Fuji debuts new hybrid auto-focus system with FinePix F300EXR

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Posted on 21 Jul 2010 at 15:46

FujiFilm has premiered the FinePix F300EXR, a compact super-zoom with a new hybrid auto-focus system.

The company has made the lofty claim that this new system is as speedy as a DSLR’s auto-focus, as it automatically chooses between using a contrast detection AF method normally used in compacts and a phase-detection system that’s typically reserved for DSLRs. Fuji says that the F300EXR can focus in just 0.158 seconds.

It includes a Fujinon wide angle 15x optical zoom lens (24 to 360mm equivalent) with a maximum aperture range of f/3.3 to f/5.6. and a second-generation 12 megapixel 1/2in super CCD EXR sensor. Fuji’s EXR sensor technology helps to improve dynamic range and low-light/high ISO performance by switching modes depending on the scenario it’s faced with in order to improve its light capturing capabilities.

This mode can either be selected by the user or, if desired, can either be left completely up to the camera determine the best mode to use in any given situation (EXR Auto) or you can select what’s most important to you by using one of the priority modes (Resolution, High ISO/Low Noise or Dynamic Range).

The camera’s sensitivity can be set between ISO 100 and ISO 12800, depending on the mode you’re using. There are also a variety of auto ISO modes, including Auto 400, Auto 800 and Auto 1600, which limits the maximum ISO to the one you’ve selected.

On the back, there’s a high-contrast 3in 460,000-dot resolution LCD with a wide view filter for improved viewing angles. There’s support for manual exposure modes, as well as a 360-degree motion panorama, and it supports 720p video recording in the Motion JPEG format.

Fuji has improved the camera’s gyro sensor-shift image stabilisation technology and also made some changes to the built-in flash. With what it dubs ‘Super Intelligent’ flash technology, the camera attempts to balance flash illumination across the whole scene.

Fujifilm says that the F300EXR will be available in September at around £279 inc VAT. We’ll bring you a review as soon as we can.

Author: Tim Smalley