Fuji Finepix s800 Review

Let me preface this article by saying that the Fuji Finepix s800 is often referred to as the s5800. It's the same camera.

The Fuji Finepix S800 is a digital camera which boasts a 8 megapixel CCD sensor. According to Fuji this allows the s800 to deliver a high image quality, with sharp, high resolution pictures whatever the scene. The s800 is an upgrade to the highly rated s700.

The graphical user interface is intuitive, guiding the user via the 2.5-inch, 230,000 pixel, LCD screen. Settings and modes can be quickly changed, with helpful brief explanations provided if needed. This is a great feature for the novice, as it effectively demystifies digital camera usage. The LCD screen is coated with Wide View Film, allowing for greater viewing angles.

Due to its 10x zoom lens the s800 covers a focal range equivalent to 38 - 380mm on a 35mm camera. No matter how close you can get to your subject, the zoom ensures that you can capture it in minute detail. This is a major point in its favor, especially considering its affordable price.

The "Super Macro mode" allows the user to move in as close as 1cm to their subject, allowing for the minutest details to be captured.

Compared to most other super zoom cameras the s800 is much easier to use. The menu system is very straightforward. The manual exposure controls are a huge boon.

The Picture Stabilization mode allows the user to capture fast moving subjects and prevent camera shake without blurring. This mode is also capable of automatically selecting the best shutter speed and sensitivity for any scene.

The flash is also automatic, popping up when low light situations are encountered. The Intelligent Flash feature automatically adjusts sensitivity and flash output for ideal exposure no matter what the lighting conditions are.

The Natural Light & with Flash mode is also very helpful. With this mode selected the s800 will takes two shots virtually instantaneously, one with flash and one without. The user can then view both pictures side-by-side and choose their favorite.

The s800 is also capable of movie recording, including sound. The zoom function can be put to great use whilst using the movie mode to capture your subject in greater detail. Electronic Image Stabilization prevents shaking during movie recording. The s800 can capture footage, with sound, at 30fps. Footage can be captured in either VGA (640 x 480 pixels) or QVGA (320 x 240 pixels) resolution.

Style wise the s800 is reminiscent of a SLR camera. Its design is stylish yet sturdy and robust.

The s800 features a dual xD/SD memory card slot. 26mb of storage space have been built into the s800 so it can be used straight out of the box. Additional space in the form of an SD or xD card will be a essential extra purchase for the majority of users.

The s800 is powered by 4 AA batteries. Battery life is good, a lot better than most of its competitors.

Included with the s800 is a Camera carry strap, Lens cover with strap, Camera case with shoulder strap, 4 AA batteries, USB cable, AV cable, Fuji software CD, quickstart guides and an owners manual. The included Fuji Finepixviewer software allows for easy transfer of photos from the camera to the users computer.

In the s800 Fuji have created a straightforward camera capable of capturing high quality images. The s800 is an easy to use camera which manages to be cheaper than its rivals, while providing a longer lens, a variety of modes and many features.

Some users may prefer the slightly less expensive option of the highly rated s700.