Fujifilm FinePix S1 Review: The Best Camera for Outdoor Photography

Read our in-depth Fujifilm FinePix S1 review to learn why this camera is a top choice among outdoor photographers. With its long-range zoom, weather-resistant construction, and advanced image stabilization, the S1 provides exceptional versatility and performance for capturing nature, landscapes, and wildlife.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Fujifilm FinePix S1 article cover photo

Key Features

Jan 06 2014

Announced

16 megapixels

Resolution

BrandFujifilm
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorCMOS
Weight680g
MSRP$499USD

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Overview of the FinePix S1

Do you love exploring the great outdoors and capturing its beauty through photography? If so, you need a camera that is built to withstand the elements and deliver exceptional image quality. Enter the Fujifilm FinePix S1, a feature-packed camera that is perfect for outdoor photography. In this review, we'll take a closer look at the S1's impressive zoom lens, rugged weather-resistant body, and advanced image stabilization, all of which combine to make this camera an excellent choice for any outdoor photographer. So, let's dive in and explore what makes the Fujifilm FinePix S1 such an outstanding option for capturing the world around us.

Fujifilm FinePix S1 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Fujifilm FinePix S1 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

16 Megapixels
Weather-resistant
50x optical zoom
Built-in Wi-Fi
Full HD video recording
Vari-angle LCD screen

Cons

No RAW shooting
Poor low light performance
Heavy and bulky
No external microphone input
Slow autofocus in video mode
Limited battery life

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Fujifilm FinePix S1

Weather sealed
Dimensions133 x 91 x 110mm
Weight680g
Thickness110mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
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Weather Sealing

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 camera is equipped with environmental seals that make it resistant to weather, preventing water and dust from entering the camera. If you enjoy outdoor photography and need a camera that can handle extreme conditions, the FinePix S1 is an excellent choice.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderElectronic
Screen TypeFully Articulated
Screen Resolution920k dots
Body typeSLR-like (bridge)

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fully articulated 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 920k dots. This makes the Fujifilm FinePix S1 very suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you can view yourself while shooting selfies. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

FinePix S1 includes a electronic viewfinder with 920k dots of resolution with a coverage of 97% and a magnification of n/a. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Fujifilm FinePix S1 has a 16MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 16 pixels. Fujifilm FinePix S1 has a native ISO range of 100 - 12800 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.

Key Features

Jan 06 2014

Announced

100 - 12800

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4608 x 3456 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Fujifilm FinePix S1 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the FinePix S1 is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1/2.3-inch

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSC/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Battery Life350 shots
Battery ModelNP-85
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 supports SC/SDHC/SDXC, Internal with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 uses the NP-85 model of battery pack. This is rated for 350 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. It also offers a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with null number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Fujifilm FinePix S1?

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 features a CMOS sensor

Is the Fujifilm FinePix S1 weather sealed?

Yes the FinePix S1 does have weather sealing.

When was the Fujifilm FinePix S1 announced?

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 was announced on Jan 06 2014

Does the Fujifilm FinePix S1 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the FinePix S1 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Fujifilm FinePix S1?

The FinePix S1 has a native ISO range of 100-12800, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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