Fujifilm FinePix A350 Review

Click on the FinePix A350 to take a QuickTime VR tour

The FinePix A345 and FinePix A350 are the newest additions to Fujifilm's popular A-Series cameras. Gone are the lens covers that defined earlier models and in their place are 3x optical zoom lenses that retract directly into the camera bodies for a smooth outer surface. This feature makes the FinePix A345 and FinePix A350 smaller and more compact than their predecessors, allowing them to slide effortlessly into a coat pocket or handbag for all-the-time camera accessibility.

Image quality and overall performance get a boost as well. The FinePix A345 and FinePix A350 have 4.1 MegaPixel and 5.2 MegaPixel CCDs, respectively, as well as new image processors for more robust color and quicker frame-to-frame shooting. Built-in, pre-programmed scene modes take much of the guesswork out of camera settings, and the new models possess LCDs larger than previous A-Series cameras for checking just-taken photos before sending them off for printing. As an added plus, captured movies now become "talkies" with the addition of sound to the cameras' video feature.

These cameras allow first-time digital photographers to capture great pictures easily, while keeping the overall experience simple and fun. Both cameras offer streamlined menu navigation, a quick playback mode and four scene position modes usually found in more advanced Fujifilm cameras, including portrait, night, sports and landscape settings. The macro setting allows users to capture images of items only 4 inches away from the lens. In addition, AVI movies can be captured at a rate of 10 frames per second with sound.

FinePix A350 Zoom Features:

• 5.2 million pixel CCD for up to 2592 x 1944 image size
• 3x zoom (35-105mm equiv) plus 1.7x digital zoom
• Movie Mode; 10fps w/sound @ 320 x 240 or 160 x 120
• 2 - 1/2000 sec Shutter Speeds
• 1.7" LCD Color Monitor
• Uses removable xD-Picture cards (16MB included)
• Compact (3.5 x 2.4 x 1.2 inch) and stylish body
• Very lightweight at just 5.1 oz. (excluding batteries)
• Powered by two AA type batteries
• USB connectivity and PictBridge direct-print
• Picture Cradle & rechargeable battery pack (sold separately)

The FinePix A345 will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price (M.S.R.P.) of $249.95 while the FinePix A350 will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $299.

Physical Views

The FinePix A350 and a standard CD for size comparison.