Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review
July 2014, Carl Garrard
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: What's something that a smartphone can't do? It can't zoom from 24-1000mm, that's what. All in one cameras like the Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR pictured to the left are still growing in sales in the camera market, despite a contraction of sales across the board for the industry as a whole. Why are superzoom cameras still growing in the market? Simple. Instant gratification seems to drive the demand. It seems to me that most consumers want one device that can do many tasks or, do something extraordinary. Today's superzooms have reached capabilities that we used to joke about on internet forums just five years ago. Lens technology has never been more advanced, and I'm definitely seeing some extraordinary capabilities with today's superzooms that I thought I'd never see happen in my lifetime. Enter the Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR, just one of many superzooms on the market. My goal? To find the best superzoom for the price. More...
Your Fujifilm FinePix HS50EXR Connection
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Introduction
Fujifilm has a major advantage of being able to fabricate its own sensors in house. The Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR has the latest 16mp EXR CMOS II sensor. There are some differences between this new sensor and the previous one. It's got phase detect pixels built into its architecture which allows it to focus faster, and, its light gathering ability has been improved to increase dynamic range and lower the image noise. There are other changes to the sensor too, like readout speed, but those are the most relevant to a camera review that's still-photo centric. And in order to keep up with the new sensor, Fujifilm had to redesign the processor too, which is labeled EXR Processor II.
Fujifilm's FinePix HS50 EXR is absolutely loaded with features, and I'm not going to be able to cover them all. It all starts with the sensor, but the 24-1000mm f/2.8-5.6 Fujinon EBC* optically stabilized lens is another star in the show. From < 1cm super macro work to 24mm wide angle, to true 1,000mm super telephoto work, this lens has almost all of it covered. And instead of relying on another slow internal motor to drive the zoom, it has a manual zoom and manual focus ring as well, something I definitely prefer to have in a camera that's larger than pocketable. Also worth mentioning is its minimum aperture of f/11 (which bests it's competitors by two full stops).
*EBC stands for Electron Beam Coating, which is Fujifilm's high end optics coating used in broadcast video cameras and large format camera lenses.
Other stand out items are its EVF and LCD. Both are 920K pixels (above average especially for this price and class of camera), but that's not the best part. The EVF is a .26" type, but the best part is the optics that surround it that magnify the view and give you a large clear view. This is key, and very important when discussing EVF quality. The numbers don't mean anything if the optics aren't good, and Fujifilm knows this. The EVF is simply outstanding for the price, and hence class leading. To put a cherry on top, it includes a sensor that auto switches when you put your eye to the EVF which most competitors lack. In use, this makes the camera much more pleasurable as a result.
The LCD panel is a pull and twist out type that allows for maximum overall versatility, which I gather are what most users prefer overall. Personally, I prefer the more limited tilt up/down type. Both are fine in my book, both have advantages and disadvantages, yet I find that the flip up and down type is faster and less complicated to use while shooting, and it covers most of the shooting needs when I'd like to move the screen. Still the ability to take selfies or flip the screen over to protect it from scratches, can be invaluable nonetheless.
Other features are listed below that stood out to me. This is Fujifilm's attempt at an all-in-one device for the beginner, advanced user, traveler, you name it. Let's see how well they have done.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Shooting Report
These are observations and notes I've made while using the HS50 EXR in no particular order or preference.
Build Quality: I would describe the HS50's build quality to be very solid. Nothing creaks or rattles and nothing feels cheap. Most of the camera is coated with a rubberized coating that is very similar to Panasonic's G series cameras (if you are familiar). It is a smooth finish that aids in keeping it secure in hand, a very nice touch. Buttons, dials, hinges, and doors are a mixture of metal and plastic and very high quality considering the price you pay for the camera.
The main grip is rubber on the front and back, and on the front left of the camera, its a plastic rubber simulation (very difficult to tell its not rubber). Grip is nice and firm and just sticky enough, very comfortable to the hand.
The lens barrel is made from a high quality/density engineers grade plastic. The manual zoom/focus rings are plastic too, with the zoom ring having a very comfortable ribbed rubber grip and aluminum accented end piece detailing the effective focal length. The 58mm filter threads are plastic, and so is the tripod mount, so be careful. The only area I'd improve is the zoom ring feel, it's not as smooth as you'd hope and seems like it's just not worn in. Zooming is fine for still shooters but for video shooters the zoom action could irritate.
Overall though, the entire camera will give you a much better impression of build quality than it's direct rivals, and it bests the FZ200 that costs quite a bit more. Overall excellent build quality that I doubt few will complain about considering it's price.
Handling: Briefly, the HS50 handles very well- better than anticipated for a camera of this price/class. Of special note is how well balanced the camera feels in one hand, it's particularly satisfying. It is not front or back heavy, nor is it heavy from the left to right, it feels perfectly balanced in the hand which gives the impression of a lighter camera than its specs suggest.
Controls are well placed and easy to find. The zoom ring isn't as smooth as I expected, and may be a bit jerky for dedicated video folks when zooming in and out. The focus ring is extremely smooth and easy to use with just one finger, very nice.
Features: The spec sheet is loaded with features on this camera, and yet I don't get a sense of the camera being cluttered and clumsily implemented at all. Note though that most of the special filters and modes are mostly automatic and leave little control to the end user. All of them are Jpeg only. This includes the art filters, pro low light mode, pro focus mode, multiple exposure mode, panorama, exr modes, etc. Video is very limited in manual controls, but offers a wide range of resolution choices and high speed shooting modes.
Still shooters have a good amount of control manually in the PASM modes, and can record film simulation Jpegs along with Raw files from ISO 100-3200. Over 3,200 ISO is a push and Jpeg only recording. Still shooting in the PASM modes is the more satisfying part of this camera as quite a bit of functionality is built into the HS50 that advanced users will demand.
Overall the features on this camera seem yin and yang. One side catering to beginners, and one side catering to advanced users.
Menu System: I'm gonna be straight forward and say that Fujifilm cameras have never impressed me with their menu systems in the past. That has all changed with the HS50EXR, I'm glad to report. It's a tab style menu that is fast to navigate, clear and concise, and logically laid out. It's set up with two main sections divided into separate pages, the shooting menu, and the set up menu.
You can customize the FN button through the menu, or just hold down the button for a couple of seconds and do it that way. Even navigating through the main control dial menus are easy to figure out and well organized. I especially like the quick menu screen (below) and it's implementation.A lot can be changed very quickly with a push of a button and a scroll of the wheel.
There's a pretty good balance of functionality vs. simplicity going on here too. The only suggestion I'd make is that Fujifilm allow more controls over video and stills options (some of which I noted at the end of this review), but even without them it's not a deal breaker. And especially not for a camera of this price.
Performance: Overall the HS50 is a very fast camera, both in processing and overall performance. Seems that the marketing for the high speed sensor and processor aren't hyperbole at all. AF speed in single and continuous are best described as impressive. Tracking moving objects is a delight, and the camera performs better than I thought it would in this regard. Truly the hybrid AF system is working well giving the EXR CMOS II moniker some credibility. Advanced users will be delighted and impressed beyond expectation, and beginners will get an idea of what control really feels like.
I found the HS50 to keep up in all key performance categories, there is no impression of lag in any area I tested. It's a fast camera that should please even the most demanding crowd. Even shooting multiple raw files the camera kept up quite well, no issue at all, no lag.
Neat Features: Switch the AF to Manual and you'll get a surprise. For those of you who like focus peaking, configuring the center AF button is a snap! You can just hold it down and change its setting from standard to focus peaking (the LCD indicates the change) very quick, very cool.
Same with the FN button, hold it down and a popup comes up asking what you'd like to configure that button for. As far as I recall, no other manufacturer implements custom buttons this way, and its a very intuitive and useful feature to have. Fujifilm make a lot of attempts to keep the shooter from menu diving, and this is one of the coolest things I've seen in years. Seriously, I love this. All custom button's on all cameras ought to be configured this way.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: EVF and LCD
EVF's are not created equal. Never be impressed by a specification alone. Just because an EVF has 1.4 million dots does not mean its large and clear to view (er hem, FZ200)! The HS50 has a 920K dot screen, but its optics and magnification make it a MUCH better screen to view than any camera in its class. Also a lack of RGB color separation (tearing) suggests that this is a higher screen than even Fuji state.This EVF is nothing to take lightly. The XS1's is definitely better, but not by all that much. A real value for a camera in this class. Contrast isn't the best on the screen (a bit washed out) but its adjustable for brightness (I have the brightness setting at -2), as is the LCD. Have a look through the EVF on the HS50 if you can handle one in a shop, and compare it to the Canon and Panasonic models while you are at it. If, you don't believe me.
Now on to the LCD. It's a flip out and twist, 4:3 aspect ratio, 920K dot 3" screen. I love it, especially for the price. You really don't need a better screen for any camera, let alone for the price of the HS50. Of special note is the aspect ratio that matches the sensors native aspect ratio. This way, if you choose a different aspect ratio other than native, the screen is going to reflect a crop of it, just how I like it. I don't like 3" 16:9 format screen that show a screen cropped portion of the sensors native aspect ratio; much of the viewing area is lost in this type of implementation. Bravo to Fujifilm for making the right choice.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Image Quality
Low ISO's look really good for a digicam, and I've used more than I can remember over the last 12 years or so. Dynamic range is always something I worry about with small sensors. Considering that I'm taking the time to get out and shoot I want the best image quality I can get at that time- but I'm also willing to make some compromises. These days a good small sensor is pretty darn near what DSLR's used to be about 7-10 years ago. Fujifilm make good ones, and having raw helps. Here is a good sunset taken at ISO 100, and I'm very pleased with the results. This would make a good 16"x19" print- no doubt about it.
High ISO's are totally useable, but granted in Raw and the native ISO value only increased to 3200 ISO. While I can see why Fujifilm have made this choice as 3200 starts to come apart in tough lighting. Yet I also think ISO 6400 should have been included as well, for those who shoot b/w at least. That said, ISO 3200 looks really good for a small sensor as long as lighting is pretty even (even if it is dim lighting), boy has technology really come along. My old Sony R-1 didn't make 3200 ISO look this good, and it had a much larger sensor.
Mid range ISO's are pretty good as well. If you are a freeze action shooter, you'll want to shoot with the HS50 at ISO 200-800 a lot, even with good light. Images look pretty darn good here too without much change from ISO 100-200. 400-1600 also look very similar in grain and dynamic range, which isn't bad at all for a camera with a pretty packed and smallish sensor.
Panorama Mode: Just a quick set of notes here. Like most of the other fun/auto modes, it is mostly automatic choosing your ISO, aperture, and shutter speed for you. You do have some control over the size of the Panorama and you're at least able to lock the exposure. Lastly, you're able to adjust the EV value, but that's about all. Still the output is not bad at all considering the camera does things mostly automatic here. I'm actually considering making a 14" wide print of this shot. I couldn't find any stitching errors, and this was hand held.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Lens
Lets face it, with a superzoom it's mostly all about the lens. I'm always curious on lenses with such a wide focal range what the optical compromises are going to be. Today we are pretty lucky in that sensor and optical advancements are keeping compromises to an all time minimum. In the case of the HS50EXR's 42x zoom lens, there are very few indeed! Typically the concerns for superzooms are soft images at the long end, and bad distortions on the wide end. Not with the HS50EXR. It's both sharp at 1000mm and the wide end looks pretty darn good in the distortions and sharpness category. I found very little CA's at all focal lengths, completely unproblematic. Apparently Fujifilms EBC coatings are as good as they say.
Lets take a look at the long end of the zoom, 1000mm. This shot is a very high contrast sample image (boring but effective way to see CA's), developed from raw without any corrections done. Typically CA's are going to be the worst at the wide and long end of the zoom range, so its a good test for the lens here on the long side. First the shot as taken, then a 100% crop of the upper left hand corner of the image (corners usually show the most distortions).
Yes there is some color fringing (CA) there, but considering nothing has been done to the raw file and these are extreme settings (long end of the zoom and subject), its pretty impressive. With just a little post processing work all CA's can easily be removed, or just ignored altogether. Good job Fuji!
On the 24mm wide end, the lens looks pretty darn good too. Corner softening sets in about the outermost 15% of the image, which is normal even for many expensive lenses.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Market Comparison
Like I said in the opener, I'm looking out for my readers in an attempt to find the best bang for the buck superzoom in this category on the market. Here, I've made some comparisons to two other very popular (and excellent) superzooms in the same category and similar price range. Note that I have used both of these cameras and reviewed one of them (FZ200) on this site. I am intimately familiar with all three, which I believe adds weight to my comparisons.
Note (*) denotes advantage HS50EXR
HS50EXR compared to FZ200
HS50EXR compared to Canon SX50 HS
Undoubtedly there will be those that will try to justify that any of the three camera's above are the winner Note that I feel all three cameras are excellent and offer value for the dollar. When you put down in writing the comparisons head to head though, its very clear to me that the HS50EXR has both cameras beat as an overall package. While one camera may sell more than the other, or, may be more popular, that doesn't mean it's the better camera when you compare them objectively. As a reviewer, I come back to the adage "What have you done for me lately?".
Besides besting it's rivals in the pros and cons categories, the HS50 EXR stands out from its rivals by having a manual zoom ring/focusing ring. Using the HS50 EXR is much more enjoyable as a result. Yes it's not as compact as its competitors, but superzooms of this type are never small enough to fit into a pocket anyways. Fujifilm's philosophy of developing a more analog and user controllable superzoom simply results in a much more fun and liberating camera to use daily, period. With analog controls, there's simply less thinking and pausing in the photographic process (more intuitive) which results in more keeper images made.
What's also worth mentioning is how versatile this camera is. Any tool is as good as its bottleneck, and Fujifilm have done an excellent job of pretty much eliminating all of them. It's loaded, its fast, it's built well, its a great price, it's even handsome. Even the image quality is class leading. But beyond all that, it's simply a fun camera to use. It's not one of those cameras that looks great on a specification sheet then makes you trip over its implementations at every opportunity. That is what matters most to shooters I'd like to think. Funny thing is, the HS50EXR is both well implemented and has a pretty dazzling spec sheet. Credit team Fujifilm, that isn't easy to do.
Sure, you can get higher quality images from a superzoom, but you're going to have to pay a lot more to get them, and at the same time make some sacrifices in order to do that. Are the sacrifices of less zoom range, versatility, size and weight, and higher price worthwhile to you? That is for you to decide.
Without hesitation my opinion is that the Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR is the best superzoom in its category that is on the current market. Other cameras in this class may offer you unique advantages (especially Panasonic's' FZ200 w/constant aperture), and, perhaps those are wholly worthwhile to you alone to purchase them. But when you're objectively looking at an all in one package, I don't think this one can be beat today.
Compared to Fujifilms many superzoom offerings, the HS50EXR may just be the best balance for the price that they offer. It reminds me very much of an X-S1 "light" - it's smaller, lighter, and with a more organized and easy to use menu system, and image quality is pretty close. Yet there are few compromises compared to that camera. I think Fujifilm are up to something with this model and if they can make some improvements to it without changing what is right about it, it's definitely worth making a successor in the future. Perhaps an HS60EXR is coming this year. I certainly hope so.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Suggestions for Fujifilm
Instead of a usual pros and cons list, I've decided to change my format in my reviews for this section. The following are quirks or observations (whatever you want to call them) that I've noticed during my use of the HS50 EXR. The list is intended to be a friendly suggestion list to Fujifilm (whom I've notified of my review being posted online) on improvements or changes to existing or future successors to the HS50 EXR. Most of the suggestions can be done in firmware.
As usual, be safe and happy shooting!!
Carl Garrard
If you like my review, please don't click on the link below, I wouldn't want you to pull a muscle ;).
Your Fujifilm FinePix HS50EXR Connection
July 2014, Carl Garrard
Your Fujifilm FinePix HS50EXR Connection
Fujifilm has a major advantage of being able to fabricate its own sensors in house. The Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR has the latest 16mp EXR CMOS II sensor. There are some differences between this new sensor and the previous one. It's got phase detect pixels built into its architecture which allows it to focus faster, and, its light gathering ability has been improved to increase dynamic range and lower the image noise. There are other changes to the sensor too, like readout speed, but those are the most relevant to a camera review that's still-photo centric. And in order to keep up with the new sensor, Fujifilm had to redesign the processor too, which is labeled EXR Processor II.
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| Nice that the lens is marked with focal length equivalent, and its a manual zoom for infinite and ultra quick adjustments. |
Fujifilm's FinePix HS50 EXR is absolutely loaded with features, and I'm not going to be able to cover them all. It all starts with the sensor, but the 24-1000mm f/2.8-5.6 Fujinon EBC* optically stabilized lens is another star in the show. From < 1cm super macro work to 24mm wide angle, to true 1,000mm super telephoto work, this lens has almost all of it covered. And instead of relying on another slow internal motor to drive the zoom, it has a manual zoom and manual focus ring as well, something I definitely prefer to have in a camera that's larger than pocketable. Also worth mentioning is its minimum aperture of f/11 (which bests it's competitors by two full stops).
*EBC stands for Electron Beam Coating, which is Fujifilm's high end optics coating used in broadcast video cameras and large format camera lenses.
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| Note the 58mm threaded filter and bayonet lens hood attachment. |
Other stand out items are its EVF and LCD. Both are 920K pixels (above average especially for this price and class of camera), but that's not the best part. The EVF is a .26" type, but the best part is the optics that surround it that magnify the view and give you a large clear view. This is key, and very important when discussing EVF quality. The numbers don't mean anything if the optics aren't good, and Fujifilm knows this. The EVF is simply outstanding for the price, and hence class leading. To put a cherry on top, it includes a sensor that auto switches when you put your eye to the EVF which most competitors lack. In use, this makes the camera much more pleasurable as a result.
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| A simple but configurable camera on the back end. It strikes a good balance of not too cluttered or too simple. |
The LCD panel is a pull and twist out type that allows for maximum overall versatility, which I gather are what most users prefer overall. Personally, I prefer the more limited tilt up/down type. Both are fine in my book, both have advantages and disadvantages, yet I find that the flip up and down type is faster and less complicated to use while shooting, and it covers most of the shooting needs when I'd like to move the screen. Still the ability to take selfies or flip the screen over to protect it from scratches, can be invaluable nonetheless.
Other features are listed below that stood out to me. This is Fujifilm's attempt at an all-in-one device for the beginner, advanced user, traveler, you name it. Let's see how well they have done.
- Raw Files
- .26” 920k dot EVF but optics (magnification/clarity) make it better than most?
- Manual controls and custom FN button
- ISO 100-3200 w/6400 and up Jpeg only simulated
- ½” size sensor (larger than average)
- Panorama auto stitch mode (11,520 x 1624 max resolution)
- Pro light mode (4 shots stacked automatically)
- 8mp SN mode (pixel binning and smaller size image for better noise performance)
- f/11 min aperture is two stops smaller than most of competition
- 1/4000th top shutter speed
- Big battery, 500 shots CIPA
- Larger, better for a superzoom for more blur free and stabilized images
- Optical image stabilization
- Focus peaking (manual focus mode)
- Provia/Velvia/Astia film simulations, plus b/w and sepia
- Quick Menu feature w/dedicated button
- Focus type switch with center push/af button
- 120/240/480 fps high speed movie mode
- Electronic level
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Shooting Report
These are observations and notes I've made while using the HS50 EXR in no particular order or preference.
Build Quality: I would describe the HS50's build quality to be very solid. Nothing creaks or rattles and nothing feels cheap. Most of the camera is coated with a rubberized coating that is very similar to Panasonic's G series cameras (if you are familiar). It is a smooth finish that aids in keeping it secure in hand, a very nice touch. Buttons, dials, hinges, and doors are a mixture of metal and plastic and very high quality considering the price you pay for the camera.
The main grip is rubber on the front and back, and on the front left of the camera, its a plastic rubber simulation (very difficult to tell its not rubber). Grip is nice and firm and just sticky enough, very comfortable to the hand.
The lens barrel is made from a high quality/density engineers grade plastic. The manual zoom/focus rings are plastic too, with the zoom ring having a very comfortable ribbed rubber grip and aluminum accented end piece detailing the effective focal length. The 58mm filter threads are plastic, and so is the tripod mount, so be careful. The only area I'd improve is the zoom ring feel, it's not as smooth as you'd hope and seems like it's just not worn in. Zooming is fine for still shooters but for video shooters the zoom action could irritate.
Overall though, the entire camera will give you a much better impression of build quality than it's direct rivals, and it bests the FZ200 that costs quite a bit more. Overall excellent build quality that I doubt few will complain about considering it's price.
Handling: Briefly, the HS50 handles very well- better than anticipated for a camera of this price/class. Of special note is how well balanced the camera feels in one hand, it's particularly satisfying. It is not front or back heavy, nor is it heavy from the left to right, it feels perfectly balanced in the hand which gives the impression of a lighter camera than its specs suggest.
Controls are well placed and easy to find. The zoom ring isn't as smooth as I expected, and may be a bit jerky for dedicated video folks when zooming in and out. The focus ring is extremely smooth and easy to use with just one finger, very nice.
Features: The spec sheet is loaded with features on this camera, and yet I don't get a sense of the camera being cluttered and clumsily implemented at all. Note though that most of the special filters and modes are mostly automatic and leave little control to the end user. All of them are Jpeg only. This includes the art filters, pro low light mode, pro focus mode, multiple exposure mode, panorama, exr modes, etc. Video is very limited in manual controls, but offers a wide range of resolution choices and high speed shooting modes.
Still shooters have a good amount of control manually in the PASM modes, and can record film simulation Jpegs along with Raw files from ISO 100-3200. Over 3,200 ISO is a push and Jpeg only recording. Still shooting in the PASM modes is the more satisfying part of this camera as quite a bit of functionality is built into the HS50 that advanced users will demand.
Overall the features on this camera seem yin and yang. One side catering to beginners, and one side catering to advanced users.
Menu System: I'm gonna be straight forward and say that Fujifilm cameras have never impressed me with their menu systems in the past. That has all changed with the HS50EXR, I'm glad to report. It's a tab style menu that is fast to navigate, clear and concise, and logically laid out. It's set up with two main sections divided into separate pages, the shooting menu, and the set up menu.
You can customize the FN button through the menu, or just hold down the button for a couple of seconds and do it that way. Even navigating through the main control dial menus are easy to figure out and well organized. I especially like the quick menu screen (below) and it's implementation.A lot can be changed very quickly with a push of a button and a scroll of the wheel.
There's a pretty good balance of functionality vs. simplicity going on here too. The only suggestion I'd make is that Fujifilm allow more controls over video and stills options (some of which I noted at the end of this review), but even without them it's not a deal breaker. And especially not for a camera of this price.
Performance: Overall the HS50 is a very fast camera, both in processing and overall performance. Seems that the marketing for the high speed sensor and processor aren't hyperbole at all. AF speed in single and continuous are best described as impressive. Tracking moving objects is a delight, and the camera performs better than I thought it would in this regard. Truly the hybrid AF system is working well giving the EXR CMOS II moniker some credibility. Advanced users will be delighted and impressed beyond expectation, and beginners will get an idea of what control really feels like.
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| New CMOS II Sensor Diagram |
I found the HS50 to keep up in all key performance categories, there is no impression of lag in any area I tested. It's a fast camera that should please even the most demanding crowd. Even shooting multiple raw files the camera kept up quite well, no issue at all, no lag.
Neat Features: Switch the AF to Manual and you'll get a surprise. For those of you who like focus peaking, configuring the center AF button is a snap! You can just hold it down and change its setting from standard to focus peaking (the LCD indicates the change) very quick, very cool.
Same with the FN button, hold it down and a popup comes up asking what you'd like to configure that button for. As far as I recall, no other manufacturer implements custom buttons this way, and its a very intuitive and useful feature to have. Fujifilm make a lot of attempts to keep the shooter from menu diving, and this is one of the coolest things I've seen in years. Seriously, I love this. All custom button's on all cameras ought to be configured this way.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: EVF and LCD
Now on to the LCD. It's a flip out and twist, 4:3 aspect ratio, 920K dot 3" screen. I love it, especially for the price. You really don't need a better screen for any camera, let alone for the price of the HS50. Of special note is the aspect ratio that matches the sensors native aspect ratio. This way, if you choose a different aspect ratio other than native, the screen is going to reflect a crop of it, just how I like it. I don't like 3" 16:9 format screen that show a screen cropped portion of the sensors native aspect ratio; much of the viewing area is lost in this type of implementation. Bravo to Fujifilm for making the right choice.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Image Quality
Low ISO's look really good for a digicam, and I've used more than I can remember over the last 12 years or so. Dynamic range is always something I worry about with small sensors. Considering that I'm taking the time to get out and shoot I want the best image quality I can get at that time- but I'm also willing to make some compromises. These days a good small sensor is pretty darn near what DSLR's used to be about 7-10 years ago. Fujifilm make good ones, and having raw helps. Here is a good sunset taken at ISO 100, and I'm very pleased with the results. This would make a good 16"x19" print- no doubt about it.
High ISO's are totally useable, but granted in Raw and the native ISO value only increased to 3200 ISO. While I can see why Fujifilm have made this choice as 3200 starts to come apart in tough lighting. Yet I also think ISO 6400 should have been included as well, for those who shoot b/w at least. That said, ISO 3200 looks really good for a small sensor as long as lighting is pretty even (even if it is dim lighting), boy has technology really come along. My old Sony R-1 didn't make 3200 ISO look this good, and it had a much larger sensor.
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| ISO 3200 RAW file ACR converted, no sharpening or L channel NR applied. Chroma NR slider at 25%, 0 detail. |
Mid range ISO's are pretty good as well. If you are a freeze action shooter, you'll want to shoot with the HS50 at ISO 200-800 a lot, even with good light. Images look pretty darn good here too without much change from ISO 100-200. 400-1600 also look very similar in grain and dynamic range, which isn't bad at all for a camera with a pretty packed and smallish sensor.
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| ISO 200. This is a shot at 1/1600th of a second at 1000mm through a pillar of water with the sun behind it shining through. You can almost not even make out what it is that I'm shooting here. |
Panorama Mode: Just a quick set of notes here. Like most of the other fun/auto modes, it is mostly automatic choosing your ISO, aperture, and shutter speed for you. You do have some control over the size of the Panorama and you're at least able to lock the exposure. Lastly, you're able to adjust the EV value, but that's about all. Still the output is not bad at all considering the camera does things mostly automatic here. I'm actually considering making a 14" wide print of this shot. I couldn't find any stitching errors, and this was hand held.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Lens
Lets take a look at the long end of the zoom, 1000mm. This shot is a very high contrast sample image (boring but effective way to see CA's), developed from raw without any corrections done. Typically CA's are going to be the worst at the wide and long end of the zoom range, so its a good test for the lens here on the long side. First the shot as taken, then a 100% crop of the upper left hand corner of the image (corners usually show the most distortions).
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| 1000mm f/5.6 ISO 100 |
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| 100% crop of the image above |
Yes there is some color fringing (CA) there, but considering nothing has been done to the raw file and these are extreme settings (long end of the zoom and subject), its pretty impressive. With just a little post processing work all CA's can easily be removed, or just ignored altogether. Good job Fuji!
On the 24mm wide end, the lens looks pretty darn good too. Corner softening sets in about the outermost 15% of the image, which is normal even for many expensive lenses.
 |
| The barrel distortion is a bit exaggerated here because of the angle I'm holding the camera at, but overall a good lens for wide angle |
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Market Comparison
Like I said in the opener, I'm looking out for my readers in an attempt to find the best bang for the buck superzoom in this category on the market. Here, I've made some comparisons to two other very popular (and excellent) superzooms in the same category and similar price range. Note that I have used both of these cameras and reviewed one of them (FZ200) on this site. I am intimately familiar with all three, which I believe adds weight to my comparisons.
Note (*) denotes advantage HS50EXR
HS50EXR compared to FZ200
- *Much Lower price
- *Manual zoom and focus rings
- *Better sensor performance (bigger, faster, better low light/dr)
- *More resolution (16mp vs 12mp)
- Not constant aperture
- *Better construction
- *More features
- *Better zoom range 24-1000mm (42x) vs 28-600 (24x)
- Slightly Bigger
- Slightly Heavier
- Slightly less battery life (500 shots cipa vs 540 cipa)
- *Much better evf (specs and especially optics)
- *Better rear LCD
- Less art filters
- *Better Jpeg output and color film/simulation modes
- *Dedicated mic port
- *Better slow motion video (480fps vs 240fps)
- *Smaller minimum aperture (f/11 vs f/8)
- Less ISO range in Raw (100-3200 vs 100-12,800)
- *Automatic EVF eye sensor
- *More direct control/fun to use
Winner: HS50EXR
- *Slightly lower price
- *Manual zoom and focus rings
- *Larger sensor/more resolution/better sensor performance
- *Better Jpeg quality
- *Much better construction
- *Many more features
- Slightly Bigger
- Slightly heavier (200 grams more)
- *Better battery life (500 shots cipa vs 315 shots cipa)
- *Better LCD 3” 920k vs 2.8” 460k
- Slightly less zoom range 24-1000mm (42x) vs 24-1200mm (50x)
- *Much better evf (specs and optics)
- *More dedicated manual controls
- *Dedicated mic port
- *Better video features
- *Slightly faster constant aperture
- *More menu and general camera control
- *Faster (1/4000th) and slower max shutter speeds (30 seconds vs 15 seconds)
- Less ISO range in Raw (100-3200 vs 80-6,400)
- *Automatic EVF eye sensor
- *More direct control/fun to use
Winner: HS50EXR
Undoubtedly there will be those that will try to justify that any of the three camera's above are the winner Note that I feel all three cameras are excellent and offer value for the dollar. When you put down in writing the comparisons head to head though, its very clear to me that the HS50EXR has both cameras beat as an overall package. While one camera may sell more than the other, or, may be more popular, that doesn't mean it's the better camera when you compare them objectively. As a reviewer, I come back to the adage "What have you done for me lately?".
What's also worth mentioning is how versatile this camera is. Any tool is as good as its bottleneck, and Fujifilm have done an excellent job of pretty much eliminating all of them. It's loaded, its fast, it's built well, its a great price, it's even handsome. Even the image quality is class leading. But beyond all that, it's simply a fun camera to use. It's not one of those cameras that looks great on a specification sheet then makes you trip over its implementations at every opportunity. That is what matters most to shooters I'd like to think. Funny thing is, the HS50EXR is both well implemented and has a pretty dazzling spec sheet. Credit team Fujifilm, that isn't easy to do.
Sure, you can get higher quality images from a superzoom, but you're going to have to pay a lot more to get them, and at the same time make some sacrifices in order to do that. Are the sacrifices of less zoom range, versatility, size and weight, and higher price worthwhile to you? That is for you to decide.
Without hesitation my opinion is that the Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR is the best superzoom in its category that is on the current market. Other cameras in this class may offer you unique advantages (especially Panasonic's' FZ200 w/constant aperture), and, perhaps those are wholly worthwhile to you alone to purchase them. But when you're objectively looking at an all in one package, I don't think this one can be beat today.
Compared to Fujifilms many superzoom offerings, the HS50EXR may just be the best balance for the price that they offer. It reminds me very much of an X-S1 "light" - it's smaller, lighter, and with a more organized and easy to use menu system, and image quality is pretty close. Yet there are few compromises compared to that camera. I think Fujifilm are up to something with this model and if they can make some improvements to it without changing what is right about it, it's definitely worth making a successor in the future. Perhaps an HS60EXR is coming this year. I certainly hope so.
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Review: Suggestions for Fujifilm
Instead of a usual pros and cons list, I've decided to change my format in my reviews for this section. The following are quirks or observations (whatever you want to call them) that I've noticed during my use of the HS50 EXR. The list is intended to be a friendly suggestion list to Fujifilm (whom I've notified of my review being posted online) on improvements or changes to existing or future successors to the HS50 EXR. Most of the suggestions can be done in firmware.
- Write firmware that allows you to keep settings so they are not lost after you turn off the camera or go from one setting to another (example, histogram display must be enabled each time you start up the camera, file type changes from raw to jpeg only without warning when you try other shooting modes)
- Allow for a full "off" setting for Noise Reduction
- Allow raw files to be recorded up to ISO 6,400 minimum
- Allow for separate adjustment of EVF and LCD brightness/contrast
- Allow RAW shooting along side Jpegs for your EXR modes, Art Filter Modes etc.
- Make the manual focus ring a bit smoother in operation
- Position Tripod mount in the centerline of the lens
- Add some manual control of video
- Allow for separate contrast adjustment for Jpegs (instead of, or addition to "Tone")
- Extremely fast camera to use in the processing category and auto focus speed
- Excellent battery life, just dandy!
- Best in class value in nearly every category
- Excellent Jpeg output, especially color and detail
- Excellent highlight recovery in raw files (and very good dynamic range)
- Comfortable, balanced, and well built camera
- Extensive list of features, without feeling cluttered or clumsy
- Love the new menu style!!! LOVE IT!!! (keep it Fujifilm!)
- Its a camera you want to pick up and use which speaks volumes about its success as a design
- Great value for the all in one camera buyer.
As usual, be safe and happy shooting!!
Carl Garrard
If you like my review, please don't click on the link below, I wouldn't want you to pull a muscle ;).
Your Fujifilm FinePix HS50EXR Connection
Fujifilm FinePix HS50 EXR Full Specifications
| Model name | FinePix HS50EXR |
|---|---|
| Number of effective pixels *1 | 16.0 million pixels |
| Image sensor | 1/2-inch EXR CMOS II with primary color filter |
| Storage media |
|
| File format |
|
| Number of recorded pixels |
|
| Lens |
|
| Digital zoom | Intelligent digital zoom approx. 2.0x (up to approx. 84x, with 42x optical zoom) |
| Aperture | F2.8-F11 (Wide) F5.6-F11(Telephoto) 1/3EV step |
| Focus distance (from lens surface) |
|
| Sensitivity | Auto, Equivalent to ISO 100 / 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 / 3200 / 6400* / 12800* (Standard Output Sensitivity)
|
| Exposure control | TTL 256-zone metering, Multi / Spot / Average |
| Exposure mode | Programmed AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE, Manual exposure |
| Shooting modes |
|
| Image stabilizer | Lens shift type |
| Exposure compensation | -2.0EV - +2.0EV 1/3EV step |
| Shutter speed | (Auto mode) 1/4sec. to 1/4000sec., (All other modes) 30sec. to 1/4000sec. (combined mechanical and electronic shutter) |
| Continuous shooting |
|
| Auto bracketing | AE Bracketing : ±1/3EV, ±2/3EV, ±1EV Film Simulation Bracketing : PROVIA / STD, Velvia / VIVID, ASTIA / SOFT Dynamic Range Bracketing : 100% / 200% / 400% |
| Focus |
|
| White balance | Automatic scene recognition
|
| Self-timer | Approx. 10sec. / 2sec. delay / Auto release |
| Flash | Auto flash (super i-flash) Effective range : (ISO AUTO)
|
| Flash modes |
|
| Hot shoe | YES |
| Electronic Viewfinder | 0.26-inch., approx. 920K-dot, color LCD viewfinder approx. 100% coverage |
| LCD monitor | 3.0-inch, approx. 920K-dot, TFT color LCD monitor, Vari-Angle, approx. 100% coverage |
| Movie recording | 1920 x 1080 pixels / 1280 x 720 pixels (60 fps) / 640 x 480 pixels (30 fps) with stereo sound
|
| Photography functions | EXR mode, High Speed Movie (120 / 240 / 480 frames/sec.), Face Detection, Auto Red-eye removal, Advanced mode (Pro focus, Pro low light, Multiple exposure), Motion Panorama 360, Film simulation, Electronic level, Histogram display, Focus check, Focus peaking in Manual focus mode, Framing guideline, Frame No. memory, Best frame capture, Advanced Anti Blur, Date stamp, Recording movie in the EXR Auto mode：Automatic Scene Selection, Advanced filter (Toy Camera / Miniature / Pop Color / High-Key / Low-Key / Dynamic Tone / Partial Color / Soft Focus), Microphone-level adjustment |
| Playback functions | Face Detection, Auto Red-eye removal, Multi-frame playback (with micro thumbnail), Protect, Crop, Resize, Slide show, Image rotate, histogram display, exposure warning, Photobook assist, image search, Favorites, Mark for upload, Panorama, Erase selected frames |
| Other functions | PictBridge, Exif Print, 35 Languages selection, Time difference, Silent mode |
| Terminal |
|
| Power supply | Li-ion battery NP-W126 (included) |
| Dimensions | 134.9(W) x 101.3(H) x 145.9(D) mm / 5.3(W) x 4.0(H) x 5.7(D) in. |
| Weight | Approx. 808g / 28.5oz. (including battery and memory card) Approx. 758g / 26.7oz. (excluding battery and memory card) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C - 40°C |
| Operating Humidity | 10% - 80% (no condensation) |
| Guide to the number of available frames for battery operation | Approx. 500 frames (AUTO mode)
|
| Accessories included | Li-ion battery NP-W126 Battery charger BC-W126 Shoulder strap USB cable Lens hood Lens cap and Lens cap cord CD-ROM Owner's manual |
| Optional accessories | Li-ion battery NP-W126 Battery charger BC-W126 Remote Release RR-80A Shoe Mount Flash EF-42 / EF-20 / EF-X20 Protector Filter PRF-58 Stereo microphone MIC-ST1 |
Hi Carl, how does image quality from this camera compares to Fuji XS1? Is it similar or behind it? Thanks for the nice review!
ReplyDeleteThank you! :)
ReplyDeleteI think the XS1 definitely has advantages in the optical and sensor based departments. The HS50 is best in class, but the XS1 is really a step up in all attributes. Looking at it fairly it was introduced as a much more expensive camera so you have to take that into consideration.. I'm preparing a final review on the XS1 actually, many many months after doing a preview of it, and hope to have it completed soon.