And then you've got unique models such as the just-announced Fujifilm Finepix X100, which has its own set of checkmarks in the versatility column: extensive manual controls, built-in lens filters that are usually available only as separately-sold accessories, a large DSLR-size sensor without the bulky body, and a bright F2.0 aperture lens that lets you harness enough light to use very fast shutter speeds and achieve shallow depth-of-field effects.
It's also one of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful cameras we've seen in recent years, thanks to a throwback style reminiscent of the classic Leica M3. Feast your eyes on this thing.
What's missing is an optical zoom lens; the Finepix X100 has a fixed focal length of 35mm (in 35mm film equivalent), which means you'll physically have to move closer to a subject in order to "zoom in." The tradeoffs for using that fixed focal length, according to Fujifilm, are that the camera has a very fast power-on-to-first-shot time, none of the fringing or distortion you see in many wide-angle, long-zoom lenses, and a lens-and-sensor combination that are tailor-made for one another.
Fujifilm Finepix X100: Specs, Features, and Availability
The Finepix X100 features an APS-C size 12-megapixel CMOS sensor, as well as an EXR image processor that was built specifically for the camera. Fujifilm says the new image processor is designed for in-camera RAW processing, excellent low-light capabilities, sharp resolution, and high-dynamic-range shooting.
At slightly more than 2 inches deep, the Finepix X100 is closer to the size of a compact interchangeable lens camera than to that of most point-and-shoots. Besides a 2.8-inch LCD screen, it has a unique optical viewfinder that overlays in-camera settings data over its field of view.
When looking through the optical viewfinder, you can switch between the traditional "optical view only" display and the data-overlay display simply by pressing a button on the camera.
Another notable feature is the camera's built-in neutral density (ND) filter, which allows for slow-shutter/wide-aperture combinations in bright light. Fujifilm says the filter can be turned on or off by touching a button; when turned on, the built-in ND filter is supposed to block enough light to use an aperture setting three f-stops wider than you'd be able to without it. Aperture settings range from F2.0 to F16, and the camera's nine-blade aperture should create a nice "bokeh" effect.
The Finepix X100 shoots 720p video and has a built-in HDMI mini connector for playing footage back on an HDTV. The camera also offers a one-touch motion panorama mode similar to Sony's Sweep Panorama feature; bracketing settings for exposure, dynamic range, and film-simulation effects; fast access to shutter speeds and exposure settings via top-mounted dials; and an extensive array of buttons to quickly adjust manual controls.
Alas, this is not a cheap camera. It's priced at $1200, and is slated for availability in March. Its price, prime lens, big sensor, and manual controls make it a competitor primarily to high-end niche cameras like the Leica X1 and Sigma's DP series.
This story, "Fujifilm Finepix X100: Prime Lens, Huge Sensor, Big Price" was originally published by PCWorld.