Fuji FinePix S5200 Digital Camera Review

Fuji FinePix S5200

Digital Camera Review

Nov 30, 2005 - By Patrick Singleton
1.8 The SLR-like Fujifilm FinePix S5200 is a 5.1 megapixel (effective) 10x ultra zoom camera with the typical priorities of a long zoom Fuji: it lacks optical image stabilization, but attempts to compensate with extended ISO settings up to 1600 and a pretty wide maximum aperture to allow fast shutter speeds, minimizing the need for image stabilization. Its images are captured with a 1/2.5” CCD and will appear on a 1.8” LCD monitor, as will its 640 x 480 or 320 x 240 video clips in AVI (Motion JPEG) format. The S5200 is a light, compact camera that offers manual control options, high sensitivity settings and a long telephoto lens to a range of consumers at a list price of $399.95 – going as low as $320 online.
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Fujifilm FinePix S5200
 
Likes
– Produces rich vibrant color tones
– Sharp lens
– Reasonable control of noise
– Writes RAW files
– ISO 800 and 1600 settings offer an advantage in low light
– Comfortable grip
– Flash pops up automatically
– AF assist light reaches a long way          
Dislikes
- No live histogram
- Slow performance speeds
- Live viewfinder does not show exposure or white balance
- Manual controls aren't convenient (hidden within menus)
- Viewfinder and LCD don't have enough resolution
- No Image Stabilization       


Conclusion
The FinePix S5200 will be a satisfying camera for certain types of snapshooters: it's the right camera for someone who wants something more versatile than a typical point-and-shoot, but whose primary uses are ones that a typical point-and-shoot could handle. With strong color reproduction and a sharp lens, the S5200 will do an excellent job taking that kind of picture. This camera is ideal for the user who won't use the maximum zoom too much – if that focal length is important, then image stabilization is too.

The S5200 will also exhibit difficulty shooting by candle light; even with a sensitivity range that extends to ISO 1600, a maximum aperture of f/3.2 can be limiting in low light. Furthermore, the FinePix S5200 isn't responsive enough to reliably catch fast action. However, the FinePix S5200 certainly delivers good performance for casual shooting, with some extras. But even though it has some of the specs of higher-end cameras – especially in zoom range and ISO – there's a reason so many cameras cost twice as much, or even ten times more. They work better.

Overall Impressions Page 11 of 13 Specs / Ratings
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