lighting conditions; ensuring users always get the very best results. The HS30EXR and FinePix HS25EXR feature the improved EXR CMOS sensor, which gives the user even more versatility, most notably in low light conditions. By redesigning the shape of the photo diodes used in the EXR CMOS sensor, the images display 30% less digital noise at higher ISO settings, which results in smoother tones and better low light images. The EXR CMOS sensor offers three different user-selectable options. High Resolution (HR) delivers the best results in bright lighting conditions or when fine detail in an image is of paramount importance. Wide Dynamic Range (DR) Priority is ideal for capturing images in high contrast light situations, when the user wants detail in both shadow and highlight areas, while High Sensitivity and Low Noise (SN) Priority is the one to choose in low-light. All of these modes can be selected, or be left to these HS-series to choose through the EXR AUTO function.

Never miss a shot

Composing images on these HS-series can be done using either the 3-inch LCD or the electronic viewfinder (EVF), both of which have been substantially improved over the HS20EXR. The LCD uses 460,000 dots to display menus and images with great clarity and now benefits from a Monitor Sunlight mode that ensures it's easy to view, even in direct sunlight. Meanwhile, the FinePix HS30EXR has large EVF. It is now larger at 0.26-inches and features 920,000 dots, compared to only 200,000 dots on the HS20EXR, making for a far clearer viewing image. Viewing comfort has also been boosted thanks to a 22 degree viewing angle (16 degrees on the HS20EXR), plus the whole picture taking experience has been improved through a substantial reduction in starting up period compared to the HS20EXR. The starting up period is now just around a half compared with that of HS20EXR. Writing Period after continuous shooting have been dramatically cut to approximately 2 seconds (20 seconds on the HS20EXR).

A lens for every occasion

Sitting at the heart of these HS-series is a Fujinon 30x optical zoom lens offering a huge focal range from 24 - 720 mm (equivalent to a 35 mm camera). This enables photographers to tackle almost any type of subject matter from sweeping landscapes to fine details on wild animals. But there may be occasions when users require even more telephoto power to pull in really distant details and, thanks to the Intelligent Digital Zoom function, they can. This doubles the focal range, delivering a 60x zoom with a maximum telephoto setting of 1440 mm. What's more, the Intelligent Digital Zoom function doesn't suffer from the problems typically associated with digital zoom capabilities. This is achieved through intelligent image processing where these HS-series boosts sharpness in selected areas without increasing digital noise.

Movie making and picture taking made easier

Like the HS20EXR, these HS-series also captures 1080p Full HD movie at 30 frames per second, but this hasn't stopped Fujifilm's designers making some key improvements to ensure movie capture is even easier. Now, it's possible to manually focus during movie shooting for more creative focusing effects, while those preferring to auto focus will benefit in reduction in focus hunting, so they can keep up with the action. When it comes to still images, the technologies used for Face Detection and Tracking AF have been combined to create face tracking AF. Ideal for capturing all the sporting action and active children, this unique feature allows users to follow the action, ensuring that the faces of friends and loved ones are kept sharp and perfectly exposed.

Finally, the FinePix HS30EXR has also been improved with the addition of a customizable Function (Fn) key on the rear of it. This enables fast access to regularly used functions without needing to go into the full menu each time.