Fujifilm today announced the launch of the FinePix S9900W and S9800 bridge cameras, both of which feature powerful 50x optical zoom lenses for maximum picture taking versatility. Further stand-out features on the two cameras include a 5-Axis image stabilization system for movie recording, Full HD video capture and a selection of creative filter effects. The S9900W also offers wireless LAN communication.
The showpiece of the S9900W/S9800 is undoubtedly the Fujinon 50x optical zoom lens. Featuring a bright F2.9-F6.5 maximum aperture setting, the lens offers a huge 24-1200mm optical range that can be boosted to an incredible 100x magnification with Fujifilm’s Intelligent Digital Zoom technology. All images can either be composed and played back using the rear LCD or the built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). With 920k dots, the EVF in both models is exceptionally bright making it easy to check shots, even on bright days.
The 1/2.3-inch 16.2 megapixel BSI CMOS sensor in the S9900W/S9800 is back-side illuminated to ensure the best possible results right up to the maximum ISO sensitivity of 12,800. Coupled with the rapid focusing speeds, users can be confident of getting great results in double-quick time. The S9900W/S9800 can start up in just one second, autofocus in as little as 0.15 seconds and then be ready to take another shot in just 0.6 seconds. Those wanting to capture a burst of full resolution images in quick succession can do so using the continuous shooting speed of 10.0 fps (maximum 10 frames).
Picture quality is assured thanks to the lens’ optical construction. With both 3 aspherical and 2 ED elements used in the design, aberrations are minimized so users can be confident of high quality results throughout the range. Image sharpness is also enhanced by the lens shift image stabilization system that reduces the effects of camera shake, especially at the longer zoom settings. Further stability is provided by the position of the zoom lever on the side of the lens barrel. This means the zoom can be controlled with the left hand while the picture is taken with right
