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Fujifilm opens the FinePix camera floodgates ahead of CES


Fujifilm knows that you're almost certainly going through gadget withdrawal in these days and hours leading up to CES, so it's unleashing not one, but ten FinePix cameras for your pointing-and-shooting pleasure. It's a long list, so get comfortable. Let's start with the JX580, which will offer up 16 megapixels, 5x optical zoom and a three-inch LCD for $119, when it drops in February. The JX500 will be hitting the same month for $99, bringing 14 megapixels, 5x optical zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD. The AX550 brings 16 megapixels and 5x optical zoom. It'll be hitting in March for $89. All three slim cameras feature intelligent flash, tracking auto focus and scene recognition auto.

And what of the FinePix JZ250 and JZ100? We're glad you asked. The JZ250 brings a 16 megapixel sensor, 8x optical zoom and a newly brightened three-inch LCD to the table, while the JZ100 rocks 14 megapixels, 8x optical zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD. Both can shoot movies in 720p and will hit retail in March for $149 and $129, respectively. The T400 and T350 both offer up Scene Recognition Auto, face detection and Motion Panorama Mode, as well as 10x optical zoom and three-inch LCDs. The T400 does 16 megapixels and the T350 tops out at 14. They'll run $179 and $159 when they're released in March.

The FinePix XP150 and XP100 do the rugged thing, shockproof, freezeproof, dustproof and waterproof to 33 feet. The XP50, meanwhile, is also durable -- albeit slightly less so. All three cameras shoot 1080p video and have dual image stabilization and tracking autofocus. The XP150 also brings GPS and geo-tagging to the table. The three cameras will hit in March for $279, $259 and $199. Full PR after the break.



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FinePix JX580, JX500 and AX550 Combine Cool Design with 5x Zoom and Simplicity for Great Value

Valhalla, N.Y., January 5, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced three new feature-packed and easy-to-use FinePix JX and AX-Series digital cameras – the JX580, JX500 and AX550. Each camera is slim, highly-portable and designed with simplicity to offer consumers a digital camera with high resolution sensors, powerful FUJINON 5x zoom lens and 720p HD movie capture capabilities, all for a fantastic value.

The JX580 has a powerful 16-MegaPixel CCD sensor and a FUJINON 5x wide angle (26mm-130mm) optical zoom lens to ensure that the highest image quality is captured every time. The JX580 easily gives everyone the ability to take terrific pictures, even in low light, by offering a large 3.0" LCD screen with improved viewing in bright light, metal body and a powerful Li-ion rechargeable battery.

The AX550 also features the performance-driven 16-MegaPixel CCD sensor and a FUJINON 5x wide angle (26mm-130mm) optical zoom lens, while the JX500 has an impressive 14-MegaPixel CCD sensor, a FUJINON 5x wide angle (26mm-130mm) optical zoom lens and a 2.7" LCD screen with two choices for battery power: Li-ion for the JX500 and AA batteries for the AX550.

"The FinePix JX580, JX500 and AX550 digital cameras represent Fujifilm's commitment to delivering an easy-to-use camera that still produces fantastic images for everyday photographers," said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. "Consumers want a camera that reflects their personal style without being overly complicated to use and these FinePix digital cameras give users the simplicity that they are looking for while maintaining a high-quality FUJINON 5x zoom, choices of battery power and HD movie capture along with the numerous other great features that they expect from Fujifilm."

HD Movie Capabilities
The JX580, JX500 and AX550 each offer 720p HD movie capture that enables users to take stunning, detailed pictures and movies that can be enjoyed in ultra-sharp high definition on any HD ready television or PC, using the optional HD Player (HDP-L1) accessory kit with wireless remote control (HDMI cable not included). In the FinePix JX580 and JX500, a new dedicated movie recording button on the rear of the camera makes it even quicker to start capturing movie, and with their in-camera editing functionality, users can enjoy trimming, cropping and re-cutting their short movies right in the palm of their hand.

Smile / Blink Detection
The FinePix JX and AX-Series cameras feature Smile Detection that works with Fujifilm's impressive Face Detection technology to detect smiles on faces – it will not take a picture until it detects a smile, so you're guaranteed great looking shots. Another feature is Blink Detection which warns you if you have captured an image with people blinking, so you can re-shoot if necessary.

Facebook and You Tube Easy Web Upload
The new FinePix JX and AX-Series cameras offer an innovative function called "Easy Web Upload" that allows you to sort through your photos on-camera and decide which ones to upload to Facebook or You Tube. Simply connect to a PC and launch the MyFinePix Studio software (for Windows) and they will immediately upload.

Other features include:

i-Flash Intelligent Flash: Offers a flash control system which efficiently controls the level of flash for a given exposure to produce beautifully balanced flash illumination across the foreground and background. Gone are the ugly washout shots where the subject is blasted with light and the background dark and unexposed.

Tracking Auto Focus (AF): Tracks fast moving subjects so they don't escape from the frame in a blur. Subjects will be tracked automatically for as long as it is kept in the frame and the shutter is half-pressed; when users fully press the shutter button your subject will be in the centre of the photo in perfect focus.
Scene Recognition Auto (SR AUTO): This mode intelligently identifies the scene type and necessary shooting conditions to optimize picture perfect potential.

Motion Panorama Mode: Automatically stitches up to three shots to create a panoramic picture
Face Detection and Automatic Red-eye Removal: To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, the cameras are fitted with Fujifilm's latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 10 faces simultaneously. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.
Digital Image Stabilization: Reduces image blur automatically, resulting in excellent picture quality.



The FinePix JX580 and JX500 will be available in February 2012 at the price of $119.95 and $99.95, respectively, in black, red and blue colors. The AX550 will be available in March for $89.95 in black.



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Extreme "Four-Way Protection" Refines What a Durable, Stylish Outdoor Camera Should Be

Valhalla, N.Y., January 5, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the launch of the all new FinePix XP150 (with GPS) and XP100 (without GPS) digital cameras that take rugged protection and durability to a whole new level. Now, they are Waterproof to 33ft (10M) and Shockproof to 6.5 ft (2M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof. In addition, the all new XP50 also fights water, shocks, cold and debris by being Waterproof to 16.5ft (5M) and Shockproof to 5 ft (1.5M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof. With all this protection, you are certain to get your most adventurous shots, all with an extremely attractive camera body that is easy to use.

As a follow up to the highly successful XP-Series and its definitive "Four-Way Protection" each camera has been redesigned to deliver a brighter LCD screen, faster auto focus speeds, better ergonomics, and advanced functionality for all weather conditions.

The new durable FinePix XP-Series now feature the powerful and performance-driven 14-MegaPixel CMOS sensor, faster start-up and shot-to-shot times, up to 10 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting, a 2.7" anti-reflective, high-contrast LCD that has been brightened for clear viewing even in direct sunlight, and the high-precision, FUJINON 5x wide angle optical zoom lenses (28-140mm) with a reinforced hardened glass lens barrier and water repellent coating.

"Active families have redefined the uses for a digital camera, and Fujifilm's versatile and durable XP-Series lets consumers capture images in more places," said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. "The XP150, XP100 and XP50 thrive in elements that most cameras are afraid of, and allow users to capture photos and movies in new and unique ways, even underwater."

Four-Way Protection
The FinePix XP150 and XP100 are Fujifilm's most rugged and durable digital cameras that are perfect for mountain biking, hiking, skiing, surfing, and anything else that defines an extreme adventure. Both the XP150 and XP100 are Waterproof to 33ft (10M) and Shockproof to 6.5 ft (2M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof.

The XP50, also extremely tough and stylish, is perfect for active families on the go that want a camera they can take anywhere without worrying about its safety. Consumers can drop them, soak them, freeze them, and even cover them in dirt and mud, and the XP-Series will come out unscathed and taking great pictures. The XP50 is Waterproof to 16.5ft (5M) and Shockproof to 5 ft (1.5M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof.

Newly Redesigned Double Locking Door
The ergonomically-designed cameras are housed in a metal uni-body chassis for durability, and now feature a totally redesigned double locking door that seals and protects the battery and memory card slots, along with the USB and micro-HD ports. This new, heavy-duty door keeps the XP-Series cameras watertight and locks out dust and debris in any situation that you can throw at it.

HD Capability
The FinePix XP150, XP100 and XP50 all offer stunning movies in full 1080p HD – even underwater – with sound at 30fps with one-touch ease. Many consumers are happy to enjoy HD movies on their PC, but with the optional HD Player accessory kit, with wireless remote control (HDMI cable not included), families can gather around their home HDTV to enjoy amazingly detailed stills and high resolution movie playback.

Advanced Image Stabilization
The XP-Series all have a powerful sensor shift Dual Image Stabilization (CIS) system. CIS works as the photo is being taken as it combines a mechanically stabilized sensor with high ISO to combat camera/hand shake and subject movement for improved low light shooting. The result is an expanded range of shooting situations where the cameras can be used without the need of a tripod or other support. With CIS working in the background, you can capture sharp, colorful scenes and portraits underwater or at night.

Tracking Auto Focus (AF)
Created specifically to capture an action shot, the AF function tracks fast moving subjects so they don't escape from the frame in a blur. Subjects will be tracked automatically for as long as it is kept in the frame and the shutter is half-pressed; when users fully press the shutter button your subject will be in the centre of the photo in perfect focus.

GPS and Geo-Tagging (XP150 only)
The FinePix XP150 features a high sensitivity GPS antenna that is now quicker and easier to pinpoint your location, no matter where you are in the world. The FinePix XP150 also includes an electronic compass, Photo Navigation and GPS Geo-Tagging

In addition to these innovations, the cameras are loaded with the following features:

360° Motion Panorama Mode: Automatically creates a stunning panoramic (horizontal or vertical) picture.
Scene Recognition Auto (SR AUTO): This mode intelligently identifies the scene type and necessary shooting conditions to optimize picture perfect potential.
Face Detection and Automatic Red-eye Removal: To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, the XP-Series cameras are fitted with Fujifilm's latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 10 faces simultaneously. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.
Li-ion Rechargeable Battery: The XP150 and XP100 both feature an extended-life rechargeable Li-ion battery with charger for up to 330 shots per charge. The XP50's rechargeable Li-ion battery delivers up to 220 shots per charge. Either way, the XP-Series allows users to shoot all of their images without worrying if the camera is going to last for the duration of their trip.
Movie Editing Mode and Blog mode: Get creative and add finishing touches to movies and images, among others, you can choose from black and white, Sepia, or you can even add a dynamic lighting effect, all this in-camera.



The FinePix XP150 and XP100 will be available March 2012 at $279.95 and $249.95, respectively. The XP150 will be available in black and orange, while the XP100 will come in black, blue, orange, silver and green.

The FinePix XP50 will be available in March 2012 for $199.95 and will also come in black, blue, orange, silver and green.

An accessory kit for the new XP-Series containing an adjustable float strap, protective silicone skin and a neoprene sports case will be available in spring 2012.


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Pocket Friendly Ultra-Compacts Boast 10x Zoom, Bright and Large 3" LCD Screen, and One-Button HD Movie Recording

Valhalla, N.Y., January 5, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the introduction of two new FinePix T-Series ultra-compact long-zoom cameras: the FinePix T400 and T350. These slim cameras have FUJINON 10x long-zoom lenses (28-280mm), and are thin enough to fit in your jeans or shirt pocket to carry wherever you go. Both cameras offer improved speeds with fast start-up and auto focus times, as well as the perfect combination of advanced features and ease of use. Additionally, both have large, bright 3" LCD screens while the FinePix T400 packs a 16-MegaPixel CCD sensor and the FinePix T350 sports a 14-MegaPixel CCD sensor to ensure that the highest image quality is captured every time.

"The FinePix T400 and T350 give consumers the best of all worlds: high quality images and fast startup and auto focus speeds, and the long zoom power to capture a wide range of photos, all in an affordable and compact digital camera," said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. "Consumers are looking for an attractive and slim digital camera body that doesn't hold back on features, and the FinePix T400 and T350 give everyday photographers all of the power and features like HD movie, sensor shift Image Stabilization and the creative Motion Panorama mode that they need in one package."

Fast startup and focus with easy controls
The FinePix T400 and T350 received the speed boost that consumers have asking for: startup times have been reduced, the auto focus speed has been dramatically improved to help users lock onto their subjects, and shutter lag has been shortened to make sure that the camera is as ready as you are for any shot.
Image Stabilization
In addition to the 10x zoom, the FinePix T400 and T350 also come equipped with a powerful sensor shift Dual Image Stabilization (CIS) system. CIS works as the photo is being taken as it combines a mechanically stabilized sensor with high ISO to combat camera/hand shake and subject movement for improved low light shooting. The result is an expanded range of shooting situations where the cameras can be used without the need of a tripod or other support. With CIS working in the background, you can capture sharp, colorful scenes even in low-light situations.

HD Capability
The new FinePix T-Series models offer stunning movies in 720p HD at 30fps with a dedicated movie recording button that allows consumers to start and stop movie recording with one press of a button. You can even zoom during movie capture and use the in-camera movie editing features to edit movie footage without having to upload to a computer or use complicated movie editing software. Many consumers are happy to enjoy HD movies on their PC, but with the optional HD Player accessory kit with wireless remote control (HDMI cable not included), families can gather around their home HDTV to enjoy amazingly detailed stills and high resolution movie playback.

Tracking Auto Focus
The FinePix T400 and T350 both feature Tracking Auto Focus which is perfect for when you need to take a picture of a moving subject and can't keep your subject in the frame. Just switch Tracking Auto Focus on and it will track your subject and ensure that you achieve a crisp picture with you subject in the center of the frame in perfect focus, especially helpful for taking pictures of kids and at sporting events.

Face Recognition Technology
With Face Recognition, the camera can identify the people in a picture by name. Fujifilm's Face Recognition Technology gives you the ability to pre-program 8 people into the camera. You also have the option of inputting the category to which they belong (e.g. friends/family) and the date of his/her birthday. The next time you take a photo of the same person, the camera will cleverly recognize that person and optimize the settings to ensure that exposure and focus are best suited to the individual, rather than the other people in the picture. This fun technology can recognize up to 4 pre-programmed people on screen at the same time.
In addition, the Image Search Tool is able to use the Face Recognition data (name, birthday and category) to help you find and playback your photographs quickly and easily. If you want to scroll through all pictures featuring "Mom" for example, the camera will be able to select them for you for easy viewing.

The FinePix T400 and T350 also offer these additional features:

Scene Recognition Auto (SR AUTO): This mode intelligently detects the scene type you are shooting and optimizes the camera's focus, exposure and white balance, so whether you're photographing flowers or a holiday landscape, you will get flawless photos at the press of a button.
Face Detection and Automatic Red-eye Removal: To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, each T-Series model is fitted with Fujifilm's latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 10 faces simultaneously. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.
Motion Panorama Mode: Automatically stitches up to three shots together in-camera to create a panoramic picture.
Smile / Blink Detection: Smile Detection works with Fujifilm's highly-acclaimed Face Detection technology to detect smiles on faces: it will not take a picture until it detects a smile, so you're guaranteed great shots. Additionally, Blink Detection which warns you if you have captured an image with people blinking, so you can re-shoot if necessary.



The FinePix T400 and T350 will be available March 2012 at the price of $179.95 and $159.95, respectively, and will be available in black, red and blue.


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FinePix JZ250 and JZ100 Provide Strong Feature Set with 8x Zoom, HD Movie and Big, Bright LCD Screens

Valhalla, N.Y., January 5, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the launch of two new compact digital cameras – the highly-portable FinePix JZ250 and JZ100. These easy-to-use cameras contain robust features that include fast start up and auto focus speeds, high resolution sensors, FUJINON 8x zoom lenses (25-200mm), 720p HD at 30 frames per second (fps) movie capabilities and large, bright LCD screens all in a body that is easy to carry everywhere that you go. The JZ-Series also now feature optical image stabilization to further improve image results in more shooting situations.

These FinePix digital cameras are perfect for consumers on a budget, but looking for a compact long-zoom who aren't willing to sacrifice great image quality. The FinePix JZ250 and JZ100 have wide-ranging lenses that enable users to capture everything from beautiful wide-angle shots to stunning images of distant objects. At the other end of the scale, both cameras offer a close-focusing distance of 5cm, which enables users to shoot beautiful macro images that fill the frame with detail and vibrant colors.

"With the JZ250 and the JZ100, you get multi-talented, compact digital cameras that are packed with features such as fast start-up and auto focus speeds, Optical Image Stabilization and Tracking Auto Focus that come together to deliver high-quality photos," said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. "When you add in everything else that the FinePix JZ250 and JZ100 have to offer, like their big, brightened LCD screens, reliable and rechargeable Li-ion battery power and Smile and Blink Detection, you get a camera that provides great pictures at a great value."

The FinePix JZ250 has a 16-MegaPixel CCD sensor, an 8x FUJINON optical zoom lens (25-200mm) and a big 3.0" LCD screen that has been brightened for 2012, along with Li-ion battery power for convenience. The 14-Megapixel FinePix JZ100 features the same versatile 8x FUJINON optical zoom lens (25-200mm) with a bright 2.7" LCD screen and rechargeable Li-ion battery for dependable power on the go.

Shoot and Share
With their dedicated movie recording button, the FinePix JZ250 and JZ100 each capture stunning 720p HD movies, allowing you to show off your exciting pictures and movies to your family and friends on any HD ready television (or home PC), using the optional HD Player (HDP-L1) accessory kit with wireless remote (HDMI cable not included).

i-Flash Intelligent Flash
The JZ-Series now feature an advanced flash control system that efficiently controls the level of flash for a given exposure to produce beautifully balanced flash illumination across the foreground and background.

Other features include:

Smile/Blink Detection: Smile Detection recognizes the moment your subject smiles and releases the shutter only when this happens, ensuring a happy photo every time. Additionally, the Blink Detection function warns you if any of your subjects have blinked so that you can re-take the photo if necessary.
Face Detection and Automatic Red-eye Removal: To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, the cameras are fitted with Fujifilm's latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 10 faces simultaneously. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.
Scene Recognition Auto (SR AUTO): This mode intelligently identifies the scene type and necessary shooting conditions to optimize picture perfect potential.
Tracking Auto Focus (AF): Tracks fast moving subjects so they don't escape from the frame in a blur. Subjects will be tracked automatically for as long as it is kept in the frame and the shutter is half-pressed; when users fully press the shutter button your subject will be in the centre of the photo in perfect focus.
Advanced Image Search: Advanced Image Search allows users to find all images taken in a particular scene mode (e.g. Portraits and Landscapes) ensuring faster photo navigation.

Li-ion Battery: Long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery for extended shot life, charger included.



The JZ250 and JZ100 will be available in March 2012 for $149.95 and $129.95, respectively, and in black.