Fuji FinePix S8000fd
Fuji FinePix S8000fd
1
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Fuji FinePix S8000fd
Editor's Review
Fuji throws their hat in the long-range zoom ring with the S8000fd. The startlingly long barrell contains optics capable of acheiving 18x optical zoom, the highest zoon available on the market today, and only matched by the Olympus SP-550UZ and Panasonic's FZ18. Naturally, with such a long zoom, you'll need image stabiization, and the S8000fd has CCD-shift IS to ensure crisp and well-composed photos. The S8000fd also features 'face detection' technology (that's what the 'fd' stands for) which makes sure your shots are focused on the faces that are important to you.
Specifications
- 8 megapixels
- 18x optical zoom
- CCD-Shift Image Stabilization
- Auto and manual focus and exposure
- Movie mode with sound
- 2.5-inch LCD display
- Secure Digital and xD-Picture Card memory
- 4 AA batteries
- Part Number: S8000fd
- UPC: 4547410026177
- Release Date: Sep 01, 2007
Shop for S8000fd Accessories
Fuji FinePix S8000fd Comments & Questions (write your own!)
macro filters for Fuji Finepix S8000FD. (Malcolm — 05/06/2012)
Could someone please tell me were i can buy macro filters for my S8000FD, with the thread being only 38.1mm i am finding it difficult to get hold of macro filters for it. Mal.
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Chris Weigl (05/07/2012)
I know a lot of people are using something like the Raynox DCR-250, which can fit a range of diameters. I believe that particular model is only good down to 52mm, but there must be something like it out there.
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Has anyone had a problem with the av plug? The port seems to be broken? (vntgeglssmn — 09/11/2009)
The port you plugg the transfer cable in my camera is broken. I just tried to plug it in one day and now it will not plug in. IS there a way to fix this and is this a nown problem?
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by James DeRuvo (09/12/2009)
There could be a bent pin or even something stuck in there. But what I would do is use a USB card reader. Plug your card in and it's a simple drag and drop.
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Does Fuji Finepix S8000fd recharges from USB connected with computer (kostya2302 — 08/04/2009)
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by James DeRuvo (08/05/2009)
One accessory it has is an USB charging option, so I believe it does. However, charfing by USB to the computer may not work. Let me explain. By default, there is a power management feature in Windows which turns off USB ports to conserve energy. It's a dumb idea, frankly. But to access it you right click on my computer, select properties. then device manager. right click each USB hub and select power management. uncheck the box that says "allow windows to turn off usb hub to conserve power." Do this for every hub.
In addition, any front USB ports away from the main USB ports in the back do not carry enough electrical power to charge the Kodak camera. You must plug the USB into your rear ports.
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In addition, any front USB ports away from the main USB ports in the back do not carry enough electrical power to charge the Kodak camera. You must plug the USB into your rear ports.
memory card protected error on my fujitsu digi cam? (wagner715 — 03/10/2009)
any one can advice to resolve problem of my camera which is external memory protected error, my memory working on pc and not protected.
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bukit97 (03/10/2009)
Actually what the message means is the camera cannot write to the memory card.
Changing to a new card will solve the problem.
For the ' old card ', if you still want to use it, make sure all the pictures you want is copied to the computer, then wipe it with a memory card wiping software, followed by reformating with the camera.
Buying a memory wiping software will cost a lot more than buying a new memory card, and it is a dangerous software to install in a computer because it destroys data beyond recovery.
However if you want to read more about it, <a href="whitecanyon.com/mediawiper-... here is one of them </a>
reply to this comment
Changing to a new card will solve the problem.
For the ' old card ', if you still want to use it, make sure all the pictures you want is copied to the computer, then wipe it with a memory card wiping software, followed by reformating with the camera.
Buying a memory wiping software will cost a lot more than buying a new memory card, and it is a dangerous software to install in a computer because it destroys data beyond recovery.
However if you want to read more about it, <a href="whitecanyon.com/mediawiper-... here is one of them </a>
Africangemstone (11/12/2009)
Can I just mention that the above word of advice might be wrong. I had the same problem. I pulled out my memory card to find that is has a 'lock' option (small sliding button). When I unlocked the card and put it back into the camera, it worked fine. Try this before downloading and installing unnecessary software.
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can you shoot black and white pictures with it ? how do you do it ? (peak97 — 01/06/2009)
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by James DeRuvo (01/10/2009)
B/W is a popular feature these days, but what the marketing doesn't tell you is that the camera takes a color picture and then strips the color in favor of greyscale when it processes the image and saves it. But it doesn't provide the real depth and character of a black and white image that comes from contrast and shadow. Which you can really only develop by using photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or LightRoom.
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Martin V (01/14/2009)
In general it is probably best to take a colour picture, and then post-process it, mainly because you have better opportunity to fine-tune the results, many cameras have very sophisticated on-board software to allow you to control the way it converts the picture to monochrome. This is particularly so if you camera does not have RAW mode (usually found only in higher-end cameras).
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by James DeRuvo (01/14/2009)
True that, but in essence they just strip the color to grayscale. All the shadows and contrast are lost. Agree that using software to do it is best.
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peak97 (01/15/2009)
Thanks to all
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Am having problems downloading photos from Fuji FinePix S8000fd (DebHP — 08/26/2008)
I have downloaded software, followed instructions on manual to the letter and nothing.
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bukit97 (08/29/2008)
It is not easy to guess what went wrong but there is a very good solution to downloading pictures without using the camera.
Take the memory card from the camera and insert it to a card reader. A multi card reader will probably do but I would buy a specific one for the card you use, either xD card reader or SD card reader, depending on which one you use on the camera.
Plug the card reader to the USB port of the computer and it will be recognized as another drive.
You can then copy the pictures to a folder.
reply to this comment
Take the memory card from the camera and insert it to a card reader. A multi card reader will probably do but I would buy a specific one for the card you use, either xD card reader or SD card reader, depending on which one you use on the camera.
Plug the card reader to the USB port of the computer and it will be recognized as another drive.
You can then copy the pictures to a folder.
DebHP (08/30/2008)
Thanks for this - will give it a go .
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Where can I find Fuji Fine Pix s8000 in JAKARTA? (AROYA — 08/03/2008)
I want to know the adrress of fuji stors in JAKARTA?
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by James DeRuvo (08/05/2008)
try here ( fujifilm.in/ )
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How do you get the finepixviewer software to down load photos on line (HDB79 — 07/22/2008)
So I can download photos to face book and save onto a memory stick. Left disc in Australia been travelling. Which program is the best for this camera for windows
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djstar (07/22/2008)
I like Picasa.
It is a free download through google. You can store photos online and make private folders using a gmail account or google id.
I take it you have a sony computer. My HP has input ports for all media cards but I prefer to save to CD or for my larger memory a DVD. I use the Sonic or Roxio program pre-installed on my machine.
picasa.google.com/
simple and works just fine with the card. I assume you might be able to plug the camera in if you can download the drivers if you have problems with interfacing.
dj*
reply to this comment
It is a free download through google. You can store photos online and make private folders using a gmail account or google id.
I take it you have a sony computer. My HP has input ports for all media cards but I prefer to save to CD or for my larger memory a DVD. I use the Sonic or Roxio program pre-installed on my machine.
picasa.google.com/
simple and works just fine with the card. I assume you might be able to plug the camera in if you can download the drivers if you have problems with interfacing.
dj*
Am I first to advise that the mode dial on S8000fd has broken off?? (alta — 07/05/2008)
It was a gentle normal turn from A priority to Sp 2!! (I'm still in shock)
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Brenda Paro (07/10/2008)
I have NOT heard of this yet. If it's a new camera, try to return it; may have been a defect.
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alta (07/10/2008)
Thanks Brenda, I have just returned from a holiday - have not been in touch with the supplier/shop yet, but will keep you updated on this one!
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Cremey (07/21/2008)
I have had exactly the same thing happen to mine this weekend. Fortunately it stayed on A mode so I could continue using it to some extent.
I bought mine in Feb this year from Currys so I'm going to see them as soon as I can, though I suspect they will only refer me to Fuji.
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I bought mine in Feb this year from Currys so I'm going to see them as soon as I can, though I suspect they will only refer me to Fuji.
alta (07/21/2008)
Thanks Cremey - I hope that you will have more luck than I have had: I took the camera in on 13/7/08, back to Universal Image where I bought it, but have not had a peep out of them, or from Fuji for that matter. Will give it another week, then start following up on it. I will keep you posted.
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Pepe Le Rich (07/24/2008)
Alta, your not alone. There are posts all over the place and even on the Fuji forum, you would have thought they would have got the message by now that the dial is of poor quality. Despite reading that the mode dial breaks in a forum, I took the chance and have had it less than 22 days and it broke today.
I rang Tesco Stores Ltd (UK) who will take it back, give a refund or let me order a replacement or new camera. Needless to say I want a new camera and it won't be a Fuji S8000. I am going for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 now, although is slightly more expensive than the Fuji was at the time, it has some good reviews.
Good luck in your quest with Fuji as it appears some people have been waiting weeks for a replacement or repaired camera to arrive.
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I rang Tesco Stores Ltd (UK) who will take it back, give a refund or let me order a replacement or new camera. Needless to say I want a new camera and it won't be a Fuji S8000. I am going for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 now, although is slightly more expensive than the Fuji was at the time, it has some good reviews.
Good luck in your quest with Fuji as it appears some people have been waiting weeks for a replacement or repaired camera to arrive.
alta (07/28/2008)
Thanks Pepe! and to all who responded to my question.
I think we can conclude that this camera has a factory defect. What to do about it? Any suggestions?
PS I have not got my camera back yet, but I have followed up, it seems that the camera is being repaired .... I was not given a choice for refund/replacement/repair? we'll see though ....... meantime, I see photo opportunities everywhere ........
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I think we can conclude that this camera has a factory defect. What to do about it? Any suggestions?
PS I have not got my camera back yet, but I have followed up, it seems that the camera is being repaired .... I was not given a choice for refund/replacement/repair? we'll see though ....... meantime, I see photo opportunities everywhere ........
Peter (07/31/2008)
The same thing happened to me, took the camera from it's bag after two months not using it. Inserted the batteries, entered the date and just as I start switching between AP and Sp mode I felt the dial to be somewhat loose, so I switched back to AP mode and then the whole dial came off.
I was shocked, it's not like the camera fell or something, I just took it from the bag and turned it on. It's in for "repares/refund/replacement" or whatever, according to the owner they need to investigate why it broke...haha, I feel like a criminal.
I'm just glad to see that I'm not the only experiencing this problem, good luck Alta, I'll let you know how things are going on my side.
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I was shocked, it's not like the camera fell or something, I just took it from the bag and turned it on. It's in for "repares/refund/replacement" or whatever, according to the owner they need to investigate why it broke...haha, I feel like a criminal.
I'm just glad to see that I'm not the only experiencing this problem, good luck Alta, I'll let you know how things are going on my side.
Chris (08/26/2008)
..and the same thing has just happened to mine - this must be a manufacturing defect.
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Lee (09/07/2008)
me too!
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Chris (09/07/2008)
Fuji have replaced the dial on mine under warranty - no problem. Took about a week.
You can book in for repair directly on line from the UK:
fujifilm.co.uk/technical/ca... process was quite painless. Let's see how the long the new dial lasts!
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You can book in for repair directly on line from the UK:
fujifilm.co.uk/technical/ca... process was quite painless. Let's see how the long the new dial lasts!
Frank (10/04/2008)
this has happen to me in March I recieved a new camera and last week it happened again
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Rmorrison (02/06/2010)
i bought one of these for my wifes birthday a year and a half ago from the SOURCE. broke twice in the first year but was replaced by store immediately. Now after the third time has to be sent for repair. Needless to say my wife is not impressed as she uses the camera pretty much every day. thumbs down to fugi and this camera!!
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i bought one of these for my wifes birthday a year and a half ago from the SOURCE. broke twice in the first year but was replaced by store immediately. Now after the third time has to be sent for repair. Needless to say my wife is not impressed as she uses the camera pretty much every day. thumbs down to fugi and this camera!!
Which is the better camera? (gobiwa1120 — 03/30/2008)
I am trying to decide between these 2 cameras, the Finepix S8000fd or the Powershot S5 IS. I want to take pictures of my daughter's softball games and general photography. What are your thoughts?
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mether (03/31/2008)
I don't think you can wrong with either! That being said, I have the Fuji S8000FD, low price, ease of operation and navigating, super macro, telephoto lens, the 4 AA batteries (always available, also have a car charger for rechargables) and the 7-15 frames in 2 sec option (I think that's the spec's). Only down side is the lack of zoom in movie mode, but I can live with that. I tried the Panasonic FZ8 - way too complicated, and the Fuji S700 - loved the Fuji (great pictures), but saw the FPS on the SD8000 and bought that, figured it was the same as the S700 with added features - I was right! My friend saw my SD8000 and bought the S5, (always has to go one better - but not in this case) he finds it complicated to use (so did I), and has replaced the batteries 3X in two months and hardly uses it! I believe you'll love the zoom for the softball games! BobM "<><"
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Larry (04/01/2008)
I would suggest it depends on how much video you plan on taking at the softball games. Being able to zoom during video can be very important in such action shots where distance and view can change in an instant such that you want to zoom in on the play being made. In that case the S5is has a distinct advantage.
According to the reviews at dpreview.com --
The S5is wins for best macro (down to 0 cm! versus the Fuji at 10cm); video (stereo sound, zoom during video and time lapse photography); flip and twist LCD (great for overhead shots when standing in a crowd); 1.5 fps continuous shoot fixed focus and 1.3 fps auto focus; faster shot to shot time; external flash hot shoe; SD/SDHC memory card.
The 8000 wins for wide angle lens; stronger built-in flash; slightly larger CCD sensor which might improve low light performance; accepts SD/SDHC AND xD memory cards;
Special note on continuous shoot mode on 8000 -- It shoots 15 fps ONLY at 2MP setting and ONLY up to 15 total frames. It shoots 7.5 fps ONLY at 4MP setting and ONLY up to 15 total frames. At 8MP it shoots 1.5 fps ONLY up to 3 frames followed by a 6.5 second processing delay before you can shoot again. At 8MP continuous shooting it shoots 0.65 fps. The reviewer said it "felt sluggish".
Battery use was fairly even at 450 shots for the S5is and 500 for the 8000 (CIPA rules apply - NiMH rechargeable).
In this same category you may want to consider Panasonic FZ18 and Olympus SP560UZ. Full test reviews of all four cameras are available at dpreview.com.
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According to the reviews at dpreview.com --
The S5is wins for best macro (down to 0 cm! versus the Fuji at 10cm); video (stereo sound, zoom during video and time lapse photography); flip and twist LCD (great for overhead shots when standing in a crowd); 1.5 fps continuous shoot fixed focus and 1.3 fps auto focus; faster shot to shot time; external flash hot shoe; SD/SDHC memory card.
The 8000 wins for wide angle lens; stronger built-in flash; slightly larger CCD sensor which might improve low light performance; accepts SD/SDHC AND xD memory cards;
Special note on continuous shoot mode on 8000 -- It shoots 15 fps ONLY at 2MP setting and ONLY up to 15 total frames. It shoots 7.5 fps ONLY at 4MP setting and ONLY up to 15 total frames. At 8MP it shoots 1.5 fps ONLY up to 3 frames followed by a 6.5 second processing delay before you can shoot again. At 8MP continuous shooting it shoots 0.65 fps. The reviewer said it "felt sluggish".
Battery use was fairly even at 450 shots for the S5is and 500 for the 8000 (CIPA rules apply - NiMH rechargeable).
In this same category you may want to consider Panasonic FZ18 and Olympus SP560UZ. Full test reviews of all four cameras are available at dpreview.com.
Kshitij Nanavaty (04/13/2008)
S8000fd. Fantastic camera at a very good price tag. Wide Angle lens, ease operation and tremendous result.
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what size skylight filter can I get for the s8000fd? I think it's a 38.1 mm. Will a 38mm fit this camera?? (joe99 — 01/20/2008)
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Josh Vine (01/28/2008)
aparently this camera doesn't accept any filters very well, because finding a 38mm filter isn't that common. the functions of the camera and the 18X zoom lens are great, but for some reason Fuji didn't included the option to add any filters. I love my filters, i use a PL frequently and usually keep a UV on the camera, also i have an additional wideangle lens that i use for group shots. so to answer the question.... you may be able to find a 38.1 mm filter, and fuji may come out with a conversion kit. maybe try ebay and you might find a correct size filter. oh, and 38.1 is correct
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SteveB (02/04/2008)
Yep Finding the same problem! Fuji what are you playing at? awsome camera but filters are used by amatures to!
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Greg Cremer (02/13/2008)
The only filters that this camera can take advantage of are of the modular variety (do a google search for cokin 77mm). These filters are actually square in shape, and require a holder or "cassette" to use. The cassette attaches to a aparatus that screws into the cameras tripod mount. It extends from that point along the length of the lens where a holder sits (in front of the lens). The filter slides into the holder. There are many varieties, but most people use these for reducing the brightness of sky to accentuate detail in the land area. But, there are many different filters to suit many needs. I'm still upset that fuji made this camera without the ability to use standard screw-on's.
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gorka v (06/11/2008)
i have the same problem and i do not find any filter fr this cmera,i write to fuji but at this moment the request is :not going to make any filters
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Meagan (07/10/2008)
I am glad to see that other people have the same problem. I love the camera, but am very upset about the filter situation. Will try the cokin filters. Please let me know if anyone has any other solutions
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Ian (10/30/2008)
Yep having the same problem myself, have found a company willing to make them for £40, with a reduction if ordering a quantity would people be interested in putting together an order?
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Sean (10/30/2008)
These should do the trick - got my S8000fd yesterday and I am gonna get one of these. Considerably cheaper than the £40 quoted :)
There are other online shops sell them from £5.74 - £12.95
Save some cash and have a look.
shop.ebay.co.uk/items/_W0QQ...
reply to this comment
There are other online shops sell them from £5.74 - £12.95
Save some cash and have a look.
shop.ebay.co.uk/items/_W0QQ...
Ian (11/11/2008)
This is just a converter and the original lense cap will no longer fit, for £40 it would be a stand allow filter made to order! Bare in mind the price will go down the more ordered.
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Sean (11/12/2008)
You can get a lense cap for £3.99 from jessops that will fit. Then you can go out and purchase ANY filters you want to fit the convertor instead of paying £40 every time you want a different filter.
I have the converter - a standard 49mm UV filter and then the lens cap fitted on top with no problems. I also amd getting a 49mm skylight filter, aslo from jessops for 97p.
This will definitely work out cheaper and give you more flexibility.
Up to you if you want to throw money away.
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I have the converter - a standard 49mm UV filter and then the lens cap fitted on top with no problems. I also amd getting a 49mm skylight filter, aslo from jessops for 97p.
This will definitely work out cheaper and give you more flexibility.
Up to you if you want to throw money away.
Is there a cable release available for the S8000fd? (snotrockit — 01/02/2008)
I am looking for a cable release for the S8000fd. Are there any available? If so, where should I look?
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Andrew Skinner (01/03/2008)
Adam,
This is a newer camera and the official Fuji accessories ( fujifilm.com/products/digit... ) don't list a cable release yet. I could not find one on Amazon.com either. I did find cable releases for similar Fuji cameras on eBay ( search.ebay.com/cable-relea... ). Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
This is a newer camera and the official Fuji accessories ( fujifilm.com/products/digit... ) don't list a cable release yet. I could not find one on Amazon.com either. I did find cable releases for similar Fuji cameras on eBay ( search.ebay.com/cable-relea... ). Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
Joe B (10/28/2008)
S7000 has cable relese....about 3 yrs old
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I am trying to decide between this and the Fujifilm finepix s8000fd. (awake16 — 12/23/2007)
Speed between hitting the button and capturing the image is very important to me. I take a lot of animal photos. Can anyone help me with this? I am also looking at the Fujifilm finepix s8000fd, and I need help badly.
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (12/23/2007)
Jeni,
To address your concern with the shutter timing, most point-and-shoot style cameras will have a delay. The best way to avoid this is to move up to a digital SLR ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ). While this is more expensive, you'll get great functionality. If you want to keep your budget lower, the two cameras you've chosen will work well.
I had an older version of the Canon S5 IS ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) (the S2 IS) for a while and loved it. I did notice it lacking in low light situations though. The ability of this camera in low light should be improved, plus you can add an external flash that makes it even more capable.
As for the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ), it has some amazing features. The 18x zoom is a fantastic option for getting you that much closer to your subject. It goes down to 27mm at its lowest focal length for wider shots and the ISO range up to 6400 will make low light shooting a lot easier (though it does add graininess to the photos, but that is the trade-off). Personally, I would go with the S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) when deciding between the two. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
To address your concern with the shutter timing, most point-and-shoot style cameras will have a delay. The best way to avoid this is to move up to a digital SLR ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ). While this is more expensive, you'll get great functionality. If you want to keep your budget lower, the two cameras you've chosen will work well.
I had an older version of the Canon S5 IS ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) (the S2 IS) for a while and loved it. I did notice it lacking in low light situations though. The ability of this camera in low light should be improved, plus you can add an external flash that makes it even more capable.
As for the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ), it has some amazing features. The 18x zoom is a fantastic option for getting you that much closer to your subject. It goes down to 27mm at its lowest focal length for wider shots and the ISO range up to 6400 will make low light shooting a lot easier (though it does add graininess to the photos, but that is the trade-off). Personally, I would go with the S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) when deciding between the two. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
Larry (12/23/2007)
The only strike I see against the Fuji is their sticking with the USB1.1 connection instead of the current standard 2.0 which is much faster. With increasing data transfer due to 8MP sensors, they should speed things up. Of course, this is of NO concern IF you don't mind removing the memory card from the camera and reading it in through a card reader which is what most folks do anyway.
Strictly under preference (and not a strike) is the optical viewfinder on the Canon vs the electronic/digital viewfinder on the Fuji.
Both are great digital point and shoot cameras.
Larry
reply to this comment
Strictly under preference (and not a strike) is the optical viewfinder on the Canon vs the electronic/digital viewfinder on the Fuji.
Both are great digital point and shoot cameras.
Larry
fuji s8000fd-what is the response time from pressing the button to taking the picture? (sting747 — 12/16/2007)
When I take photographs of birds with my s5100, I wait for a good pose, snap the picture and when the picture is actually taken the bird has moved!
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djstar (12/16/2007)
I feel your pain.
I have my two month old camera back in the shop. The lens won't extend anymore and I am just waiting to hear the bad news.
I take a lot of animal shots and was not happy with my response. Lucky, you don't need a flash!! I was really appalled by the recover on that.
It is much better on a tripod whatever you do. I took it to the zoo and got a great shot across the moat of our Howler Monkey, but the spider monkeys frolicking were suffering from too much fixing of jiggle. I would say that the camera can compensate for the hand motion you would need to follow the bird, but even on burst, it is laggy.
dj*
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I have my two month old camera back in the shop. The lens won't extend anymore and I am just waiting to hear the bad news.
I take a lot of animal shots and was not happy with my response. Lucky, you don't need a flash!! I was really appalled by the recover on that.
It is much better on a tripod whatever you do. I took it to the zoo and got a great shot across the moat of our Howler Monkey, but the spider monkeys frolicking were suffering from too much fixing of jiggle. I would say that the camera can compensate for the hand motion you would need to follow the bird, but even on burst, it is laggy.
dj*
Larry (12/26/2007)
The s8000fd will take anywhere from 0.5 to 1.8 seconds to focus and another 0.1 second to actually take the shot.
That means for those animal shots you almost have to prefocus the camera by pressing the shutter button down halfway to get the focus accomplished, then wait for the pose to be just right and press the button completely down to capture the image in 0.1 second. These timing numbers are typical for digital point and shoot cameras. You really have to go to SLR's to get the almost instant shots you really want to get. Never-the-less, using the prefocus (focus lock) technique you can reduce the time dramatically once you get used to using it.
Larry
reply to this comment
That means for those animal shots you almost have to prefocus the camera by pressing the shutter button down halfway to get the focus accomplished, then wait for the pose to be just right and press the button completely down to capture the image in 0.1 second. These timing numbers are typical for digital point and shoot cameras. You really have to go to SLR's to get the almost instant shots you really want to get. Never-the-less, using the prefocus (focus lock) technique you can reduce the time dramatically once you get used to using it.
Larry
Can the S8000fd zoom while shooting a movie? (stucbrown — 12/15/2007)
On another site the question was asked - the answer was - no reference to it in the specs. Does anyone have the experience of zooming while movie making with the S8000fd?
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djstar (12/15/2007)
It will take a movie at any zoom but it doesn't actively zoom during the filming. The results are pretty good, but you are stuck at the zoom you start.
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stucbrown (12/15/2007)
Thanks - it was not the answer I wanted. I had hoped it would zoom like VCR cams I used to use. I was about to buy the S8000fd, but I think I will revert to the S700 since I believe that one does it. It is strange that Fuji would not keep the features of lesser cameras, in their more advanced ones.
reply to this comment
Kurt (12/27/2007)
I have that feature on a Canon S3 or S5 that we have at work. Hard to imagine settling for another model without it after having it.
reply to this comment
stucbrown (12/28/2007)
Kurt - thanks. Since asking this question, I have since bought a Canon S5. Yes it sure does zoom.
reply to this comment
Kaushik Roy (01/09/2008)
S5700fd can be zoomed while taking a Movie, No idea for S8000
reply to this comment
Marty (06/19/2008)
I tried, no you can't zoom if the recording is started, only before u press record you can zoom!
reply to this comment
Do any body know any shop selling this fuji S8000fd on shelf in san fransisco area USA (amr — 11/27/2007)
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (11/28/2007)
Amr,
You can go to the Circuit City ( circuitcity.com/ccd/Search.... ) site and see if any stores close to your zip code have the camera. I hope this helps.
Andrew
reply to this comment
You can go to the Circuit City ( circuitcity.com/ccd/Search.... ) site and see if any stores close to your zip code have the camera. I hope this helps.
Andrew
What is that zoom range equivalent to in lens focal length? 20 to 360? (eschhman — 11/23/2007)
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (11/23/2007)
Dave,
The focal length is equivalent to the "max length" divided by the "minimum length" of the lenses. So for the question at hand, the optical zoom of a 20-360mm lens would be 18x (the optical zoom of the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... )). I hope this helps. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
The focal length is equivalent to the "max length" divided by the "minimum length" of the lenses. So for the question at hand, the optical zoom of a 20-360mm lens would be 18x (the optical zoom of the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... )). I hope this helps. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
eschhman (11/23/2007)
Since I have a Minolta film camera, would any of those lenses fit on a Minolta digital camera body?
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (11/24/2007)
Dave,
Depending on which Minolta camera you have, they might. You need to check the mount type on your current camera and compare it to the camera you want to purchase. The new Sony dSLR's use a Minolta-A mount type (Sony took over Minolta's Maxxum line). Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
Depending on which Minolta camera you have, they might. You need to check the mount type on your current camera and compare it to the camera you want to purchase. The new Sony dSLR's use a Minolta-A mount type (Sony took over Minolta's Maxxum line). Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
Is the price difference worth it? (s8000fd vs. s700) (enicole — 11/21/2007)
Hi, I have been looking for the right camera forever, I've ruled out many cameras, I'm seriously considering buying this camera, but with the price difference between the s8000fd and the s700, I am seriously questioning whether the s8000fd is worth that much more!
S700 @ amazon - $ 187.13
s8000fd @ amazon - $ 325.72 w. free 2 gb memory card (if I buy before dec. 3rd.)
I know that the s8000fd is certainly superior to the s700 because of these things:
-s8000fd has true image stabilization whereas the s700 only boosts the ISO
-s8000fd has slightly larger sensor, 1/2.35-inch to s700's 1/2.5-inch. Doubt it makes a big difference but still nice?
-s8000fd has face detection
these are all nice upgrades (though I know s8000fd is not a direct upgrade to s700), the lack of reviews with the s8000fd makes me nervous, but I know it's because of the camera's newness. I would really like to see a review of the s8000fd on dpreview, hopefully soon! I do not really care about the s8000fd having .9 more megapixels than the s700, nor do I need 18x zoom, but I love that the s8000fd has wide angle (27 mm equiv.)
Yeah, so I'm rambling but, what I'm saying is I can't really justify the huge price difference between the two, and I'm looking for advice to help me come to a decision.
Thanks in advance =)
reply to this comment
S700 @ amazon - $ 187.13
s8000fd @ amazon - $ 325.72 w. free 2 gb memory card (if I buy before dec. 3rd.)
I know that the s8000fd is certainly superior to the s700 because of these things:
-s8000fd has true image stabilization whereas the s700 only boosts the ISO
-s8000fd has slightly larger sensor, 1/2.35-inch to s700's 1/2.5-inch. Doubt it makes a big difference but still nice?
-s8000fd has face detection
these are all nice upgrades (though I know s8000fd is not a direct upgrade to s700), the lack of reviews with the s8000fd makes me nervous, but I know it's because of the camera's newness. I would really like to see a review of the s8000fd on dpreview, hopefully soon! I do not really care about the s8000fd having .9 more megapixels than the s700, nor do I need 18x zoom, but I love that the s8000fd has wide angle (27 mm equiv.)
Yeah, so I'm rambling but, what I'm saying is I can't really justify the huge price difference between the two, and I'm looking for advice to help me come to a decision.
Thanks in advance =)
Aditya D (11/23/2007)
Depending on what exactly you're using the camera for, the true image stabilization and the face detection comes in very handy. This is especially true if you're taking photos of fast moving children, because as cliche as it sounds, you really want to capture every look on their face, and nothing can do that better than face detection and image stabilization. As far as the sensor, I highly doubt there is any significant difference. You also won't see any difference between the megapixels, but the 18x zoom and the wide angle capabilities come in handy quite a bit, especially when shooting large amounts of people in a smaller area, or also just shooting outdoors. If you wanted to shoot wildlife or even sports, the 18x zoom would come in handy, and if you wanted to shoot landscape, the wide angle would come in handy. I definitely think it is worth the money to upgrade, but the difference to you should be whether you are you going to use all of the extra features, or whether you just want a basic point and shoot.
reply to this comment
I need help deciding between the S700, Canon 720 IS and SX 100 IS, the Panasonic Tz3 and Lz8 and the olympus SP-550..........HELP! (missndscs — 11/17/2007)
Hello Everyone! I have been looking for the "right" camera for me now for a few months and have been having a hard time. Every review is different and I can't find a camera that has EVERYTHING I need so I thought I would write on here to get some recommendations from people who know their stuff! The camera will be used for practically everything from vacations, to sporting events, to concerts, friends and family snapshots, and other important events like weddings. Alrighty, this is what I am looking for:
-under $350
-takes wonderful pictures in low lighting (concerts, formals, etc.)
-SD memory card, no other kind of storage
-very fast start up time and able to take pictures immediately
-a long zoom (6x or more)
-image stabilization
-wide angle lens would be nice
-uses AA batteries (although that's NOT a necessity)
-be able to record movies with sound
-6 megapixels or more
-some manual controls so I can experiment
-size of body doesn't matter, probably no ultra-compact, prefer more "chunky" style, but really just looking for the best camera so if the best one is ultra-compact, then that's just fine
I have been looking at the models listed in my question. What one would be best considering my specifics??
Thank you in advance to everyone who can give me some recommendations. I appreciate your time to help me out! Have a wonderful day!
reply to this comment
-under $350
-takes wonderful pictures in low lighting (concerts, formals, etc.)
-SD memory card, no other kind of storage
-very fast start up time and able to take pictures immediately
-a long zoom (6x or more)
-image stabilization
-wide angle lens would be nice
-uses AA batteries (although that's NOT a necessity)
-be able to record movies with sound
-6 megapixels or more
-some manual controls so I can experiment
-size of body doesn't matter, probably no ultra-compact, prefer more "chunky" style, but really just looking for the best camera so if the best one is ultra-compact, then that's just fine
I have been looking at the models listed in my question. What one would be best considering my specifics??
Thank you in advance to everyone who can give me some recommendations. I appreciate your time to help me out! Have a wonderful day!
Andrew Skinner (11/18/2007)
Amy,
I would personally go with a camera with image stabilization because you need it to work well in low light situations. If it is going to be really dark, I would also recommend getting a monopod or tripod to stabilize the camera even more. If a camera has a higher ISO setting, that would also help in lower light situations. Of the cameras you have listed, I would choose the Panasonic FZ8 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ). Its longer optical zoom (12x) and ISO 3200 capabilities would fit best for your needs. The 7.2MP resolution will get you great photos up to 8x10 and even larger at the finest resolution settings. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
I would personally go with a camera with image stabilization because you need it to work well in low light situations. If it is going to be really dark, I would also recommend getting a monopod or tripod to stabilize the camera even more. If a camera has a higher ISO setting, that would also help in lower light situations. Of the cameras you have listed, I would choose the Panasonic FZ8 ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ). Its longer optical zoom (12x) and ISO 3200 capabilities would fit best for your needs. The 7.2MP resolution will get you great photos up to 8x10 and even larger at the finest resolution settings. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
missndscs (11/19/2007)
Hi Andrew, thanks for the recommendation! How do you think Fujifilm s600fd and s800fd would compare to the Panasonic Fz8?? I've heard that fuji's are better in low lighting. THank you for your help!
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (11/21/2007)
Amy,
The Fuji S6000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) drops you down to 6 megapixel resolution, while the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) bumps you up to 8MP and boasts a 18x optical zoom both with ISO 3200 capabilities. This camera also has image stabilization. If it is in your budget, the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) might be the way to go.
Andrew
reply to this comment
The Fuji S6000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) drops you down to 6 megapixel resolution, while the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) bumps you up to 8MP and boasts a 18x optical zoom both with ISO 3200 capabilities. This camera also has image stabilization. If it is in your budget, the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) might be the way to go.
Andrew
Can someone please tell me if the Fuji S8000 has the sepia option? (cb54 — 11/15/2007)
I know that it has a black/white option but can't find any info on sepia? Thanks.
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (11/16/2007)
Cindy,
I went through the specifications ( fujifilm.com/products/digit... ) for the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) and could not find anything about the sepia mode. I would say that it does not have it. You can purchase software that can convert color photos into sepia mode though. I use PaintShopPro ( corel.com/servlet/Satellite... ) by Corel for that function. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
I went through the specifications ( fujifilm.com/products/digit... ) for the Fuji S8000fd ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) and could not find anything about the sepia mode. I would say that it does not have it. You can purchase software that can convert color photos into sepia mode though. I use PaintShopPro ( corel.com/servlet/Satellite... ) by Corel for that function. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
cb54 (11/16/2007)
thanks Andrew I found the same thing in the specs as well, but I have found alot of info. re. features that aren't always in the specs in other camera models so thought I'd throw the question out there. I was hoping that this would be a feature without the use of software. Now I back leaning toward the Olynpus SP550UZ for this very reason. But I'm wondering if that should be an issue for me, if software is available. I found the Fuji really comfortable in my hands with the features in all the right places for me, although the Olympus felt great too, until I finally had each of them to compare at the same time. Thanks again.
reply to this comment
Andrew Skinner (11/16/2007)
Cindy,
If a camera feels comfortable in your hands, you're going to take better pictures. A photographer has to feel good about their equipment. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
reply to this comment
If a camera feels comfortable in your hands, you're going to take better pictures. A photographer has to feel good about their equipment. Good luck and happy shooting.
Andrew
which one? Fuji s8000, Olympus SP560 or Panansonic FZ18? (carlscrew — 11/09/2007)
Buying first digital camera. Have narrowed it down to these 3. Will be using it mainly for taking shots of kids, sports, family trips, maybe some up close of the kids - nothing too fancy. Looking for a camera that I can play around with as my knowledge of photography improves. Pretty basic at the mo.
reply to this comment
Andre (11/10/2007)
Hi there, looks like you've been on the same quest as me. No doubt like myself you've spent time scouring through various reviews. Personally, I have decided to go for the Fuji S8000fd. Reasons? (1) Best price. (2) I like the feel of the Fuji over the Panasonic, although the Olympus feels good too but is pricier. (3) I have borrowed a friend's Fuji on a number of occasions and have been generally impressed with it overall. (4) The sum total of pros in the various reviews I've read outweigh the cons, although I do like Panasonic's Lithium-ion battery which will outlast 4 x rechargeable NiMH AA's and also charges quicker. (You just need to buy a spare to keep in case of emergencies!)
I think for just general photography you will be more than happy with whatever you choose, they are all great cameras, and it may just come down to brand choice or what you like the feel of. When reading professional reviewers' summations of cameras, you have to remember that they are taking the camera to the edge of the envelope in all areas, like a professional test driver who puts a car through all its paces to a greater degree than it will likely be pushed by the average driver. You and I, however, are regular users who will in reality probably won't be hindered by any of the claimed limitations of the camera we choose to buy until we become more demanding in our photographic expectations. And by the time that happens we will know exactly what we want in a camera.
Anyway, here in New Zealand the price is the clincher and it looks like the S8000fd for me! :-)
P.S. I love its wide-angle lens, and that was the main decider for me choosing it over the Panasonic FZ8.
reply to this comment
I think for just general photography you will be more than happy with whatever you choose, they are all great cameras, and it may just come down to brand choice or what you like the feel of. When reading professional reviewers' summations of cameras, you have to remember that they are taking the camera to the edge of the envelope in all areas, like a professional test driver who puts a car through all its paces to a greater degree than it will likely be pushed by the average driver. You and I, however, are regular users who will in reality probably won't be hindered by any of the claimed limitations of the camera we choose to buy until we become more demanding in our photographic expectations. And by the time that happens we will know exactly what we want in a camera.
Anyway, here in New Zealand the price is the clincher and it looks like the S8000fd for me! :-)
P.S. I love its wide-angle lens, and that was the main decider for me choosing it over the Panasonic FZ8.
carlscrew (11/12/2007)
Hi Andre
Thanks for that. Yep, certainly is a bit of a mission pouring thru all the info, reviews etc.
I appreciate your view & it has given me another tick for the Fuji. Hope you enjoy your camera once you've purchased it.
Once again, many thanks.
reply to this comment
Thanks for that. Yep, certainly is a bit of a mission pouring thru all the info, reviews etc.
I appreciate your view & it has given me another tick for the Fuji. Hope you enjoy your camera once you've purchased it.
Once again, many thanks.
AD (11/16/2007)
correct me if I'm wrong but the FZ18 (not FZ8) also has a wide angle lens
reply to this comment
Andre (11/16/2007)
Thanks AD, yes that is correct (FZ18 has a wide angle lens) and if it were the same price as the S8000fd I would probably go for the Panasonic, but here in NZ the FZ18 can be up to $200 dearer. If I can find the FZ18 at the right price I will grab it!
reply to this comment
carlscrew (11/17/2007)
Hi Andre
Just curious, but why would you choose the FZ18 over the S8000fd? They both seem much of a muchness though I do note that the FZ18 ISO goes higher than the S8000fd. One thing I like about the S8000fd is the red eye removal.
reply to this comment
Just curious, but why would you choose the FZ18 over the S8000fd? They both seem much of a muchness though I do note that the FZ18 ISO goes higher than the S8000fd. One thing I like about the S8000fd is the red eye removal.
Andre (11/17/2007)
Hi there VJ,
I agree both cameras are much of a muchness and today I was in the local store comparing each one for handling. It probably just comes down to cosmetics and other minor details.
* I like the look of the Panasonic but I prefer the feel of the Fuji.
* The FZ18 features RAW mode which is missing on the S8000fd, but this is probably a non-issue for me.
* The FZ18 (like the FZ8) features a lens hood, but once again this isn't a major problem. If there's an issue with sunlight entering the lens, I just shadow the lens with my other hand like I've been doing for the last 20 years!
* The FZ18 can be accessorised with a range of lens/filter accessories (see Ebay) but this doesn't appear to be the case for the S8000fd. Realistically and honestly speaking, however, for general photography these things are unnecessary. But it was interesting checking it out!
* The S8000fd's slowest shutter speed is a mere 4 seconds, so for doing any interesting night photography this is quite limiting. I think the FZ18's shutter can be held open for up to a minute if my memory is correct. But once again, there would be very few if any occasions where I would be wanting to do this, and if I really want to get adventurous I can always use my old film camera.
* I just wonder why Fuji didn't incorporate the latest-technology Super-CCD sensor into the S8000fd; they've introduced it into their lower-spec models, why not this one?
At the end of the day, I am still very impressed and more than happy with the overall reviews on the S8000fd and again it comes down to price. I can buy the S8000fd for NZ$520, but to buy the FZ18 I would have to shell out NZ$700!
So on price alone the Finepix wins hands down.
Interestingly, on a recent independent consumer survey, Fujifilm and Panasonic were rated as the most reliable camera brands on the market in New Zealand.
reply to this comment
I agree both cameras are much of a muchness and today I was in the local store comparing each one for handling. It probably just comes down to cosmetics and other minor details.
* I like the look of the Panasonic but I prefer the feel of the Fuji.
* The FZ18 features RAW mode which is missing on the S8000fd, but this is probably a non-issue for me.
* The FZ18 (like the FZ8) features a lens hood, but once again this isn't a major problem. If there's an issue with sunlight entering the lens, I just shadow the lens with my other hand like I've been doing for the last 20 years!
* The FZ18 can be accessorised with a range of lens/filter accessories (see Ebay) but this doesn't appear to be the case for the S8000fd. Realistically and honestly speaking, however, for general photography these things are unnecessary. But it was interesting checking it out!
* The S8000fd's slowest shutter speed is a mere 4 seconds, so for doing any interesting night photography this is quite limiting. I think the FZ18's shutter can be held open for up to a minute if my memory is correct. But once again, there would be very few if any occasions where I would be wanting to do this, and if I really want to get adventurous I can always use my old film camera.
* I just wonder why Fuji didn't incorporate the latest-technology Super-CCD sensor into the S8000fd; they've introduced it into their lower-spec models, why not this one?
At the end of the day, I am still very impressed and more than happy with the overall reviews on the S8000fd and again it comes down to price. I can buy the S8000fd for NZ$520, but to buy the FZ18 I would have to shell out NZ$700!
So on price alone the Finepix wins hands down.
Interestingly, on a recent independent consumer survey, Fujifilm and Panasonic were rated as the most reliable camera brands on the market in New Zealand.
Vj (11/21/2007)
Hi Andre
Thanks for your last reply. You raised some very interesting points. I agree, the Panasonic does look better but the Fuji feels nicer. I've decided the lack of RAW mode on the Fuji won't be a big problem for me. I've contacted Fuji asking about the lack of Super CCD sensor on the S8000fd so it'll be interesting to see what they say. I think overall if I want to do anything ambitious I'll probably use my old 'film SLR' camera as the photos from it are still amazing though I reckon for those everyday shots the Fuji will be the way to go.
Hoping Santa brings us both a Fuji for Christmas! Let me know how you get on if he does leave you one under the tree.
reply to this comment
Thanks for your last reply. You raised some very interesting points. I agree, the Panasonic does look better but the Fuji feels nicer. I've decided the lack of RAW mode on the Fuji won't be a big problem for me. I've contacted Fuji asking about the lack of Super CCD sensor on the S8000fd so it'll be interesting to see what they say. I think overall if I want to do anything ambitious I'll probably use my old 'film SLR' camera as the photos from it are still amazing though I reckon for those everyday shots the Fuji will be the way to go.
Hoping Santa brings us both a Fuji for Christmas! Let me know how you get on if he does leave you one under the tree.
sonic07 (01/06/2008)
Hi andre,
Please check out popphoto.com/cameras/4836/s... you can decide better which is best. Also check out digitalcameratracker.com/pa...
reply to this comment
Please check out popphoto.com/cameras/4836/s... you can decide better which is best. Also check out digitalcameratracker.com/pa...
Andre (01/07/2008)
Hi Sonic07,
Thanks for the links, in particular the PopPhoto.com Shootout, excellent article and one which confirmed my overall feelings about the Panasonic, but unfortunately in New Zealand it is currently at least NZ$200 dearer than the Fujifilm. I'm holding off from making any purchase for the meantime in the hope that the prices will come more within my reach. Appreciate your input.
Kind regards,
Andre
reply to this comment
Thanks for the links, in particular the PopPhoto.com Shootout, excellent article and one which confirmed my overall feelings about the Panasonic, but unfortunately in New Zealand it is currently at least NZ$200 dearer than the Fujifilm. I'm holding off from making any purchase for the meantime in the hope that the prices will come more within my reach. Appreciate your input.
Kind regards,
Andre
Fuji S8000, Olympus 560UZ & Nikon D40x. (Brynn5 — 11/06/2007)
reply to this comment
Brynn5 (11/06/2007)
How do the Fuji S8000 and the Olympus 560UZ compare when using in the auto mode. Are the delays similar. Need a mid-range, general use camera mostly for shooting family, i.e., young, on-the-go children. Also, willing to go to the SLR in the Nikon D40x, but thinking it may have more features than I will really use. Comments appreciated.
reply to this comment
Thomas S. (11/07/2007)
Well, the Fuji and the Olympus are pretty similar. The Nikon D40x takes much better pictures at high shutter speeds when you have to boost the ISO. If you are going to be taking pictures of stationary subjects in good lighting, I'd go with the Olympus. It seems to have a little better quality than the Fuji. But, for taking pictures of moving subjects in poor lighting, you definitely need the D40x. As far as the features, I think it might be a little more than you need, but not way more.
reply to this comment
I just got this camera. Can I use any type of tripod, or just one from fuji? Thanks (AJPhotos — 10/21/2007)
What type of tripod is best for this camera?
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (10/22/2007)
Nope. You can use any tripod you wish. Or even monopods. You may want focus on those that have quick release plates and a fluid head for best results.
reply to this comment
AJPhotos (10/24/2007)
Thank you so much for taking the time to help me! You are a lifesaver!
Alice
reply to this comment
Alice
by James DeRuvo (10/25/2007)
You bet. That's what we're here for and we're happy to help.
BTW - If you're happy with the answer you received, you can simply click on "Mark for best answer" bubble and it will place the question in the "Answered" category for all to see. Thanks for posting it and Good luck!
reply to this comment
BTW - If you're happy with the answer you received, you can simply click on "Mark for best answer" bubble and it will place the question in the "Answered" category for all to see. Thanks for posting it and Good luck!
eperrakl09 (10/30/2007)
Could you elaborate on "quick release and fluid head" for a novice who has yet to
use tripod for shooting?
E Perra
reply to this comment
use tripod for shooting?
E Perra
by James DeRuvo (10/30/2007)
A fluid head tripod essentially sits the head (the assembly that connects to the camera) on fluid. They are designed to move more smoothly than the basic heads on inexpensive tripods. A quick release plate fits onto your camera where it can stay. It's essentially a plate. You then place the camera onto your tripod by attaching the plate to the tripod head in the provided slot. Pressing the lever open and close allows you to remove the camera very quickly, rather than taking the time to unscrew a tripod and rescrew it every time you want to attach the camera to the tripod.
reply to this comment
eperrakl09 (10/30/2007)
Thanks James.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (11/01/2007)
Happy to help. BTW - If you're happy with the answer you received, you can simply click on "Mark for best answer" bubble and it will place the question in the "Answered" category for all to see. Thanks for posting it and Good luck!
reply to this comment
Can I use lithium disposable batteries in this camera? (jcole64 — 10/20/2007)
reply to this comment
Matt (10/23/2007)
This camera uses 4 "AA" standard batteries. You can use rechargable "AA" batteries (~2,500 mAh would probably be best).
reply to this comment
Aaron (11/24/2007)
Matt is saying that 4 AA standard batteries for Fuji S8000fd - especially 2,500 mAh is the best. I find difficulty in getting batteries of this capacity. I am using 15-Min.RAYOVAC 2000mah; DURACEL (2050mah); DIGICAM (2000mah); and ENERGIZER (2050 mah) Ni-MH rechargeable batteries. Among this patch, I find RAYOVA 2000 mAH lasts much longer time, and the worst is ENERGIZER (2050mAh)
Can you please advise what are the brand names having that type of power?
Thx
reply to this comment
Can you please advise what are the brand names having that type of power?
Thx
Matt (11/27/2007)
Eneloop, Sony and Rayovac are all batteries I know that have at least 2,500 mAh batteries. I'm using the Sony ones myself, but hear that Eneloops are the best (they go up to 2,700 mAh, apparently). Search amazon.com for "2500 mAh battery" and you'll come up with what you're looking for :)
reply to this comment
Selma (01/11/2008)
The question is NOT answered. The use of LITHIUM disposable AA's was the question. Has anyone used lithium AA's and found that the Fuji S8000fd overheats or that it was damaged in some way?
reply to this comment
alta (02/01/2008)
I agree - the Q has NOT been aswered. The manual states clearly that neither manganese, Ni-Cd and lithium and batteries are not to be used. Camera shops and their salesmen ignore this fact and insist in selling the lithium disposables - their argument: this is what "all" cameras use ..... I am not willing to risk using lithium.
I have a coupe of sets of rechargeable Ni MH's and as disposable backup, will be using TITANIUM ALKALINE (Energiser in Orange pack, it does'nt state "Titanium" on pack, but I have checked the specs).
Hope this is of some help, as I battled for a long time with this Q
reply to this comment
I have a coupe of sets of rechargeable Ni MH's and as disposable backup, will be using TITANIUM ALKALINE (Energiser in Orange pack, it does'nt state "Titanium" on pack, but I have checked the specs).
Hope this is of some help, as I battled for a long time with this Q
Maggie (04/04/2008)
I am still not satisfied because we still have no reason as to why you cannot use Lithium. I have the same questions about lithium batteries that Selma expressed. I just got this camera and when I read the information in the user handbook, I called 5 different camera shops in the area to find out why you can't use Lithium. Some of the answers I received were : "good question, but I don't know........"I don't know why because we recommend Lithium for all our cameras, even Fuji ". One person said that there may be an overheating problem when you use the flash a lot. (Duh!)........."Lithium batteries may be too powerful and cause overheating. One even told me to go to Google and maybe I could find out the answer there. Well, here I am Googling..............
Guess none of them read the Fuji manuel!
I even tried to go on the Fuji Film website to e-mail this question, but there was no place to key a question under the Support/Question tab. Still waiting for an answer that makes sense to me.
reply to this comment
Guess none of them read the Fuji manuel!
I even tried to go on the Fuji Film website to e-mail this question, but there was no place to key a question under the Support/Question tab. Still waiting for an answer that makes sense to me.
Regi (04/30/2008)
The answer is voltage. Lithium AA batteries are not true 1.5 volt batteries, as a matter of fact, they have a voltage of 1.8 volt when fresh. In the camera, the 4 x AA batteries are electrically connected in series. With alkaline and NiMH batteries, this series connection adds up to a total of 6 Volts. The four AA lithium batteries add up to 7.2 V. The camera electronic circuits, if not designed to compensate for the higher voltage of the lithium AA batteries, could potentially be damaged or compromised if lithium AA is used. Some camera makers therefore do not recommend lithium AA for use, e.g. Canon warns against the use of lithium AA batteries in their models. Other camera makers have made accommodations for the higher voltage. As for temperature, Lithium AA batteries due tend to get hotter than alkaline or NiMH when taking pictures in rapid succession, but this is less of a threat than the higher voltage issue.
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Alan (05/25/2008)
I have been using Energizer Lithium AA batteries recently and have been having problems with my Digital camera when taking several photos in a short time, (1) The camera jams up and will not work and the only way I can get it to turn off is to open the battery cover and reclose it again (which I hate doing) then the camera restarts. (2) After taking a picture the camera will not complete taking the photo, the little orange light keeps flickering as if it is trying to write the picture to the card, this flickering never stops even after several minutes so the solution is to open the battery cover and reclose it again to restart the camera. Maybe I should go back to using the normal Duracell Plus AA batteries.
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Best camera (ford8366 — 10/08/2007)
I need help in this decision as I am not a camera guru. What is the best camera for someone making the jump from the standard compact digitals: Fujifilm Finepix S700, Fujifilm Finepix S8000fd, or Olympus SP550 UZ?
Most of the use will be indoor family gatherings and Walt Disney World vacations.
Thanks in advance!
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Most of the use will be indoor family gatherings and Walt Disney World vacations.
Thanks in advance!
Matt (10/17/2007)
I'll narrow it down to the S8000fd or SP550 UZ. Both of these are great cameras, with high zoom, great picture quality and pretty good value (money-wise).
Overall, I'd probably encourage you to look at the Panasonic FZ18. It's the same price, has the long zoom, but I think is more user-friendly, better with point-and-shoot (vs. tinkering to get the settings right) and, outside of really low light, has great picture quality.
The specs on these 3 cameras are pretty similar, though, and either of the 3 you choose will be a unregrettable choice. I think the final decision will be based on your brand preference, how it feels in your hand when using it, the type of memory cards you prefer or already have, etc.
I'd get the Panasonic FZ18 personally, though :)
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Overall, I'd probably encourage you to look at the Panasonic FZ18. It's the same price, has the long zoom, but I think is more user-friendly, better with point-and-shoot (vs. tinkering to get the settings right) and, outside of really low light, has great picture quality.
The specs on these 3 cameras are pretty similar, though, and either of the 3 you choose will be a unregrettable choice. I think the final decision will be based on your brand preference, how it feels in your hand when using it, the type of memory cards you prefer or already have, etc.
I'd get the Panasonic FZ18 personally, though :)
nusrideen (10/17/2007)
though if u r going for an high zooming cam u v better go for a Sony Cybershot H7. it has 18x optical zoom and 30x digital zoom which is a higher range of zoom. it has agreat picture quality . money wise its the same as Fujifilm Finepix s8000fd so my advice is for u to switch on to the H7 cos the 3 cams u haw chosen r the sam but the H7 has more zoom the 3 cams u v chose. so the best choice is for u to go ahead with the Sony H7.
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Matt (10/17/2007)
The H7 has 31-465mm zoom. The S8000fd has 27-486mm zoom. The SP550UZ has 28-504mm zoom. The FZ18 has 28-504mm zoom.
So unfortunately, Nusri, you're wrong. Not only does the H7 not have the wideangle that all three other cameras have, but the picture quality is not as good. Please read here if you need further verification: dpreview.com/reviews/sonyh7... granted, I can't attest to the digital zoom, except you never want to use it. You can digitally zoom your picture by cropping during post-edit mode, without losing as much detail and decreasing noise in your original pictures. Plus, you don't lose the original picture in post-processing, either, whereas you can't go back after you ruin your picture with digital zoom on your camera.
Sony is happy trying to trick the consumer with zoom specs to make an extra buck, though. But unless you want a mess of ugly pixels in your picture, try to avoid digital zoom at all costs (usually using 2x digital zoom will still make for good pictures, though... you should still try not using it, though).
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So unfortunately, Nusri, you're wrong. Not only does the H7 not have the wideangle that all three other cameras have, but the picture quality is not as good. Please read here if you need further verification: dpreview.com/reviews/sonyh7... granted, I can't attest to the digital zoom, except you never want to use it. You can digitally zoom your picture by cropping during post-edit mode, without losing as much detail and decreasing noise in your original pictures. Plus, you don't lose the original picture in post-processing, either, whereas you can't go back after you ruin your picture with digital zoom on your camera.
Sony is happy trying to trick the consumer with zoom specs to make an extra buck, though. But unless you want a mess of ugly pixels in your picture, try to avoid digital zoom at all costs (usually using 2x digital zoom will still make for good pictures, though... you should still try not using it, though).
ford8366 (10/18/2007)
Thanks Matt for your input and suggestion. I did take a look at the Panasonic DMC-FZ18k, but the only thing that I don't like about it is the Lithium-ion power cell requirement. I stay away from those because I'd hate to be somewhere (like in Disney World) and the battery dies. If that happens, I'm without a camera until I can charge it up again. I like the flexibility of using standard AA batteries in a pinch. So of the two you narrowed it down to, the 550UZ and the s8000fd, which do you like better? Or, do you have a third one that you'd suggest?
And if I could bother you for an additional question...I was going to buy the camera at The Camera Shop/Ritz Camera and invest in their extended warranty coverage. Is this a good idea or not worth the money? The cost of the warranty is 15% of the value of the camera for each year purchased (aka $59.99/year up to a max of 5 years of coverage).
Nusri, thank you for your input as well. I was actually looking at the CyberShot H9 before narrowing it down to the 3 in my original post. I'm a gadget geek, so all of the bells and whistles were appealing, however, this camera will be used by my father as well and, as such, he would get easily lost with the complexity of the camera's features.
Thanks in advance again!
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And if I could bother you for an additional question...I was going to buy the camera at The Camera Shop/Ritz Camera and invest in their extended warranty coverage. Is this a good idea or not worth the money? The cost of the warranty is 15% of the value of the camera for each year purchased (aka $59.99/year up to a max of 5 years of coverage).
Nusri, thank you for your input as well. I was actually looking at the CyberShot H9 before narrowing it down to the 3 in my original post. I'm a gadget geek, so all of the bells and whistles were appealing, however, this camera will be used by my father as well and, as such, he would get easily lost with the complexity of the camera's features.
Thanks in advance again!
Matt (10/18/2007)
Umm.... having to carry around another set of AA batteries vs. buying another Li-Ion battery(?)
If you seriously insist on tossing out the FZ18 because of batteries... I would go with the Fuji.
And as for warranties, a study was done that shows that electronics companies make nearly 100% of their overhead profits from warranties. Usually, a warranty has unlimited loopholes for blaming you for the damages on the camera, and you're screwed. And at 15%, you're paying half the value of the camera within 3 years. Firstly, you'll probably want a new camera by then and secondly, if your camera gets ruined and the manufacturer is too shoddy to fix it, it's a quick lesson learned on never buying from that manufacturer again. So in my opinion, I wouldn't get the warranty. Even if you were to need it repaired, a warranty would cost about $120, so you're set for one repair every 2 years. And like I said, if you actually need to repair it that often.....
I also have a hard time believing The Camera Shop or Ritz Camera has the best prices. Shop around and find the best price, it's worth your while.
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If you seriously insist on tossing out the FZ18 because of batteries... I would go with the Fuji.
And as for warranties, a study was done that shows that electronics companies make nearly 100% of their overhead profits from warranties. Usually, a warranty has unlimited loopholes for blaming you for the damages on the camera, and you're screwed. And at 15%, you're paying half the value of the camera within 3 years. Firstly, you'll probably want a new camera by then and secondly, if your camera gets ruined and the manufacturer is too shoddy to fix it, it's a quick lesson learned on never buying from that manufacturer again. So in my opinion, I wouldn't get the warranty. Even if you were to need it repaired, a warranty would cost about $120, so you're set for one repair every 2 years. And like I said, if you actually need to repair it that often.....
I also have a hard time believing The Camera Shop or Ritz Camera has the best prices. Shop around and find the best price, it's worth your while.
ford8366 (10/19/2007)
Thanks again, Matt, for your excellent input and advice. I admit, it is unreasonable to scrap a camera based solely on its power source. I'll be sure to take a look at the camera in person and judge it against the Fuji in terms of hand and control feel.
I thought that was rather steep for a camera warranty. It's not Fuji that's offering the warranty, it's The Camera Shop/Ritz Camera. Unlike Circuit City's and Best Buy's "warranties of free replacement", which are a one shot deal, TCS/RC offer unlimited repairs (regardless of the cause) and the camera is brought back to the store (instead of being sent via UPS to a 3rd party for repairs).
I've been looking around for better prices on the Fuji and the Olympus, but I've only been able to find them at TCS/RC. The cameras being offered at other stores are the previous models (Fuji S700 and Olympus 540UZ). If I'm going to invest the money into a good SuperZoom camera, I want the newest model.
Thanks also for changing my opinion on Fuji brand cameras. I knew that they made great 35mm film, but I wasn't sure how well their cameras were since they really never entered the camera market until the digital explosion. I was leaning towards the Olympus prior to your advice based solely on their long and distinguished history in the camera market.
Let me know if you need any help with picking out a good computer, building a computer from scratch, or choosing a good car for the price range....those are my fortes.
Thanks again!
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I thought that was rather steep for a camera warranty. It's not Fuji that's offering the warranty, it's The Camera Shop/Ritz Camera. Unlike Circuit City's and Best Buy's "warranties of free replacement", which are a one shot deal, TCS/RC offer unlimited repairs (regardless of the cause) and the camera is brought back to the store (instead of being sent via UPS to a 3rd party for repairs).
I've been looking around for better prices on the Fuji and the Olympus, but I've only been able to find them at TCS/RC. The cameras being offered at other stores are the previous models (Fuji S700 and Olympus 540UZ). If I'm going to invest the money into a good SuperZoom camera, I want the newest model.
Thanks also for changing my opinion on Fuji brand cameras. I knew that they made great 35mm film, but I wasn't sure how well their cameras were since they really never entered the camera market until the digital explosion. I was leaning towards the Olympus prior to your advice based solely on their long and distinguished history in the camera market.
Let me know if you need any help with picking out a good computer, building a computer from scratch, or choosing a good car for the price range....those are my fortes.
Thanks again!
Matt (10/19/2007)
Can you tell me what you'd be paying (out the door) for the S8000fd and 550UZ? I'll look around and try to beat those prices for you. Also to let you know, there is a Olympus 560UZ coming out very shortly (November 1st, for about $450). It has a few interesting new features, and of course the obligatory higher resolution: amazon.com/Olympus-SP-560UZ... You mention wanting the newest... that would leave you with the 560UZ, S8000fd and FZ18.... so many choices!!! We'll stick with the S8000fd for now and (if you end up changing your mind) the FZ18. It's a great idea, like you said, to try out the cameras in person, because there's nothing worse than buying a great camera that you hate using. You might end up hating the control/feel of the S8000fd. Who knows?
I'm still opting for "no" on the warranty. However, I'm also not risk adverse. A typical camera a consumer keeps for about 2 years. In that time, the extra $100+ you spent on the warranty could go towards a really cool camera. But that's just me :)
And I know nothing about computers. Where were you this past March when I bought mine? lol.
Just for reference, without really looking around I'm finding the 550UZ and S8000fd at $327, out the door.
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I'm still opting for "no" on the warranty. However, I'm also not risk adverse. A typical camera a consumer keeps for about 2 years. In that time, the extra $100+ you spent on the warranty could go towards a really cool camera. But that's just me :)
And I know nothing about computers. Where were you this past March when I bought mine? lol.
Just for reference, without really looking around I'm finding the 550UZ and S8000fd at $327, out the door.
ford8366 (10/19/2007)
Around this area, I'm seeing the MSRP for the cameras which are $399.99. However, I live in close proximity to Delaware so I wouldn't be paying any sales tax on the camera. I saw the 560UZ, but I want to stay close to the $400 mark. If I go any higher, I might as well go with an SLR. I've already held the S8000fd prior to posting my original question and it was comfortable, but I didn't even consider the Panasonic so I have to go back to the store and try it out. Absolutely, there's no sense in investing the money if I'm going to hate holding the thing. Another thing that I noticed about the FZ18k is that it's a few ounces lighter than the S8000fd, so that's being taken into consideration as well.
Oh I'm not the typical consumer. If I buy electronic equipment and really like it, I'll hold onto it for a while. To give you an idea, I still have my HP Photosmart 1.4MP camera that I use on occasion because it still takes damn good pictures! LOL But that's not the reason why I'm still considering getting the warranty. In the next few years I'll be doing some traveling to Mexico, cruises, and the like so in case the thing gets dropped into the ocean, I'll be able to take it back for repairs! :)
LOL, sorry man! If we were having this conversation back then, I surely would've helped you out! Just out of curiosity, what did you end up buying?
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Oh I'm not the typical consumer. If I buy electronic equipment and really like it, I'll hold onto it for a while. To give you an idea, I still have my HP Photosmart 1.4MP camera that I use on occasion because it still takes damn good pictures! LOL But that's not the reason why I'm still considering getting the warranty. In the next few years I'll be doing some traveling to Mexico, cruises, and the like so in case the thing gets dropped into the ocean, I'll be able to take it back for repairs! :)
LOL, sorry man! If we were having this conversation back then, I surely would've helped you out! Just out of curiosity, what did you end up buying?
Matt (10/19/2007)
Check out www.amazon.com... no tax or shipping for ~$327. If Ritz Camera/The Camera Store has it for $399.99, then you've already saved a theoretical year's warranty on it. BUT, again, your choice, I can't really help you decide on that any more than give my opinion :) As far as cruises... if you drop it in the ocean, what are the odds they'll turn the cruiseliner around so you can pick up your camera for a warranty? tehe. And will they just give you an entirely new camera if they can't fix it?
I ended up buying a 22" HP widescreen monitor with the HP Slimline S3100N. Out the door it was about $760 back then. Now, if I knew someone that would've been able to help upgrade and install, I may have considered something else, haha. But it fits my needs. I have the XBox360, and don't use my computer for gaming anymore (except for Media Center, which ended up becoming indispensible, because my TiVo's harddrive crapped out on me as I was rearranging my TV equipment when I hooked up the TV tuner!)
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I ended up buying a 22" HP widescreen monitor with the HP Slimline S3100N. Out the door it was about $760 back then. Now, if I knew someone that would've been able to help upgrade and install, I may have considered something else, haha. But it fits my needs. I have the XBox360, and don't use my computer for gaming anymore (except for Media Center, which ended up becoming indispensible, because my TiVo's harddrive crapped out on me as I was rearranging my TV equipment when I hooked up the TV tuner!)
ford8366 (10/19/2007)
I keep forgetting that Amazon.com sells more than just books. I'll have to check it out. Haha, no, they won't turn around to get it. But if I drop the thing while parasailing, I stand a good chance of retrieving it. Yeah, I made sure of that. If I was to take an unrepairable camera into the store say 2 years from now and my camera was no longer available, they'll replace it with a new one comparably equipped.
Oh you bought an HP? I'm sorry to hear that! The only things that HP can do right are printers (sans scanner and fax) and the Photosmart cameras. They're notorious for breaking down after about a year...though, it's still better than an e-Machine. Your best bet would've been either customizing a Dell or a Gateway, or, going to a computer show and specifying the components to be put into a blank box. The latter is the best option for the buck. I built my desktop back in 1999 for about $800, I haven't done anything to the original setup (other than updating operating systems and putting in a larger HDD), and it still outperforms all of the ones on the market today. But the downside with computers from those shows is most of them are a la carte. If you want to specify the components in the box, you have to forfeit getting a monitor and all peripherals included in the price. How in the hell did you screw up the TiVo moving things around? LOL
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Oh you bought an HP? I'm sorry to hear that! The only things that HP can do right are printers (sans scanner and fax) and the Photosmart cameras. They're notorious for breaking down after about a year...though, it's still better than an e-Machine. Your best bet would've been either customizing a Dell or a Gateway, or, going to a computer show and specifying the components to be put into a blank box. The latter is the best option for the buck. I built my desktop back in 1999 for about $800, I haven't done anything to the original setup (other than updating operating systems and putting in a larger HDD), and it still outperforms all of the ones on the market today. But the downside with computers from those shows is most of them are a la carte. If you want to specify the components in the box, you have to forfeit getting a monitor and all peripherals included in the price. How in the hell did you screw up the TiVo moving things around? LOL
Matt (10/19/2007)
Do cameras float?
Well if I KNEW someone that could've built one for me!!!.................. And a la carte would be great, if I knew all the ridiculous stuff you need to put into a computer. Ugh. Fortunately, I won't need a monitor, operating system or mouse/keyboard/etc for awhile. Maybe my next computer will be built from the ground up.
And I didn't screw up the TiVo! The harddrive fizzled when I plugged it back in.
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Well if I KNEW someone that could've built one for me!!!.................. And a la carte would be great, if I knew all the ridiculous stuff you need to put into a computer. Ugh. Fortunately, I won't need a monitor, operating system or mouse/keyboard/etc for awhile. Maybe my next computer will be built from the ground up.
And I didn't screw up the TiVo! The harddrive fizzled when I plugged it back in.
djstar (10/19/2007)
cameras do not float.
:-(
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:-(
Matt (10/19/2007)
Uh oh. Story time, Deb? lol
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ford8366 (10/20/2007)
Hey, anything is possible! Cameras tend to walk away if left unattended. LOL
Well NOW you do! LOL Here are some basics:
Motherboard: AMD Athlon or Intel DuoCore processor on an Asus board.
Parallel and Serial ports aren't necessary since they're almost completely phased out.
USB v2.0 or higher: At least 2 ports (you can always get a USB hub to expand your capacity, about $15)
IEEE 1394 (aka Firewire): Not necessary since just about every peripheral on the market is USB or Ethernet
HDD: Size capacity is your preference, but make sure it's at least 7200 rpm (Maxtor is your best bet).
RAM Memory: Expandable to multi-gigabyte (absolute minimum capacity: 512MB) Be sure to set your virtual memory in Windows to a max of 1 1/2 times your physical memory (ie: 1 GB RAM = 1 1/2 GB VM)
Components: Separate DVD/DVD-R/DVD-RW and CD/CD-R/CD-RW drives linked together with max speed available for each (though never write at the highest speed, use the next slowest) (No one brand is better than another)
Video and audio cards: Make sure they have high onboard memory chips and accelerators (Soundblaster for audio, NVIDIA for video).
NIC card: Network Interface Card gives you the option to connect to a router or cable/DSL modem
Power Pack: Whatever is required for the board, but make sure it has its own power switch separate from the main tower switch (redundant feature when home electrical power loss, safeguard against board burn-up)
Is that your story and you're sticking to it about the TiVo, Matt? LOL
Care to share what happened to your camera, Deb?
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Well NOW you do! LOL Here are some basics:
Motherboard: AMD Athlon or Intel DuoCore processor on an Asus board.
Parallel and Serial ports aren't necessary since they're almost completely phased out.
USB v2.0 or higher: At least 2 ports (you can always get a USB hub to expand your capacity, about $15)
IEEE 1394 (aka Firewire): Not necessary since just about every peripheral on the market is USB or Ethernet
HDD: Size capacity is your preference, but make sure it's at least 7200 rpm (Maxtor is your best bet).
RAM Memory: Expandable to multi-gigabyte (absolute minimum capacity: 512MB) Be sure to set your virtual memory in Windows to a max of 1 1/2 times your physical memory (ie: 1 GB RAM = 1 1/2 GB VM)
Components: Separate DVD/DVD-R/DVD-RW and CD/CD-R/CD-RW drives linked together with max speed available for each (though never write at the highest speed, use the next slowest) (No one brand is better than another)
Video and audio cards: Make sure they have high onboard memory chips and accelerators (Soundblaster for audio, NVIDIA for video).
NIC card: Network Interface Card gives you the option to connect to a router or cable/DSL modem
Power Pack: Whatever is required for the board, but make sure it has its own power switch separate from the main tower switch (redundant feature when home electrical power loss, safeguard against board burn-up)
Is that your story and you're sticking to it about the TiVo, Matt? LOL
Care to share what happened to your camera, Deb?
Alene (10/20/2007)
Matt, I am seriously considering buying this camera because I take a lot of super macro pictures and this one claims to provide very close focus. However, size and weight are also an issue for me. The teeny camera I already own does a very good job at this, but it also has a very short zoom range and definite softness when fully extended.
I pretty much had made up my mind to get this one, but then saw a customer review which claimed the images were just "okay" -- "not great".
I don't want a camera that takes pictures that are just 'okay'. Any advice for me?
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I pretty much had made up my mind to get this one, but then saw a customer review which claimed the images were just "okay" -- "not great".
I don't want a camera that takes pictures that are just 'okay'. Any advice for me?
Matt (10/20/2007)
It's hard to say, Alene. How far of a zoom do you want? If you want this 18x zoom, the best pictures will come from the S8000fd, Olympus 550/560UZ and Panasonic FZ18.
Here is a good picture of macro on the S8000fd: flickr.com/photos/stargazer... is a good picture of macro on the FZ18: flickr.com/photos/anglemati... is a good picture of macro on the 560UZ: flickr.com/photos/9395716@N... in mind, with such a crazy zoom, you can be a few feet away from your subject and zoom in to your picture so it looks like a macro-zoom anyway.
My guess is that the person who said the pictures were "okay" either:
a.) Didn't have enough time to learn the camera, and gave an amateur review.
b.) Was basing his definition of "okay" on the picture quality of complete dSLR cameras, which isn't fair.
c.) Is a pixel-counter, and crops everything 100% to find small blemishes in a picture.
You can see from all those macro pictures that macro on all these cameras is beautiful.... if you know how to use it.
If you're set on getting the S8000fd, don't let an "okay" review deter you. You can check out more pictures at www.flickr.com by searching for "S8000FD", or even "S8000FD, macro" for just macro pictures. Keep in mind some of these pictures are from people who took pictures "right out of the box" (ie, completely inexperienced)... you'll notice the ones who took their pictures correctly :)
Now, if you don't care about 18x zoom, and are OK with a 12x zoom... check out the S5IS (even on flickr.com, if you want!). That camera takes amazing macro zooms.
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Here is a good picture of macro on the S8000fd: flickr.com/photos/stargazer... is a good picture of macro on the FZ18: flickr.com/photos/anglemati... is a good picture of macro on the 560UZ: flickr.com/photos/9395716@N... in mind, with such a crazy zoom, you can be a few feet away from your subject and zoom in to your picture so it looks like a macro-zoom anyway.
My guess is that the person who said the pictures were "okay" either:
a.) Didn't have enough time to learn the camera, and gave an amateur review.
b.) Was basing his definition of "okay" on the picture quality of complete dSLR cameras, which isn't fair.
c.) Is a pixel-counter, and crops everything 100% to find small blemishes in a picture.
You can see from all those macro pictures that macro on all these cameras is beautiful.... if you know how to use it.
If you're set on getting the S8000fd, don't let an "okay" review deter you. You can check out more pictures at www.flickr.com by searching for "S8000FD", or even "S8000FD, macro" for just macro pictures. Keep in mind some of these pictures are from people who took pictures "right out of the box" (ie, completely inexperienced)... you'll notice the ones who took their pictures correctly :)
Now, if you don't care about 18x zoom, and are OK with a 12x zoom... check out the S5IS (even on flickr.com, if you want!). That camera takes amazing macro zooms.
Matt (10/20/2007)
Steve.... by the time I need that information for my new computer, we won't even know what the term "MB" means anymore, everything will need a minimum of 4GB memory just to run :) But if you're seriously willing to help pick the components of my new computer down the line, send me your E-mail at MAK42868@hotmail.com, and I'll keep in touch :) Thanks!
And yes, I'm sticking to my TiVo story!!!
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And yes, I'm sticking to my TiVo story!!!
Alene (10/20/2007)
Thanks for the links. (Some of those pictures are amazing!)
No, I actually don't need 18X zoom necessarily. But I'm currently using a "pocket" camera which, as I said, is capable of taking some astonishingly good macro pictures, but only has 111mm as its MAXIMIM zoom length and even at that focal length it isn't good for much more than portraits of elderly people because it's so soft!
I don't really need a SUPER long telephoto. Actually anything over about 175mm (film equivalent) would probably be fine. But I want my new camera to be at least as competent in the macro range as the little one I am using now.
I would say my requirements would be (in this order):
1. superb macro capability
2. smallish size/weight
3. decent telephoto length with sharpness throughout the optical zoom range, even fully extended
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No, I actually don't need 18X zoom necessarily. But I'm currently using a "pocket" camera which, as I said, is capable of taking some astonishingly good macro pictures, but only has 111mm as its MAXIMIM zoom length and even at that focal length it isn't good for much more than portraits of elderly people because it's so soft!
I don't really need a SUPER long telephoto. Actually anything over about 175mm (film equivalent) would probably be fine. But I want my new camera to be at least as competent in the macro range as the little one I am using now.
I would say my requirements would be (in this order):
1. superb macro capability
2. smallish size/weight
3. decent telephoto length with sharpness throughout the optical zoom range, even fully extended
Matt (10/20/2007)
To get to >5x optical (35mm equivalent x 5 = 175), you'll need to step up to possibly the Panasonic TZ3 for a camera with 8x optical (280mm), with nicely has the 28mm wideangle as well. Some pictures of macro with this camera are also at flickr, including:
flickr.com/search/?q=tz3%2C... I won't say the best, but it's the best in its class (ultracompact, with 6x and higher zoom).
I'm still pushing you to the S5IS. Just see for yourself how beautiful and crisp nearly every single one of these shots are:
flickr.com/search/?w=all&am... sister has the S3IS (previous model, pretty much the same thing), and you can practically touch the lens to the camera, macro was that good. If you can, check it out at the store. :)
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flickr.com/search/?q=tz3%2C... I won't say the best, but it's the best in its class (ultracompact, with 6x and higher zoom).
I'm still pushing you to the S5IS. Just see for yourself how beautiful and crisp nearly every single one of these shots are:
flickr.com/search/?w=all&am... sister has the S3IS (previous model, pretty much the same thing), and you can practically touch the lens to the camera, macro was that good. If you can, check it out at the store. :)
Alene (10/21/2007)
Thank you -- I'll take your suggestions to heart. I have had two Canon (film) cameras in the past and didn't find they "fit" me very well. (Canon EOS Elan SLR and Sure Shot 130u) I kept going back to Olympus and got good results from them even though they were NOT highly recommended!!!!! (One actualy made one reviewer's "worst ten" list.)
But I'm open minded enough to check out the S5IS at the store. It just may be exactly what I'm looking for. Third time's a charm . . .
Thanks you again for your assistance. I truly appreciate it.
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But I'm open minded enough to check out the S5IS at the store. It just may be exactly what I'm looking for. Third time's a charm . . .
Thanks you again for your assistance. I truly appreciate it.
Matt (10/21/2007)
I don't blame you for not liking the Sure Shot 130u. The Canon EOS Elan SLR is definitely a love it or hate it camera... the interface was odd. It's good to hear you're willing to try it. But I'm not pushing it on you, it's just a great camera :) The Olympus is a good camera for ultra-zooms and dSLRs... just not ultracompacts, IMO. So if you opt for the 550 or 560UZ, you'll be happy as well :)
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ford8366 (10/22/2007)
LOL, isn't that the truth! I just sent you an email to your address.
Hmmm, I guess Deb is too embarrassed to share her story as to why cameras don't float!
Okay I'll bite...what does "super macro" mean?
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Hmmm, I guess Deb is too embarrassed to share her story as to why cameras don't float!
Okay I'll bite...what does "super macro" mean?
Alene (10/22/2007)
I think that's probably terminology only used with small (pocket sized cameras) only. On my little one, what they call "macro" is usable from approximately 2 feet to infinity, but you can use the telephoto and flash.
Super macro takes you down to a couple of inches from the subject (or closer, depending on the camera) out to about two feet, but the lens is in its wide angle position and obviously you can't use flash.
With "better" cameras, this would probably usually fall into just 'macro' range and you can get down to, as Matt says, almost to the point of touching your subject with the front of the lens.
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Super macro takes you down to a couple of inches from the subject (or closer, depending on the camera) out to about two feet, but the lens is in its wide angle position and obviously you can't use flash.
With "better" cameras, this would probably usually fall into just 'macro' range and you can get down to, as Matt says, almost to the point of touching your subject with the front of the lens.
djstar (10/22/2007)
I am just busy, learning the new camera and finishing up old business.
I found the battery bag in my towels from the shop I work in one day a week. I went to the car twice, checked my pockets etc, and just figured I had misplaced my Optio. So when I unloaded the towels from the washer, I can't honestly say I KNOW it did not float through it, but the silver showing at the BOTTOM of wet towels without the zoom switch or shutter button made me THINK it did not float....even after I threw out the batteries and dried it out.... so someone may have a better story but for now.... they don't float!
dj*
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I found the battery bag in my towels from the shop I work in one day a week. I went to the car twice, checked my pockets etc, and just figured I had misplaced my Optio. So when I unloaded the towels from the washer, I can't honestly say I KNOW it did not float through it, but the silver showing at the BOTTOM of wet towels without the zoom switch or shutter button made me THINK it did not float....even after I threw out the batteries and dried it out.... so someone may have a better story but for now.... they don't float!
dj*
ford8366 (10/22/2007)
Ah ok, thanks for clearing that up for me, Alene. I had a feeling you meant the widest wide angle, but I wasn't sure.
Camera in the washing machine, eh Deb? I hope you learned your lesson and now remember to check the garments twice for anything that shouldn't go in the washer!
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Camera in the washing machine, eh Deb? I hope you learned your lesson and now remember to check the garments twice for anything that shouldn't go in the washer!
Matt (10/23/2007)
If it's a front-loading washer, it may have mold on it, too :-D
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Jim B. (10/29/2007)
I too favored the Panasonic Lumix FZ18 because of the Leica Lens which I believe is one of the best in the world along with Carl Zeiss. But when I played with both cameras awhile, the old issue of shutter lag was more noticable in the Panasonic than the Fuji. The heart of the camera is it's lens. An 8 megapixel sensor is comparable in both cameras. But having any kind of shutter lag as I currently have in my 4 year old HP camera (great no-name lens) is impossible to live with. It does no good to have a great picture of something that you didn't mean to photograph because the subject left your camera's view after activating the shutter. The new cameras are much better than that but it seems that all Panasonic models lag the others in that department. Of course, you can solve the entire problem by going with an SLR but short of that, the Fuji Fine Pix S8000fd is as good as it gets today. I am not familiar with Fuji lenses but if the comparative pictures on a website comparing Canon, Fuji, Panasonic and Sony are any indication, Fuji's lens is comparable to any as Consumer Reports indicates. I believe the "steady shot" methodolgy that Fuji employs is less effective quality wise compared to others but this isn't as important to me as other features. Implementation of ISO and shutter shift could be one of the reasons Fuji's shutter lag is less than others which, in this case, is a great trade-off. All have their pluses and minuses when you line them up but you must go with the priorities most important to you. I've found that no one product meets all your expectations. By-the-way, the battery issue consideration that Steve Y mentioned is a real consideration...one that deserves weight. Sure...there are ways to mitigate that situation but not to the point that going into a store and buying 4 AA batteries will overcome.
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ford8366 (10/29/2007)
Well guys, I ended up buying the S8000fd. Matt, I held the FZ18 in my hands, but it didn't feel as comfortable as the Fuji did. I liked the rubberized feel of the Fuji more than the nonstick plastic feel of the Panasonic. What really sold it for me was my dad walking into a Camera Shop while we were out this week and I, nonchalantly, asked to see the S8000fd. He held it and liked it better, but put it down when he saw the price. Suffice it to say, I think he'll be pleasantly surprised that I bought the pricier camera instead of the previous model.
Thanks all for the input!
Steve
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Thanks all for the input!
Steve
Matt (10/29/2007)
Enjoy, Steve!
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lori (09/24/2008)
I have a fuji film finepix S3100 and I am getting lines in my images when outside but have awesome pictures at night or in low light.
What might I be doing wrong?
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What might I be doing wrong?
How critical lack of raw capability (eperrakl09 — 10/08/2007)
New to better digital cameras and if raw gives best picture quality,
what will just jpeg compression do for photos. Can it be compensated for
with other features of this camera.
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what will just jpeg compression do for photos. Can it be compensated for
with other features of this camera.
tharrison (10/08/2007)
RAW formats allow you to make your own decisions about how to adjust the photo ... but also require that you do that work. Generally speaking, all photos will eventually be saved as JPEG, which is a very good format. If you plan to spend a good deal of time correcting, adjusting and manipulating your photos, then RAW can provide some advantages, at the cost of work (and larger file size). Otherwise it's not something worth worrying about.
I am one of those people who likes messing with photos in the computer. My wife hates it -- I take a bunch of pictures, then need to spend a lot of time deciding how to make them look best. Today's cameras have excellent software that usually makes good decisions, and there are also very good software programs, like Google's Picasa, that make doing simple adjustments in JPEG (or RAW) very easy. More and more, I am finding that in most cases, the JPEG settings are fine.
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I am one of those people who likes messing with photos in the computer. My wife hates it -- I take a bunch of pictures, then need to spend a lot of time deciding how to make them look best. Today's cameras have excellent software that usually makes good decisions, and there are also very good software programs, like Google's Picasa, that make doing simple adjustments in JPEG (or RAW) very easy. More and more, I am finding that in most cases, the JPEG settings are fine.
djstar (10/08/2007)
As a heavy user, specific editor and not very anal about the print, I have never had a RAW camera. I find a few instances that the jpg editing is frustrating but 90% of the time, you can do most of what a general user will want with a picasa download and never miss it. RAW is for professionals or those aspiring to be. With a monster megapixel there is a lot of room to play around before the mass quality falls apart.
I just plunked the plastic down on the S8000fd. I feel that the work I have managed out of my old 3, then 5 then 6 MP cameras in the last 6 years have never made me miss one more project in the computer darkroom when I could be out there taking the pictures!
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I just plunked the plastic down on the S8000fd. I feel that the work I have managed out of my old 3, then 5 then 6 MP cameras in the last 6 years have never made me miss one more project in the computer darkroom when I could be out there taking the pictures!
eperrakl09 (10/08/2007)
Thank you very much......quick reply and what I needed to know. This Q&A a great idea.
eperra
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eperra
Passcribe (10/08/2007)
I just bought the S8000 myself and was a bit concerned that it didn't have RAW capability. On the other hand, I bought my Canon S60 a while back and was happy at that time that it had RAW; in five years, I haven't used it once. If I can't manipulate an image that I shot in FINE .jpg mode, then it probably isn't worth playing with in RAW anyway.
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eperrakl09 (10/09/2007)
Again, thanks for more info. Very helpful
and I look forward to learning the s8000.
reply to this comment
and I look forward to learning the s8000.
Beauscout (10/30/2007)
I was ignorant of an important limitation of the jpeg format when creating a memorial slide show two years ago. I was returning several times to make successive edits on jpegs, which I would say is the way I edit naturally. I'm an incrementalist, I guess, and I would be surprised if others did not share this approach. Fact is, I often don't see what's to be done next to an image until the more obvious fixes are out of the way, and I often don't have the time or vision to complete an image fix in one session. Problem was, I didn't realize that every time I saved a jpeg after another edit, I was decrementing the quality of the file, causing it to perform its lossy (loss of pixel data) compression. It took several edits and saves on some images, but eventually I woke up to the fact that what should have been better over all images (after several edits) were, in fact, worse. Not only did I not understand the reason immediately, but I did not have the time to rescan the slides from which the digital images had been made. (This was the project on which I also learned not to work on the original scanned file, but to keep the original scanned file for just such a start-over need as this.) What I plan to do in the future is to import whatever file format I am using into photoshop and save a working file in the photoshop format, now and again squirting out a functional jpeg for whatever use I may have for it, but which I would never edit again. I would always return to the last saved photoshop format copy for further editing, then, after each successive edit, produce another jpeg.
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eperrakl09 (10/30/2007)
Thanks for your post Bill, I find so much in everyones experience.
I am having a great time with s8000, micro and macro. So far, just
using the edits on my printer and learning about the camera.
E
reply to this comment
I am having a great time with s8000, micro and macro. So far, just
using the edits on my printer and learning about the camera.
E
Passcribe (10/30/2007)
Bill, you're absolutely right; opening & editing & resaving .jpgs does cause them to lose quality. That's why, for all of my shots that I feel are above average and/or going to be worked on in some way, I always save the original and work from "duplicates"; in that way, I'm saving my original with no changes. I've also gotten into the habit of saving my "special" shots on a CD so it will not lose further quality (until I import it and reopen it & edit it, or course.)
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tharrison (10/30/2007)
Ken and all --
Saving and re-saving JPEGs is indeed a killer. As Deb and I recommended earlier, Picasa is a great tool, and one of the reasons it is great is that it never touches the source file, only applying your edits to whatever resulting source makes sense (e.g. for posting on the web, emailing, getting printed, etc.). It is a brilliant tool, and only gets better. And it's free.
Tom
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Saving and re-saving JPEGs is indeed a killer. As Deb and I recommended earlier, Picasa is a great tool, and one of the reasons it is great is that it never touches the source file, only applying your edits to whatever resulting source makes sense (e.g. for posting on the web, emailing, getting printed, etc.). It is a brilliant tool, and only gets better. And it's free.
Tom
Josh (10/30/2007)
Don't know if anyone has the option of using photoshop, or a similar app... I believe there is an open source version out there for free. Anyway, the point is that it would probably be a good idea for anyone who works incrementally retouching images to import their images into an editing program first, save it as a working file format (ie, for photoshop it would be a layered PSD). This way you can come back to your edit, undo things you don't like and only ever flatten and export your jpeg once you are totally satified with the result. This way you'll never degrade the quality of your image.
josh
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josh
Be Careful Where You Shop!!!! (barryindallas — 10/01/2007)
I just got a confirmation e-mail about my the FD8000 I ordered last Friday, I called the number they gave me and told me I was getting the "non-USA" model that didn't use AA batteries and I needed the extra charge lithium battery. I never heard of such a thing, I know Fuji uses different names for US and non-US models but specs are different? Give me a break!!! They also demanded me to get a 5 year warranty, after 10 minutes of saying "NO" they gave up. Anyone know if this camera really has differences between countries? If you want the name of camera shop, e-mail me at barryndallas@earthlink.net
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by James DeRuvo (10/01/2007)
I would cancel your order and advise your credit card company to charge back the sale because I'm betting they wont' cancel the sale.
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barryindallas (10/01/2007)
Thanks James but I think I'll do a wait and see approach to this order, the guy on the phone probably needs to be re-trained, might know nothing about cameras but why would he say the "Non-US" FD8000 used a different battery, more commission? e-mail me personally if digitalcamerahq doesn't want this store's name public knowledge and you can see if it looks like a scam site to you
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barryindallas (10/02/2007)
James, here's an update. I got an e-mail later in the evening telling me my credit card number was not good so I wrote them back and told them to just cancel my order totally.I will be checking my bank statement daily to see if I was in fact charged for something I did not buy. I just ordered the same camera from a better dealer for about the same price and I used Pal Pal this time. Everyone reading this, be careful when dealing with fotoconnection.com they are high pressure to get you to buy things you don't need and don't know what they are selling.
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by James DeRuvo (10/02/2007)
The New York BBB ( newyork.bbb.org/reports/bus... ) has quite a file on Foto Connection:
Complaints to the Bureau indicate that this company has a pattern of misleading and deceptive business practices. A majority of consumers report that this firm advertises low cost and new merchandise on its website but receive damaged or refurbished merchandise. In addition consumers are charged shipping insurance fees which change and raise the price of the item. Complaints also indicate that this firm uses high pressures sales tactics when consumers call customer service. Consumers report being pressured to make additional purchases along with their original orders, and if they decline and cancel their orders they are charged an arbitrary cancellation fee. Furthermore, consumers allege customer service representatives gave false shipping dates and tracking numbers.
315 official complaints in the last 12 months! You have to really work to get that many people angry at how you do business.
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Complaints to the Bureau indicate that this company has a pattern of misleading and deceptive business practices. A majority of consumers report that this firm advertises low cost and new merchandise on its website but receive damaged or refurbished merchandise. In addition consumers are charged shipping insurance fees which change and raise the price of the item. Complaints also indicate that this firm uses high pressures sales tactics when consumers call customer service. Consumers report being pressured to make additional purchases along with their original orders, and if they decline and cancel their orders they are charged an arbitrary cancellation fee. Furthermore, consumers allege customer service representatives gave false shipping dates and tracking numbers.
315 official complaints in the last 12 months! You have to really work to get that many people angry at how you do business.
barryindallas (10/02/2007)
WOW!! I wish I'd known about them sooner, I just got a voicemail telling me to call them in regards to my credit card number being wrong even though I canceled my order using the same e-mail addy they used to send me THAT notice. I don't even want to talk with them and waste my time, if their staff thinks my number is wrong, so be it and I'll use my Pay Pal account (which I already have) to buy the camera somewheres else. James, thanks abunch for the head's up.
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by James DeRuvo (10/03/2007)
You don't really have to. Contact your credit card company and have them charge back the sale if it appears on your statement. And if the camera arrives, refuse delivery.
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barryindallas (10/03/2007)
Actually,they wrote back again saying the order was canceled...but I'll still check, they seem to be very shady. I did a lot of research last night and decided to get the camera (10 dollars less too) at buy.com they're customer service seems to be better and they use "Pay Pal" which I have an account with,so I assume I'm pretty protected now. Now, tell me about your Olympus, is it almost the same camera as the S8000FD?
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by James DeRuvo (10/03/2007)
Very similar. 18x zoom, image stabilization (sadly, only digital IS), shoots in RAW, great presets for night, eBay, documents, even photography behind glass. It even helps shooting panoramas to stitch together later.
I'm getting an SP560UZ to test later this week and I can't wait to see the improvements. That's probably close to the 8kFD.
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I'm getting an SP560UZ to test later this week and I can't wait to see the improvements. That's probably close to the 8kFD.
barryindallas (10/03/2007)
Think Fuji charges too little for their cameras? Until I read reviews on various websites like this one (giving the s700 an A+) I would have thought that a camera with an SLR style body with a 10X zoom for under $200 would be a piece of crap. I loved the review on the worst digitals cameras of all time....Polaroids got an "F" it's sad that the company that invented instant photography,could be so bad in this new world of imaging.
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barryindallas (10/05/2007)
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Passcribe (10/08/2007)
I just bought my S8000 from BuyDig because I've had great service from them in the past. I saw the Fuji S8000 advertised for much less at several other online stores. You know the old adage, "If it looks too good to be true..." When I investigated, I found that all the "cheap" stores offer only extended warranties that cost $169 for 3 yr/$269 for 5 yr. The Mack extended Warranty covers parts and labor for 5 years at $34.95. All the reputable stores sell Mack extended Warranties.
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by James DeRuvo (10/09/2007)
As a recovering camera salesman, I can tell you that if a camera (or any electronics, for that matter) is going to fail, it's going to do it in the first year. As such, extended warranties are pure profit for camera stores. They give nice, hefty commissions (called spiffs) to salesman who can add an extended warranty to the sale for this very reason.
You may consider checking with your credit card company (if you paid for it that way), often credit card companies offer a feature where the warranty is extended as a benefit of being a card holder.
reply to this comment
You may consider checking with your credit card company (if you paid for it that way), often credit card companies offer a feature where the warranty is extended as a benefit of being a card holder.
18x zoom at indoo stadiums? (barryindallas — 10/01/2007)
I just ordered this camera without many reviews on it and hope it'll be a good one for shooting indoor pro football/basketball games from the "cheap seats" and still get faces that you can recognize. I love my Fiuji S700 and will use this perhaps as a back up to it.
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by James DeRuvo (10/01/2007)
You should be okay - but understand that indoor is indoor and you will be at the mercy of the lighting conditions. I do know that 18x zooms can do rather well at sporting events. I took my Olympus SP550UZ ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) to a baseball game the other day and got some great shots from the outfield seats.
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barryindallas (10/01/2007)
Thanks, your right about different lighting conditions, Your Olympus SP550UZ almost looks like a carbon copy of the FD8000 as if they were made by the same company, do you see any major differences? I always had Olympus 35mm cameras (OM 1 and OM 2s) and they were great but now digital images are becoming as good if not better than these cameras were. It's amazing!!
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by James DeRuvo (10/02/2007)
For comparison, you may want to check out this resource ( imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP... ). It takes pictures with each and you can compare them side by side.
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Passcribe (10/08/2007)
Barry: There is finally a comprehensive "professional" review on the Fujifilm S8000; go to
engadget.com/2007/10/04/fuj...
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engadget.com/2007/10/04/fuj...
by James DeRuvo (10/09/2007)
Good find, Ken.
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can you get great shots indoors with limited light (lovevern1 — 09/30/2007)
after reading all of the reviews, i got the feeling that the s8000fd is better for out side pictures rather than indoors. I saw this described on a shopping network and thought it would be good for my job as church photographer. the church has limited light and the program showed pictures coming out great even after being taken in the dark indoors. I need a camera that will give me great close up face shots and the same one to give me wide shots of different areas and activities at the church from a distant. is this the right camera for me??
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by James DeRuvo (10/01/2007)
It can be. I know that sounds rather vague, but with the right settings and supporting equipment like a tripod, almost any camera can do the trick. Here's a site that offers some good tips for shooting in limited light or night settings:
photography.about.com/od/ni... helps, but standard point and shoot flashes are only designed for portrait/small group settings and as such, have a very limited range before they dissapate.You want to use limited light or night presettings that your camera has available. Also use a tripod/monopod. This will keep the camera more still than trying to steady handheld at longer shutter settings.
With the right settings, equipment, and even directly ambient light sources, you can get some really great shots with limited light. The trick is to know your camera and what it can do.
reply to this comment
photography.about.com/od/ni... helps, but standard point and shoot flashes are only designed for portrait/small group settings and as such, have a very limited range before they dissapate.You want to use limited light or night presettings that your camera has available. Also use a tripod/monopod. This will keep the camera more still than trying to steady handheld at longer shutter settings.
With the right settings, equipment, and even directly ambient light sources, you can get some really great shots with limited light. The trick is to know your camera and what it can do.
djstar (10/03/2007)
When someone gets one, could they post best and worst pictures in an auditorium? I take a lot of theater pictures and am in demand because I don't use the flash and get really decent shots on the old Olympus, but not very zoom and small photos only. I stumbled on it because it was taking so long to write to the memory, I didn't realize I was doing myself a favor in resolution too.
I am praying this will do as well. I have a theater that I think has some weird energy efficient stuff, but two cameras and a tripod did not work out at the last show. I am so stymied!
Can someone describe how to best set up for such events? The church LaVern is trying for might even be lighter than my theaters, but the candles and such.... a little help with this would be much appreciated!
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I am praying this will do as well. I have a theater that I think has some weird energy efficient stuff, but two cameras and a tripod did not work out at the last show. I am so stymied!
Can someone describe how to best set up for such events? The church LaVern is trying for might even be lighter than my theaters, but the candles and such.... a little help with this would be much appreciated!
by James DeRuvo (10/04/2007)
Here's a few rules I just found which may help:
Exposure Rules
The classic advice is, "Expose for the highlights, and let the shadows take care of themselves." This works with slide film and digital. But with negative film, especially color negative, you're better off overexposing by one stop.
Quick Flash-fill Rule
When using an automatic flash unit that doesn't provide auto flash-fill ratios, set the flash's ISO dial to twice the ISO you're using. Meter the scene, select an f-stop, set the autoflash aperture to the same f-stop, and shoot. The resulting 2:1 flash-fill ratio will produce filled shadows one stop darker than the main subject.
Flash Range Rule
Want to know how much extra flash range you get by going to a faster ISO? The rule is, "Double the distance, four times the speed." For example: If your flash is good to 20 feet at ISO 100 (film or digital), it will be good to 40 feet at ISO 400.
reply to this comment
Exposure Rules
The classic advice is, "Expose for the highlights, and let the shadows take care of themselves." This works with slide film and digital. But with negative film, especially color negative, you're better off overexposing by one stop.
Quick Flash-fill Rule
When using an automatic flash unit that doesn't provide auto flash-fill ratios, set the flash's ISO dial to twice the ISO you're using. Meter the scene, select an f-stop, set the autoflash aperture to the same f-stop, and shoot. The resulting 2:1 flash-fill ratio will produce filled shadows one stop darker than the main subject.
Flash Range Rule
Want to know how much extra flash range you get by going to a faster ISO? The rule is, "Double the distance, four times the speed." For example: If your flash is good to 20 feet at ISO 100 (film or digital), it will be good to 40 feet at ISO 400.
Why Fuji do not use Costum LiIon rechargable for FinepixS8000FD (dara10 — 09/29/2007)
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Alan Schamber (09/30/2007)
Because it's more expensive to make a system for lithium batteries... and also, it's not that comfortable good. Why??? if you run out of batteries... what should you do??? go for a new lithium battery??? or just go to anywhere and buy some AA alkaline???
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D.F. (10/18/2007)
I agree with the expense of a lithium battery...They are very costly...If you get rechargeable AAbatteries and a battery charger, you are set. I have the charger and 3(sets) of AA's I have a set charging while the other 2 sets are in my bag with me, I rotate through each se of batteries always having one set in the charger...You are going to find it alot easier and less expensive in the long run...I normally have a 4gig card in my camera and I go out and take a good days worth of photos, than I come home and replace the batteries and put in a "New" set while the previously used ones are in the charger...It is a GREAT investment, something you might want to think about...
D.F ( wa. State)...
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D.F ( wa. State)...
Roger newman (11/15/2007)
I to am trying to decide between the Fuji S8000fd and the Panasonic Fz18k. I'm leaning toward the Fuji because of the convenience of the AA batteries. However, regardless of the convenience of the AA batteries or the cost of the li-ion batteries in the Panasonic.
Which type of battery last the LONGEST ?? In the spec's for the Fz18k it says it's battery life is 400 images. Using that as a
comparison how long will the AA batteries last??
Thank You
Roger
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Which type of battery last the LONGEST ?? In the spec's for the Fz18k it says it's battery life is 400 images. Using that as a
comparison how long will the AA batteries last??
Thank You
Roger
Does Fuji offer a good camera with option for cable shutter release? (bholt1mga57 — 09/29/2007)
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Matt (10/02/2007)
If you're referring to the USB shutter release cable, then yes, Fuji has some good cameras available, including the S9000. The real question is what you're willing to spend. The S20 Pro is nice (if you can find it), the S3 Pro, S5 Pro, IS-1, etc. Pretty much everything I can find is in dSLR variety.
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bholt1mga57 (10/10/2007)
.
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The posted dates everywhere are September? (djstar — 09/28/2007)
I have looked on all the web pages I can including the fujifilm site. They have announced September. Can you point me to anywhere that has changed the announcement or any stores in the US that are carrying it? I have seen the Canon and it is nice, but just not quite there. I will probably buy online, but not until I have had it in my hot little hands.
Anyone seen any updates on the US release?
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Anyone seen any updates on the US release?
by James DeRuvo (09/28/2007)
It may be delayed. Have you tried the links we have here in the upper right hand corner?
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djstar (09/28/2007)
They all SAY they carry it but I have only heard of human beings in Asia holding them in their hands and taking photos. Because there are none in face to face stores...physical stores...in Arizona, I am assuming they are delaying the release. HOPEFULLY they still have three days to get it officially out.
The fact that the prices go OVER suggested retail and none are offering for less than the Fuji site suggests, makes me think it is presale. Some of the stores even say that. MOST say they are in stock, but most of those stores have a few consumer glitches too.
dj*
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The fact that the prices go OVER suggested retail and none are offering for less than the Fuji site suggests, makes me think it is presale. Some of the stores even say that. MOST say they are in stock, but most of those stores have a few consumer glitches too.
dj*
by James DeRuvo (09/29/2007)
Well, Amazon says they have it in stock and they're offering free shipping ...
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djstar (09/30/2007)
I am finding it offered at many sources, but I have not read a hands on review (that would help!) on any of the regular review sites. I have not seen any user feedback or independent reviews that indicate it is really available. I am sure it is at least a good reliable camera as stated in the information so far, but because there is no posted review with information that would help me understand what the general public has to say, I am assuming that it is still either stuck in shipping or has not reached our shores. I am asking for someone who might own one or have an unbiased link to a personal response.
I have bought two of my cameras online and the price is usually right but I did make a large blunder on my first and because of that I really want to have the chance to either hold and check out a sample myself or read enough reviews from owners that I know what I am getting. At present that does not seem to exist.
Sorry if I am not clear. I have seen many offers online, including Amazon. It SAYS it is in stock, but there is no indication that anyone has received one. I have been the first kid on my block a few times and find it is better to let the dust settle on the hype so you can see what you are getting.
Thank you for your information. I am still hoping to hear from some one who owns one.
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I have bought two of my cameras online and the price is usually right but I did make a large blunder on my first and because of that I really want to have the chance to either hold and check out a sample myself or read enough reviews from owners that I know what I am getting. At present that does not seem to exist.
Sorry if I am not clear. I have seen many offers online, including Amazon. It SAYS it is in stock, but there is no indication that anyone has received one. I have been the first kid on my block a few times and find it is better to let the dust settle on the hype so you can see what you are getting.
Thank you for your information. I am still hoping to hear from some one who owns one.
barryindallas (10/03/2007)
I just got mine at www.buy.com for $335.00 and they just told me it's on it way to my house.
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djstar (10/03/2007)
YIPPPEEE
I was in our local Wolf Camera (perhaps it was Fox.... I get confused) and they had just received it and I too the display out of the box. I have actually touched one. One added plus for women is a deep finger grip that feels real solid even with fingernails.
I got a practice shot out the mall and too a license plate number off a car in the parking garage. It has its potential. I am only debating whether it will be best to have face to face and a good extended warranty or go for the online bargain.
BUT thanks for your help all. I do believe in the s8000fd!
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I was in our local Wolf Camera (perhaps it was Fox.... I get confused) and they had just received it and I too the display out of the box. I have actually touched one. One added plus for women is a deep finger grip that feels real solid even with fingernails.
I got a practice shot out the mall and too a license plate number off a car in the parking garage. It has its potential. I am only debating whether it will be best to have face to face and a good extended warranty or go for the online bargain.
BUT thanks for your help all. I do believe in the s8000fd!
barryindallas (10/03/2007)
Hey Deb, I went without the extended warranty, I feel like Fuji's one year is enough when you consider how many holidays are just around the corner.Halloween,Thanksgiving,Christmas and New Years. We also have many family members who have birthdays in December. It's gonna get a workout LOL I also love my Fuji S700, I think many people stay away from the Fuji because of it's very low price, they believe that anything that cheap, must be "cheap...ly" made..wrong. I still wouldn't call it a "point and shoot" camera, too many option settings for that label, Let me know when you get it and we'll share photos in my new topic.
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barryindallas (10/03/2007)
Hey Deb Again, If you have Adobe Reader, here's a link for the PDF file of the S8000fd owners manual I got online, I'm gonna read it before the camera even gets here to get a step up on the controls even though it's probably gonna be much like the S700 I own
fujifilm.com/products/digit...
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fujifilm.com/products/digit...
djstar (10/03/2007)
HA HA! I already have it saved on my hard drive.
Have you worked with Buy.com before? I actually had a bad experience the DAY I looked at it.... my pocket lumix.... well.... it somehow got into the laundry and oddly, it does not work without the shutter button and tends to drip on my knee!
I used it a lot for snapshooting but not the good stuff. I will miss it but it had a 7MP and was an open box the boyfriend got me last year for really cheap. I don't know how to tell him I washed it. I believe it will have to die a more noble death of crashing to asphalt.
It was my Olympus C-750 I needed to replace.
Write us up a good review so I can see what you think.
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Have you worked with Buy.com before? I actually had a bad experience the DAY I looked at it.... my pocket lumix.... well.... it somehow got into the laundry and oddly, it does not work without the shutter button and tends to drip on my knee!
I used it a lot for snapshooting but not the good stuff. I will miss it but it had a 7MP and was an open box the boyfriend got me last year for really cheap. I don't know how to tell him I washed it. I believe it will have to die a more noble death of crashing to asphalt.
It was my Olympus C-750 I needed to replace.
Write us up a good review so I can see what you think.
barryindallas (10/03/2007)
Deb, here's my e-mail addy barryndallas@earthlink.net As soon as I get my first pictures taken, I will send you copies..Promise!!
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djstar (10/03/2007)
RIGHT... if you ever stop long enough to download them!
Thank you
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Thank you
WHEN?? (djstar — 09/27/2007)
I have spent quite a few months getting ready (and needing) a new super zoom and each time I decide something new comes out. I use my camera as an artist for reference photos and I have done a lot of theater work. Last show I tried, I got so much softness out of the good zoom and NOTHING out of my compact that I was embarrassed. I think this is IT! I was close to the 12x optical, 8 MP canon S5IS and the 18X Olympus (got those memory cards!!) so this is everything.... now, when will I actually be able to shop for one? I am drooling!
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Matt (09/28/2007)
Most of these new cameras you're looking at -- the Olympus 18x, and even the Panasonic 18x -- will be out mid-October. The S5IS is already out, and it's a great camera (but only 12x, like you mentioned, not 18x... not like it's a big deal - you can get accessories for additional magnification if necessary). Having Olympus memory cards isn't a big deal, because you can buy anything you want in SDHC for dirt cheap these days -- don't consider memory cards an investment.
So, just a few more weeks to wait!!
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So, just a few more weeks to wait!!
Matt (10/10/2007)
Can I help you with anything else, Deb? If not, please go ahead and mark Best Answer so others can view the answer from the main page. Thanks!
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Can any body help me to decide which camera shall i go for Fuji S8000Fd, Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18K or Sony H7. (amr — 09/23/2007)
I'll use it for family pictures mainly ( kids activities, soccer games, parties...etc)
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by James DeRuvo (09/24/2007)
Going for kids sports, I'd be going with the best optical zoom I can get, plus image stabilization. And if the camera has a sports mode, even better. Both the Lumix DMC-FZ18K and the Fuji S8000Fd have an 18x zoom, which is a slight advantage over the H7's 15x zoom. A good thing for shooting sports on the sidelines.
Another advantage that the Lumix DMC-FZ18K and the Fuji S8000Fd have over the H7 is that they use more open source memory card options like the SD/SDHC cards, whereas SONY uses their proprietary memory stick. That means that if you have existing SD cards, you can use them in the Lumix DMC-FZ18K and the Fuji S8000Fd. Whereas, with the H7, you'll have to reinvest in a completely different memory technology which is only good in other SONY products. I can't stand Sony's obsession with painting their customers in that technological corner that only SONY can remedy. That's enough to eliminate the H7 from the mix. Which is too bad because they do use Zeiss lenses which are fantastic. And the images are very natural. But not by a factor that would motivate me to want to reinvest in that.
In the end, when trying to make a final call, it may just come down to what camera feels good in your hand. Go to a local camera store and check both out side by side, holding them, feeling their center of gravity, the balance. How it sits in your hand. That usually sells me one way or the other.
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Another advantage that the Lumix DMC-FZ18K and the Fuji S8000Fd have over the H7 is that they use more open source memory card options like the SD/SDHC cards, whereas SONY uses their proprietary memory stick. That means that if you have existing SD cards, you can use them in the Lumix DMC-FZ18K and the Fuji S8000Fd. Whereas, with the H7, you'll have to reinvest in a completely different memory technology which is only good in other SONY products. I can't stand Sony's obsession with painting their customers in that technological corner that only SONY can remedy. That's enough to eliminate the H7 from the mix. Which is too bad because they do use Zeiss lenses which are fantastic. And the images are very natural. But not by a factor that would motivate me to want to reinvest in that.
In the end, when trying to make a final call, it may just come down to what camera feels good in your hand. Go to a local camera store and check both out side by side, holding them, feeling their center of gravity, the balance. How it sits in your hand. That usually sells me one way or the other.
amr (09/24/2007)
Many thanks .
Now it is the Panasonic Vs the Fuji!!!
Can any body help more as I think there should be other points for evaluation and comparing these both models.
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Now it is the Panasonic Vs the Fuji!!!
Can any body help more as I think there should be other points for evaluation and comparing these both models.
by James DeRuvo (09/25/2007)
I can tell you that everybody I know that shoots the Fuji loves it. But like I said, it may just come down to holding both of them and deciding which one fits best in your hand.
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Lynell (09/29/2007)
I can tell you that I have been using digital cameras for 10 years and have had many types. I have panisonic, sony, fuji and kodak cameras. When it comes to color and speed my fuji has always been the best and I have upgraded fuji's since day one. I myself am looking at purchasing the new s8000fd. The 18 X zoom seems amaxing and from what I have seen on channels reviewing it, (go to hsn.com, find the camera and watch the video on it, this will give you alot of info). I say this product demonstrated at a photo show (before it was available) and was amazed. They took pictures in a room with no other light source but a candle, and was amazed at the picute it took with out a flash. Also for sports or some wildlife photography the fifteen frames per second that it took was awsome. Also you may want to make sure which ever camera that you decide on also has a view finder, not just the lcd screen. When looking through the viewfinder it is naturally more stablizing for you photos as it is steadyer by nature.
I am not cutting down the other cameras, I find that the Kodak I have has a 12X zoom and tkes great pictures but responce is slow, and auto focusing is much slower than fuji by far, but the camera is very user friendly for someone that does not have much experience. My panasonic is 6X and is very nice my grandkids love to use either of these. My sony is probrably the slowest in responce time, and much heavier and takes excellent pictures. I like it the most for the Macro pics it takes. But the demo I saw on the new fuji showed that it has a supper macro setting which took pictures so close up it was practically touching the subject. Clear as a bell, but this is not acheivable with the cameras I now have. I plan on buying the fuji s8000fd within the next week and will write as to my personal experience with it. I was thinking of a digital slr as my next camera purchase, but have changed my mind. Nothing is worse than having to carry around a load of heavy equipment to get the same picture as I will with this new zoom and technology.
I hope this may have helped you. I am a lover of digital photography
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I am not cutting down the other cameras, I find that the Kodak I have has a 12X zoom and tkes great pictures but responce is slow, and auto focusing is much slower than fuji by far, but the camera is very user friendly for someone that does not have much experience. My panasonic is 6X and is very nice my grandkids love to use either of these. My sony is probrably the slowest in responce time, and much heavier and takes excellent pictures. I like it the most for the Macro pics it takes. But the demo I saw on the new fuji showed that it has a supper macro setting which took pictures so close up it was practically touching the subject. Clear as a bell, but this is not acheivable with the cameras I now have. I plan on buying the fuji s8000fd within the next week and will write as to my personal experience with it. I was thinking of a digital slr as my next camera purchase, but have changed my mind. Nothing is worse than having to carry around a load of heavy equipment to get the same picture as I will with this new zoom and technology.
I hope this may have helped you. I am a lover of digital photography
Lynell (09/29/2007)
I can tell you that I have been using digital cameras for 10 years and have had many types. I have Panasonic, sony, fuji and kodak cameras. When it comes to color and speed my fuji has always been the best and I have upgraded fuji's since day one. I myself am looking at purchasing the new s8000fd. The 18 X zoom seems amazing and from what I have seen on channels reviewing it, (go to hsn.com, find the camera and watch the video on it, this will give you alot of info). I say this product demonstrated at a photo show (before it was available) and was amazed. They took pictures in a room with no other light source but a candle, and was amazed at the picute it took with out a flash. Also for sports or some wildlife photography the fifteen frames per second that it took was awsome. Also you may want to make sure which ever camera that you decide on also has a view finder, not just the lcd screen. When looking through the viewfinder it is naturally more stabilizing for you photos as it is steadyer by nature.
I am not cutting down the other cameras, I find that the Kodak I have has a 12X zoom and takes great pictures but responce is slow, and auto focusing is much slower than fuji by far, but the camera is very user friendly for someone that does not have much experience. My panasonic is 6X and is very nice my grandkids love to use either of these. My sony is probably the slowest in responce time, and much heavier and takes excellent pictures. I like it the most for the Macro pics it takes. But the demo I saw on the new fuji showed that it has a supper macro setting which took pictures so close up it was practically touching the subject. Clear as a bell, but this is not achievable with the cameras I now have. I plan on buying the fuji s8000fd within the next week and will write as to my personal experience with it. I was thinking of a digital slr as my next camera purchase, but have changed my mind. Nothing is worse than having to carry around a load of heavy equipment to get the same picture as I will with this new zoom and technology.
I hope this may have helped you. I am a lover of digital photography
reply to this comment
I am not cutting down the other cameras, I find that the Kodak I have has a 12X zoom and takes great pictures but responce is slow, and auto focusing is much slower than fuji by far, but the camera is very user friendly for someone that does not have much experience. My panasonic is 6X and is very nice my grandkids love to use either of these. My sony is probably the slowest in responce time, and much heavier and takes excellent pictures. I like it the most for the Macro pics it takes. But the demo I saw on the new fuji showed that it has a supper macro setting which took pictures so close up it was practically touching the subject. Clear as a bell, but this is not achievable with the cameras I now have. I plan on buying the fuji s8000fd within the next week and will write as to my personal experience with it. I was thinking of a digital slr as my next camera purchase, but have changed my mind. Nothing is worse than having to carry around a load of heavy equipment to get the same picture as I will with this new zoom and technology.
I hope this may have helped you. I am a lover of digital photography
Alan Schamber (09/30/2007)
The people who answered doesn't know anything about the technologies that both companies are using in this cameras. First of all... I will tell you why you should not buy a Sony. You should take into consideration that the lens used is a well made Carl - Zeiss but they sacrisfied lens aperture to give it more zoom range... but I'd prefer a faster lens with a less impressive zoom range. Next... we've got the memory stick problem: it's a crap. Slower... more expensive, not that compatible with every device... well... that it's not a Sony. To finalize... you should also take into account the zoom range... if we are talking about lens aperture... with the same lens equivalent in 35 mm... you are getting a closer aperture which means also, less light... and that means that you will need a better image stabilization, o a faster shutter speed required.
Then... we should go for Panasonic or Fuji. If we go for previus models... we should first take into account the super CCD from Fuji, which was on the S6000 or the S9000. This makes these the best high ISO performance cameras... but also this cameras have no image stabilization. On the Panasonic hand... they've got Leica lens... and the best image stabilization system on the market. But also... we don't have a good image processor... and very poor high ISO performance.
But... does this change with this new cameras??? On the Fuji side... I must say yes. This camera doesn't use a Super CCD sensor... so this camera is not going to have the same image quality at high ISO. On the Panasonic side... I don't know if they got the Image processor right this time... I would buy a Fuji if they'd have a Super CCD. But it doesn't... and also, Panasonic has Leica lens (best... of course). So it's up to you to trust one, or another. I would buy a less capable zoom... but with better image quality... like the S6000... and I'd like Fuji to have a version with image stabilization. If that happens... that would be my choice.
Hope to be helpful,
Alan.
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Then... we should go for Panasonic or Fuji. If we go for previus models... we should first take into account the super CCD from Fuji, which was on the S6000 or the S9000. This makes these the best high ISO performance cameras... but also this cameras have no image stabilization. On the Panasonic hand... they've got Leica lens... and the best image stabilization system on the market. But also... we don't have a good image processor... and very poor high ISO performance.
But... does this change with this new cameras??? On the Fuji side... I must say yes. This camera doesn't use a Super CCD sensor... so this camera is not going to have the same image quality at high ISO. On the Panasonic side... I don't know if they got the Image processor right this time... I would buy a Fuji if they'd have a Super CCD. But it doesn't... and also, Panasonic has Leica lens (best... of course). So it's up to you to trust one, or another. I would buy a less capable zoom... but with better image quality... like the S6000... and I'd like Fuji to have a version with image stabilization. If that happens... that would be my choice.
Hope to be helpful,
Alan.
Alan Schamber (09/30/2007)
Oh! also... to the guy that said that he preferes a superzoom camera than a DSRL... you know as much of photography as my little son. Bigger pixel patch and pixel size... better microlenses. Better responsive time. More capable continuos shooting. Oh yeah... also, interchangable lenses.... better high ISO performance, and also low. RAW!!! Much more... posibility of profesional lenses. Super wide angle also... (have you ever tried a true 18 mm (12 mm in crop sensor size)... o also... a 14 mm which is 3 times more expensive that any compact camera... and not just because they wanted to make it expensive. Study... learn... take pictures... and then (just then) talk about photography.
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barryindallas (10/03/2007)
I will start a thread for posting of pics made with the S8000FD as soon as I receive it (within 3 days...I hope) first up will be trying out the zoom at full 18X range) look for it
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amr (10/05/2007)
Thanks for every body . wating for promised reports and samples
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barryindallas (10/06/2007)
dcresource.com/forums/showt... reposting my link to the forum where my first three pics that were taken with the Fuji S8000FD that I received today, zoom works great. more pictures forthcoming as I play with the camera some more
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barryindallas (10/06/2007)
James, a question for ya. Does your Olympus allow you to zoom during movie mode? My S700 has that ability but the S8000FD does not, can't figure out why Fuji didn't keep that feature on the newer model.
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amr (10/06/2007)
Thanks for every body . wating for promised reports and samples
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18x zoom is it worth it (dmmakela — 08/26/2007)
will i be disappointed in the pictures if I use the 18x zoom to it's full range
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Rich Watson (08/26/2007)
The long zoom is a nice feature, but really useful only outdoors in bright light. That's because the light-gathering ability of a telephoto lens drops with every extra bit of zoom. Of course, if you are shooting birds or other wildlife, it could be quite handy. And it actually might be useful on vacation, for example if you are really far away from a castle or building and want to zoom in to fill the frame.
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dmmakela (08/27/2007)
thank you for your response,, but what I am looking for is it going to make my pictures turn out grainy or out of focus.. Or will they turn out looking great. Thank you once again..
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Rich Watson (08/28/2007)
Well, they shouldn't be grainy (too many megapixels to woory about that). And the camera has IS (image stabilization) which should help keep items from getting blurry.
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Matt (09/04/2007)
Richio is right. The lens has nothing to do with graininess (only digital zoom will affect that). And as long as you have a fairly steady hand, the image stabilization will solve most bluriness problems. A large zoom is great if you want to take some fun shots. But in terms of quality, I can tell you that if you get close to an object and take a picture, and then move 100 ft away and use the optical zoom, you won't see a difference in either picture (unless it's not that bright outside, but Richio already mentioned that). Enjoy!
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dmmakela (09/04/2007)
Thank you Richio. But Matt explained just a little more information.. But thank you for answering my question..
And thank you Matt for you answer
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And thank you Matt for you answer
bj (09/23/2007)
I'm still waiting for the Fugifilm Finepix s8000fd to hit the shelves, and am torn between ordering a 6000 or 6500 (same thing) now, before they're gone forever, or waiting for a possibly better camera. Yeah, the 18x zoom appeals to the bigger-is-better side of me, and the stabilization seems to be a plus, but at what cost? If it was so important, why didn't they put it on the 6000? And by putting it on the 8000, did they have to make sacrifices? My Ritz dealer noticed on the 8000 promo picture that the camera did not have the "Super CCD" label on the front of it, like the 6000 does. That "Super CCD" technology is what makes the 6000 superior to other brands in low light (two different types of pixels side-by-side, I'm told). Also, the 8000 CCD is a good bit smaller than the 6000's, which also affects image quality, especially in low light. Any "light" to shed on these observations? I shoot sports in low light, and, naturally, none of these manufacturers ever put up sample pictures of a Friday night football game. And I'm sure, if they did, it would be from the most well-lit field in the nation.
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Rich Watson (09/24/2007)
BJ,
If scientists could engineer a CCD with much smaller pixels (nanotech) ---and still be able to hook up the wires!!!--- then cameras could be tiny. Picture (ha ha pun) a camera the size of a match book, with zoom lens, with the equivalent of 28mm wideangle -- 4000mm telephoto!! And thus fully extended at full zoom, the lens would only extend out maybe two inches. One could take photos of the rings of Saturn, or be able to focus on a road sign that is a mile down the road.
But I digress. There are only two ways to get the best photos in low-level light: Increase the ISO of the CCD, or increase the diameter of the glass (lens). For maximum ISO, you have to go to full-size, 35mm size, CCDs. In other words, an SLR. Because the larger pixels are more sensitive to light gradations.
The glass: the SLR systems offer the opportunity to get as big and as bad a lens as you can afford. A long zoom lens that is 4 inches in diameter will let in FOUR times as much light as the same zoom lens in a 2 inch diameter version.
Rich
reply to this comment
If scientists could engineer a CCD with much smaller pixels (nanotech) ---and still be able to hook up the wires!!!--- then cameras could be tiny. Picture (ha ha pun) a camera the size of a match book, with zoom lens, with the equivalent of 28mm wideangle -- 4000mm telephoto!! And thus fully extended at full zoom, the lens would only extend out maybe two inches. One could take photos of the rings of Saturn, or be able to focus on a road sign that is a mile down the road.
But I digress. There are only two ways to get the best photos in low-level light: Increase the ISO of the CCD, or increase the diameter of the glass (lens). For maximum ISO, you have to go to full-size, 35mm size, CCDs. In other words, an SLR. Because the larger pixels are more sensitive to light gradations.
The glass: the SLR systems offer the opportunity to get as big and as bad a lens as you can afford. A long zoom lens that is 4 inches in diameter will let in FOUR times as much light as the same zoom lens in a 2 inch diameter version.
Rich
Matt (09/25/2007)
BJ, your Ritz dealer is right. The S8000 only has a 1/2.35" CCD while the S6000 has the 1/1.7" CCD. What hurts even more is that, while they increased the resolution, they decreased the CCD sensor. That makes no sense to me, and I'm worried about the camera because of it.
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barryindallas (10/05/2007)
Just got the S8000FD today, here's the link to three zoom levels made with the camera in Auto mode, 8MP
dcresource.com/forums/showt...
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dcresource.com/forums/showt...
dmmakela (10/05/2007)
I also bought the S8000 and did not like it, I sent it back. I did not like the fact that when you grip the camera to take a picture you also hit the buttons in the back also did not care for the way the pictues turned out.. I got the canon powershot S5 IS instead and I think I am going to like it better.. Just got it yeaterday so have not really had the change to try it
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Passcribe (10/08/2007)
In reference to Marlene: I just bought the S8000 even after trying both the Canon S5 IS & the Fuji. I found the fringe artifacts (red and green or purple colored edges on some sujects) especially on dark objects against a light background to be very pronounced with the Canon S5. And while the S8000 had slight fringing, it was not as bad as the Canon (noticable on a 4 x 6 print!) Also, the only button that I came close to touching while gripping the S8000 was the "F" (photo mode) button. I'll have to see if that becomes a problem as I use it.
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SDHC memory compatibility (Toshman — 08/15/2007)
Would the s8000fd be compatible with the Kingston 8GB Secure Digital High Capacity Class 6 Card? I'm looking for the fastest memory with the largest capacity.
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by James DeRuvo (08/15/2007)
According to the specs ( fujifilm.com/products/digit... ), the camera will take 8 GB SDHC cards. Just curious, why do you want such a large capacity? Reason I ask is because, cards do get corrupted from time to time and if that happens in the field and you've relied on one card, you're kinda stuck. allow me to make an pitch for using several smaller cards, rather than one large one. More than one smaller size card gives you one thing ... insurance. If your card goes bad, swapping another one for it at that moment is of advantage so you can keep taking pics. Then, later when you're in front of your PC, you can use a utility like "F-Recovery" to get back your pictures and recover your card.
No need to lose the moment because you relied on one large one when several smaller ones can solve that problem.
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No need to lose the moment because you relied on one large one when several smaller ones can solve that problem.
Toshman (08/16/2007)
Thanks James for your excellent answer. I truly appreciate it. In fact this is going to be my first ever digital camera and since I am new to the game I am open to any suggestions. I just thought that the bigger the better but from your argument I think it makes perfect sense to have a few smaller cards instead of one big one as you suggested.
Thanks once again for your answer.
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Thanks once again for your answer.
by James DeRuvo (08/17/2007)
Yeah, it's just good insurance just in case. You can still get some pretty good sizes, just make sure you have a backup.
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Mb (10/02/2007)
There is really cheap software that you can use if your card gets corrupted. I like LC Technology's PhotoRecovery tool ($~$30). They also have a video recover software too (RescurePro). Just thought I'd pass it on, as I have had (in less than 4 years) two cards get corrupted and only ended up losing a couple of photos each time (where sectors were bad). All others were recovered with software. Then I was able to re-format card and use again.
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by James DeRuvo (10/02/2007)
Yeah, there's a plethora of recovery options out there. Which is a good thing.
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Fuji FinePix S8000fd Reviews
Fuji FinePix S8000fd Reviews by Digital Camera-HQ Users
- 3.0 out of 5
Fine pix S8000fd
(Dieter Wiehe — 07/25/2009)
pictures are average
now the Mode Dial on top has been fallen of.
seems the plastic is bad quality
- 1.0 out of 5
Bad plastic
(Saulius — 06/01/2009)
There no RAW, and plastic is very bad quality, I'll newer buy FUJI again.
- 4.0 out of 5
GREAT ZOOM
(CINDY — 05/03/2009)
MY DAUGHTER PLAYS OUTFIELD FOR HER SOFTBALL TEAM, I LOVE THE ZOOM!!!
- 2.0 out of 5
Dissapointed
(William — 12/14/2008)
For all good the reviews this Camera got I am very dissapointed.
the image stabiliser is completly useless,the zoom is very slow reacting,The colour results are well below average and as for the 4 aa batteries rechargable they might well be (3 days if you are lucky)and the cover is is so flimsy almost beyond belief ,Obviously the People who write these reviews have never actually used this camera.
- 5.0 out of 5
Budget price - top features
(J — 09/25/2008)
This camera was bought in the hope that it would be better than the Panasonic I had. It is. It's zoom is outstanding, the picture stabalising is awesome and the best feature is the super-macro mode. Clarity at 10mm and the detail is breathtaking.
- 2.0 out of 5
Great features shocking photos
(Luc — 08/09/2008)
I fell in love with my fuji 5600 so when it came time to upgrade I thought its the 18 x zoom model for me. What good is the automatic setting if it always takes grainy blurry pictures' even the best shots i managed had very bad noise in most back ground areas especialy in the shaddows. I managed better pics in the manual settings but it was hard work with many test shots. The iso settings in auto jumps up to 800 and even 1600 indoors even with the flash on resulting in washed out messy pictures.The only good point was the inteligent flash and the results in macro mode but there are more things to photograph than bugs. Please dont be tempted by it's 18 x zoom and cheap price, Im sticking with my fine pix 5600 for now.When I called the fuji help line they had little sympathy and suggested I try to reset the camera and adjust the white ballance? I cant see how that would help with the iso blowout in auto. Lucky for me the retailer agreed to let me exchange it for another model, the bargain price I got it for $349 wasn't such a bargain after all, sorry fuji you lost a customer.
- 1.0 out of 5
Complete waste of your money!
(Mark — 06/03/2008)
I'm serious. Prior to buying this attractively looking camera I have read nothing but excellent reviews. Some went as far as to say it is better than some entry level SLR cameras. So I bought it and I got nothing but disappointment out of it. No matter what you do with the settings the full size images always look like paintings, or like some very good quality video snapshots. Everything, especially leafs and animal fur look like they're made of plasticine or plastic. If you blur them in Photoshop and scale them down to about 1600x1200, which is 50% of the original size, the quality seemingly improves, but what is the point of having an 8MP camera if you have to do such things to your pictures? Also the ISO settings above 400 are totally useless. Yes, they let you take pictures in dark conditions, but that's about it. With ISO 800 and more you take a picture and delete it straight away. It is that bad! My SonyErricson K759i phone with 2MP built-in camera makes more realistic looking pictures than S8000fd and that is no joke. Moreover, the weird barrel + pincushion distortion visible in certain situations and the magenta/green chroma effect near the edges make this camera look like a cheap Chinese mock-up. I have compared the FinePix S8000fd (8MP) results with SonyErricson K750i (2MP), Panasonic DMC-FZ1 (2MP) and NIKON D200 (10MP), whereby I have used images from my FinePix and FinePix images from comparison sites on the internet. Clearly, the sudden price drop from the original £210 or so to a price lower than some pocket digital cameras with only 4x zoom is not coincidental. Quite frankly, the FinePix S8000fd digital camera wouldn't sell above £150. Only a fool like me would buy it and if you ask me I don't think it's worth more than a £100. Except for the solid SLR-like body, the mechanical image stabiliser and the massive 18x zoom, this camera is way below average. Don't repeat my mistake and fall for the SLR looks or the 18x zoom. The image quality is rubbish, which makes all the other useful features pointless.
- 4.0 out of 5
A Good Camera at a very good price
(Kshitij Nanavaty — 04/14/2008)
I am using this camera for 3 months now. Initially I had problem with the image quality as all the photos I took were blurry. But I bought a photography help guide, learnt few things and read Camera help guide. Now the results are awsome. Outside photos are just fantastic. Auto mode works very well. Even inside photos, I have tried few things-few options and results are improving. It may not be as good as SONY (I have not used H7 or H9) but as per the price tag, this camera score highly. Very good.
- 2.0 out of 5
NO FILTERS AVAILABLE FOR THIS CAMERA!!!
(Greg Cremer — 01/12/2008)
The title pretty much says it all. I am very disappointed with fuji as a company. It would have been simple to make this camera with filter capability.
I am also very disappointed with the quality of low-light photos. The "6400" ISO is a total joke. Pretty much anything over 400 with this camera is 50/50 grain to image ratio. I love the 18x lens, love the display, love the easy menu system, love the smart flash (which works very well). It's easy to use and fully manual or auto or anywhere in between. But it's absolutely useless to me. I'm going to sell the thing.
If you don't care about the ability to use filters or low light capability, get this cam. But to me, no caring about those things is like saying I don't care about catching those moments that I look back on with fond memories.
