The Camera Centre

Fujifilm’s latest bridge camera is the HS20, successor to the HS10. It sets the bar high in terms of its features, having a truly massive 30x optical zoom (a full 10x longer than entry level zoom models), 16 megapixel resolution and continuous shooting at 8 frames per second, at the camera’s full resolution. Add to this the ability to record high quality Full HD movies and the Finepix HS20 shows itself as a credible alternative to digital SLR models.

16 megapixel CMOS with EXR
The CMOS image sensor on the HS20 is the first to feature EXR technology. With its so-called Backside Illumination, no light is blocked by sensor wiring arrays meaning a brighter, less noisy image.

With EXR technology comes 3 CMOS modes:

• HR Mode for all round high quality in good light


• DR (Dynamic Range) function (uses dual capture, technology to increase DR by up to 1600% in high contrast scenes- providing high contrast, punchy images


• Signal to Noise Mode which uses “pixel fusion” to give better sensitivity with less noise in lower light conditions.

The EXR Engine image processor, as well as improving operating speed, recognises and reduces purple fringing, improving colour accuracy even at the edges of the frame.

30x optical zoom
Huge zoom range giving the equivalent of 24-720mm focal length, covering just about any focal length most photographers would ever need.

High Speed Shooting
Shoots at 8 frames per second if using the camera’s full resolution or 11fps at 8 megapixel resolution. Focusing is also lightning fast at 0.16secs using contrast autofocus.

Best Frame Capture Mode
Half press the shutter and the camera will store 7 images just before and 7 images just after the button is fully pressed to make sure you get the frame you want at the crucial moment.

Scene Recognition
Automatically selects the most appropriate scene type from an expanded list of 9. Alternatively, you can choose manually from 27 scene modes.

Full HD Movies
Record broadcast quality movies in Full HD (H.264, 1080p) format and also why not try slow motion recording at 320frames per second (at 320x112 resolution).

Three Image Stabiliser Methods
The Finepix HS20 uses the following three methods to stabilise shaky images:

• Sensor Shift (mechanical compensation)


• Pixel Fusion to increase sensitivity and allow faster shutter speeds


• Anti-Blur technology (combines four images for a sharp composite)

Rich User Interface
The Finepix HS20 features clearly annotated menus and easy image sorting allowing you to search through thousands of images in just seconds. A handy “photobook” function lets you tag virtual pages and leaf through your pictures.

Additional Features

• 360&degMotion Panorama


• TTL Flash Metering (for external flashguns)


• Compatible with optional RR-80 Remote Release


• Film Simulation Modes


• SDXC Card Compatible

For a brochure on this camera please click here