Fujifilm unleashes FinePix SL300 and SL240

Pre-CES: Fujifilm has unleashed the FinePix SL300 and SL240 mid-range superzoom cameras. The 30x zoom FinePix SL300 and 24x zoom SL240 sit beneath the manufacturer's X-S1 and HS30EXR models but above the co-announced S4500 and S4000, to offer a heartily-bezoomed camera for any pocket. Both cameras are based around 14MP stabilized CCD sensors and offer comparatively high-resolution 460,000 dot LCDs. They also feature hot-shoes to allow use with external flash guns.

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Press Release

Fujifilm FinePix SL300 and FinePix SL240 bring flexibility, creative control and outstanding optics to the new 2012 bridge camera range

Take the next step towards fantastic pictures with the new FinePix SL300 and SL240 high-powered premium bridge cameras from Fujifilm. Following in the tradition of the company’s hugely popular S-series cameras, these models offer similar image quality and versatility to that of a DSLR combined with the convenience and portability of a compact camera.

* Equivalent to a 35mm camera.

Outstanding optics

The highlight of the new FinePix SL-series is the Fujinon optical zoom lenses, which offer a high-quality 30x and 24x optical zoom. The extended zoom ranges make the SL300 and SL240 ideal for travellers looking to record their adventures; sports fans keen to capture their teams on camera or any photographer looking for a step-up from their current compact camera.

Plus, with a close-focus distance of 2cm, users can also pick out precise close-up details, too. The zoom lenses offer smooth zooming and precise framing of scenes, and with the addition of a zoom lever on the barrel of the lens photographers are able to zoom in and out without taking their hands away from the camera – guaranteeing that they’ll never miss the desired shot.

Remarkable image quality to match the lens range

Each camera houses a 1/2.3-inch 14 mega-pixel CCD sensor, representing the very latest in Fujifilm’s award-winning imaging technology. The powerful sensors are optimised to work perfectly with the Fujinon zoom lenses, ensuring all the detail in a scene is captured with exceptional clarity. To assist in low-light situations or when shooting handheld, the cameras offer a maximum ISO rating of ISO 6400* for maximising available light and ensuring that shutter speeds are fast enough to capture action without blurring.

Sensor-shift Digital Image Stabilisation is offered by both devices and applies the latest in image enhancing processes to bring out detail and preserve the finer points of a picture.

For additional illumination, the SL300 and SL240 feature a powerful internal flash that will reach subjects up to 7m away, plus they also have a hot-shoe for connecting separate external flash to add professional lighting capabilities.

See the whole picture

The SL300 and SL240 boast a 3-inch LCD screen that offers 460,000 dots and an ultra-wide 160 degree viewing angle. This means they’re not only clearer to see when composing pictures the super-bright screens make playback and reviewing movies and stills easier and more enjoyable. The cameras also have Electronic Viewfinders (EVF) that offer 200,000 dots screens, so users can be assured that they’re seeing a good representation of what the camera will capture. The EVF also now benefits from the addition of a diopter adjustment, making it much easier for spectacle wearers to look through the viewfinder.

Improved performance

In addition to the new technological features the SL300 and SL240 have been optimised to provide a faster start-up, improved speed of Auto Focus and an upgraded response time. All this combines to ensure that users won’t miss a shot. The power supply of these cameras has also been re-engineered to run on Lithium-ion batteries, allowing them to capture up to 300 frames on a single charge.

Creative possibilities

For times when users want to go beyond the still image, the new SL-series cameras are capable of capturing 720p HD movie at 30 fps. A mini HDMI output port enables both cameras to be quickly connected to an HD ready TV so users can enjoy watching their movies back on the big screen. Still images can also be reviewed in this way, showcasing those edge-to-edge image definitions.

Professional look and feel

The new SL-series cameras have cosmetic features and design flourishes that are strongly reminiscent of DSLRs and other pro-level cameras, including a rubberised coating to make both models comfortable in the hands for extended shooting sessions, and to also offer the reassuring build quality expected from a premium camera. The cameras’ buttons are ergonomically located and the metal-like finish completes the overall package to appeal to both the beginner and the enthusiast photographer alike.

Fujifilm FinePix SL300 and FinePix SL240: key features

• 1/2.3-inch 14 mega-pixel CCD sensor
• 3-inch LCD screen with 460,000 dots
• TTL Hot shoe flash
• Additional zoom lever (side lever)
• ISO 100- 6400*
• 720p HD movie capture
• Li-ion battery delivering up to 300 shots per charge

* ISO3200/6400 is effective in S mode.

Fujifilm FinePix SL300 and SL240 Specifications