Fujifilm FinePix S602 Zoom

Opinion: Recently bought a S602Z, and I am very happy with it - excellent image quality (for only 3 million CCDs), 6x zoom, unlimited time video recording, uses AA battery, etc. This camera takes both CF and SmartMedia cards too.

The range of exposure modes available (from different auto setting to fully manual)

The focus range of in super-macro setting is amazing (as close as 1cm from the lens!), although I am not sure if anyone will ever want to take a photo with the camera so close to the object.

I thought of paying more for the Minolta 7i. What really made me decided to buy the S602Z instead, was the "feel" of the camera. The camera is very comfortable to hold, with a good hand grip and well balanced weight. (This is of course a personal preference, of choosing a "comfortable" camera rather than one with higher quality)

Note: my rating is just relative to other cameras I know which are of the same price range.

Opinion: Hi, I'm from Singapore, sold off my 7 months old first digital camera Fujifilm 2800z and upgrade to Fujifilm S602z on 4 Jun 2002. After taking some shots and trying some of the functions for about a month, I'm very happy and satisfied with its features. Some reasons why I upgrade to S602 compared to 6900 and 2800 is because:

i.) It can take both CF type I & II and SmartMedia cards.
ii.) Unlimited time video recording with audio
iii.) Uses AA size battery (recommend to use AA rechargeable battery more economical)
iv.) Improved CCD (3rd Generation)
v.) Super Macro mode setting (Can take a picture as close as 1cm or less than ½ inch from the lens)
vi.) Camera has a very firm grip and well balanced weight like holding a SLR pro camera
vii.) Fast focus and shutter speed when taking a shot
viii.) ISO can be set up to 800 & 1600

Beside the improve features, it also gives an excellent image quality for a 3MP & 6MP (interpolated) digital camera with 6x zoom. Great shots for day outdoor scenery.

Although I read a lot of review and comparison between the S602z and Nikon 5700. What really made me decided to buy the S602z rather than waiting for the Nikon 5700 to be out in July 2002 was that the LCD screen is very small 1.5" for Nikon 5700 as compare to 1.8" for S602 and in long run AA size battery either alkaline or rechargeable is more practical instead of using the Lithium-Ion type battery & charger which is more costly. Price are more expensive for the Nikon 5700 due to it's brand and 5MP.

Would like to share some of the shots taken with my S602z camera with different setting:
http://www.pbase.com/byktan/s602z

Opinion: My opinion of the Fuji 602 has changed since my original review. The more I use this camera the more I like it. At first I was somewhat disappointed with the image quality, I keep comparing it to cameras with four and five megapixels. The bottom line is that this is a three megapixel camera and a darn good one(maybe the best). The 6X zoom is great, the camera is very easy to use and has more features than you can imagine. What I like is the fast focusing/minimal lag times. Shooting sports or fast moving children is no problem for the 602, not to mention very accurate. The macro mode works equally as well, very fun to play with. Battery life is exceptional(use Powerex 1800's). The grip and construction are great, especially if your used to shooting with an SLR. I would highly recommend this camera.

Opinion: I really am enjoying this camera. I've posted extensively in the Fuji forum for more.