Fujifilm FinePix F40fd First Impressions Review

Model Design / Appearance
The Fujifilm FinePix F40fd’s design remains fairly consistent with previous F-series models. It has more physical differences than the rest of the lineup though. This digital camera is perhaps the trendiest in the series yet. It comes in three colors: silver, blue, and gunmetal. There are chrome highlights throughout that is common on other cameras. The F40fd differs from its predecessors because its mode dial is larger, the zoom control is placed on the top instead of the back, and the finger grip is almost nonexistent. Other models have at least some form of protruding grip, but this model has only a little curve in the body. All of the changes may not be great for handling, but the FinePix F40fd is one of the most attractive digital cameras Fujifilm makes.

Size / Portability
The Fujifilm FinePix F40fd can slip into a pocket, purse, or just about anywhere. It measures in at 3.8 x 2.3 x 0.9 inches and 6.2 oz without the card or batteries. This seems a bit heavy for the camera’s size, but it won’t hurt a wrist and seems sturdy. The camera’s body is constructed of plastic, and metal elements and plates, and seems fairly durable. There is an eyelet on the right side of the camera where users can attach the included wrist strap to tote the camera around easily.

Handling Ability
The F40fd may be easier to look at, but it isn’t any easier to hold. Fujifilm made a few changes to its design that benefited the camera’s looks, but its handling suffered. Older F-series cameras have a zoom lever on the back of the camera for the thumb to push. The new F40fd has a lever around the shutter release button with a tiny knob for the index finger to struggle with. The finger grip has also disappeared on the new model, and it consists only of a shallow curve. Sweaty palms won’t be able to hang on to this camera so that wrist strap will come in handy.

Control Button / Dial Positioning / Size
One of the biggest changes in this camera, as compared with previous F-series models, is the user interface. The mode dial on the F40fd is larger and easier to turn than the F20’s. When it is rotated, a text explanation appears on the LCD screen explaining the icons on the mode dial. The icons are fairly intuitive, but it’s still a nice touch for beginners. The user interface is similar to Sony's recent T-series digital cameras. The buttons on the Fujifilm FinePix F40fd are nicely spaced so users won’t accidentally push two at the same time and are all labeled with text or intuitive icons.

Menu
The menu system on this digital camera isn’t very different from other Fujifilm FinePix models. The menu system is split with the frequently used settings located in the menu that appear when the “F” button is pushed.   

Power Management	Power Save, Quick AF, Clear Display
ISO	Auto 1600, Auto 800, Auto 400, 1600, 800, 400, 200, 100, Auto
Quality	8MF, 8MN, 3:2, 4M, 2M, 03M
FinePix Color	Standard, Chrome, Black-and-White