FujiFilm Z1: One of the new compact digital
cameras announced today by FujiFilm. These are
cool cameras, but they lack an optical viewfinder.
[ Photo: FujiFilm ]
FujiFilm announced the FinePix Z1, a 5.1-megapixel digital camera that’s thinner than a standard deck of cards and has a 2.5-inch LCD screen that is supposed to be bright enough to use to frame shots in low light. It will come in a satin black or brushed silver finish, and looks like the kind of camera that will come out in other colors as well, if the model proves to be popular.
I agree with the guys at Gizmodo who say that the FinePix Z1 is aimed at competing with the Sony DSC-T3 which is similar to the DSC-T1 currently on sale at Amazon.com affiliates like Ritz Camera. Time will tell if FujiFilm has hit the mark.
One of the things that concerns me about the Z1 and several other cameras that FujiFilm just announced is their lack of an optical viewfinder. I’ve found that my best digital camera photos are taken when looking through the optical viewfinder, because using the LCD to frame shots often results in a lack of steadiness that can best be remedied with on-board image stabilization.
FujiFilm marketing manager Ron Gazzola commented on their decision to leave off the optical viewfinder as follows:
Fujifilm U.S.A. conducted extensive consumer research concerning LCDs and our findings showed that with a palm-sized camera, consumers feel comfortable framing their pictures solely with a LCD as long as the monitor is large, durable and performs well in low light. The advanced LCD of the FinePix Z1 has it all and should be an attractive feature on an already attractive camera.
I’m willing to be convinced that this is a good thing. I’ll have to get in touch with FujiFilm and try to get one for review.