Fuji FinePix A500
Fuji FinePix A500
1
Hey! You should know that this product has been discontinued. Here are our current recommended cameras in the Point and Shoot Digital Cameras category.
Fuji FinePix A500
Editor's Review
Along with the A400, the Fuji FinePix A500 is meant to be an affordable camera for mid-level users. The A500 packs a great 5 megapixel sensor and standard 3x optical zoom into a little frame. It's an adequate point-and-shoot for those looking for a mainstream, bare-bones camera that's easy to handle and easy to produce decent pictures.
Specifications
- 5 megapixels
- 3x optical zoom
- JPEG file format
- ISO 100-400
- movie mode
- 2 AA batteries
- 1.8" LCD screen
- Part Number: FinePix A500
- UPC: 074101441000
- Release Date: Jan 11, 2006
Shop for A500 Accessories
Fuji FinePix A500 Comments & Questions (write your own!)
Gwen Cox (08/25/2011)
My Fuji A500 Has stopped working with batteries.Batteries are fully charged. It works perfectly with a mains connector
reply to this comment
My flash don't work (Lance Louw — 11/04/2010)
if i put my flash on, the red led light come on and camera dont want to take a picture wath can the problem be
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (11/05/2010)
That usually means it can't focus or the camera is confused as to a light source that's just bright enough to prevent the auto flash but dim enough to need it. Have you tried any of the program settings?
reply to this comment
I have a Samsung 5.0 mp Digimax A503 and it prints the incorrect date and unable to change. Can anyone help fix this problem. (rjordan88 — 07/07/2009)
In setup on the date it has 07/09/07 and today date is 07/07/09. Also the time is alwways am even in the afternoon.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (07/07/2009)
You may have a small watch battery in the camera that may be dying and causing the date to go wonky. But I'd also try resetting the camera and then reset the date. Then check with Samsung for a firmware update.
reply to this comment
How do I take longer videos? (oinkerz0409 — 03/07/2009)
At least 5 minute videos for the Fujifilm A 500.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (03/13/2009)
You camera may run into an arbitrary limit in the firmware. Or, it could be the size of your memory card which is cutting short your video length. This is a point and shoot camera first and foremost. Video capability is more a marketing feature, giving you more bang for your buck. But it's only meant for short clips. You could try and check with the Fuji website to see if they have a firmware update that addresses the limit. But if you want longer video capability, you're probably looking at getting a video camcorder.
reply to this comment
Larry (03/22/2009)
Maximum video length for this camera is four minutes. If your camera won't take a four minute video, then the most likely problem is your memory card does not have a large enough capacity. Keep in mind that your camera has two video settings:
320 X 240 pixels @ 10fps which can run up to 60sec AND 160 X 120 @ 10fps which is limited to 4 minutes.
According to Steve's Digicams, a 56MB card should get the maximum time. Of course you won't have much left over. 1GB xD cards are readily available. If Fuji has increased the time limits, it would be on their website as a firmware download.
Also, realize that your video will NOT have any audio on this camera.
reply to this comment
320 X 240 pixels @ 10fps which can run up to 60sec AND 160 X 120 @ 10fps which is limited to 4 minutes.
According to Steve's Digicams, a 56MB card should get the maximum time. Of course you won't have much left over. 1GB xD cards are readily available. If Fuji has increased the time limits, it would be on their website as a firmware download.
Also, realize that your video will NOT have any audio on this camera.
May camera len keeps getting stuck. It does not extend. (Marylee — 09/18/2008)
reply to this comment
Aditya D (09/18/2008)
Here take a look at this site:
camerarepair.blogspot.com/2... got a lot of helpful hints to fix lens problems. I'd suggest starting at Fix #4 and moving down from there. I'd read them before trying any of them, see if you can find the best one that fits your camera. If you need help past that feel free to ask.
reply to this comment
camerarepair.blogspot.com/2... got a lot of helpful hints to fix lens problems. I'd suggest starting at Fix #4 and moving down from there. I'd read them before trying any of them, see if you can find the best one that fits your camera. If you need help past that feel free to ask.
How do i upload pictures onto another computer if i dont have the original cd when i bought the camera? (singerchick26 — 09/02/2008)
Can i download the program that came along with the camera when i bought it so i can upload pics onto a different computer?
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (09/05/2008)
My recommendation is that you invest in a USB memory card reader. Plug your memory card into it and then into any pc or mac, which will read it as a drive. Then it's a simple drag and drop.
reply to this comment
Scott (05/26/2009)
You should just be able to plug the camera into the PC using the provided USB cable, and it will open a dialog box allowing you to transfer the pictures to your PC. This is assuming you are running Microsoft Windows XP/Vista/7
reply to this comment
How do you work the sound on the Finepix A500? (margaret10950 — 02/22/2008)
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (02/22/2008)
Margaret,
This camera does not have a speaker installed on it. You do not hear the audio on movie playback. The audio should be present when you download the .avi file to your computer with speakers. I hope this helps.
Andrew
reply to this comment
This camera does not have a speaker installed on it. You do not hear the audio on movie playback. The audio should be present when you download the .avi file to your computer with speakers. I hope this helps.
Andrew
margaret10950 (02/22/2008)
That would explain a lot...haha. Thank you so much.
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (02/25/2008)
Glad we could help. Please come back with any further questions or issues. If you feel we have answered your question sufficiently, please mark it "Best Answer." Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
Andrew
Going on a long trip to the great outdoors and i was wondering how the A500 handles scenery and landscape shots. (Tim-Dayton — 06/04/2007)
Spending seven weeks in remote Honduras and I wanted to take along a digital camera to record some of the sights of the trip. I have read reviews and I'm taking rechargable double-A's, i was wondering how the picture quality is on landscape and nature shots. I've heard it has a long shutter delay, but that shouldn't be a problem as trees and mountains tend not to move too much while posing for pictures, right?
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (06/25/2007)
Well, first I'd pay attention to the owner performance letter grade it gets - which is a solid "D." Simply put, a vast number of owners hate the camera. At best, it's feedback is mixed. Secondly, the camera is ranked * 23rd of 44 in 5 Megapixel (#1 is Canon A460), * 16th of 24 in Fuji (#1 is Fuji S700), * 50th of 72 in Point and Shoot (#1 is Fuji S700).
I suspect this has to do largely with the shutter lag, but there are much better options out there. If you don't mind a larger, midrange camera, I am currently testing the Olympus SP-550UZ ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) and have so far been quite pleased with the results. 7.1 MP, 18x zoom, image stabilization and some great scene based program features including a 15fps burst mode. This is great for sports photography.
It also has in camera editing features such as cropping, sepia and black/white alerations, nite modes, super macro mode for REALLY close up shots, panoramic guides for shooting multiple shots to stitch into a panorama, even a mode for shooting documents. This is really good for the landscapes you're planning on shooting.
I'm really enjoying it. If I had to complain, however, I have found the menu structure wanting and difficult to use on the fly. But other than that, it's a top notch camera.
reply to this comment
I suspect this has to do largely with the shutter lag, but there are much better options out there. If you don't mind a larger, midrange camera, I am currently testing the Olympus SP-550UZ ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) and have so far been quite pleased with the results. 7.1 MP, 18x zoom, image stabilization and some great scene based program features including a 15fps burst mode. This is great for sports photography.
It also has in camera editing features such as cropping, sepia and black/white alerations, nite modes, super macro mode for REALLY close up shots, panoramic guides for shooting multiple shots to stitch into a panorama, even a mode for shooting documents. This is really good for the landscapes you're planning on shooting.
I'm really enjoying it. If I had to complain, however, I have found the menu structure wanting and difficult to use on the fly. But other than that, it's a top notch camera.
usmcwife31 (07/30/2007)
my husband and i are stationed in okinawa japan and i had this camera for 7 months before it broke it did not do well for landscape pictures this camera is good for taking pictures of friends it seems to get blurry of things other then people or that is what happened to me and i used the auto focus i would say get another camera for this trip
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (07/31/2007)
Mickey, I'm sorry to hear that. Have you talked to Fuji about repair under warranty? Also, if the warranty is expired and you paid via credit card, you may have automatic extended warranty protection through the credit card company.
Worth checking out. I'd also check on service advisories on your camera to see if there's a recall for repair. If so, they'll repair it for free regardless of warranty.
reply to this comment
Worth checking out. I'd also check on service advisories on your camera to see if there's a recall for repair. If so, they'll repair it for free regardless of warranty.
I have a 4 month old camera and the lens is stuck in the out position and I get " focus error". What is wrong and how can this be fixed? (rvishneow — 05/17/2007)
reply to this comment
Ben Keough (05/18/2007)
Hi bvish,
Was the camera dropped or did it experience any other kind of physical trauma? Digital cameras are very, very delicate machines, and even the smallest drop can cause serious problems. Usually these problems are directly related to the lens mechanism.
Either way, lens errors almost always require a trip to the manufacturer's service center for a repair. I'd recommend visiting Fuji's site and requesting a repair from their service department. If the price they quote you is too high, you might want to consider eating the loss and taking the opportunity to upgrade to something newer/better.
Sorry, and good luck!
reply to this comment
Was the camera dropped or did it experience any other kind of physical trauma? Digital cameras are very, very delicate machines, and even the smallest drop can cause serious problems. Usually these problems are directly related to the lens mechanism.
Either way, lens errors almost always require a trip to the manufacturer's service center for a repair. I'd recommend visiting Fuji's site and requesting a repair from their service department. If the price they quote you is too high, you might want to consider eating the loss and taking the opportunity to upgrade to something newer/better.
Sorry, and good luck!
Does anyone have a TZ2 or TZ3 user manual online? (vancan25 — 04/06/2007)
I need an English version. Please scan for me if possible.
Many thanks.
reply to this comment
Many thanks.
bukit97 (04/07/2007)
The manual can be downloaded from the Panasonic site.
If you have difficulties, this is the <a href="panasonic.com.au/products/d... cut</a>
reply to this comment
If you have difficulties, this is the <a href="panasonic.com.au/products/d... cut</a>
What is a cheap, durable camera for kids to use at an elementary school? (teacher5 — 02/25/2007)
I'm trying to purchase a set of 10+ cameras for kids to use at our school. I don't want them to break or give awful pictures, but I can't afford more than $100.oo/ camera.
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (02/25/2007)
Molly,
For what its worth, I would recommend getting disposable film cameras for something like this. There are even disposable digital cameras ( pcworld.com/article/id,1118... ) now. If you want to get re-usable digital cameras though, you're going to end up spending over $100 per camera for memory cards, and extra batteries in the long run.
The Fuji A500 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) is the least expensive camera on this site at just under $88. It will hold about 3 images without a memory card, uses AA batteries very quickly (you can spend $10 per camera and get rechargeable batteries). It will produce decent images, but you might find it prone to errors at times (see reviews ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... )). Good luck.
Andrew
reply to this comment
For what its worth, I would recommend getting disposable film cameras for something like this. There are even disposable digital cameras ( pcworld.com/article/id,1118... ) now. If you want to get re-usable digital cameras though, you're going to end up spending over $100 per camera for memory cards, and extra batteries in the long run.
The Fuji A500 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) is the least expensive camera on this site at just under $88. It will hold about 3 images without a memory card, uses AA batteries very quickly (you can spend $10 per camera and get rechargeable batteries). It will produce decent images, but you might find it prone to errors at times (see reviews ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... )). Good luck.
Andrew
Rich Watson (03/04/2007)
You might look at the camera section of Wal-Mart. They do have blister-pack digital cameras quite reasonable in price; I would say from $30 to $65. Some of these are produced by famous companies of years ago, such as Polaroid, Vivitar and Kodak (just kidding about Kodak!) They have small LCDs (maybe 1.5 inch across)---but kids have good eyes! And they would be using AA batteries. Of course you want to use the NiMH rechargeable batteries, but at these prices, you could afford the batteries and a few chargers as well.
reply to this comment
teacher5 (03/06/2007)
Thanks Richio. I just might do that. I need to purchase with a PO and am finding that very difficult to do online, even though I found a nice Vivitar 3-pack price of 187.00 at Overstock.com.
reply to this comment
Rich Watson (05/21/2007)
Even Target and Eckerd's Drug store have low-cost digital cameras.
reply to this comment
Do you have the user manual for the FinePix A 500? (ambiggs — 02/20/2007)
reply to this comment
Ben Keough (02/20/2007)
Hi Anne-Marie,
You can download the A500 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) manual in Adobe PDF format here ( fujifilmusa.com/JSP/fuji/ep... ).
Hope this helps!
reply to this comment
You can download the A500 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) manual in Adobe PDF format here ( fujifilmusa.com/JSP/fuji/ep... ).
Hope this helps!
URGENT Anyone know about Samsung 5 MP Digimax D53 Digital Camera and Sanyo 5MP Xacti VPC-503 Digital Camera? (wendymomofthree — 12/08/2006)
Trying to figure out if I should purchase the Fuji A500 digital Camera (on sale at Eckerd's until TOMORROW for $99) or pick one of these other two (Samsung 5 MP Digimax D53 Digital Camera and Sanyo 5MP Xacti VPC-503 Digital Camera, each with 2.4" display, no optical viewfinder on the Sanyo), comparably priced -every day-at Walmart. Reviews online for the Samsung are mixed-positive, and couldn't find any for the Sanyo. This site speaks well of the Fuji overall.
I would like to be able to take large shots occasionally, and shots with movement (kids during sports) and do NOT want to spend more than $100. (Will need an extra memory card and rechargeable batteries no matter what I buy, no?)
reply to this comment
I would like to be able to take large shots occasionally, and shots with movement (kids during sports) and do NOT want to spend more than $100. (Will need an extra memory card and rechargeable batteries no matter what I buy, no?)
Brenda Paro (12/08/2006)
My opinion is that all three of these cameras are most likely 'mixed bags' when it comes to good and bad. That being said, I know you want to be getting something that will fulfill basic camera needs. I personally would lean towards the Fuji A500 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) because of the fact that I know it delivers consistent good photos, and I have not heard of the other two cameras you mentioned. That's my opinion, of course.
In terms of the A500, the only complaints I've heard is that the rocker levers on the back can be a little clumsy to operate (you have to get used to them), and that the camera has a leisurely pace sometimes- if you turn on the flash you will get a shutter lag that is fairly noticeable. With that said, if you can shoot around those issues it won't be a big deal.
I'm not sure what you mean by large shots... but you could most likely print w/ 5 megapixels and get up to an 8x10 before the image would become too noisy. However, beware that if you want to shoot action shots you may want something faster and stronger than any of these.
<a href="digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... is our list of lowest-priced cameras. I'd give some of those a look before you decide. Even though the Fuji's on sale, one of our online retailers sells it for 107.00, so I'd take your time deciding. =)
reply to this comment
In terms of the A500, the only complaints I've heard is that the rocker levers on the back can be a little clumsy to operate (you have to get used to them), and that the camera has a leisurely pace sometimes- if you turn on the flash you will get a shutter lag that is fairly noticeable. With that said, if you can shoot around those issues it won't be a big deal.
I'm not sure what you mean by large shots... but you could most likely print w/ 5 megapixels and get up to an 8x10 before the image would become too noisy. However, beware that if you want to shoot action shots you may want something faster and stronger than any of these.
<a href="digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... is our list of lowest-priced cameras. I'd give some of those a look before you decide. Even though the Fuji's on sale, one of our online retailers sells it for 107.00, so I'd take your time deciding. =)
wendymomofthree (12/11/2006)
Thank you. I wound up purchasing the Fuji. A co-worker helped me compare that to the Samsung and thought that the fact that the Fuji had an optical zoom (the Samsung had only a digital) was a big plus.
Thank you again.
reply to this comment
Thank you again.
Sarah (12/11/2006)
I purchased this camera. It takes 2 AA batteries Every 12-15 pictures you take with it!! It has an adapter but I have not looked in to that yet. I also have a huge problem with pictures being blurry for no reason no matter what adjustment are made. And when you try to fool with the menu options to fix problems that sucks down the batteries fast!! This is the first digital camera I have gotten for myself and I wish I would have bit the bullet and dropped more money for a better camera. I am going to call the service assistance line and talk to them about it because it is still under warranty. I may try to get my money back.
reply to this comment
wendymomofthree (12/11/2006)
I read reviews online which spoke about both issues. Battery life can be lengthened by shutting off the LCD and/or by using rechargeable batteries. I think the blurriness was solved by changing something to a "child" setting (?). I'll have to re-google to find the other ways it was solved... At any rate, this was the price range I could go for, so it was a matter of getting the best I could for the money involved. I want to occasionally be able to print 8x10s and I want to be able to capture movement on the soccer field. The sprots setting should allow me that.
reply to this comment
Brenda Paro (12/11/2006)
Sarah, definitely use AA rechargeable batteries. You can buy a set of NiMH and a charger for about twenty bucks just about anywhere... mine are made by Duracell, and they lengthened my camera life from about 30 shots to about 30 DAYS worth of shots. It really, really makes a huge difference... I don't recommend regular AAs for any camera, regardless of which one it is, because they do get sucked up fast.
reply to this comment
Michael Varick 310.428.7150 (01/23/2007)
Great advice Brenda. I was about to pull a second mortgage to pay for the batteries needed for my kid's two Samsung D53 cameras. All they did was complain about battery length. I hope your advice is correct. Iwill follow up with my results and apply your advice to my other cameras. I do not have these issues with my Fuji S3100. It runs well on regular AA's.
reply to this comment
Peggy Pierce (01/23/2007)
Michael
I noticed you said you had 2 D53's. I bought one for a friend and he said it broke it 2 days. I turn it back but they wouldn't take it back because it was a Christmas promotion thing. So i looked on line until i found one and bought it, he broke it the next day. Have you had any trouble with yours. He swears he isn't doing anything to them. It's not the battieries. I tried several new batteries i had and then went out and bought new ones and tried those. None would start it. what happens is that when you turn it on it makes a beep within a few seconds and then turns itself off. Anyone ever had trouble like this?
reply to this comment
I noticed you said you had 2 D53's. I bought one for a friend and he said it broke it 2 days. I turn it back but they wouldn't take it back because it was a Christmas promotion thing. So i looked on line until i found one and bought it, he broke it the next day. Have you had any trouble with yours. He swears he isn't doing anything to them. It's not the battieries. I tried several new batteries i had and then went out and bought new ones and tried those. None would start it. what happens is that when you turn it on it makes a beep within a few seconds and then turns itself off. Anyone ever had trouble like this?
Michael Varick 310.428.7150 (01/23/2007)
Peggy
Yes I bought two D53 and one pink Samsung model for my daughter that was the model just above those, but I don't have it with me. Her's is doing the thing you are describing. I did notice that battery power has something to do with it though, so I will be experimenting with them all. The cameras get "stuck" open when the system shuts down and my kids are VERY frustrated with me (teenagers). The beeping is as a result of low power. Samsung makes a good product so I am hoping to find a solution. Interesting about the no return policy. Walmart? I called Samsung at the # in the box. They said upgrade batteries. Sadly, the owners manuals say that regular AA's are fine. Going back to the store was going to be next.
reply to this comment
Yes I bought two D53 and one pink Samsung model for my daughter that was the model just above those, but I don't have it with me. Her's is doing the thing you are describing. I did notice that battery power has something to do with it though, so I will be experimenting with them all. The cameras get "stuck" open when the system shuts down and my kids are VERY frustrated with me (teenagers). The beeping is as a result of low power. Samsung makes a good product so I am hoping to find a solution. Interesting about the no return policy. Walmart? I called Samsung at the # in the box. They said upgrade batteries. Sadly, the owners manuals say that regular AA's are fine. Going back to the store was going to be next.
Brenda Paro (01/23/2007)
Michael, definitely let us know if the rechargeables work for you. I haven't dealt with this particular camera but like I said above, my experience in general has been that they make all the difference in the world with AA battery powered cameras. Mine was a Canon. Let me know how it goes with the Samsungs.
reply to this comment
Peggy Pierce (01/24/2007)
Michael, i talked to my friend last night and he said that he went out and bought lithium batteries for the camera and now it works. It seems this time it was different than the first camera because with the first camera the lens would never go back in. with the second camera it would beep turn off and the lens goes back in. If he had not mistakenly told me that the lens would not go back in on the second one i might have thought it was the batteries where as the first one was really damaged. Even though i did try new batteries i would have bought higher power batteries.
Walmart wouldn't exchange it because of the Christmas promotion they had no more cameras like it. They were sold only during Christmas. And I even had trouble getting my money back. Because I had bought it the day after Thanksgiving it was over 30 days when i tried to return it. They refused to give my money back because it was over the 30 day electronic guarantee. I explained it was a Christmas gift and of course it was over 30 days. With much fighting with several managers they finally agreed to give me store credit. They were going to just leave me with a broken camera.
reply to this comment
Walmart wouldn't exchange it because of the Christmas promotion they had no more cameras like it. They were sold only during Christmas. And I even had trouble getting my money back. Because I had bought it the day after Thanksgiving it was over 30 days when i tried to return it. They refused to give my money back because it was over the 30 day electronic guarantee. I explained it was a Christmas gift and of course it was over 30 days. With much fighting with several managers they finally agreed to give me store credit. They were going to just leave me with a broken camera.
freya (02/02/2007)
i am having a problem with my camera
everytime i try and turn is on it just beeps and turns off. do i need better batteries??? i bought it at walmart and sadly the warrenty expired. should i trash can my camera or what? HEEELLLPP
reply to this comment
everytime i try and turn is on it just beeps and turns off. do i need better batteries??? i bought it at walmart and sadly the warrenty expired. should i trash can my camera or what? HEEELLLPP
Michael Varick 310.428.7150 (02/05/2007)
Freya:
Please feel free to call me. I have found the solution! I have three of these discount specials from Walmart, so I know what you're going through.
Brenda and Peggy, rechargables rock! I have used this one camera for over a week with flash and all. What a difference!
Michael
310-428-7150
reply to this comment
Please feel free to call me. I have found the solution! I have three of these discount specials from Walmart, so I know what you're going through.
Brenda and Peggy, rechargables rock! I have used this one camera for over a week with flash and all. What a difference!
Michael
310-428-7150
Brenda Paro (02/05/2007)
Freya, it definitely sounds like dead batteries if it beeps and then turns off. Even if the batteries are fresh out of the package, there's no telling how long they sat on the shelf, so (sadly enough) the very effort of turning the camera on could be eating them and causing your camera to turn right back off. Definitely try rechargeable AAs, let me know if you need help purchasing some.
reply to this comment
CHRISTIE (02/10/2007)
I am glad to see I am not alone with the Wal Mart Christmas Special Samsung Camera. I was already thinking my teenage daughter wasn't taking care of it. She was asking for batteries almost every other day. Then a week ago she said can we return it? I immediately thought what did you do to it? It is her 1st one. It looked like she was being careful but you never know.
I have a Kodak Easy Share 4.0 on the dock I bought about 4 years ago. I paid about $500, Now they are a quarter of the price. It still works like the day I bought it. I never knew about the sucking up of the batteries. Her's is doing the same thing beeping and the lens won't close. My husband was in Walmart the other day and someone was trying to return one and they said no. Only 30 days after purchase. We held on to her's until Christmas Day and bought it the day after Thanksgiving like everyone else. I am glad I found this site I am going to apologize to my daughter and buy her some rechargable batteries and hope that helps. I was ready to throw it away about 15 minutes ago because it seemed worthless.
THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!!!
reply to this comment
I have a Kodak Easy Share 4.0 on the dock I bought about 4 years ago. I paid about $500, Now they are a quarter of the price. It still works like the day I bought it. I never knew about the sucking up of the batteries. Her's is doing the same thing beeping and the lens won't close. My husband was in Walmart the other day and someone was trying to return one and they said no. Only 30 days after purchase. We held on to her's until Christmas Day and bought it the day after Thanksgiving like everyone else. I am glad I found this site I am going to apologize to my daughter and buy her some rechargable batteries and hope that helps. I was ready to throw it away about 15 minutes ago because it seemed worthless.
THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!!!
Brenda Paro (02/10/2007)
Christie, thanks for all the info. Lots of people seem to be experiencing exactly the same thing here! Come back and let us know if the rechargeables help, OK?
reply to this comment
Rob (02/20/2007)
You can add me to this list lol. I received this camera for xmas and just started to use it last week to take some shots for ebay. Brand new batteries, 8 pictures later camera just shuts down. I do a test on the batteries they are fine. I throw two more new batteries in the camera go through settings and make everything power friendly, boom few more shots damn thing shuts down. I've gone through two entire 8 packs already for around 50 pictures. Walmart pulled the same B.S. on me as everyone else.. Sorry can't return it, Samsungs customer service is just as worthless.
reply to this comment
wendymomofthree (02/21/2007)
Seems ok that I bought the Fuji A500 after all, although I quickly used up the batteries that came with it, and then switched to rechargeables. For some reason, two of the rechargeables (there were 4 which came with the recharger) wouldn't work. Don't know if it's the batteries, or the right side of the recharger!
I think the lesson learned is not to purchase merchandise Walmart carries only for the holidays (or to buy it closer to the "give" date...) so the 30 day return policy is in effect...
Rechargeables, though, are the answer. I just seemed to get a lemon though...
reply to this comment
I think the lesson learned is not to purchase merchandise Walmart carries only for the holidays (or to buy it closer to the "give" date...) so the 30 day return policy is in effect...
Rechargeables, though, are the answer. I just seemed to get a lemon though...
Lori (02/25/2007)
Add me to the list. I got the camera for Christmas & it has been working ok until tonight. Actually was taking beautiful pictures - got some great action shots at Sea World. But tonight, it just beeps. I put in new batteries & am working on recharging my rechargables as regular new AAs are not working. Just the blasted beep sound. Have not tried to return it to Walmart as am on vacation - but sounds like that will be a lost cause anyway.
reply to this comment
Gina (03/02/2007)
I also have the samsung d53 after thanksgivig special. I had the same trouble with regular AA batteries, and it kept shutting down, so i called Walmart and they said they didnt have any returns on the camera , but to try rechargeable batteries. Works fine now. I thought it was a bit complicated to learn , all the features, but now I like it. Although Ijust bought my son a Kodak C533 and may be better than mine, and definitly easy use. Both same price.
reply to this comment
J.P. (03/07/2007)
Thank you all for your input. Same sad story here. I was getting ready to contact Wal-Mart and/or Samsung about this problem. At least now I have been spared the headache and frustration of dealing with large coorporations (I get the privlage of doing that enough). It is very frustrating when you go to take a picture of your 10 mo. old daughter and ......nothing. My sister-in-law got the same camera on the same day, I'll be sure and pass the message on to her. Thanks again for all of the input
reply to this comment
Billie Jo (03/08/2007)
Does anyone know anything about sanyo digital cameras?I bought one last night...March 7,2007.I love it!!Is there anyone that has had a problem with them?Model- VPC-503.
reply to this comment
Dale (03/20/2007)
Billie Jo could you scan the manual for the vpc-503 for me. I bought my camera at Walmart as an open box with no manual and there are none on line
reply to this comment
Dale (03/20/2007)
I love the sanyo but lack of support from sanyo is a large drawback. The pictures are beautiful compared to my canon s30. 200 plus pictures plus 100meg video at Disney and only a few duds because of my shaking hands. Video is not great but the photos are awesome. Lithium batterys lasted all week. Alkiline only a few hours. I will try rechargeables next. Any help with a manual would be great.
reply to this comment
Tammy (03/27/2007)
I was given the samsung digimax d53 for christmas.. It has spent more time at samsung bring repaired than in my house being used... It has faulty circuits that make it stop working right when you need it most.
DO NOT BY IT !!!!!!!!! My mother bought the Kodak camera and docking station it is wonderful.
reply to this comment
DO NOT BY IT !!!!!!!!! My mother bought the Kodak camera and docking station it is wonderful.
ajsapp@sbcglobal.net (04/01/2007)
I am so devistated after reading all of this because I was virtually frustrated with this entire ordeal myself. I bought my Mom a Digimax D53 and it has been doing absolutley everything I am reading here. I believe I am going to explode over this entire thing because they are not at all standing behind their product and it may need a class-action law suit because apparently they forgot to send these promotional items through their QC Department and now I refuse to buy anything with the Samsung name on it as well as any of its affiliates. The frustration!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!What a sad situation you buy a Christmas gift that is virtually useless as well as I am sure it takes everything everyone has to buy Christmas to begin with and how sad is it a person cannot even use it!!!!!! Says a lot about Samsung and Wal-mart for promoting such JUNK!!!!!!!!!
reply to this comment
zimbabwai (04/05/2007)
I picked up one of these cameras myself - (someone apparently dropped it in a parking lot) of course it did not come with a manual. From what I have been able to figure out of its features so far it works great. Already had the rechargable batteries in it. If someone were to copy the manual and make it available, there are a lot of people that could use it. Anyone who has the CD that came with the camera should have the manual there.
reply to this comment
Josie (04/06/2007)
My mom has also been complaining that her Samsung D53 shuts down after only 5 shots. I bought her NiMH rechargeables, but she is still complaining (? I hope she is recharging the batteries correctly. ?). Any specific AA rechargeables that this camera works really well with? I would appreciate the advice.
reply to this comment
tintow (04/29/2007)
i use the recargeable batteries from energizer (2500mAh) and i got about 50 pics and 3 months from the charge and thati had problems with throw aways even i never turned on the camera and the things would still drain. even when plugged into you computer it still uses the batteries to run and not powering from computer which i thought was strange my self. but over all i really haven't had to much trouble with it
reply to this comment
JNATEN (05/06/2007)
HI ALL. MY CAMERA STILL WORKS EXCEPT THE FLASH. MINE HAD A YEAR WARRANTY BUT I HAVEN'T SENT IT BACK. I BOUGHT A KODAK V550 FROM EBAY AND IT WAS SUPPOSE TO BE FACTORY REFURBISHED. IT LASTED 60 DAYS. I SENT IT TO WARRANTY AND THEY SAID I DROPPED IT SO NO WARRANTY. SO I HAVEN'T SENT THIS ONE IN. GUESS I'LL KEEP USING MY CANON C80 WHICH WORKS GREAT BUT IS BIGGER SO I CAN'T PUT IT IN MY SHIRT POCKET. ANYWAY, I USE MEDAL HYDIDE RECHARGABLES INBOTH MY CANON AMD MY D33 SAMSUNG. THEY WORK GREAT, AND LAST A LONG TIME.
reply to this comment
Austin (05/06/2007)
So has anyone found the fix for the 3 beeps and shutting off? Rechargables didn't do it, so I'll take anything.
reply to this comment
dansnooker2 (05/09/2007)
Hello all..
I too bought a samsung D-53 for my grandson for Christmas, It seems to work fine except for the battery problem.. however he mistakedly threw away the box with the instruction, usb cable and c.d. away, and I have been trying to find a replacement U.S.B. cable, can someone out there send me a picture of the end that connects to the camera, or tell me where i can get one, neither Wallmart or Samsung have been much help.. Thanks
reply to this comment
I too bought a samsung D-53 for my grandson for Christmas, It seems to work fine except for the battery problem.. however he mistakedly threw away the box with the instruction, usb cable and c.d. away, and I have been trying to find a replacement U.S.B. cable, can someone out there send me a picture of the end that connects to the camera, or tell me where i can get one, neither Wallmart or Samsung have been much help.. Thanks
TexasBob (05/20/2007)
I purchased the Samsung D53 during that same special last Thanksgiving for my daughter and took delivery of it around the second week of December 2006. With the exception of the same battery problem as others it worked fine until last week. We lost the display. All that shows is a white background and no menus. Luckily it is still under the 1 year warranty. Although now difficult to handle it still takes satisfactory pictures and we can transfer them to the PC.
I believe Walmart should act in good faith and either refund the purchase cost regardless of their current return policy and allow substitution with a similarly priced and equipped digi camera in stock. They should stand behind products they sell. Samsung's tech support is terrible and the warranty providers listed on warranty certificate limited or dubious. I plan on calling the closest authorized warranty provider to find out what the procedure is to get this piece of junk repaired or replaced.
reply to this comment
I believe Walmart should act in good faith and either refund the purchase cost regardless of their current return policy and allow substitution with a similarly priced and equipped digi camera in stock. They should stand behind products they sell. Samsung's tech support is terrible and the warranty providers listed on warranty certificate limited or dubious. I plan on calling the closest authorized warranty provider to find out what the procedure is to get this piece of junk repaired or replaced.
JNATEN (05/20/2007)
HI TEXASBOB, ONE THING YOU WANT TO DO IS TAKE PICTURES OF YOUR CAERA BEFORE YOU SEND IT IN SO IT SHOWS THAT THERE ARE NO DENTS ON IT'S CORNERS. I SENT IN A $300 NIKON AND THEY JUST SAID I DROPPED IT AND THAT VOIDED ANY WARRANTY. IT HAD BEEN IN MY GLOVE COMPARTMENT.
reply to this comment
Mark (05/23/2007)
I to have the Samsung Digimax D53 I to thought the pictures were fussy in the normal mode. what do I expect for a 100.00 camera? I did try it in the fine mode. but the batteries died so i haven't had a chance to compare Yet. I am using new 2500 re-chargable batteries and i still may only get 25 pics. It seems obvious to me that this is a defective product and I would not normally say this, but love the idea of a class action law suite, both to samsung and walmart.
reply to this comment
TexasBob (05/24/2007)
Hi Jim. I was getting ready to contact one of the authorized warranty sites when the darn thing started working again. Display is now normal.
Thanks for the heads up but I have no damage to the camera that I know of. Nothing visible on the casing. But it is good to know these service centers will be nitpicky.
Walmart had a charger and battery kit on sale for under $10.00. It came with 4 rechargeable 2000 mAh Ni-MH batteries. I decided to give it a try. Testing it out to see how long they last. Anything is better than 2-3 days of use.
I guess I'll just have to cross my fingers. Warranty is good until December. I wish anyone that has the Samsung D53 good luck!
reply to this comment
Thanks for the heads up but I have no damage to the camera that I know of. Nothing visible on the casing. But it is good to know these service centers will be nitpicky.
Walmart had a charger and battery kit on sale for under $10.00. It came with 4 rechargeable 2000 mAh Ni-MH batteries. I decided to give it a try. Testing it out to see how long they last. Anything is better than 2-3 days of use.
I guess I'll just have to cross my fingers. Warranty is good until December. I wish anyone that has the Samsung D53 good luck!
JNATEN (05/25/2007)
HI ALL. I USE THE SAME SET. WALMART 2000 MW. THEY WORK JUST FINE. AND YOU ALWAYS HAVE THE TWO SPARES.
P.S. MY FLASH STARTED WORKING AGAIN. I WENT INTO TOOL AND SWITCHED SOME SETTING, (AF ON) AND THEN NEXT TIME I TOOK A DARK ONE IT WORKED. OK SO FAR.
reply to this comment
P.S. MY FLASH STARTED WORKING AGAIN. I WENT INTO TOOL AND SWITCHED SOME SETTING, (AF ON) AND THEN NEXT TIME I TOOK A DARK ONE IT WORKED. OK SO FAR.
Denise (06/04/2007)
I have had the Samsung D53 for a whle now and haven't had any problems with it other than the battery life. I switched over to rechargeable batteries and BINGO, it works fine. I am a Flight Attendant and take lots of pics in the air (from inside the plane). Maybe I just got lucky.
reply to this comment
jamie (06/05/2007)
I got Sansung D53 for a Christmas gift...and it is junk! I went on vacation and took a 20 pack of batteries, and went through them in one day. Half the time I missed the pictures I wanted because it would just shut down...my cell phone camera worked better than this. I even tried the rechargable batteries and still does the same thing. It will turn on and beep sometimes as though they are dead, or it will come on and show a full charge and then shut off 2 seconds later! I don't think it is the batteries at all...it is the junk camera. I have even switched to lithium...same thing happens. Buyer beware if you are looking to get it!
reply to this comment
csage52 (06/05/2007)
We also bought a d53 after christmas from walmart and have had fun with it. It was the first digital camera we ever had, so nothing to compare it to. Just the usual problems with not being able to see with the LCD very well in bright light, short battery life, blur from shaking, slow picture taking speed (everybody moves by the time the camera takes the shot). My main problem with it is that it is not compatible with my Vista operating system. By that I mean, i can import pictures from it ok but, if I want sound on any of my short videos- that won't come through. i have tried to find out if there are any drivers I can get, but to no avail. so my husband and I are looking into buying another digital camera - maybe Sony Cybershot DSC -W50 in hopes that these newer models or more expensive ones will be compatible with Vista. I wish someone could tell me how to make sure if one is??!!
reply to this comment
dori8 (06/05/2007)
The d53 digital camera that Walmart had at Thanksgiving time is CRAP!!!!!!! My two daughters and myself each HAD one. First daughter the screen became fuzzy, other daughter the camera won't work even with new batteries. Mine was laying on a dining room table with the LCD screen up. When I went to put the memory card back in after downloading pictures on computer,the screen was damaged. I was two foot away from where the camera was lying nobody touched it. We all loved the camera now we wish we would have left in Walmart and bought something else.
I agree Walmart and Samsung should stand behind this camera and give refunds no matter what is wrong with the thing.
reply to this comment
I agree Walmart and Samsung should stand behind this camera and give refunds no matter what is wrong with the thing.
Tracey (06/12/2007)
I also am having the same problem with my D53 samsung. I am ready to just buy another camera. If anyone figures out the lens closing and 3 beap thing let me know ASAP. thanks
reply to this comment
Brenda C. (06/19/2007)
Please help me figure out how to set the flash back on my Samsung D53 camera and the pictures are too blury. Please help.
reply to this comment
JNATEN (06/19/2007)
I SET THE AF TO ON AND IT STARTED TO USE THE FLASH AGAIN. WITHOUT FLASH THE F STOP OPENS THE LENS LONGER AND IT SEEMS TO MAKE THE PICTURE BLURY.
reply to this comment
tori moore (06/24/2007)
i have a smaung digimax d53 and i need help! the lens doesnt go up and down by itself i have to pull it out to make it stay. also when i turn it on it makes a weir beeping sound at me. ITS NOT THE BATTERIES! i have rechargable energizer batteries (which work amazingly).. but my camera wont turn on. it just makes a weird sound like the lense is trying to come out then it beeps reallt loud. i need help seriously bad. i dont understand what happened to it. it worked fine a few weeks ago and now it beeps at me really loudly three times. does anyone know what to do with it?
reply to this comment
Cyndi (07/04/2007)
I bought one D53 at the Walmart Day after Thanksgiving sale for my older son. My husband liked it so much after I got home we turned around and went back out and bought a second one for him.
We haven't had any problems with batteries, and they both have been working fine until last week. My son traveled to Kansas and after arriving, the camera will not focus. It was not dropped or put in checked baggage. He carried it with him along with a laptop computer.
Does anyone have a suggestion ?
Thanks.
reply to this comment
We haven't had any problems with batteries, and they both have been working fine until last week. My son traveled to Kansas and after arriving, the camera will not focus. It was not dropped or put in checked baggage. He carried it with him along with a laptop computer.
Does anyone have a suggestion ?
Thanks.
Steve (07/05/2007)
I also got a D53 at Xmas. Worked fine for a while then started messing up. The lens wouldn't go back in, the screen wouldn't do anything then finally it wouldn't even turn on. Like others have said , 3 beeps then nothing. Called Samsung and they told me to send it back for warranty work., which I will do but bought a Canon A550 anyway. If the D53 gets fixed, I'll use it for a backup
reply to this comment
CHRISTIE (07/09/2007)
Another unsatisfied customer of the Samsung D53. I bought it for my daughter and after 3 weeks it makes the beeping sound and the front ring around the lens popped off. I am embarressed I even gave it to my daughter as a present. She had a long Christmas list and I was trying to get the best deal so I could get everything on her list. It was ridiculous to have to get up before the sun on Black Friday and get ripped of like that from Samsung and Walmart. $100.00 is $100 dollars and after we bought the camera case the memory card and other accessories that have never been opened I feel taken advantage of. We heard the same story when we tried to get an exchange or refund. They know most people will not be giving it until Christmas, 30 days away and our WalMart told us that it had to be returned within 30 days. The 3 weeks it did work I spent about $50 .00 in batteries. Very frustrating and disappointing. I will not be shopping at WalMart for any promotional items this Christmas. I would be happy to join a class action law suit. I am glad I found this site because I was upset with my daughter I thought she was doing something wrong to be going through so many batteries so quickly. Thanks everyone!
reply to this comment
Jessica (07/11/2007)
ANOTHER UNSATISFIED CUSTOMER OF SAMSUNG/WAL MART I am having the same problem w/putting in new batteries and the camera will not turn on! I have been using lithium batteries designed for the digital camera, but I have not tried the rechargeable batteries. The Digimax D53 is definitley a lemon, its ridiculous that no one is taking responsibility, there should be a recall
reply to this comment
Steven (07/15/2007)
I have bought 2 of the samsung d53 and they are wonderful. I use energizer rechargable batteries and am able to take about 300 pics before having to recharge. I have never had a problem out of this camera it is great.
reply to this comment
Steve (07/26/2007)
Just a quick update from my July 5th posting..
Got my camera back today. They said it was a bad lens gear caused by a short circuit. They
repaired and returned it with no charge. It only took about 3 weeks
My daughter bought one the same day we got ours and she had not had any problems at all with hers
reply to this comment
Got my camera back today. They said it was a bad lens gear caused by a short circuit. They
repaired and returned it with no charge. It only took about 3 weeks
My daughter bought one the same day we got ours and she had not had any problems at all with hers
TexasBob (07/29/2007)
Steve,
What repair center did you send it to? My D53 is not working again. I would like to get it repaired since it is still under warranty and keep it as a backup.
In the meantime I purchased a Sony 7.2 MP DSCW55 Cyber-shot camera. More expensive but a great all around camera.
reply to this comment
What repair center did you send it to? My D53 is not working again. I would like to get it repaired since it is still under warranty and keep it as a backup.
In the meantime I purchased a Sony 7.2 MP DSCW55 Cyber-shot camera. More expensive but a great all around camera.
Vincent (08/07/2007)
Yet another unsatisfied customer of the Samsung D53. Mine is doing everything that is listed above with regard to shutting off and the battery issues. I called 1-800-SAMSUNG and selected the option for the DIGIMAX cameras. They offered me the ability to get it repaired under the warranty. you just have to call and explain the problem. Their customer service is in India, but if you explain enough times over and over again they will catch the drift. Make sure you do this before your one year is up. I just got in contact with them today and the rep said that this issue is documented and they know about it. Be sure to send it back for a repair!!!
reply to this comment
Joey (08/13/2007)
The Samsung D53 is actully a very good camra! If you have the right type of batterys! You need 2700mAh rechargables. And im only 13 and i know that ;)
reply to this comment
Doug (08/31/2007)
Another of the same. Worked fine (minus the rabid battery consumption) and all of a sudden the black shutters won't fully close but if you push in on the zoom it closes. However, it still gives the dreaded 3 beeps and won't turn on regardless. This was yet another day after Thanksgiving "deal". Class action FTW
reply to this comment
Ray (09/03/2007)
Bought the Samsung D53 in Dec '06, took hundreds of pics and videos since, and not a single problem to complain about. This is simply an amazing camera for under $100. Everyone complaining about battery life has to understand a couple of things: First, a digital camera with a fairly large LCD that is on full time WILL drain batteries. 25-30 pictures per set or per charge is NOT unusual. Forget alkalines... go with the largest capacity Ni-mh rechargables you can find, like 2500ma/h or better. Second, DO NOT FORGET to set the correct battery type on the menu setting. It's not the camera's fault if you install Ni-mh and leave the setting on alkaline, and then get false low-battery indicator after the first shot. Third, this isn't a pro-grade camera and it's not going to stand up to bouncing around in backpacks, purses, glove compartments. Keep it in a case and take care, and you might be surprised. And last, READ THE MANUAL. You'd be surprised how many "problems" are really just operator error.
reply to this comment
Gale (09/13/2007)
Bought camera at London Drugs, Vancouver. I can just say never again Samsung product and newer again London Drugs. I have the same experience with Samsung video cam. Baterry included was crap and after first usage it was impossible to adjust date and time.
London Drugs had really bad customer service. Im still thinking is it wort to send this crapy camera to Ontario and pay for shipping and insurance. But OK I have payed for this lesson and I have learned. Never again Samsung.
reply to this comment
London Drugs had really bad customer service. Im still thinking is it wort to send this crapy camera to Ontario and pay for shipping and insurance. But OK I have payed for this lesson and I have learned. Never again Samsung.
M Barnes (10/06/2007)
OK, any of you who HATE this camera willing to sell the USB cord? I've lost the cord to my camera and (get ready for another problem) there seems to be no way to get a replacement cable
reply to this comment
Danny (10/11/2007)
I LOVE this camera! I used it for my vacations and took at least three thousand pictures with this on multiple SD cards! The picture quality is awesome although slow when taking the picture.
Abot 3 weeks ago, the lens did not go back in. I turned it on, the screen shows up, then it goes BEEP BEEP BEEP and shuts off, and it's not the battery at all, because this beep sounds different.
:(
reply to this comment
Abot 3 weeks ago, the lens did not go back in. I turned it on, the screen shows up, then it goes BEEP BEEP BEEP and shuts off, and it's not the battery at all, because this beep sounds different.
:(
AMY (11/17/2007)
I was given a samsung digimax d53 I cannot find the usb cable for it. I have looked everywhere anyone know where I can find the USB cable for it? THanks....
reply to this comment
Pat (12/10/2007)
My daughter had problems with hers but didn't tell me. I thought she must have dropped it and was embarrassed. She is a very careful "oldest child" type. Turns out the thing is just defective. Of course we bought it on BF a year ago so we are now well out of the warranty period. I was about to buy a 50" TV this year. I guess I better avoid anything SAMSUNG.
reply to this comment
Xochitl (01/11/2008)
Bought the D53 off one of my friends for ten bucks... It took about one hundred and thirteen pictures before it went wiggy on me... wish I could take back my money plus I got no cables or manual... I got the same problem with the three beeps and the lens on the power up makes alot of noise. The LCD screen shuts off, I'll try to zoom in on an object and it shuts off too... Just a horrible camera... This camera was intended for my mother who is somewhat tech wise but, still wary... After this trial run forget it! I'm running it off the Duracell Power Pix. I'm sticking with Sony from now on!
reply to this comment
TexasBob (01/11/2008)
I decided to not waste any time or effort with my broken Samsung D53. It has been discarded. Good riddance! The Sony Cybershot DSC-W55 I purchased as a result has been totally trouble free, well worth the extra expenditure and highly recommended. The bottom line is you get what you pay for.
reply to this comment
Swisha (01/13/2008)
I have a Digimax D53 and it just wont turn on it beeps 3 times but thats about it....can anybody help me????
reply to this comment
Edward (01/27/2008)
Help me to set the flash back on :( I already turned on the AF Lamp. HELP PLEASE!
reply to this comment
Susan (02/19/2008)
I have the D53 special. Had the 3 beep problem and lens not shutting for awhile, then it worked fine. Now, it takes pics only sporadically and will shut off for no reason and of course it started this past Christmas day, so I got a year's use out of it before it crapped out on me. :-( Not a good buy.....thinking of the Sony now.
reply to this comment
shelby moeller (02/21/2008)
I have a Samsung digimax D53 digital camera...with no USB cord...I would like to know where to get a new cord...the camera is great but i need the cord can u help me...
reply to this comment
Danny (05/27/2008)
I've got a Samsung Digimax D53 that I got for Christmas 2007. I've been mostly happy with it, though I've discovered a few quirks:
1. For batteries, I use the Energizer Lithium disposables. They're expensive, but I've gotten several hundred shots in with a single set. I'm sure it's more expensive than rechargeables in the long run, but it's more convenient than having to swap out batteries all the time. Try them and see if your battery life improves. Also turn off the red lamp to save batteries. I still have no clue what that's actually supposed to do.
2. I started getting the beeping issue a month ago. For me, it was due to the lens getting stuck when moving in or out. Sometimes I have to forcibly rotate the lens until the motor brings it all the way back in, while other times it will go in fine but with an audible clicking sound. The camera itself still works.
3. The flash sucks a LOT of power but only for a small amount of time. I'm guessing this is why the camera fails with normal alkaline batteries. Personally I try not to use flash most of the time, as I'm usually taking faraway shots where the flash has no chance of reaching, while the decreased shutter time makes all the pictures come out dark. I mostly alternate between Auto mode and Manual mode with flash off, adjusting the shutter time as needed to get a good compromise between brightness and clarity.
reply to this comment
1. For batteries, I use the Energizer Lithium disposables. They're expensive, but I've gotten several hundred shots in with a single set. I'm sure it's more expensive than rechargeables in the long run, but it's more convenient than having to swap out batteries all the time. Try them and see if your battery life improves. Also turn off the red lamp to save batteries. I still have no clue what that's actually supposed to do.
2. I started getting the beeping issue a month ago. For me, it was due to the lens getting stuck when moving in or out. Sometimes I have to forcibly rotate the lens until the motor brings it all the way back in, while other times it will go in fine but with an audible clicking sound. The camera itself still works.
3. The flash sucks a LOT of power but only for a small amount of time. I'm guessing this is why the camera fails with normal alkaline batteries. Personally I try not to use flash most of the time, as I'm usually taking faraway shots where the flash has no chance of reaching, while the decreased shutter time makes all the pictures come out dark. I mostly alternate between Auto mode and Manual mode with flash off, adjusting the shutter time as needed to get a good compromise between brightness and clarity.
What is a decent inexpencive digital camera (Sportsmom — 11/24/2006)
I am looking for a camera that doesn't cost a lot for a teenager's first camera
reply to this comment
Ben Keough (11/24/2006)
Hi Sportsmom,
There are many, many inexpensive digital cameras I could recommend to you, but it would help to know a little more about what features you want from it. Are you looking for anything in particular? Lots of megapixels? Long zoom? Is a simple point and shoot good enough or do you want the option for manual control over settings? What kind of price range are you considering? Answering these questions would greatly help me help you. Thanks!
reply to this comment
There are many, many inexpensive digital cameras I could recommend to you, but it would help to know a little more about what features you want from it. Are you looking for anything in particular? Lots of megapixels? Long zoom? Is a simple point and shoot good enough or do you want the option for manual control over settings? What kind of price range are you considering? Answering these questions would greatly help me help you. Thanks!
Sportsmom (11/24/2006)
What I am looking for is basically a starter cameria for my teenager. I guess a simple point and shoot for under $100.
reply to this comment
Ben Keough (11/24/2006)
Hmm, under $100 is a tricky proposition, but at least it'll significantly cut down the number of options. This page ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) will show you a list of the cheapest cameras currently in production. As you can see, only two of them sneak under the $100 limit, but there are several within $10 of it. Of those, the <a href="digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... FE-115</a> and the <a href="digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... FinePix A500</a> seem to represent the best value. Both are rated well here and on other sites like Amazon.com, and both offer a decent amount of resolution and optical zoom. Bear in mind that if you go this low on the price scale, you're probably going to get what you pay for in terms of build quality and longevity, but both of these are decent starter cameras. Good luck!
reply to this comment
What is the Best camera under $200? Im replacing my broken Fuji A330. (Matt — 11/06/2006)
Im looking for a similar camera to my Fuji A330, maybe lighter and slimer if possible but overall I liked my A330 so something similar in any brands. Ive been looking at the Fuji A500, Samsung S500, Canon A530 and Sony DSC-S500, which camera is best out of those and do you have recommendations on other ones I may have missed.
Thanks
Matt
reply to this comment
Thanks
Matt
Joe (11/07/2006)
The best camera for that price range is the Panasonic Lumix LZ3 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) for sure. It is truely amazing for the price. I has 5 MP, 6X optical, good low light, it is compact, and saves batteries. Awesome camera, better than most $100 more in price, seriously.
reply to this comment
Brenda Paro (12/07/2006)
Hi there,
I noticed you haven't marked a "Best Answer"... are you still in need of help? If so, I recommend re-submitting your question at digitalcamera-hq.com so it has a better chance of being noticed. Lately questions are being answered within just a day or two. Good luck!
reply to this comment
I noticed you haven't marked a "Best Answer"... are you still in need of help? If so, I recommend re-submitting your question at digitalcamera-hq.com so it has a better chance of being noticed. Lately questions are being answered within just a day or two. Good luck!
What is the RRP for this camera? (James Gussert — 10/26/2006)
reply to this comment
Brenda Paro (10/26/2006)
Looks like it's averaging between $103-$109 US dollars. Check out the reviews page ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) and on the top right are links to various online retailers with their prices.
reply to this comment
does this come with a USB plug for putting photos on harddrive? (Shirley J — 10/26/2006)
reply to this comment
MrSmall (10/26/2006)
Yes it does along with an audio-video cable
reply to this comment
scan disc (anonymous — 10/19/2006)
reply to this comment
Joe (10/20/2006)
Are you asking about what memory card this camera takes?
If so it takes a xD-Picture Card storage (No card included. 12MB internal memory).
Ciao!
reply to this comment
If so it takes a xD-Picture Card storage (No card included. 12MB internal memory).
Ciao!
Ben Keough (12/06/2006)
Hi, I noticed that you haven't marked any replies as the "best answer." Are you still looking for an answer? If so, I recommend you re-submit it on digitalcamera-hq.com so it will have a better chance of being noticed. These days it looks like most questions are being answered within a few days. Good luck!
reply to this comment
Is the Fuji FinePix A350 a better unit than the FinePix A500? (Kevin — 10/09/2006)
The A350 has 5.2 million pixels, while the A500 has 5.1 million pixels. The A500 has internal memory, whereas, the A350 has none.
reply to this comment
Brenda Paro (10/09/2006)
The A350 offers more resolution size options than the A500 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ). A350 has more ISO options. A350 is also a little heavier, but slimmer. I personally think the A350 is a better deal.
reply to this comment
Scott (05/26/2009)
Actually, I have both cameras here and the A500 is easily slimmer.
reply to this comment
How about the battery life?? (anonymous — 10/05/2006)
reply to this comment
camera? (10/05/2006)
The Fuji A500 can get about 100 shots out of typical AA alkaline batteries, and roughly 400 out of AA NiMH rechargables. Clearly, the NiMH are superior, not only because of the higher shot count but because they can be recharged and reused, whereas alkaline batteries are one-use.
reply to this comment
anonymous (10/22/2006)
CAMERA?, are you answering based in your own experience? Or after reading what the manual says?
I have a pair of Sanyo Ni-MH 2700 mah rechargeables, and I think them scarcely last 50 photos, or less...
I only can agree with your numbers if you are talking about LCD off...
Thanks.
Best regards.
reply to this comment
I have a pair of Sanyo Ni-MH 2700 mah rechargeables, and I think them scarcely last 50 photos, or less...
I only can agree with your numbers if you are talking about LCD off...
Thanks.
Best regards.
how many pictures can it hold? and does it have different settings, like black and white, sepia, etc.? (Kimmie — 09/27/2006)
reply to this comment
David Parker (09/28/2006)
Given the card that comes with the camera, here's what DigitalAdvisor's "Product Details" tab says:
Recommended Accessories
The Fuji FinePix A500 comes with a 12MB xD Picture Card, capable of holding 3 images at the camera's highest resolution. DCHQ strongly suggests you purchase at least a 256MB card, allowing the storage of at least 88 best-quality images.
Re: special settings, this from Fuji's web site:
Some situations demand a little bit of photographic expertise. Luckily, the A500 Zoom has got this all built-in. If you fancy taking a portrait, sports photo, landscape or night scene, the A500 Zoom gives you the option of four modes that set the camera up to achieve optimum results.
(If you're looking for black&white or sepia, I recoomend you use Google's Picassa software - it's free, organizes your photos well, and has easy to use editing features including B&W and sepia)
Hope this helps!
reply to this comment
Recommended Accessories
The Fuji FinePix A500 comes with a 12MB xD Picture Card, capable of holding 3 images at the camera's highest resolution. DCHQ strongly suggests you purchase at least a 256MB card, allowing the storage of at least 88 best-quality images.
Re: special settings, this from Fuji's web site:
Some situations demand a little bit of photographic expertise. Luckily, the A500 Zoom has got this all built-in. If you fancy taking a portrait, sports photo, landscape or night scene, the A500 Zoom gives you the option of four modes that set the camera up to achieve optimum results.
(If you're looking for black&white or sepia, I recoomend you use Google's Picassa software - it's free, organizes your photos well, and has easy to use editing features including B&W and sepia)
Hope this helps!
Fuji FinePix A500 Reviews
Fuji FinePix A500 Reviews by Digital Camera-HQ Users
- 3.0 out of 5
ok camera
(Bryan — 12/03/2008)
Takes good pictures but batteries dont last long (even with high quality batteries) Video recordings dont have sound, and the memory card doesn't plug into most computers, so you have to plug the phone in, which again, drains the batteries
- 5.0 out of 5
Orginally bought for a 3 year old
(Hallie — 10/22/2007)
It was given to me and so far its wonderful! I've taken many beautiful pictures. It has been a bit slow at times but other than that, its very easy to use and I love it.
- 5.0 out of 5
i lov Fuji FinePix A500
(babycats — 08/28/2007)
i love this digitel camera, its working great..easy to use and pics clear...take a look my cats pics here, http://www.flickr.com/photos/babycatsdolls/
- 1.0 out of 5
broke
(mickey — 07/31/2007)
this camera is bad. it is hard to use this camera in the bright sun. and this camera broke .7 months after i owned it. i would not tell anyone to buy this camera.
- 4.0 out of 5
great quality photos! 1st digital owned.
(Cindy Malek — 04/17/2007)
This was a great camera, until it was stolen. The photos were very clear, and the color was awesome.
The only complaint I had was the time in between photos was 8-10 seconds, which, with children is a bit slow.
Good camera, good quality for the price!
- 4.0 out of 5
Fuji FinePix A500
(Roger — 04/09/2007)
Handy little camera slips into pocket & takes great pictures.
- 4.0 out of 5
Pleased with Performance/Price
(Jay — 02/21/2007)
I went looking for an economical 5+ megapixel camera and settled on this one. I'm pleased with the performance. The different mode configuration took some time to figure out, but with practice I got the hang of it. As for batteries, go with the 2500mAh NiMH rechargeables and they'll give you better than 100 shots with all features on (flash, LCD display).
- 2.0 out of 5
Very disappointed
(Peggy — 01/28/2007)
I've always had Fuji cameras, but I was disappointed in this one. It took great pictures, but it had alot of "read errors". I lost alot of good pictures. I even bought a new card and it still didn't work right. I kept wondering why I was using up so many batteries. I put in fresh batteries on Tuesday and by Friday the batteries were almost drained, and it wasn't even turned on. Good thing I used rechargable batteries. I did like the size of the camera. Don't buy it. Look for something better.
- 2.0 out of 5
Not happy
(LR — 01/17/2007)
Received the A500 as a gift and have not been real happy with photos I've taken. To focus you have to push the button 1/2 way in before you are actually ready to take the picture. The button is very sensitive and often the picture snaps before you are focused. Many pictures are therefore out of focus. The recharge time is slow so then you lose the opportunity for snapshots. The moment is usually gone by the time the camera is ready again. As far as the problem others have reported with batteries, I purchased Lithium AA batteries when I first received the camera and just this past week changed the batteries for the first time. The lithiums lasted through parade shots, 2 Thanksgiving family celebrations, 3 Christmas celebrations, and multiple birthday celebrations (5 in December). I would definitely do some research on cameras before buying another Fuji.
- 1.0 out of 5
Do not buy!
(FINEPIXOWNER — 01/05/2007)
WASTE OF MONEY!
You'll pay more for batteries then the acutal camera.
- 2.0 out of 5
not that good :(
(shay — 12/26/2006)
I got this camera for x-mas and im not happy with it at all. i will be taking this back, not worth the price.Bad picture quality.
- 1.0 out of 5
bad resolution terrible battery life
(bill watkins — 12/19/2006)
this camera took horrible pics and required the lcd to do anything which burned up the batteries. I took a dozen pictures which wore out the batteries I am going to return it to kmart.
- 4.0 out of 5
Great pocket Camera for the Price
(RJ — 12/18/2006)
This is the 4th Fuji that I've owned, and the lowest priced one... Been using what was very high-end in 2001 Fuji 6900 ($1100 with the accesories) — which is still a pretty good camera, but I wanted something for my coat pocket without all the lenses and flash gear... Great little 5mgp camera for about $100
- 3.0 out of 5
is it worth it?
(Tyrese — 12/09/2006)
I just bought this camera the a500 and i was just wondering if it was a good buy, i got it from the internet i haven't received it yet?
- 4.0 out of 5
good pocket camera
(Mr Brown — 11/25/2006)
after using the fuji s5100 for about a year now its a bit of a come down,but is worth the money for a easy to pocket camera rating a 5.1 meg pixel & 5 plus digital zoom pictures are ok though i had more red eye with this camera
- 3.0 out of 5
PHOTOS & BATTERIES
(FCC — 10/23/2006)
Good photos and adequate size, better than A205, but poor batteries duration, even with Ni-MH 2700 mah rechargeables... ����Do you suffer the same? Thanks. Best regards.
- 5.0 out of 5
under rated
(AB — 10/18/2006)
excellent camera for the money. one of the easiest cameras to use with all the bells and whistles needed to be in the upper mid range on overall functionality. definitely recommend.
- 5.0 out of 5
nice camera
(kt — 10/03/2006)
Takes nice clear pictures. I like the fact that it is affordable and has 5.2X digital zoom.
- 5.0 out of 5
A Fine Camera from Fuji
(Edward Little — 09/19/2006)
I have various pocket digital cameras from Minolta, Pentax, Nikon and Fuji. The A500 is pocketable and takes very good 5Mp photos. A distinct advantage is that it has an optical viewfinder, which allows the camera to be steadied against the forehead when taking your shots.
The use of AA sized batteries means that replacement batteries are easily obtained and rechargeable batteries are good value.
If you find that they are draining quickly, turn the LCd off - all LCDs drain the battery quickly - and just use the viewfinder!
Overall, an excellent camera for the price.
- 2.0 out of 5
Bad
(Anonymous — 09/11/2006)
Good pictures but batteries die very very easily.
- 3.0 out of 5
Ok Camera
(anonymous — 07/18/2006)
My 1st digital camera was a Finepix A200. Great camera! Clear pictures & very easy to use. When I decided to move up to 5 megapix I was going to stick with Fuji. I must say that i am a little disappointed. The A200 always took clear, sharp pictures. With the A500 it the luck of the draw. Overall I guess it's an ok camera for the price ($150), but I might go with a Canon or Olympus on my next purchase.
- 5.0 out of 5
Finepix Entry Level Camera A Good Buy
(anonymous — 07/18/2006)
Having owned three FujiFilm FinePix A series cameras in the last three years from the A101 to the A500, I find these great little pocket sized cameras. I use the FinePix for web photos as well as occassional prints and find the latest edition the A500 a great camera for a 5 megapixel camera. There are plenty of settings including a "landscape" setting that slows the shutter speed and raises the f stop to allow crisp scenics. A "sports" setting allows the camera to use shutter speed priority to get those shots of moving objects. The buttons have been re-arranged from the original A101 series to make them more fool-proof. The A500 also adds a "Super CCD" which is advertised to give better resolution than the regular CCD on previous entry models. Also added is an internal 12 meg memory so you can use it without any card although there is a slot to add more memory if needed. The only improvement I can see is needed is a sturdier lens cap system. The A500 has a fairly flimsy looking flexible shutter type system that automatically opens on power up. It look like a good punch of keys or any object in your carrying pocket will easily break it.
