LP, an X-S1 essentially is 'an X10 on steroids', as a Fuji rep described it once to me. Most X10 operating tips transfer almost directly to the X-S. A big difference, is, as you note, more time spent in shutter-priority to compensate for the enormous zoom reach (or, conversely, Ap-priority from the resulting shorter DOF).
It's a great 'Swiss Army Camera'. Not quite the IQ of lower-rung DSLR's, but can do great things once you get tuned-in to what it likes. The real advantage is traveling so light. I take a spare battery (it is totally unlike the X10 in that batts last a LONG time in the X-S) and card, the big Fuji flash, and occasionally a tripod and RR80 release if I'm doing long stuff that's not moving much. Built like a TANK.
All the Best,
JW
