Fuji kicked off the start of Photokina a day early by launching the FinePix X100. The 12.3-megapixel camera carries a 1950s metal-and-leather body but is targeted at pros who need a close-up camera or hobbyists who thrive on macro or near-macro shots. An APS-C sized CMOS sensor using Fujifilm’s EXR technology gives it DSLR-level light sensitivity and is helped by a fixed-in-place but bright and fast 23mm f2 prime lens.
Its viewfinder is as much of a break as the choice of body. Badged as a hybrid viewfinder, it can switch between electronic and optical coverage depending on whether the photographer wants one-for-one coverage or a sharper look. The electronic half can also overlay crucial info on top of the optical viewfinder’s image.
Work is still early on the camera, and Fujifilm doesn’t expect to launch it until early 2011. Most of the hardware specifications, as well as the price and availability, aren’t yet ready.
