Product Description

The FinePix S9100 features a 10.7x Fujinon optical zoom lens, nine MegaPixel Fujifilm Super CCD sensor and ISO 80-1600 capabilities. The FinePix S9100 is aimed at photo enthusiasts who will benefit from its impressive zoom range, functionality, high light sensitivities and overall image quality.The camera's high sensitivity range, made possible by Fujifilm's Real Photo Technology, enables FinePix S9100 users to capture images using natural light in a wide variety of lighting conditions. In addition, Fujifilm's Picture Stabilization technology uses the heightened sensitivity of the FinePix S9100 and high-speed shutter settings to reduce blur caused by camera shake and subject movement. This easy-to-access feature is selectable on the mode dial and allows the FinePix S9100 to choose the correct light sensitivity and best-matching shutter speed automatically for the highest quality digital pictures.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #36276 in Camera & Photo
• Brand: Fuji
• Model: 15652406
• Released on: 2006-10-31
• Original language: English
• Dimensions: 7.00" h x 7.00" w x 9.00" l, 1.43 pounds
• Display size: 2

Features

• 9-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 17 x 23-inch prints
• 10.7x wide-angle zoom; 2.0-inch LCD display
• Intelligent Flash system balances flash power output
• Bundled with Hyper Utility Software HS-V2 version 3
• Powered by 4 AA-size batteries; stores images on xD-Picture Cards and Compact Flash/Microdrives

From the Manufacturer
The FinePix S9100 is a replacement to the critically acclaimed FinePix S9500, and it's the new flagship in Fujifilm's range of 'prosumer' digital cameras. The new model features carefully considered modifications designed to improve image quality as well as making it easier to use and better performing in low light. Refinements include increased image sharpness, a more generous LCD screen, faster autofocus in low light, and improvements to the camera's flash capability. These features combine with existing Fujifilm technologies to result in user-friendliness more usually associated with compact digital cameras, plus performance to challenge entry-level digital SLRs.

An incredibly versatile camera designed for serious hobbyist and enthusiast photographers, the 9-megapixel FinePix S9100 features Fujifilm's successful Super CCD HR sensor and Real Photo Processor II, delivering IS0 1600 performance and enabling capture of crisp and clear images even in low-light conditions.

Fujinon 10.7x optical zoom lens
The camera's 10.7x (28-300mm 35mm equivalent) zoom lens incorporates aspherical elements that result in a sharper image. The aspherical elements in the lens ensure that the path of light is as precise as possible, which in turn minimizes distortion and aberrations. The lens is easily controlled via a manual zoom ring to give pinpoint accuracy when composing images. Furthermore, its fixed housing ensures that users do not have to contend with specks of dust or dirt collecting on the sensor. This can compromise image quality and is a drawback often associated with conventional digital SLRs.

Improved image quality and autofocus
Image quality in the FinePix S9100 has been enhanced through improvements to its processing algorithms, which result in improved image sharpness and resolution. Composition of photographs is made easier with an increased-size two-inch tilting LCD monitor, providing even clearer, more flexible shooting at awkward high or low angles. A higher resolution of 230,000-pixels gives greater screen clarity.

Fujifilm continually strives to achieve better performance in low light. In these conditions, the FinePix S9100 has an autofocus response time that is up to 40% quicker than its predecessor. In addition to the camera's 0.01-second shutter lag and 0.8-second start-up time, this means that images can be composed and captured almost instantaneously. Combined with Fujifilm's acclaimed high ISO performance, which combats image blur caused by subject movement as well as camera shake, the FinePix S9100's responsiveness makes it an ideal tool for enthusiast photographers looking to photograph fast-paced subjects such as those at sporting events or in the wild.

Intelligent Flash system
In another advance on its predecessor, the FinePix S9100 features Fujifilm's Intelligent Flash system, which delivers balanced flash power output. Historically, using flash at night has resulted in unsatisfying backgrounds, be it the black, underexposed appearance of conventional flash or the blurred 'swirl' of slow-sync flash. By comparison, Intelligent Flash means that images captured in low light have not only a blur-free well-exposed background but also natural-looking foreground illumination, free from the stark brightness that can be a by-product of flash photography.

Software and optional accessories
Enthusiast photographers will appreciate the Hyper Utility Software HS-V2 version 3 that is bundled as standard for the first time with the FinePix S9100. This software gives full functionality in RAW file conversion, which enables the photographer to explore the control and flexibility enjoyed when working with a 'lossless' file format.

The FinePix S9100's optional Wide Conversion Lens WL-FXS6 expands the camera's wide-angle capability without compromising image quality. It allows the extreme angles of view normally only available with changeable lenses on an SLR camera. Also available is an optional premium leather case. (These accessories are not included; they must be purchased separately.)

FinePix S9100 features at a glance:

• Super CCD HR sensor delivering nine million effective pixels
• Real Photo Processor II reduces noise and delivers enhanced color reproduction
• New Fujinon 10.7x (28-300mm) fixed optical zoom lens with manual twist-barrel control
• Sensitivity setting of ISO 1600 at full resolution for low-light photography with reduced noise
• Low sensitivity of ISO 80 for ultra-high quality photography
• Ultra-fast response times (0.01-second shutter lag and 0.8-second start-up)
• Improved autofocus response time in low-light conditions
• Improved image processing algorithms resulting in increased image sharpness and resolution
• Intelligent Flash system
• 2.0-inch (230,000 pixel) tilting LCD screen for easy high and low angle shooting
• Hyper Utility Software HS-V2 version 3 for RAW format shooting
• Real-time histogram to assist exposure settings before shooting
• Highlight Warning feature for displaying highlight areas in playback
• TV-quality VGA movie recording of 30 frames per second with sound
• Closed-unit design to eliminate dust accumulation on the CCD
• Hotshoe and PC sync terminal
• Both xD-Picture Card and Compact Flash/Microdrive compatible
• PictBridge compatible for direct printing without a PC

What's in the Box:
FujiFilm FinePix S9100, shoulder strap, USB and AV cables, lens cap, lens hood, new Hyper Utility Software, USB driver, FinePix Viewer ImageMixer VCD2 for FinePix, and RAW File Converter LE.

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Customer Reviews

Fujifilm Finepix S9100 - A Very Good Camera
I purchased this camera about a month ago and have taken approximately 2,000 pictures to date. I've taken indoor, outdoor, telephoto, macro, everything except the video. Sorry I should have played with that too, but it is not the primary reason I bought this camera. I wanted a camera that expanded the capability and control of my small point and shoot camera, an Olympus C-50 (which I am quite pleased with). I am very happy with the results of the S9100.
This is a substantial camera. It feels more like my Nikon 8008, so don't plan to put it in your pocket when you take it on a trip. I have had three Olympus digital cameras and was looking to purchase another Olympus but I was disappointed with their offering in the ultra zoom class.
Because I already had several xD cards it was a plus that this camera gave me a choice of two different media types. I also liked the manual zoom because this camera felt familiar, like an SLR. Using AA batteries was another plus I was looking for. I see some folks say they are disappointed with the battery life, but I haven't found that to be a problem. I use 2900mAh NiMH Rechargeable Battery and I have yet to run out of juice on photo shoots of over 200 pictures. I have not used alkaline batteries, but I understand they do not last nearly as long. I use the EVF more than the large digital display (probably from old habits of 35mm cameras) and that may have something to do with it too. I think the manual zoom has to save a lot of battery power when compared to some of the competition.
There is a lot of discussion about image stabilization, and I never had it in my other cameras, so I don't seem to miss it. I haven't had many blurred photos but I do use a mono-pod or tri-pod when it is appropriate. But even hand held, this camera produces excellent images even up at 1600 ISO. There is some noise, but I don't think it is too bad. Printed photos come out excellent. I have several printers and a large format HP plotter that can produce 36" x 36" prints and I am very pleased with the results.
This camera has excellent versatility, the zoom is great and the macro mode gives you wonderful capability to really get in close. I have been shooting primarily .JPG but have experimented with .RAW. From what I read this format it will extend my ability, but I need more time to learn about RAW processing before I can provide an intelligent discussion. I like the idea that RAW is there if and when I decide to use it.
In conclusion, I am happy with my purchase and would buy this camera again. If you are looking for an alternative to a dSLR that provides a lot of versatility and control this one merits a close look.

Best Bang for the Buck
Well, I don't even know where to start for this camera. But about a year ago, when this camera first got launched to the digital camera market, it costed nearly twice as much as what you can pay for it now. For the price, this camera has alot to offer. I just love the color tone of Fujifilm. You get a very studio-like effect with Fujifilm CCD technology. This camera has many manual controls and features that will interest both professional and amature photographers. The 9 Megapixel can really be helpful when it comes to cropping. The pictures taken by this camera is bright and clear. The camera picture can be noisy if you set the ISO above 400. So, for the best result, just set the ISO level as low as possible (lets say ISO 80?). The 10.7X zoom lens is very convenient when you want to get close to the subject you are shooting. I used this camera for every occasion and it never failed me. I heard alot of complaints about the poor battery life of this camera, but just buy NiMH battery that is about 2500 mAh and above and you should get about 200-250 shots. Make sure to buy at least a 2 GB memory card because the picture files are pretty big, especially in RAW format. Also, for the price, this camera feels VERY SOLID in the hand. It feels very professional and sturdy (MADE IN JAPAN). The buttons are nicely placed and very easy to use. Make sure to buy an external flash if you want to do some serious light photography. I recommnend the Sunpak 383 non-dedicatted flash to go with this camera. It works together really well. Anyway, for $407, you cannot get a better camera than this one. Thank you Amazon for making this good deal possible. Again, I highly recommend this camera.

Excellent wide angle to telephoto zoom.
I know someone who passed on buying the Fuji S9100 because it only had a 10.7x zoom, in favor of a 12x zoom. She did not understand how to interpret the lens specs.

This camera has something fairly rare in a digital camera, and especially rare in a super zoom: a true wide angle lens, going down to 28 mm equivalent focal length. Most digitals start at 38 mm or 35 mm. That extra 7 to 10 mm makes a huge difference in the angle of coverage.

I had a 28 to 85 mm zoom for my 35 mm slr, and it cost more than the S9100, and weighed more, too. And here you are getting a lens that goes all the way to 300 mm. My longest zoom lens only went to 200 mm on my 35 mm, and it started at 75 mm. That weighed several times more than this camera, and was hard to hold steady. I rarely used a 200 mm without a tripod.

With the S9100 I still use the wideangle most, but I am surprised how much I use the 300 mm telephoto. It also has a 2x digital zoom, which, because it has a 9 mp sensor, is actually useable, though I would shoot at lower resolutions. And I am surprised how sharp the pictures are, even without image stabilization. But then I know how to steady a camera, such as leaning it against a wall.

I use the tilting LCD display a lot. It is great for candids; which is especially important with a semi-pro camera like this. It is not just about being secretive; it is about retaining the candid quality of the photo.

Attach the neck strap and use it, always, always. Combine it with the LCD display flipped out and you get a sort of TLR effect: It was easier to hold a TLR Rolleiflex steady at slow shutter speeds than an SLR held to the eye. The trick is to pull the strap tight against your neck and lock your elbows against your sides.

Remember, you can always crop a picture to produce more of a telephoto effect, especially with a 9 mp image. But you can't widen a picture in processing -- unless you use panorama stitching (anyone even actually use this???).

The S9100 has the best video recording I have used in a digicam. With the manual zoom, it is easy to zoom during filming, silently. Going from 28 mm to 300 mm creates a powerful effect.

This lens is magnificent. It is essentially the same lens as is on the 6000, I believe. Fuji knows how to make lenses. Their medium format wideangle lenses, such as for the GW690, are legendary. Having a fixed lens barrel, while less compact, is far more sturdy. Those telescoping lenses are fragile if knocked while the camera is on.

Fuji also knows how to make film. And in the digital era, the camera is the film. Their expertise in color management is evident in the accurate, pleasing tonal quality indoors or out; but it helps if you know how to use the manual color balance setting. There is a chrome setting which boosts the saturation and contrast, intended to match the qualities of slide film. It is great for average snap shots, but can produce over saturation with things like colorful flowers.

I have used this camera for about four months. I haven't used all the bells and whistles regularly. I tested the manual focus, and it is well-designed, with focus assist via directional arrows, plus the ability to magnify the central section. I see it more as an extended focus lock.

I have used several external flashes with it, and the camera still works. Some camera brands can be damaged by flashes with a high trigger voltage, reportedly. A bounce flash will help you get pro looking shots indoors.

I use the 800 iso setting for night shots. There is some grain, but that's life. I come from a film perspective, and the grain is about what you would get from shooting b&w at that speed. When I switch the S9100 to BW, the grain becomes less noticeable, and makes the 1600 iso setting more useable. I also cut the resolution at iso 800 and 1600. Reducing the contrast and sharpening also seems to help. As I see it, the iso 1600 is there for use when there is no alternative. A newspaper photographer could get useable shots with it.

I seriously considered the Fuji S6000 because of its superior high film speed performance. But it is 6 mp, and lacks some of the S9100's more advanced features. If you need less grain in your high iso shots, the S6000 may be a better bet. The S6000 would be an excellent camera for a newspaper to hand to a reporter.

But the grain in the S9100 is not as bad as some say; I, and others, think they are looking at the full magnification images, which at 9 mp can be about three feet wide or more, depending on your monitor. THEN you can see the grain at the pixel level in even the 200 iso shots. So what?

I often shoot at less than 9 mp. The camera has a 3:2 setting that gives a wider ratio more like a 35 mm shot. It also produces a smaller file, about 2.5 mb. That's what I use the most. It is especially suitable to wideangle shots. But I also am getting fine results in lower resolutions.

This camera originally sold for twice the price, at least when the S9000 came out, and it was a good value then. Now it is one of the great camera bargains on the market. But it may be more camera than some people need. This is probably true of a lot of fancy cameras on the market. Don't buy a camera to make a fashion statement; buy something you will enjoy using.

For me, the Fuji S9100 is fun to use; it is easy to get great pictures without getting a headache.