DSLR control, 14.3x zoom, expanded dynamic range and film simulation modes are the key features of Fujifilm's most advanced bridge camera to date.

The FinePix S100FS (Film Simulation) digital camera is built around a 14.3x Fujinon manual zoom lens, Fujifilm’s 8th generation 2/3 inch Super CCD sensor delivering 11 megapixel capture, third generation RP III processor, and 2.5 inch tiltable LCD.

The camera's Fujinon lens delivers focal lengths of 28mm-400mm equivalent and maximum aperture of a bright F2.8 (wide angle) to F5.3 (telephoto).

Fujifilm adds: "Because of the composite body and lens structure, there is no penetration of dirt and dust onto the CCD and the lens is perfectly matched to the sensor and perfectly aligned for the best possible results".

Another pro-level feature are the camera's ISO capabilities of up to ISO 6400 (at 6 megapixels) and ISO 10,000 at 3 megapixels.

The Optical Image Stabilisation system, and Fujifilm’s Face Detection 2.0 Technology (up to 10 faces per frame) with automatic red-eye removal are included but a bigger attraction for prosumer shooters will be the wide dynamic range of 100-400% and film simulation modes, inherited from the FinePix S5 Pro DSLR.

Fujifilm explains: "The FinePix S100FS has an extended dynamic range (100%, 200%, 400%) similar to that of negative film thanks to the newly developed low-noise 2/3-inch 11.1 Megapixel Super CCD VIII HR and the new RP Processor III".

The Film Simulation modes (FS) allow photographers to select the ideal "film" mode for the scene with a choice of four modes that optimise for portraiture, low-contrast (soft), vibrant colours (Velvia), or general use (Provia).

Also worth a mention is the camera's Multi-Bracketing function offering Film Simulation Bracketing, Dynamic Range Bracketing and AE Bracketing.

And then there is the newly developed Super CCD VIII HR and the new RP (real photo) III Processor. At 3 megapixels, a maximum of 50 continuous shots at 7fps is possible. In addition, 14 scene settings and customer settings can be selected, as can four auto-focus modes.

The FinePix S100FS can capture images in both JPEG and RAW format as well as shooting movies at 30fps in VGA quality.

The FinePix S100FS features an xD/SD compatible slot which accepts xD-Picture cards but also Secure Digital (SD) and SD-High Capacity/SD-HC cards too.

Adrian Clarke, Fujifilm's Director of Digital Products, said: "The FinePix S100FS is an important and exciting new flagship compact for Fujifilm, designed from first principles for superb performance and offering cutting-edge technology and genuine innovation. For the consumer wanting the quality and versatility of an SLR without the weight, cost or bulk of extra lenses, we think the FinePix S100FS represents the most accomplished prosumer model on the market".

There was no price as the story broke but we'll keep you posted.

Key features:
2/3-inch Super CCD HR sensor

11.1 million effective pixels

Movie clips: 640 x 480 pixels, 320 x 240 pixels, 30fps with mono sound

Electronic Image Stabilisation

Fujinon 14.3 X Optical zoom lens

Auto Focus (single and continuous), Manual Focus and One-push AF

Face Detection AF/AE

Shuttter speed: AUTO mode: 1/4s to 1/4000s and all other modes: 30s to 1/2000s

Weight (with no batteries): Approx 918g
Dimensions: 133.4(W) x 93.6(H) x 150.4(D)mm

>> Link - Fujifilm
>> Via - DP Review