Fujifilm FinePix HS30EXR Digital Camera Review

Recording Options

The HS30EXR is capable of capturing Full HD 1080p videos at 30 frames per second, as well as 720p and 480p. High speed video is also available, at speeds of 80, 160, or even 320 frames per second, however this locks resolution 480p, 240p, or 320x112 respectively. Find out how the performed in our video image quality test./r:link_to_content

Video Controls

Zoom

Optical zoom control is of course unlocked during video, because the glass is mechanically linked to the ring. Common practice is to limit zoom speed while a recording is in progress in order to cut down on the noise of the motor. That's not the case with the HS30, but noise is still an issue since the barrel elements rub plastic on plastic. This also means zoom won't be as smooth as other cameras, since you'll need to pull it yourself.

Focus

Focus behavior during video will obey the overarching Focusing option, meaning it can be set to continuous, single, or manual. Continuous will probably be best for most people while shooting video, but single is most common for stills. We wish there was a way to configure them independently.

Exposure Controls

Shooting variables that are available for still photography are locked for video. Shutter speed, aperture size, and ISO sensitivity cannot be manually configured for video, however the camera will obey the metering settings found in the Photometry menu.

Audio Features

Stereo microphones are arranged above and to either side of the lens barrel, but no options exist in relation to them. The HS30 does not even support commonplace features like wind cut or level display.