Click to take a QuickTime tour of the S3 Pro

The FinePix S3 Pro features a 12.34 million effective pixels Fujifilm Super CCD SR II image sensor designed specifically for professional photography. It creates a wider dynamic range to produce images that approach true photographic quality. As a result, the S3 Pro will capture highlight and shadow detail often lost by digital cameras in high contrast scenes. In addition, Super CCD SR sensor technology provides a higher level of sensitivity, improved signal-to-noise ratio and more natural color reproduction.

The S3 Pro was developed with significant improvements in versatility and ease of use. Dual shutter release buttons are provided for both landscape and portrait compositions, and dual LCD data displays confirm shooting settings and composition at a glance, without the need to scroll through menus. In addition, the body has been sculpted and rubberised to provide a solid grip.

The S3 Pro makes full use of Fujifilm’s extensive color film expertise. Rather than force photographers to shoot in RAW mode and spend time on an extensive workflow process, Fujifilm has introduced Film Simulation Modes, dynamic range presets and color space selection. Once the photographer is familiar with these settings, they will be able to produce JPEG images straight from the camera, which require no post-production. Photographers can choose between smooth, extended tonality and natural skin tones, or the dramatic impact of highly saturated color. The Film Simulation Mode is the equivalent of changing film type to suit shooting conditions, and achieves this at the touch of a button.

For the first time on any digital SLR, a pre-exposure Live Image Mode has been incorporated to enable photographers to frame and focus images without the need to use the viewfinder. Activated for up to 30 seconds prior to a normal exposure, Live Image Mode is ideal for shots using a tripod as well as effective capture of candid images.

The S3 Pro features two D-TTL compatible flash interfaces (hot shoe and synchro terminal) and dual media slots, making it compatible with xD-Picture Cards, CompactFlash and Microdrives up to 4GB in capacity.

Expandable shooting options are achievable thanks to the FinePix S3 Pro's compatibility with Nikon-fit lenses and accessories, including the latest ‘DX’- designated peripherals, giving plenty of scope for further shooting control.

The S3 Pro comes bundled with Hyper Utility Software HS-V2 Ver. 3.0 which enables high-quality RAW data conversion, and incorporates an image viewer, PC control functions and expanded color processing options.

FinePix S3 Pro Features:

• Fujifilm Super CCD SR II sensor, 12.34 million effective pixels (6.17m S-pixels + 6.17m R-pixels)
• Compact and lightweight digital SLR camera
• Nikon F-mount lenses (with 1.5x focal multiplier)
• JPEG Fine/Normal or CCD-raw image formats
• Film Simulation Modes to replicate the results of various reversal and professional portrait color negative films
• Improved and adjustable dynamic range by changing the mixing ratio of the 'S' and 'R' pixels
• Dual shutter release buttons (for horizontal/vertical orientation)
• Live Image Mode for accurate image preview, focusing and framing
• Program AE w/Shift, Shutter priority, Aperture priority and full Manual
• Adjustable color, tone and sharpness
• Color Space - sRGB or AdobeRGB
• 3D Matrix, center-weighted or spot metering
• TTL auto white balance, presets and custom set
• Shutter speeds from 1/4,000 to 30 seconds plus Bulb
• Continuous drive at 2.5fps up to 7 frames RAW / 12 frames JPEG
• 2-inch color TFT LCD
• 15 Custom settings
• Playback with thumbnails, RGB histogram and zoom
• ISO sensitivity from 100 to 1600
• xD-Picture Card and CompactFlash Type II storage, Microdrive compatible
• Selectable video output with NTSC or PAL format
• IEEE 1394 FireWire and USB 2.0 data interface
• Powered by four standard AA type batteries

DIWA Gold Medal Award

15 June, 2005: DIWA (Digital Imaging Websites Association), a world-wide organisation of collaborating digital imaging websites, today has the pleasure of announcing a DIWA Gold Award to the professional FinePix S3 Pro digital SLR.

The FinePix S3 Pro is based on a robust magnesium Nikon camera body, built to Fujifilm’s specifications for conversion into a professional digital SLR camera, giving full access to a multitude of Nikon lenses and accessories. With their own expertise from design and production of the renowned Super CCD image sensors, Fujifilm has added their 2. generation 12 Megapixel Super CCD SR sensor. High resolution is combined with S and R photodiodes to achieve astonishing image quality and a wider dynamic range than conventional CCD sensors.

Kai Thon, DIWA's test manager comments: "The FinePix S3 Pro proves that Fujifilm has succeeded in combining their undisputed skills from film manufacture with their unconventional approach to image sensor technologies. DIWA finds the S3 Pro particularly well suited for studio photography, such as portraits, products and interiors, but it is also highly suited for outdoor shooting on location. Add to this the built-in vertical grip, the flexibility of RAW format shooting, Adobe RGB and two versions of sRGB color space, plus Fujifilm’s remarkable Hyper-Utility HS-V2 software, and you have the perfect picture."

DIWA members praised the image quality, not only by means of an outstanding image sensor, but also the camera’s 3D Matrix metering, white balance control, wide range of shutter speeds and sensitivities, plus full manual control of exposure and parameter settings. There is even simulated film effects included. Although not primarily built for action, the FinePix S3 Pro is a fast imaging tool, allowing continuous shooting of 12 Mp images at 2.5 fps, responsive functions and storing. It is also one of few to offer both USB 2.0 Hi-Speed and IEEE1394 FireWire interface for fast downloading.

The FinePix S3 Pro offers a unique on-screen manual focusing aid on the 235,000 pixels high-resolution 2” LCD screen, as well as a backlit LCD control panel in the immediate vicinity of the image screen. Support for both CompactFlash and xD-Picture Card storage media is also unusual and useful. Perfect ergonomic design has high priority on the FinePix S3 Pro, making both professionals and experienced amateurs feel comfortable and accustomed the moment they take control over the camera.

Physical Views

Compare the FinePix S3 Pro and the Nikon D70 SLRs.