As an aside, after taking hundreds of photos in many of its modes, I do not see the purple fringing spoken of in the CNet review

With that said, I was initially reluctant to use any of the many small cameras with dimensions similar to the F30. I’m 6′2″ with large hands and couldn’t wrap my mind around using something so small as an “always take along” contraption.

Happily, I was wrong. Manual control over apeture and shutter speed works well, although I’m finding that the “action” and other settings usually preclude the need.

The large and very clear screen (set to a 60 per second refresh rate) is excellent. You can view your subject in almost total darkness.

Auto Focus is excellent and color rendition is impressive. When set to “fine” mode, the photos are razor sharp. As with any camera, there is noticable softening with the apeture wide open. That’s why you’ll love the high ISO capabilities.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that cameras with lower ISO capabilities equipped with stabalization devices can do the same job. These systems use inferior and fragile moving sensors or lenses which ONLY reduce camera shake. They do nothing for capturing action shots in reduced light situations. These devices are great for movie cameras, but for fast moving still photography, you need a usable high ISO.

With the F30, you can do some very nice work right through ISO 1600. You can use the ISO 3200 mode in a pinch, but for blow-ups, you should be prepared for some creative lab work.

This is a very superior and responsive piece of technology. Fuji even gives you a decently thought out menuing system which from my observation, is a first for them. I might also add that the macro capabilities are very impressive as is the ability to produce very credible 640X480 movies.

My rating is a spectacular for this kind of camera. Five stars for its kind.

Thank you!

[ Link to Michael Leventhal's website ]