FUJIFILM FinePix HS25EXR Digital Camera (Black)

The FUJIFILM FinePix HS25EXR Digital Camera has many qualities comparable to high-end DSLR cameras. From a powerful 30x zoom lens with manual focus to an electronic viewfinder to full 1080p HD video capture, the HS25EXR is one budget-friendly camera that's out to impress. When you add in the copious amount of auto shooting modes, and creative functions, like Fuji's Film Simulation mode, the 25EXR is more than worthy of your attention. What's more, it's powered by AA batteries - a readily available power source that's both economical and easily obtained.

The f/2.8 24mm Super EBC Fujinon lens gives you a 35mm equivalent focal range of 24-720mm. That large range gives you the flexibility to shoot everything from 1cm Super Macro images to far, far-off telephoto subjects. The lens also sports a manual zoom barrel to make the most of the 30x telephoto optical zoom range. The camera also sports 60x Intelligent Digital Zoom, which is controlled by the Fn (Function) button. Additional highlights of the lens include an 11 group and 15 element configuration with a Super Electron Beam Coating (EBC) which reduces ghosting, flare, and purple fringe.

The HS25EXR, of course, also features image stabilization for clear shots that are free from the effects of hand-shake. The CMOS Shift stabilization works together with a high ISO for great shots, even at the full 30x zoom. Advanced Anti Blur (in EXR AUTO mode) provides an added boost by using Multi Frame technology to layer 4 shots into a single, blur-free image. None of this would mean much however, if it weren't for the 16Mp 1/2" BSI EXR CMOS sensor, which can be considered the heart of the camera. According to FUJIFILM, this sensor is effectively three sensors in one, providing high resolution, wide dynamic range, and high sensitivity and low noise. Helping the sensor out would be the EXR processor. This dual CPU/EXR Core tool efficiently processes files and powers features like Intelligent Scene Recognition, fast start-up, and others.

As previously mentioned, the HS25EXR has an electronic viewfinder, in addition to a 3.0" tilting LCD monitor. The viewfinder features an Eye Sensor which automatically switches the display from the LCD to the viewfinder when you bring the camera to your eye. The tilting 3.0" LCD boasts the ability to angle high (45° downward angle) and low (90° upward angle) for more flexible shooting. It also has a high 1:1100 contrast and features Sunlight Mode for accurate viewing, even in bright conditions. Additional LCD features include the histogram display, vector graphics, and the direct shooting command buttons to the left of the screen.

Other design considerations include a one-touch movie record button, for no-fuss video capture, angled mode and command dials, a rubber coating for a secure grip on the camera, and the Fn button, which can be programmed for shortcuts to frequently used functions. The camera also has an easy access memory slot that accepts the compatible SD/SDHC and SDXC memory cards needed for recording files. Even when the HS25EXR is mounted to a tripod, the slot can be accessed. In addition, optional accessories, such as a lens hood, remote release, and compatible TTL flashes can be added to the camera as well for even more versatility when shooting.

Along with a bevy of auto shooting functions - most notably all those that fall under the EXR AUTO mode - the HS25EXR also gives you the option to utilize bracketing functions. Film Simulation Bracketing, AE Bracketing, and Dynamic Range Bracketing all give you more opportunities to nail the shot. Film Bracketing will produce PROVIA, Velvia, and ASTIA styled shots - that have the look of Fuji's famed films - while AE Bracketing captures three frames with varying exposure ranges. Dynamic Range Bracketing produces three images, each in a different dynamic range (100%, 200%, and 400%). Numerous other modes - such as Motion Panorama 360, Pro Focus mode with face detection, and Pro Low-Light mode - also enhance the benefits of this camera as well.