Fujifilm Finepix E550
Review Date: February 24th 2005
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Conclusion
(out of 5 stars)
The Fujifilm Finepix E550 improves on its cheaper siblings, the E510 and E500, and is definitely a quicker and more capable camera. If you are interested in action photography or simply want a more responsive camera, then the E550 is the model for you. It also offers a larger file size due to the 6 megapixel sensor (with 12 megapixel available through interpolation) and a usable ISO 800 mode which is great for really low-light photography. As with the other 2 models, it is also a commendable attempt by Fujifilm to make the finer points of photography accessible to a wider audience. Fujifilm have decided that beginner photographers do want to have control over things like apertures and shutter speeds, and so they should in my opinion - these are the key fundamental aspects of photography that make it so creative and enjoyable. Having said that, the Fujifilm Finepix E550 also has a number of auto and scene modes, which ensures that this camera can also be used as a point and shoot until you are confident enough to take over the reins.
There are, however, quite a few design and build-quality issues which all 3 cameras share. The all-plastic body of the E550 flexes and creaks and there some aspects of the design, such as the battery compartment and USB port cover, which aren't as well though out as they should be. You should also carefully consider the price and what you require from your new digicam. The E550 currently costs £110 more than the entry level E500 and £90 more than the E510. It is undoubtedly a more capable camera in terms of operational speed and functionality, but if you can live without the extra action-orientated features then the cheaper models are a better buy. At the end of the day the Fujifilm Finepix E550 is a good digital camera which allows you to get creative, but which also has some notable drawbacks that you should take into account.
Related Links
Fujifilm UK: Fuji Finepix E550
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PhotographyBLOG is a member of the DIWA organisation. Our test results for the Fuji Finepix E550 have been submitted to DIWA for comparison with test results for different samples of the same camera model supplied by other DIWA member sites.