Fujifilm HS 30 camera carving a niche in ultra-zoom category

Fujifilm HS30
Rating: 4.5/5
Rs 26,999

SPECS:
16 MP EXR CMOS sensor, 30x Fujinon 24-720mm lens, 1 cm Super Macro Mode, ISO 12800, FullHD, Raw + JPEG shooting mode

Fujifilm is carving a niche for itself in the ultra-zoom category. It's latest offering in the segment is the HS 30 with a stunning 24-720mm lens.

The HS 30 is similar other bridge cameras from Fujifilm, but is more compact and comes with a swivel LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder. The extra zoom in almost completely hidden and the camera is not larger than a regular 18-55mm lens.

The rubberised grip on the lens is one of best you will find and acts as a key factor when you are seeking subjects far away. There is also a focus ring, which comes into play when you are using the manual mode. However, both the viewfinder and monitor don't have a live preview and that was a disappointment.

The camera comes with all modes you would expect in a bridge camera, plus two custom modes, an EXR mode and a very easy to use Panorama. Along with the mode ring and control dial, there are lots of other buttons on both sides of the LCD that let you do more tweaks and that makes this camera the closets you can go to a full-fledged DSLR.

The results are good, especially in low light. In the continuous mode the picture suddenly become dark and we suggest you use this feature only during daylight. The images seem a bit too digital, but that is just screen playing tricks on your mind.

The zoom is smooth but you need a tripod to keep the results clean in the far end. But still the pictures are good even at 720mm. You will, however, need a fast, Class 4 or above, SD card to keep the camera buzzing. We tested the device with a Scandisk Xtreme 64GB card, but still experienced a bit of lag with continuous shooting and best image mode.

VERDICT:
Overall, this is a good option for those who want an advanced camera, but don't want to take the DSLR plunge. Moreover, this is very reasonably priced for its features.