Fujifilm FinePix X10 Preview

Following in the award winning footsteps of the X100, Fujifilm has announced the FinePix X10 digital camera.  With its die-cast magnesium alloy body, the X10 features a newly developed 2/3-inch 12-megapixel EXR CMOS sensor which is able to automatically detect optimum shooting mode from 99 variations.  Such shooting modes include SN (Signal to Noise) High Sensitivity and Low Noise (for capturing night scenes), DR (Dynamic Range) Wide Dynamic Range (increases dynamic range up to 1600%), and HR (High Resolution), which is "perfect for bright clear days."  Fujfilm's proprietary EXR technology also means speed. It features  a 0.01 second shutter lag time, a 0.8 second Quick Start Mode, and up to 7 frames per second of continuous shooting at full resolution (up to 10 frames per second at a reduced resolution).  

The X10's FUJNON 4x manual zoom lens (28-112mm), has been treated with Super EBC (Electron Beam Coating) and "consists of 11 glass lens elements in 9 groups.  It has a wide angle maximum aperture of F2.0 and a maximum telephoto aperture of F2.8. The optical glass viewfinder has an extra wide 20 degree viewing angle, and if you there's also a 2.8-inch LCD display.

Fujifilm's FinePix X10 has a diverse collection of both automatic and manual modes.  Manual shooting modes include Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual.  There are also four auto bracketing functions for ISO sensitivity, exposure, film simulation (of which there are 8 settings), and dynamic range.  To maximize image capture quality, the X10 shoots in the RAW format and features in-camera RAW processing (also, SilkyPix RAW conversion software is included in the box).

The X10 also records movies in Full HD 1080p and has a fun mode called Motion Panorama 360° for creating in-camera 360 degree panorama pictures.  Lastly, if you ever find your self leaning a few degrees to one side or the other, a built in electronic horizon leveling gauge may be a feature you'll be using frequently.

While pricing has yet to be announced, the Fujifilm FinePix X10 will available in early November wherever Fujifilm products are sold.