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Fuji FinePix 1300 Fuji updates their entry-level 1.3 megapixel model, adding USB for fast file downloads Select a topic Reference: Datasheet FinePix 1300 Sample Images --------------------------------- 1. Intro and Highlights 2. Executive Overview 3. Design 4. Viewfinder 5. Optics 6. Exposure & Flash 7. Shutter Lag & Cycle Time Tests 8. Operation & User Interface 9. Camera Modes & Menus 10. Image Storage & Interface 11. Video, Power, Software 12. Test Results & Conclusion --------------------------------- Print-Friendly Review Version Additional Resources and Other Links Reader Comments --------------------------------- Digital Camera Comparometer (TM) --------------------------------- <-- Digital Cameras (Home) <-- Digital Camera Reviews Index <<Executive Overview :(Previous) | (Next): Viewfinder>> Page 3:Design Review First Posted: 11/28/2000

Design
Similar to its predecessor, the MX-1200 model, the Fujufilm FinePix 1300 has a compact, rectangular design that affords the portability necessary for active, memorable vacations, or for spontaneous day trips to the museum or park. Weighing only 10.6 ounces (300 grams), including batteries and SmartMedia, the FinePix 1300 measures about 4.3 x 3 x 1.3 inches (110 x 77 x 33 mm) without any accessories or attachments. The sturdy, polycarbonate camera body is metallic silver with black accents. It has a finger grip cleverly built into the front plate design, and a series of stylized bumps on the back to act as a thumb grip. The nylon wrist strap attaches to the top right corner of the camera for easy transportation.

The FinePix 1300's front plate houses an onboard flash, viewfinder window, fixed-focus lens, flash sensor, and LED self-timer alert. The lens is protected by an immovable, clear plastic outer cover, eliminating the need for a lens cap or sliding plate cover. While this lens design frees you from the responsibility of tracking down the lens cap, it doesn't provide as much protection as a conventional lens cover. The plastic is just as suceptable to dirt, scratches, or smudges as an unprotected lens (even more so); but if you're careful with the camera, it should serve you well.

The bulk of the controls are on the back of the camera, including a power switch and separate mode dial, with a choice of Photography (Record), Playback, and Set-up modes. A Menu/OK button accesses and sets menu options, while the adjacent four-way rocker toggle enables you to scroll through menu selections. The absence of a Cancel/Back button makes it a little more time-consuming to exit menu selections, but we found we could live without it.

The top of the FinePix 1300 is quite plain, with the shutter button the only control located there, in the standard position on the right side of the top panel.

The Macro on/off switch is located on the left side of the camera, along with the digital and DC jacks. The SmartMedia slot is on the opposite side, along with a loop for attaching the wrist strap.

Batteries load into a compartment on the bottom of the camera, next to the plastic tripod mount, which sits just a little off-center.

For the most part, the FinePix 1300's design and button layout allows one-handed operation, though it's a stretch to reach the Power and Display buttons with your right thumb, and of course, the Macro switch is well out of reach.