Fujifilm may not be the first brand that comes to mind when you think of digital SLRs. But among pros who snap weddings and portraits, the $2,000 Fuji FinePix S2 Pro digital SLR has gained a cult status. Two years after its introduction, the S2 Pro still provides the highest resolution of any sub-$4,000 DSLR, plus excellent color accuracy, low noise, and compatibility with Nikon lenses and accessories. Now, hoping to expand its loyal digital SLR following, Fuji has introduced the new 12.3MP FinePix S3 Pro, which it claims has even higher resolution and image quality. But will it outgun the more affordable 6- or 8MP SLRs from Canon, Nikon, Olympus, and Pentax?

DigitalCameraInfo.com have today posted a Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro review . They said-

“The FinePix S3 really does offer expanded dynamic range, with beautiful color and excellent noise control. Maybe we should stop right there, because that’s the news. That’s what the competition has to try to match.

The question is whether or not to buy one. Sure, lots of people need more dynamic range and good portrait color, but do they need it for $2500? Do they need it at one frame per second? Do they need it with autofocus that wasn’t top-of-the-line even three years ago?

Actually, yes. The camera will serve a sizable market. Wedding and portrait photographers need to take flattering pictures with rich color even when they can’t control the lighting. This is a very large sect of commercial photographers, compared to other segments of the photographic profession, and they can put up with many of the limitations of the S3. Fuji is wise to go after them.

Professional photographers will have to make their own judgments about whether they’ve been losing money thanks to limited dynamic range, or if more dynamic range will pay back a $2500 bill at the camera store.

For users who don’t have a cost/benefit analysis to run, the question is much more subtle. The FinePix S3 yields much, much better dynamic range than the Nikon D70 or Canon 20D, and better color. It’s not better in any other respect, and it’s inferior in many other regards, so the decision will inevitably come down to personal preference and snapping priorities. “

Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro 6.17MP Digital SLR Camera

Features
* Rugged, polycarbonate body with rounder design and molded rear grip
* 2-inch, 235,000 pixel horizontal LCD delivers crisp, clear images and nearly 100% frame coverage
* Secondary LCD indicates snapping information and settings
* Dual shutter release buttons to allow optimum comfort and stability in both horizontal and vertical orientations
* Intelligent flash with D-TTL full-aperture exposure metering system
* Shutter speeds of 30 seconds to 1/4,000 second
* Sensitivity: ISO 100, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1600