Fujifilm unveils FinePix F300EXR, three other FinePix cameras

Fujifilm took the wraps off four new FinePix cameras today, including the 15x zoom Fujifilm FinePix F300EXR. This latest generation of FinePix cameras introduce new technologies ranging from hybrid auto focus systems to touch screen displays.

Fujifilm FinePix F300EXR
The slim F300EXR, just 23mm thick, features a 15x optical zoom and a 12 megapixel EXR CCD sensor. A large 3.0-inch 460k-dot LCD handles composition and image review tasks, and the F300EXR is capable of recording 720p HD video.

Impressive as those specs are, the real story is the FinePix F300EXR's auto focus mechanism. The new EXR sensor is equipped for both phase detection and contrast auto focusing. According the Fujifilm, the camera can automatically switch between systems to focus faster in bright and dim light.

Backing up the large 24-360mm focal range is a new sensor shift image stabilization system equipped with a gyro sensor to detect and compensate for camera shake. Fuji claims that their system will not rely on bumping up ISO to capture movement clearly.

Fujifilm FinePix Z800EXR
The FinePix Z800EXR also uses the new EXR chip with hybrid auto focus. The Z800's packaging is slightly different from the F300EXR, though. This model is more compact with an internally contained 5x optical zoom lens. The sleek, contoured camera body is complemented by a 3.5-inch, 460k-dot touch screen.

It will also record 720p HD video and will offer the new image stabilization system. Motion Panorama, an existing feature in current Fujifilm offerings, has been extended to a full 360 degrees in this model and others announced today.

Fujifilm FinePix S2800HD
Outside of the EXR-equipped cameras Fuji announces today, the FinePix S2800HD is also launched, offering a 28mm wide angle 18x optical zoom lens and 720p HD video recording. It takes on a more traditional DSLR/ultrazoom shape, with a deep handgrip and an electronic viewfinder.

In addition to the viewfinder, a 3.0-inch LCD on the camera's back panel will handle composition needs. To counter image blur, it offers a combination of sensor shift and digital image stabilization.

Fujifilm FinePix JX280
The 14 megapixel JX280 will a 5x optical zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD. Measuring a relatively slim 18.5mm thick, it aims to provide a traveling photographer with a lightweight option with a modest zoom range. It will record 720p HD video and features digital image stabilization only.

Pricing and availability
The Fujifilm FinePix JX280 will cost $149.95, the F300EXR $329.95, the Z800EXR $229.95, and S2800HD $259.95. The S2800HD will be available in September, and the other models will become available in August.