Fujifilm to roll out FinePix Z200fd to U.S. market

Back in May, we reported on the European announcement of the Fujifilm FinePix Z200fd. As of this morning, Fuji gave official word that the camera will come to this side of the Atlantic.

A resolution-bumping upgrade to Fuji's Z100fd ultracompact, the 10.0 megapixel Z200fd features a 5x Fujinon zoom, a 2.7-inch LCD, and sensor-shifting mechanical image stabilization. Fuji's i-Flash intelligent flash control claims to provide the best possible flash shots, and the Z200fd's Dual Shot Mode allows user to take two pictures – one with flash and one without – in rapid succession, making it easier to get the best possible shot.

The Z200fd is encased in a fashion-focused brushed metal body. Key styling touches – including the Z200fd's diagonally sliding lens cover – are borrowed directly from the Z100fd. The Z100fd's control-wheel interface arrangement also returns to the minimalist new model, which will be available in a range of trendy colors characteristic of Fuji's recent Z models.

Complementing the Z200fd's party ready appearance, face detection functions are expanded to include Couple and Group Timer Modes. The slightly silly Couple Timer Mode uses face detection to snap shots when two faces in the frame come closer together. Group Timer Mode seems somewhat more useful, allowing the user to select the number of faces (up to four) in the frame; the camera will then hold off on capturing the shot until the set number of faces have been detected. This feature can be used to give the shooter a chance to jump into group shots as well.

Post-shot image sorting tools have long been a nice addition to Fuji's socially savvy FinePix ultracompacts, and the Z200fd is no exception. Micro Thumbnail View returns to the latest Z camera, allowing users to quickly sort through up to 100 images at a time. A new Photo Folder Management function provides five preset folders – Travel, Family, Favorites, My Pictures, and Events – into which in-camera shots can be sorted, allowing users a convenient way to upload images in smaller, presorted groups.

Fuji's IrSimple image transfer protocol makes a repeat appearance here as well. If this bit of proprietary transfer technology probably won't be of interest to many, however, Fujifilm deserves kudos for allowing Z200fd shooters to use either xD-Picture Card or the more common SD/SDHC memory types via the new camera's single multifunction card slot.

Finally, tying up a loose end from the earlier U.K. announcement, the FinePix Z200fd should debut in September. Suggested retail pricing for the new model is $299.95.

Fujifilm FinePix Z200fd Specifications: