FujiFilm FinePix S602 Zoom Digital Camera
**What is the FujiFilm FinePix S602 Zoom Digital Camera?**
The FujiFilm FinePix S602 Zoom is a digital camera that was released by FujiFilm in 2002. It is a bridge camera that combines the features of a compact point-and-shoot camera with some of the advanced capabilities of a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. The S602 Zoom was highly regarded for its image quality and versatility, making it a popular choice among professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.
**Features and Specifications**
The FinePix S602 Zoom boasted an impressive array of features for its time. It featured a 3.1-megapixel Super CCD sensor, which provided excellent image quality and allowed for prints up to 11×14 inches without loss of detail. The camera also had a 6x optical zoom lens, equivalent to 35-210mm in 35mm film terms, which offered versatility for capturing both wide-angle and telephoto shots.
One of the standout features of the S602 Zoom was its manual control options. It allowed full manual exposure control, including aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual mode, giving photographers creative freedom to capture the desired shot. Additionally, the camera had a hot shoe for external flash units and a threaded lens barrel for attaching filters and other accessories.
The S602 Zoom also featured an electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a 1.8-inch LCD screen, allowing photographers to compose their shots using either method. The camera offered various shooting modes, including portrait, landscape, sports, and night scene, to cater to different shooting scenarios. It also had a macro mode for close-up photography and a self-timer for group shots or self-portraits.
**Performance and Reception**
Upon its release, the FujiFilm FinePix S602 Zoom was highly praised for its image quality and performance. The Super CCD sensor produced sharp, detailed images with vibrant colors, and the camera’s advanced image processor resulted in minimal noise even at higher ISO settings.
Photographers appreciated the camera’s ability to capture fast-moving subjects with its quick autofocus system and continuous shooting mode. The S602 Zoom also impressed users with its low-light capabilities, thanks to its range of ISO settings (up to ISO 1600).
The camera was well-received by both professionals and enthusiasts, who praised its sturdy build quality, ergonomic design, and intuitive controls. Its advanced features and manual control options made it a popular choice for photographers looking to take their skills to the next level without investing in a full-fledged DSLR system.
**Price and Availability**
At the time of its release, the FujiFilm FinePix S602 Zoom had a retail price of around $700. However, as technology advanced and newer models were introduced, the price of the S602 Zoom gradually decreased. Nowadays, the camera can be found on the second-hand market for a significantly lower price, making it a cost-effective option for photographers looking to explore digital photography.
**Conclusion**
The FujiFilm FinePix S602 Zoom Digital Camera was a groundbreaking product in its time, offering a bridge between compact point-and-shoot cameras and DSLRs. With its impressive image quality, manual control options, and versatile zoom lens, it provided photographers with the tools they needed to capture stunning images. Although it may be considered outdated by today’s standards, the S602 Zoom still holds value for those seeking a reliable and affordable digital camera.
