Fujifilm FinePix S5000

Value (6.0)
The FinePix S5000 is a strong camera, providing the user with crisp images, decent color replication and some manual controls under optimal conditions, however, at a MSRP of US $499, its price is a bit steep. I would say the SLR façade tells the tale pretty well; with the S5000 you are getting a camera that is trying to grab hold of other markets without fully knowing its own. An SLR styled camera should function at a level beyond point-and-shoot and this camera clearly does not. It is a reasonable selection for those users who prefer automatic responses and imaging and want the traditional appearance to boot but for anyone else there are strong restrictions. I think there is some market for the FinePix S5000, but for $499, you can get a 5 or 6 megapixel camera that will fit in your pocket and perform in less ideal conditions than the S5000.

Comparisons
The Kodak DX6490 — The Kodak DX6490 has an MSRP of US $399.95 and contains just under 4 megapixels. While there are arguments for each camera, I would have to say that it boils down to a matter of preference. The Fujifilm FinePix S5000 is a lighter camera that is more compact and easier to use. The Kodak DX6490 produces sharper images while the colors are much more naturalistic and defined. As far as imaging and control goes, I would have to say the Kodak is far stronger, but if you are more interested in simplicity and portability, the FinePix S5000 would be more along those lines. I’d say if the decision was in my hands, I’d take the stronger imaging DX6490 and the extra $100 and be on my way.

Sony P100 — The P100 is one of the strongest performing compact point-and-shoot cameras. While the Fujifilm FinePix S5000 is shaped like an SLR, make no mistake, it should be seen as a point-and-shoot camera. The S5000 does have some manual control, yet for the majority of its users, I suspect the automatic modes will drive the machine. If automatic shooting is your intent, I would strongly recommend checking out the point-and-shoot P100. I have found the P100 to contain an unbelievably strong imager, providing high resolution and low noise in its imagery. With the added convenience and portability the pocket-sized P100 provides, I think the flexibility and superior imaging gives it the obvious edge.

Canon PowerShot S500 — The Canon S500 lists for $479.99 and contains 5 megapixels of imaging capability. While Canon’s reputation for optics is earned, I do not think the S500 is a good example of their engineering. The best part of the PowerShot S500 is the design. Small, shiny, sleek and pocket bound, the S500 is an ideal travel camera. While the FinePix S5000 is about the same weight, as far as portability goes, you will have to make arrangements to carry the Fujifilm with you while the PowerShot S500 can be thrown in a pack or pocket and forgotten about until needed. As far as imaging goes, with only 60% of the manufacturer’s suggested megapixel count, the S500 allows the FinePix S5000 to put up a strong battle. Add manual aperture control, shutter speed, and focus and suddenly, the S5000 has options beyond the PowerShot S500’s design. The Canon PowerShot S500 was designed for the point-and-shooter and the Fujifilm S5000 was designed for both. This creates both advantages in functionality for the S5000 and deficiencies in portability. Therefore, if it’s imaging and flexibility you desire in a lightweight camera, the F5000 is a viable option, but if you are looking for a point-and-shoot imager made for portability, check out the S500 or the P100.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters
The FinePix S5000 is a prime match for the introductory digital camera user. Anyone looking for an automatic, strong performing camera to take on a specific outing should at least take a look into the S5000. It is light weight and produces decent resolution. This is not a camera that you can throw in your pocket, and it will matter to the casual shooter who likes to have a camera with them at most times. This will undoubtedly restrict its appeal to some specific users, but for those who want the traditional camera look in something that will give you pretty decent images and total automatic assistance in a lightweight package, this surely fits the bill. Its additional manual control gives the opportunity of growth or flexibility and will meet the call of those familiar photographers who want a lightweight digital accompaniment.

Budget Consumers
The camera has a MSRP of US $499 but fortunately can be found online for over a hundred dollars less. This is a bit pricey for a 3.1 megapixel camera, but as far as handling and control goes the S5000 is a strong camera. Thus for those who are truly consumer and budget conscious, the S5000 may be a bit out of your price range, but for those middle-of-the-road users who want a camera with some body, a spacious control layout, and some manual flexibility, the S5000 is a viable option.

Gadget Freaks
Gadget freaks may want to look elsewhere for excitement; unfortunately, the traditional SLR look and basic functionality of the S5000 will leave those truly curious and exploratory gadget juicers dry as there is not a whole lot extra to toy around with on this camera.

Manual Control Freaks
Manual control freaks will have to learn to relinquish their control or feel forever confined within the narrow options of the S5000. Although there are some basic manual control features on the FinePix S5000, the phony manual focus ring sums up the camera as far as manual control options go. Any true freak will throw down their pocket protectors in outrage at Fujifilm’s attempt to mislead. They can cover themselves by embedding a manual focus option deep into the menu; however, I would be surprised if any control freak could get past this one, let alone the lack of manual white balance setting and false ISO control.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists
The FinePix S5000 is not much of camera for the advanced hobbyist or professional user. Plagued by control limitations, the S5000 cannot handle an external flash or compensate with high ISO ratings. This camera may look like a standard SLR, but its performance is a far cry from it. If it’s a professional camera you desire, the FinePix S5000's price may be all that is appealing.