ET Review: FujiFilm FinePix T200

Usually when you think of a camera with a large zoom lens, the first image that comes to mind is that of a chunky camera with a protruding lens. However the Fujifilm T200 breaks this stereotype by including a 10X optical zoom in a surprisingly compact body.

The T200 has a plastic body with a matte finish and silver metal outer rim. Even though the body is plastic, the camera construction is top notch and it looks and feels more expensive than it really is. The lens housing juts out slightly when powered off, but it remains easy to carry in the pocket. Strategically placed leather finish grips help you to hold it securely while shooting.

At the back is a 2.7-inch display, a mode dial selection switch, navigation pad and various indication lights. This placement does make the screen a bit smaller in comparison to some competitors that offer 3-inch displays. And with so many buttons placed together, things do get a bit cramped. People with large hands might want to check this out before buying. On the other hand, the inclusion of the mode dial at the back does help in changing modes faster.

The top is bare and has just a shutter button, zoom ring and the power button with a blue LED indicator. Underneath the camera is a proprietary connector for USB connectivity to the PC and transferring data. What is surprising is the exclusion of the 'F' button on the camera. Many Fuji cameras usually come with an 'F' button that offers one-touch access to various image settings. All those settings are still available in the T200, but you will need to go through the menu to change those.

For a compact camera, the T200 shoots impressive photographs. There was virtually no noise visible for photos shot in daylight and indoors under artificial light. At night though, noise was visible when we cranked the ISO sensitivity to 400 and above. The 10X optical zoom is helpful to bring distant subjects closer, but the zooming speed is a bit slow. Startup and shutdown time of the camera is just a second and it takes another second to focus on the subject. So in under 3 seconds, you will have your first photograph - very impressive for a budget camera.