So what do you get for your money? 9 megapixels, a 10.7x (28-300mm) lens and a 2-inch LCD display that can flip out for shooting at awkward angles, basically.

At first glance and to the uninitiated the camera will come across as a fully fledged DSLR, it’s only when you go to remove that lens, or turn on the rear display you’ll realise that it’s not.

Design-wise and the black casing is comfortable to hold in your hand and like a traditional SLR model zoom is controlled via the lens ring rather than a T and W button.

When it comes to taking pictures start-up time is very quick (0.8 seconds). The same can be said of the camera’s focusing abilities, and the only complaint we have with the lens is its not so wide 28mm starting point. The pay-off of course is that you have a 300mm option at the other end - plenty enough to get you into the action (see images), but if you’re planning on shooting friends at parties or little Emily or Johnny as they grow up this might not be the best option.

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Fujifilm has announced a special new version of their S3 Pro DSLR today - the Fujifilm Finepix S3 Pro UVIR.This is a camera able to take images in the Ultra Violet and InfraRed range and is aimed at the scientific and medical communities as well as law enforcement.

The Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro UVIR is a specialized version of Fuji’s S3 Pro digital SLR. The S3 Pro UVIR is capable of taking photographs in the Ultra Violet and InfraRed parts of the light spectrum. This feature is mainly used for uncovering otherwise invisible evidence such as gun shot residue, blood stains and burned writing. Although not initially intended for use in general photography, the FinePix S3 Pro UVIR could be used by photo artists for special effects infrared imagery.

Features
• UV and IR Sensitive CCD
• 12.3 megapixel Super CCD SR
• Unique, Professional Body
• Compatible with Nikon F-mount Lens
• D-TTL Exposure Metering System
• Dual Shutter Release Buttons
• Dual Media Slots
• High Resolution LCD
• Dual Digital Interface
• Efficient Power Usage
• Built-in PC Sync Outlet
• USB Direct Print (PictBridge)
• Recommended Filters for Specialty Photo Applications

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The Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro combines the mechanics of Nikon’s D200 with a refined version of Fujjifilm’s extended dynamic range sensor and image processing system from its FinePix S3 Pro. The $1999 S5 Pro is still 6.1 megapixels and slow as molasses when it comes to processing and saving its huge image files, but it shares the D200’s excellent mechanics, autofocus, exposure system, wireless flash compatibility, durability and form factor. In short, expecting anything better out of the FinePix S3 successor would be a pipe drea. The wedding and portrait photographers who were enthusiastic about the S3 have more to like about the S5.

Features:

* Image processing and quality. Real Photo Technology Pro, which combines the Super CCD SR Pro and the RP (Real Photo) Processor Pro, allows for greater dynamic range with smoother tonality from highlight to shadow
* The improved Super CCD SR Pro features an optimised low-pass filter to reduce noise and minimise moiré
* The newly developed RP Processor Pro features two cycles of noise reduction which enables photographers to take images at even higher sensitivities (ISO 100 to ISO 3200) with visibly reduced noise
* Greater flexibility to control colour and dynamic range. For even greater creative control over the FinePix S5 Pro’s dynamic range, photographers can now choose from up to six preset ranges between 100% and 400% For improved reproduction

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Fujifilm’s F-series of digital cameras showcases the manufacturer’s newest technology, beginning with the F10’s speed and nearly noise-free pictures to the most recent addition of face detection and communication technology. The Fujifilm FinePix F31fd swipes many of the F30’s great characteristics and adds in a few more perks. The face detection is the headlining feature, of course, with the “fd” making an appearance in the model name. The technology was first introduced in the summer on the Fujifilm S6000fd, but the F31fd is the first point-and-shoot digital camera to include it. Another trendy addition is the infrared communication to compatible IrSimple devices including other F31fd digital cameras. With a 6th generation 6.3-megapixel Super CCD and Real Photo processor II, the Fujifilm FinePix F31fd offers ISO sensitivity up to 3200 for better pictures in low light, semi-manual functionality, and amazing battery life for a

Fujifilm FinePix F31fd - Features
• Face Detection Technology built-in to the camera’s processor
• Real Photo Processor II and new Super CCD HR VI
• ISO 3200 sensitivity at full resolution
• 6.3 million pixels
• 3.0x optical zoom
• Long-life battery (up to 580 shots)
• IR Communication (IR simple)
• VGA movie capture of 30 frames per second with sound
• PictBridge compatible for direct printing without a PC
• Quick response times (0.01 second shutter lag and 1.5 second start-up)
• World’s fastest Face Detection technology

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Digital Trends has a review of the Fujifilm FinePix F31fd and writes, “The rear of the F31fd is dominated by a 2.5-inch screen rated a good 230K pixels. Along with the wide/tele toggle switch, four buttons surround the four-way controller with OK button. One is for playback, another adjusts the display, the third “F,” gives access to ISO (up to 3200), resolution and FinePix Color that lets you adjust color levels (standard, chrome or B&W). There’s a nice option for setting ISO. Although it does hit 3200, you can determine how high you want it to go in Auto–400, 800 or 1600. This is a well thought-out option since images shot at 3200 have tons of digital noise. The last button is Face Detection on/off.”

Tags: Digital Cameras Reviews, Digital Camera Tips