The Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro combines the mechanics of Nikon’s D200 with a refined version of Fujjifilm’s extended dynamic range sensor and image processing system from its FinePix S3 Pro. The $1999 S5 Pro is still 6.1 megapixels and slow as molasses when it comes to processing and saving its huge image files, but it shares the D200’s excellent mechanics, autofocus, exposure system, wireless flash compatibility, durability and form factor. In short, expecting anything better out of the FinePix S3 successor would be a pipe drea. The wedding and portrait photographers who were enthusiastic about the S3 have more to like about the S5.
Features:
* Image processing and quality. Real Photo Technology Pro, which combines the Super CCD SR Pro and the RP (Real Photo) Processor Pro, allows for greater dynamic range with smoother tonality from highlight to shadow
* The improved Super CCD SR Pro features an optimised low-pass filter to reduce noise and minimise moiré
* The newly developed RP Processor Pro features two cycles of noise reduction which enables photographers to take images at even higher sensitivities (ISO 100 to ISO 3200) with visibly reduced noise
* Greater flexibility to control colour and dynamic range. For even greater creative control over the FinePix S5 Pro’s dynamic range, photographers can now choose from up to six preset ranges between 100% and 400% For improved reproduction of natural skin tones, three new variations of the original film simulation mode (F1) have been added (five modes in total)
* Nikon F-mount compatibility for all functionality with all Nikkor AF-D/G and the latest AF-S optics
* RAW+ jpeg (4,256 x 2,848 pixels, 3,024 x 2,016 pixels, 2,304 x 1,536 pixels) dual-save mode
* Mac and PC supported tethered shooting mode via USB 2.0 port and optional Hyper Utility software
* Robust lightweight magnesium-alloy body with moisture- and dust-proof seals Durable shutter unit stands up to approximately 100,000 cycles
* Adoption of high-precision i-TTL flash control
* 11-point AF sensor with faster autofocusing than the FinePix S3 Pro
* Supports 1/3, 1/2, and 1 stop lens aperture control
* Shutter speed 30 sec. to 1/8000 sec, maximum flash sync speed of 1/250 sec.
* 3 levels of custom function locking with password protection
* Remark function enables addition of comments to an image file by connecting a RS-232C bar code reader to the camera body.
* 2.5 inch LCD with 235,000 pixels, gives 100% frame coverage. Colour and monochromatic 30 seconds live view function to check focusing
* Face Detection Technology for post image verification - Uniquely developed Face Detection Technology LSI is under development for the FinePix S5 Pro. With one press of a button, the camera detects up to ten faces almost instantly after each image is captured. After shooting and during playback, the photographer can easily and quickly zoom in and check facial details such as closed eyes, focus and exposure on the LCD monitor
Review By Photoreview
Fujifilm’s long-awaited successor to the FinePix S3 Pro is also built around a Nikon body (see illustrations below) and designed for Nikon AF lenses. However, the new S5 Pro takes Nikon’s D200 magnesium alloy body as its shell, instead of the film-burning F80, which was used for the S3 Pro. The result is a camera with superior construction, a more solid feel and much better digital integration. The S5 Pro is also distinguished by Fujifilm’s Super CCD SR Pro sensor, which uses double pixel technology to deliver an expanded dynamic range in shots.
Review By Cnet
If you’re using a lens with a maximum aperture of F5.6 or faster (we used a AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm F2.8G IF-ED on our test unit), the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm manual focus. There’s also the Live View function (available in colour or black-and-white) which allows the user to magnify the subject and focus using the camera’s LCD within 30 seconds. Other features include five film simulation variations designed for a range of photography conditions, multiple exposure mode, a barcode reader and GPS device compatibility.
Review By Ephotozine
The key advantage of the S5 is using the wide dynamic range when the sun is shining. I tool along a Nikon D200 and the Fuji S5 to a wedding at a castle where there was bright sunlight outside. In the areas of normal light, with streaks of very bright light through the windows caused the D200 to lose the highlights on every shot, whereas the S5 lost some on a few pictures, but performed far better in the conditions. Outside, where the light was bright and reflecting off white dresses, the S5 coped with this without fault, capturing every shot.
Fujifilm S5 Pro Firmware price $1,899.95 at 17photo
April 28th, 2007 at 6:54 am
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