Fujifilm FinePix 3800 3MP Digital Camera w/ 6x Optical Zoom
By: Fuji Average Rating: 4.0 Total Reviews: 152
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 On: 2008-02-15
I was given this camera about 3 years ago when I wanted a step up from my old (really old) 0.5mp camera. Let me jump right into the pros and cons and Ill try to explain a little about them afterwards.
PROS:
Feels good in your hands and not very heavy.
Plenty of manual features to get lost in.
Large enough LCD screen to see what you need before and after the shot.
Buttons placed for easy reach.
Cost.
Good battery life.
CONS:
Very, very bad low light images.
No manual focus option.
Even at 3.2 mega pixels the shots are still grainy.
Red reduction often ADDS red eye.
No interchangeable lenses.
Limited video sizes and bad audio.
Very slow shutter lag.
After a few years of owning this camera I really want to replace it. About 2/3 of my shots are taken indoors and this camera is useless inside unless the room is lit like a Hollywood set. The camera will not focus at any distance in normal indoor lighting. On the auto setting, inside shots always come out grainy. The flash is simply to weak to help. Since there is no way to manually focus the pictures you are constantly crossing your fingers hoping that the shot will come out somewhat decent so you can later fix the image on the computer.
The software that came with the camera does not have a red eye option to fix the red eye this camera is famous for giving your subjects. When you try to use the red eye reduction flash it always and I repeat always gives your subject red eye and always makes it worse had you left it off.
There is what looks like a screw on lens on the camera (not shown in product image) so you think you will have the ability to add a different lens. It is actually there to hold a filter. Since this camera is not a popular model FujiFilm has not made any filters (maybe 2) for you to use so its really just misleading.
The video sizes are 160 x 120 and 320 x 240. Which are ok for thumb nails but not something you are really able to watch. Since the camera is grainy at low light (meaning anything shot indoors) and the flash is only for pictures, your videos will be small, grainy, out of focus, and do nothing but fill up your memory card. The audio for the video is also useless unless you have bionic ears and can make out the mummbles.
The shutter lag is awful. No matter what trick you try you will always miss an action shot. There is a Sport mode on the camera but Im not sure what it does since it does not help with focus, shutter lag, lighting, etc.
On the good side, its a cheap camera but you get what you pay for with it.
Ill keep using it until I can afford a better DSLR camera but you can bet once my new camera shows up this one will be given to my teenage son to abuse.
 On: 2008-02-08
I had this camera for less than 2 years and used it only on rare occasions - you know, holidays and special events - so it has pretty low usage. Yet it has decided not to work. It turns on foe a second or two (with brand new batteries) then shuts itself off. Rearranging batteries and resetting factory default settings no help. Had similar reliability problems with another fujifilm camera. Fool me once shame on you, twice shame on me! Goodbye Fujifilm - forever!
 On: 2007-06-06
Our office purchased this camera a couple of years ago. I am the primary user of the camera. (This model provided the balance between features and price at the time it was purchased.) This is a good little camera, adequate for general use, with one or two sticking points to be aware of.
This camera has difficulties in low-light -- even ordinary room lighting -- without a flash. (In fairness, this disfeature is a fairly common occurrence in many cameras of this caliber and price range, though, as is the JPEG artifacts one gets in the images.) Using the flash will help with out-of-focus photos but go through batteries faster, the resulting photographs are usually less pleasing too -- people harshly lit with drastic shadows. (This can sometimes be minimized with thought and care.)
If you are not afraid to use the manual settings, brace the camera against something, or use a tripod, it is often the way to go. Some great shots can be had, even in room light, with manual settings, a tripod or steady hand, and a steady subject. In fact, using manual will often produce a better photo, with more natural color, than can be achieved with the automatic settings usually! Well worth learning.
The use of standard AA size batteries is a plus. I thought that the use of four AA batteries (rather than two) might mean longer life. I was incorrect. Be prepared with extra batteries and/or a good quick charger, especially when flash or zoom is used.
The biggest annoyance with this camera for me personally, though, is the fact that every time the batteries die, or are changed, the date must be reset before the camera will allow any photographs to be taken. (I dont even bother setting the date any longer. I just hit two or three buttons to skip past it all, but its required every time the batteries die or are changed.) Ive often wished the camera contained a capacitor or watch battery to maintain its memory while batteries were changed. (I believe newer Fugi models may have resolved this issue though; Fugi has some newer models with nice improvements and optical zooms up to 10x, in similarly price models.)
In the end, I would not discourage anyone from buying this model. The photo quality is on par with any of the rival models, just be aware of this models quirks. Generally speaking, Fugi seems to make a fine camera. I just wish we had held off for another year and the newer models.
On: 2007-06-05
Our office purchased this camera a couple of years ago. I am the primary user of the camera. (This model provided the balance between features and price at the time it was purchased.) This is a good little camera, adequate for general use, with one or two sticking points to be aware of.
This camera has difficulties in low-light -- even ordinary room lighting -- without a flash. (In fairness, this disfeature is a fairly common occurrence in many cameras of this caliber and price range, though, as is the JPEG artifacts one gets in the images.) Using the flash will help with out-of-focus photos but go through batteries faster, the resulting photographs are usually less pleasing too -- people harshly lit with drastic shadows. (This can sometimes be minimized with thought and care.)
If you are not afraid to use the manual settings, brace the camera against something, or use a tripod, it is often the way to go. Some great shots can be had, even in room light, with manual settings, a tripod or steady hand, and a steady subject. In fact, using manual will often produce a better photo, with more natural color, than can be achieved with the automatic settings usually! Well worth learning.
The use of standard AA size batteries is a plus. I thought that the use of four AA batteries (rather than two) might mean longer life. I was incorrect. Be prepared with extra batteries and/or a good quick charger, especially when flash or zoom is used.
The biggest annoyance with this camera for me personally, though, is the fact that every time the batteries die, or are changed, the date must be reset before the camera will allow any photographs to be taken. (I dont even bother setting the date any longer. I just hit two or three buttons to skip past it all, but its required every time the batteries die or are changed.) Ive often wished the camera contained a capacitor or watch battery to maintain its memory while batteries were changed. (I believe newer Fugi models may have resolved this issue though; Fugi has some newer models with nice improvements and optical zooms up to 10x, in similarly price models.)
In the end, I would not discourage anyone from buying this model. The photo quality is on par with any of the rival models, just be aware of this models quirks. Generally speaking, Fugi seems to make a fine camera. I just wish we had held off for another year and the newer models.
On: 2007-04-10
The same as the above posters, our camera just died...I think fujifilm should recall this camera due to it just stopping to work. What now a $300 paperweight? Was an excellent when working.
 On: 2007-04-09
Love my camera, it takes the greates pictures even it your not a professional. I love the video also. The quality is excellent and mine was refurbished.
On: 2007-03-24
This was a great camera while it lasted. We bought ours in Aug. 2003 and it has been everywhere with us. It took very decent pictures and was easy to use. Its a bit bulky. WARNING: our camera recently passed away. We took very good care of it, used rechargeable batteries (the only way to go, etc... but a few weeks ago it just stopped working. I had used it all morning and then it just wouldnt turn on. Ive tried recharging the batteries, using different batteries, toggling the switch... nothing works. I hate to think of the hundreds of dollars we spent to "rent" this camera for a few years. Technology changes quickly, and there are much better cameras on the market now... but products shouldnt just cease to work for no reason.
On: 2007-03-17
All the favorable reviews about this camera are true. If only I could still turn it on. It would have been great to have for the rest of my life.
I know exactly what the problem is. The batteries rest on metal tabs that do two things: They are electrical contacts, and they are supposed to act like little springs, holding the batteries up firmly against the electrical contacts in the battery compartment door. Unfortunately, these little tabs are now sagging. So the batteries no longer make firm contact, and, even with fresh batteries, the camera cant muster the power to take pictures.
Pulling the tabs back up is problematical. They are buried at the bottom of the battery compartment and very hard to get at.
The camera still works fine if run off its power adapter. You have to be near a power outlet. This basically turns it into an indoors-only camera.
Didnt the Fuji engineers know that a thin strip of metal, placed under constant pressure, will eventually sag? Maybe they were well aware of this. Maybe this is an example of "planned obsolescence".
On: 2007-03-15
I wish I had access to the more recent reviews on this camera. Mine too has just went dead. It was not abused or over used. As several have already said it should last longer for $300. Fuji should have stood by their product. They will lose in the end as these cameras keep failing.
On: 2007-03-14
I wish I had access to the more recent reviews on this camera. Mine too has just went dead. It was not abused or over used. As several have already said it should last longer for $300. Fuji should have stood by their product. They will lose in the end as these cameras keep failing.
by: spckstr46 On: 2007-01-29
I bought this camera in 2003. It recently went flakey on us giving our pictures light distortions. I absolutely miss this cameras pictures! The pictures outside were fantastic. I had very little motion blur and I took a lot of action pictures. The close ups were awesome. I took thousands of pictures! Im reluctant to replace it with the same model if others have experienced reliability problems. I love the pictures, but am not willing to buy another camera every few years.
On: 2007-01-29
Bought the 3800 in autumn of 2003. It worked well for about 3 years. I liked the audio with video feature, design, ease of use and reasonable quality of pictures, though it was always super sensitive to movement and many pictures blurred. During this time, I easily shot over 4000 pictures. It began to flake out sometime last summer or autumn with the black screen described by many others and now it just refuses to turn on.
I dont think that I will purchase a Fuji again, for a while at least, but purchase a Canon next.
Note that I still have a Pentax SLR 35-mm camera that I bought in the 1970s, which cost about $400 at the time. It has travelled / backpacked through Europe, Africa, Tibet and China as well as the US Sierras and Rockies and it still works great, when I want to use a film-camera.
Will digital cameras ever last as long?
On: 2007-01-28
I bought this camera in 2003. It recently went flakey on us giving our pictures light distortions. I absolutely miss this cameras pictures! The pictures outside were fantastic. I had very little motion blur and I took a lot of action pictures. The close ups were awesome. I took thousands of pictures! Im reluctant to replace it with the same model if others have experienced reliability problems. I love the pictures, but am not willing to buy another camera every few years.
On: 2007-01-28
Bought the 3800 in autumn of 2003. It worked well for about 3 years. I liked the audio with video feature, design, ease of use and reasonable quality of pictures, though it was always super sensitive to movement and many pictures blurred. During this time, I easily shot over 4000 pictures. It began to flake out sometime last summer or autumn with the black screen described by many others and now it just refuses to turn on.
I dont think that I will purchase a Fuji again, for a while at least, but purchase a Canon next.
Note that I still have a Pentax SLR 35-mm camera that I bought in the 1970s, which cost about $400 at the time. It has travelled / backpacked through Europe, Africa, Tibet and China as well as the US Sierras and Rockies and it still works great, when I want to use a film-camera.
Will digital cameras ever last as long?
On: 2007-01-18
I was surprised to read previous reviews about reliability. Ive taken my camera everywhere for years, including my deployment in Kuwait and Iraq, and its still working wonderfully. Ive taken thousands of pictures, and have never been unhappy with its performance. I am constantly being complimented on the quality of the pictures I show people, and I know its because of my finepix. My two complaints....the d#$% lens cap will not stay on, and theres no real-time battery-life monitor. Thats MINOR stuff for such consistently great pictures.
I bought the 3800 as my first step into digital photography. I planned on using it to figure out what I liked + disliked, and to upgrade to a digital SLR. That was almost 4 years ago, and Ive never had the urge or itch for anything "better".
Im not discounting anyone elses experiences, but mine have been exceptional.
On: 2007-01-17
I was surprised to read previous reviews about reliability. Ive taken my camera everywhere for years, including my deployment in Kuwait and Iraq, and its still working wonderfully. Ive taken thousands of pictures, and have never been unhappy with its performance. I am constantly being complimented on the quality of the pictures I show people, and I know its because of my finepix. My two complaints....the d#$% lens cap will not stay on, and theres no real-time battery-life monitor. Thats MINOR stuff for such consistently great pictures.
I bought the 3800 as my first step into digital photography. I planned on using it to figure out what I liked + disliked, and to upgrade to a digital SLR. That was almost 4 years ago, and Ive never had the urge or itch for anything "better".
Im not discounting anyone elses experiences, but mine have been exceptional.
On: 2007-01-06
I purchased this camera in 2003. It has been stored in a climate controlled environment, within a protective case. It has been used very little - perhaps 100 pictures. It now has horizontal lines appearing across the viewfinder, and they appear in the pictures as well. My advise is to steer clear of Fujifilm products.
On: 2006-12-28
I have had this turkey almost the same length of time as the other one star voters and have had almost exactly the same problems. Flickering in Photography mode and hit and miss correction maneuvers. In a camera used relatively infrequently. A common problem, apparently, ignored by the maker. This dud is now out of date. WHATEVER you do dont buy it used.
On: 2006-12-22
I purchased the Fuji FP 3800 in August of 2003. I used the camera very little during that period, and it was kept in excellent physical condition.
This year I started doing some shooting with it, and found that often the viewfinder display often come up blank, even with fresh batteries or running on the A/C adapter. Some times it would display, sometimes it wouldnt... other times, the dsiplay would flash intermittently with bright horizontal lines.
Now, it fails consistently.
I read numerous user reviews on this product, and its obvious to me that this problem is "systemic" with the 3800, and not the result of misuse, or associated with normal wear and tear problems. Its a defective product.
Just Look at the number of "no display" and "flashing display" complaints here on Amazon... I lost count.
Fortunately for Fuji, this failure occurs just after the warranty period, has ended, and as far as I am aware, Fuji has never recalled this obviously defective camera, or... offered any form of reparation.
I will never purchase another Fuji product, and I will encourage my friends and associates to do the same.
Fuji used to be well a respected company, known for good products at good prices.
Sadly, that is no longer the case... and even sadder... I cant give the Fuji FinePix 3800 a "0" rating.
Al Campagna
On: 2006-12-21
I purchased the Fuji FP 3800 in August of 2003. I used the camera very little during that period, and it was kept in excellent physical condition.
This year I started doing some shooting with it, and found that often the viewfinder display often come up blank, even with fresh batteries or running on the A/C adapter. Some times it would display, sometimes it wouldnt... other times, the dsiplay would flash intermittently with bright horizontal lines.
Now, it fails consistently.
I read numerous user reviews on this product, and its obvious to me that this problem is "systemic" with the 3800, and not the result of misuse, or associated with normal wear and tear problems. Its a defective product.
Just Look at the number of "no display" and "flashing display" complaints here on Amazon... I lost count.
Fortunately for Fuji, this failure occurs just after the warranty period, has ended, and as far as I am aware, Fuji has never recalled this obviously defective camera, or... offered any form of reparation.
I will never purchase another Fuji product, and I will encourage my friends and associates to do the same.
Fuji used to be well a respected company, known for good products at good prices.
Sadly, that is no longer the case... and even sadder... I cant give the Fuji FinePix 3800 a "0" rating.
Al Campagna
On: 2006-12-15
I was surprised and feel fortunate that my fujifilm 3800 never left me down like some of the other reviewers. The camera will shut off if left in the "on" position and you need to turn it off and back on again to get it working but it never completely quit.
After an expensive professional photographer left me down with a photo session, I took some outdoor pictures myself and they turned out better than the indoor pictures from a professional! My co-workers were amazed and several others have purchased this camera and have owned for several years without any problems.
Ive owned this camera ever since it was first manufactured and paid around $400+ for it.
On: 2006-08-17
I have had this camera for over three years now and I bought it when it was valued at $400. I love the quality of the pictures it takes. I love the design, it feels more like a professional camera.
Ive read the reviews below this one, where people have had complaints of the camera not working. Ive experienced the camera shutting off on me for no appearant reason. So far, it still works. But I do have another digital camera that I use often too. If my camera stops working, I will update.
On: 2006-08-16
I have had this camera for over three years now and I bought it when it was valued at $400. I love the quality of the pictures it takes. I love the design, it feels more like a professional camera.
Ive read the reviews below this one, where people have had complaints of the camera not working. Ive experienced the camera shutting off on me for no appearant reason. So far, it still works. But I do have another digital camera that I use often too. If my camera stops working, I will update.
On: 2006-06-01
I bought this camera 2-1/2 years ago and it was a great camera until recently. After owning the camera with no problems for 2 years, the screen now goes black half the time when you want to take a picture. We have to fiddle with it hoping the screen will come back on and allow us to take a picture. It is really annoying! You expect a camera to last longer than 2 or 2-1/2 years. I would NOT buy this camera again. It is a piece of junk!
On: 2006-05-03
I have owned a Fujifilm 3800 for about 2 1/2 years and loved it, until it stopped powering up. There was no warning, no indication that there was anything wrong, it just stopped. From reading other reviews I can see that this is not an unusual problem. As someone else put it: it stops right after the warranty expired. I cannot afford another camera, so I will go back to using my old standby, the Pentex K1000.
On: 2006-04-06
I owned this camera for two years and it just stop working. All was well but nothing changed and it just went.
On: 2006-03-14
It just stopped working after like 2 years. My previous camera was my fathers, that he used for like 20 years. No problems for him or me.
I dont believe cameras should just stop working after 2 years. From looking online it seems it is a common problem but people just expect electronics to have the quality of cars made by GM in the 1970s. Sorry I expect things to work and not just for a short while.
On: 2006-03-13
It just stopped working after like 2 years. My previous camera was my fathers, that he used for like 20 years. No problems for him or me.
I dont believe cameras should just stop working after 2 years. From looking online it seems it is a common problem but people just expect electronics to have the quality of cars made by GM in the 1970s. Sorry I expect things to work and not just for a short while.
On: 2006-02-27
After 28 months it quit working, factory wants $86.00 to fix....no more Fuji products for me!!
On: 2006-02-26
After 28 months it quit working, factory wants $86.00 to fix....no more Fuji products for me!!
On: 2006-01-03
I got the camera a little over 2 yrs. ago and loved the photos it took. Exactly 26 months later, the camera simply stopped working. The repair center told me it is $150 just to open the camera on the repair bench, PLUS whatever the repair cost will be. I was advised that the cost of repair wasnt worth it and in the long run its more cost effective just to buy a new camera.
Call me crazy but, I think a camera in the price range of $300 and up, should last more that 26 months.
On: 2006-01-02
I got the camera a little over 2 yrs. ago and loved the photos it took. Exactly 26 months later, the camera simply stopped working. The repair center told me it is $150 just to open the camera on the repair bench, PLUS whatever the repair cost will be. I was advised that the cost of repair wasnt worth it and in the long run its more cost effective just to buy a new camera.
Call me crazy but, I think a camera in the price range of $300 and up, should last more that 26 months.
On: 2005-12-27
I got this about a year ago and have used it to record all of my childrens development. My family is a long way off so I need to take lots of pics & send them home to Grandma & Grandad. This camera consistently takes great photos! I have blown some up to 8X10 and they still look good enough to frame & display (even at 2MP setting, never mind 3mp Fine). As I said I use it a lot and have never had a single problem with it. It has a good feature range (most of which I dont even use never mind understand!).
If you are looking for a great entry level digital camera that takes great pictures and is very easy to use I recommend it highly.
The only comment I would have is that it is NOT a pocket camera. You will have to carry it around in a fanny pack or case of some sort which is not a big deal from my perspective!
On: 2005-12-26
I got this about a year ago and have used it to record all of my childrens development. My family is a long way off so I need to take lots of pics & send them home to Grandma & Grandad. This camera consistently takes great photos! I have blown some up to 8X10 and they still look good enough to frame & display (even at 2MP setting, never mind 3mp Fine). As I said I use it a lot and have never had a single problem with it. It has a good feature range (most of which I dont even use never mind understand!).
If you are looking for a great entry level digital camera that takes great pictures and is very easy to use I recommend it highly.
The only comment I would have is that it is NOT a pocket camera. You will have to carry it around in a fanny pack or case of some sort which is not a big deal from my perspective!
On: 2005-12-15
It was a nice camera until it stopped working in the first week of my three week Paris, France trip. It was working fine, I took couple of pictures and turned it off and then it never turned back on. Also from other reviews you will see the same engineering mistake. There is a small screw coming out and shorting the circuits and power. I called Fuji, they told me to send it to a repair center, and the cost of repair is same as the camera itself now, I wont get it fixed or buy any other Fuji product again. This is a common problem that they had with their design in this particular model and they should fix it with no cost at me. If a car has such a common problem, they recall it and fix the problem for you with no cost but for cameras you pay 400 dollars (it is some money, maybe not same as cars but why do we measure respect with money) and they dont respect their customers, then ok, they wont have loyal customers either. NEVER TRUST FUJI, go buy a better camera from sony or canon.
On: 2005-12-14
It was a nice camera until it stopped working in the first week of my three week Paris, France trip. It was working fine, I took couple of pictures and turned it off and then it never turned back on. Also from other reviews you will see the same engineering mistake. There is a small screw coming out and shorting the circuits and power. I called Fuji, they told me to send it to a repair center, and the cost of repair is same as the camera itself now, I wont get it fixed or buy any other Fuji product again. This is a common problem that they had with their design in this particular model and they should fix it with no cost at me. If a car has such a common problem, they recall it and fix the problem for you with no cost but for cameras you pay 400 dollars (it is some money, maybe not same as cars but why do we measure respect with money) and they dont respect their customers, then ok, they wont have loyal customers either. NEVER TRUST FUJI, go buy a better camera from sony or canon.
On: 2005-11-25
The Fujifilm Finepix 3800 was my first foray into the digital world. After buying my first Minolta 35mm back in college, i was ready to see what i could find in the viewfinder of a digital world.
I liked what i saw.
In fact, this 3800 helped me get into freelance photography.
My job is fairly specialized. I get to fly over a major metropolitan city on a daily basis - and due to the nature of my job am witness to several interesting events on a weekly basis.
One of those events turned out to be a fatal accident involving a runaway boat on a local freeway. Being first on the scene, i was able to capture some great shots with the 3800 that by word-of-mouth caught the attention of the local LA Times bureau.
Next thing i knew, i had been published in the Times with just a 3Mp camera! (as Napoleon Dynamite would say; "Luckeey!" )
As others have noted - the one drawback of the 3800 is the problem of focusing in low light situations. I have several shots in my recycle bin of blurry portraits indoors.
In spite of that, however, this has been a very good camera.
I appreciate the form factor of the handgrip (which doubles as the AA battery compartment). With the rubberized patches it helps you to have a good grip on your camera in on-the-go situations.
A pilot-friend of mine has also purchased a Fuji 3800 and seems to be happy with its capabilities.
(ive since upgraded to a Nikon and continue to get published occasionally AND fairly steady work as an event photographer).
On: 2005-11-15
I was previously very interested in this camera. However, after using it for a time, it has been very possibly a nearly useless camera. The autofocus is poor at best, the movie is only 320x240 max, and less than 30fps.
There is also a considerable delay in taking pictures, as the autofocus has a meeting someplace inside the camera to discuss if there is any point in focusing on anything in particular!
There are many better choices, not to mention the Finepix S7000!
On: 2005-10-03
My dad has this camera and I fell in love with it and was very happy to find one on Amazon. It takes great pictures.
On: 2005-09-13
This camera takes very good pictures and all the extra functions it has are great. But the 3800 does have some problems. My second Fuji 3800 camera died last weekend, worked great, then turned it on and the viewfinder and lcd screen is so fuzzy you cant make out what you are seeing, if you take a picture, the colors are all messed up and it has (video) lines thru the picture when viewed. My first Fuji 3800 camera worked great, until one day I turned it on and it decided it would turn its self off and never would power up again. The camera worked so good, I had to
purchased another one (I had extra lens and cards), the 1st camera lasted a year and I did take over 6000 pictures with it, the 2nd only lasted 6 months (2000 pictures). May be I over worked them. But be aware they do have problems. I am puchasing a Fuji s3100 and hope it will last longer than the 3800, like I said, they took great pictures. But I would not purchase another 3800.
On: 2005-09-12
This camera takes very good pictures and all the extra functions it has are great. But the 3800 does have some problems. My second Fuji 3800 camera died last weekend, worked great, then turned it on and the viewfinder and lcd screen is so fuzzy you cant make out what you are seeing, if you take a picture, the colors are all messed up and it has (video) lines thru the picture when viewed. My first Fuji 3800 camera worked great, until one day I turned it on and it decided it would turn its self off and never would power up again. The camera worked so good, I had to
purchased another one (I had extra lens and cards), the 1st camera lasted a year and I did take over 6000 pictures with it, the 2nd only lasted 6 months (2000 pictures). May be I over worked them. But be aware they do have problems. I am puchasing a Fuji s3100 and hope it will last longer than the 3800, like I said, they took great pictures. But I would not purchase another 3800.
On: 2005-09-06
I got this camera a couple of years ago for my birthday. It worked great for about two years and then it just went dead! It wouldnt power on at all no matter what we did (fresh batteries, etc.) I took it to a camera repair shop and they said that it would cost more to fix it (if they could even do that) than to buy a new one. I see by the reviews of others that it is a common problem. I was planning on getting another, but was sort of leary about it. Now I will DEFINATELY NOT be buying another like this!
On: 2005-04-13
We purchased the camera a year ago, it wasnt used a lot and now it wont power up at all. What a pile of crap, we also have a minolta, and will never buy Fuji again!!
On: 2005-03-10
I was mostly satisfied with this camera until the poor engineering caught up with it. After 18 months the screws backed out of the lens ring inside the camera, shorting out interior circuits. This is a common problem for this camera. Fuji says they will fix it for $118.25. I dont think its worth it now. I will not be buying any more Fuji products because I cant afford to buy products that self destruct.
On: 2005-03-09
I was mostly satisfied with this camera until the poor engineering caught up with it. After 18 months the screws backed out of the lens ring inside the camera, shorting out interior circuits. This is a common problem for this camera. Fuji says they will fix it for $118.25. I dont think its worth it now. I will not be buying any more Fuji products because I cant afford to buy products that self destruct.
On: 2005-02-04
My 3800 needed to have its power supply rebuilt twice in its first two years of service.
On: 2005-02-03
My 3800 needed to have its power supply rebuilt twice in its first two years of service.
On: 2004-12-04
I purchased a Fuji 3800 last year because it seemed like great value for money. Like many things that seem too good to be true, it was. Almost exactly a year after purchase, in which it was used sparingly, the camera went dead - it just would not turn on. By the time I got it to a repair center, the 1 year warranty period was over. The estimated repair cost including tax is $150 - I can get a decent new 3.2 MP camera for that price these days.
While it lasted, it took decent photos. The 6x zoom which was a big selling point of the camera was fairly useful. Focusing in low light was difficult. Overall it felt too light and plasticky. With the breakdown, Ill never buy a Fuji again.
On: 2004-12-01
After a couple months of good performance my camera wouldnt power up. Still under warrenty mailed off to Fuji in NY and got it back the next week with details of repair and they also repaired a cosmetic problem without being asked!
great service from Fuji!
Only problem with camera is a little slow to cycle pictures but for general snap shots its good.
On: 2004-11-22
I purchased this camera after doing quite a bit of research on digital cameras, likes and dislikes, amateur to professional. I used to be heavily into photography several years ago, but now that I have a family, I needed something to point-and-shoot and also allow me to send pictures to my family and friends scattered all over the southeast. This camera had the requisite features I was looking for.
Pros -
3.2 MP will give you very crisp shots on enlargements, but 1 MP is great for snapshots - this camera handled both ends of the spectrum well.
The buttons are well laid out and easy to find and manipulate.
The built-in flash works reliably and is easy to employ.
The cycle time between pictures is relatively quick, making it easy to catch multiple shots (like kids at play).
Uses AA-bateries!!! No searching for an odd battery type while on a trip and no worrying about when you will have to recharge.
Cons -
A bit bulky. The camera is comfortable to hold and use, but a bit large to stow away when not in use.
Flash is sometimes a bit too strong for the picture.
Autofocus has trouble in low light situations.
Overall, I wouldnt trade my Fuji for anything. Despite a few problems mentioned above, my camera has functioned without a hitch for nigh on two years. As far as buying one, I would suggest a retailer who has a product replacement plan warranty. If you are going to throw down the cash to purchase something like a digital camera, the extra $30-$50 is well worth it. Imagine buying a digital camera, then something breaks, you take it back and it costs almost as much as the original retail to fix. These warranty plans will save you a lot of headache if this ever happens.
On: 2004-11-21
I purchased this camera after doing quite a bit of research on digital cameras, likes and dislikes, amateur to professional. I used to be heavily into photography several years ago, but now that I have a family, I needed something to point-and-shoot and also allow me to send pictures to my family and friends scattered all over the southeast. This camera had the requisite features I was looking for.
Pros -
3.2 MP will give you very crisp shots on enlargements, but 1 MP is great for snapshots - this camera handled both ends of the spectrum well.
The buttons are well laid out and easy to find and manipulate.
The built-in flash works reliably and is easy to employ.
The cycle time between pictures is relatively quick, making it easy to catch multiple shots (like kids at play).
Uses AA-bateries!!! No searching for an odd battery type while on a trip and no worrying about when you will have to recharge.
Cons -
A bit bulky. The camera is comfortable to hold and use, but a bit large to stow away when not in use.
Flash is sometimes a bit too strong for the picture.
Autofocus has trouble in low light situations.
Overall, I wouldnt trade my Fuji for anything. Despite a few problems mentioned above, my camera has functioned without a hitch for nigh on two years. As far as buying one, I would suggest a retailer who has a product replacement plan warranty. If you are going to throw down the cash to purchase something like a digital camera, the extra $30-$50 is well worth it. Imagine buying a digital camera, then something breaks, you take it back and it costs almost as much as the original retail to fix. These warranty plans will save you a lot of headache if this ever happens.
On: 2004-10-28
Our 3800 is an extended member of the family. GREAT camera, I reccomend it to all my friends, and once they bought it, they reccomended it to thier families. I did a lot of research before buying this camera for about three months, and was it worth it.
Love it because:
-So easy to use, auto-focus does everything for you
-Quality of picture is superb for the amatuer picture obsessed family (best quality Ive ever had in a camera, better than my pentax zx-50). Friends and family always compliment my pictures.
-Looks good, everyone asks me "What camera is that!?"
-Still small enough to tote every where (I take mine shopping with me, so I dont miss ANY great shots of my two yr old)
Only complaints are:
-Like any digital camera the batteries wear out FAST, this is annoying, but I invested in rechargeables and keep a spare set already charged--problem solved.
-The lens frame fell off and the screws got lost (this prevents the protective adapter ring from going on, which is CRUCIAL to protecting the delicate lens)... HOWEVER, this leads me into another pro for Fuji: 6 days before my one year warranty was about to expire, I sent it in for repair, and within one week they sent me back a completely new camera FREE of charge. I will definitely be more careful with this new one and prevent knocking it around or dropping it.
Ive never been so pleased with customer service as I was when I got my precious camera back with such speed! I highly reccomend this camera to you! I absolutely love and depend on it, and wouldnt trust anything else with all my familys milestones!
On: 2004-10-20
I got the Fuji Finepix 3800 in 2002 and I really Loved this camera until I Stupidly LOST it. I have 3 children and this camera captured 2 Births with beautiful images. I took pictures every single day(several times a day) and I never had any malfunction problems with it. You have to buy quality batteries(name Brand). The ONLY thing that I wish was better was that when capturing video its only about 60seconds and if the lighting wasnt good either was the video! I was EXTREMELY HAPPY WITH THIS CAMERA. Being that I must buy another one I was thinking of getting another Figi Finepix but maybe a newer model. The problem with this so far is that I want something with all the features of the 3800 and more but the next best thing is the the Fuji Finepix S3100 and theres even a way to make it like a web cam BUT the one feature that is missing on this that the 3800 has is the SOUND on the video there is NONE. That S--ks. I have children so the sound is important there is no in between its either the 3800 again or the S3100 with no sound. I wish Fuji had one right in the middle but they dont. By the way lookin on the Fuji site they have many cameras but strangly the 3800 is not on there at all. Hope you enjoy your new Cam!
On: 2004-08-22
I got my Fuji Finepix 3800 in February 2003; Ive taken it on trips near and far (including Hawaii) and have used it extensively at home. Ive been completely pleased with it; it has proven to be durable enough to be carted around, pulled out and used with very little fuss.
My only problem with it is that its a bit bulkier than I would like; cant just pop it into my purse. That said, its taken quality pictures in a variety of situations with wonderful detail. I do not regret this purchasing decision and I am not casting covetous eyes on newer digicams, but anticipating a few more years with this one.
On: 2004-07-27
I bought the Finepix 3800 last year, 2 months before my wedding. It was a great camera! I loved the zoom. It took great pictures before the wedding and during the honeymoon. I used it to take pictures as the unofficial photographer at my sisters wedding last month. The pictures turned out great! For our first wedding anniversary, we went back to our honeymoon location. I captured some excellent pictures there. On the flight home, I took some breathtaking pictures of clouds through the airplane window. Halfway through the flight, the lens extender became loose. By the time we got to the airport, the ring around the lens had come just about completely off. We went to a restaurant for dinner, and the camera would not even turn on. It was as if the warrenty had just expired, so it fell apart. I thought perhaps the batteries had died. I tried 3 different sets of new batteries. That wasnt it. Today I took the camera to a place I found on Fujis website to get it fixed. The technician knew what the problem was right away. the screws holding that ring on got loose and fell inside the camera, frying the circuit board. It will cost me $199 to get it fixed. It sounds like this must be a common problem with the camera since he knew the answer right away. I will buy a new digital camera, but I will not buy another Finepix 3800!
On: 2004-05-23
The camera I bought from this seller had a button broken on it and two seconds after I turned on the camera the camera turned off and it now smells like its burnt. Something might have happened through the shipping proccess, but I talked to the seller and he is not working with me to refund the product.Ill never buy another camera from here again.
On: 2004-05-22
The camera I bought from this seller had a button broken on it and two seconds after I turned on the camera the camera turned off and it now smells like its burnt. Something might have happened through the shipping proccess, but I talked to the seller and he is not working with me to refund the product.Ill never buy another camera from here again.
On: 2004-05-11
I bought this camera approximately 18 months ago and have been totally and completely satisified with its performance and picture quality. This is my first digital camera. When I was looking to dive into the digital world, I wanted a camera that would give me all of the features my SLR camera had (zoom, picture quality, etc.). I absolutely cannot say enough good things about my Fuji. It takes great pictures with little or no effort on my part. The battery life is long; consumption is at a minimum. I am able to take close to 100 pictures before I need to change batteries. I keep two sets of rechargables. One in the camera and one fully charged in the bag. So all I have to do is switch them out when necessary. I immediately bought additional XD cards. With the 128mb card, at normal resolution, you can store just over 200 pictures. I love to take pictures... My idea is take 10 pics and youll probably get at least one really good one. My husband used to cringe at the sound of each picture, thinking about costly film developing. Now, he doesnt care. I take 10 pics, and delete nine. Only print out the one that is good. :-) The long and short of it is, I love this camera. It is a good purchase and well worth the money if you are looking to transition over from film to digital without giving up any features.
On: 2004-05-10
I bought this camera approximately 18 months ago and have been totally and completely satisified with its performance and picture quality. This is my first digital camera. When I was looking to dive into the digital world, I wanted a camera that would give me all of the features my SLR camera had (zoom, picture quality, etc.). I absolutely cannot say enough good things about my Fuji. It takes great pictures with little or no effort on my part. The battery life is long; consumption is at a minimum. I am able to take close to 100 pictures before I need to change batteries. I keep two sets of rechargables. One in the camera and one fully charged in the bag. So all I have to do is switch them out when necessary. I immediately bought additional XD cards. With the 128mb card, at normal resolution, you can store just over 200 pictures. I love to take pictures... My idea is take 10 pics and youll probably get at least one really good one. My husband used to cringe at the sound of each picture, thinking about costly film developing. Now, he doesnt care. I take 10 pics, and delete nine. Only print out the one that is good. :-) The long and short of it is, I love this camera. It is a good purchase and well worth the money if you are looking to transition over from film to digital without giving up any features.
by: Anonymous On: 2004-04-30
I have this camera for 6 month now and never regreted I got it.
Optics is really good, zoom works great. Has some problems focusing in low light but I just point and shoot with a flash and in 80% of cases get a good picture. Never needed more resolution as well.
On: 2004-04-29
I have this camera for 6 month now and never regreted I got it.
Optics is really good, zoom works great. Has some problems focusing in low light but I just point and shoot with a flash and in 80% of cases get a good picture. Never needed more resolution as well.
On: 2004-04-04
This is my first digital camera and I bought it after talking to a lot of people and reading online comments. I am not disappointed. It performs really good. Pictures are sharp, high resolution. It takes good photos in almost every condition. You may not take good shots with it at first use, but when you learn to control your hand and know how to adjust in different lights, then you are on it. Still I wouldnt say this is a professional camera; use it for your vacation, home or family use. The battery consumption is reasonable. My only thing against it is the size. You need to carry it in hand or on your shoulder all the time which may be annoying sometimes (it doesnt fit in pocket). But thats the price you pay for a moving lens and great zoom. Also you should learn how to use flash settings in the dark with this camera, or your photos may turn out dim.
The camera used XD memory cards which are a little more expensive than the conventional ones (like CompactFlash, etc.) It uses four AA battery, which I think is a good feature of this camera. You can use it anywhere. If your batteries run out, at worst you have to go to a shop and get four new ones. As opposed to the cameras with special batteries and chargers, which will cost you a lot to replace batteries and in each country you have to be careful if the electric system macthes your charger.
by: Anonymous On: 2004-02-20
This is my second digital camera, and it is by far the best I have ever used. The 6x optical zoom is nothing short of incredible, and the ability to work with XP is great. Outdoors in decent daylight, this camera takes beautiful, colorful pictures. I have two very small complaints. One is that if there is not much light outdoors or indoors, the video mode will not work too well. The other is that there is no sound on this camera, which doesnt matter too much. Besides these tiny problems, this is an incredible camera at a decent price. (Also, extra memory will help to store pictures and videos a lot.)
On: 2004-02-19
This is my second digital camera, and it is by far the best I have ever used. The 6x optical zoom is nothing short of incredible, and the ability to work with XP is great. Outdoors in decent daylight, this camera takes beautiful, colorful pictures. I have two very small complaints. One is that if there is not much light outdoors or indoors, the video mode will not work too well. The other is that there is no sound on this camera, which doesnt matter too much. Besides these tiny problems, this is an incredible camera at a decent price. (Also, extra memory will help to store pictures and videos a lot.)
On: 2004-02-19
I bought this camera brand new at the store last week and was facinated by its sleek body design. I liked the fact that it is slightly bulkier than other digital cameras. The salesman told me that although it has 3.2 mp, you are able to print at 6 megapixels. After printing some pictures, I found out that if you enlarge the pictures to "poster" size the quality doesnt degrade. Luckily I have a photo printer. Like you, I read through all the reviews before finally deciding on a product. I dont know why there are people out there that give this camera a negative review. Of course there are pros and cons to any electronics product you buy so to help you out I have included some that I have experienced myself.Pros: - Extremely user-friendly!
- Both the LCD display and the viewfinder are in color.
- The zoom feature is decent.
- It has a pop-up flash and the brightness can be adjusted.
- As far as digital cameras go, this one does not consume batteries as bad as other ones.
- You can add date-stamp to your printed pictures
- Set at 0.3 Megapixels you can take up to 100 pictures with just your 16 MB memory card. (Can only handle 18 pics at its megapixel maximum-- But really.. who wants to print poster-size pictures of their vacations unless you happen to be a paparazzi? Cons: - The video is grainy, and needs to be utilized in well lit areas in order to be viewed better.
- The software it comes with is not all gravy but it is somewhat helpful. Thats it. If I weighed the good against the bad of this camera, then i would say that I made a wise decision in choosing this model.
On: 2004-01-28
This is my second digital. This is by far the best. This takes pictures that look like a 35 mm. It is easy on batteries. In two months with moderate use, I have replaced the batteries only once. After seeing the quality of prints, I have finally sold my 35 mm which I loved dearly. The only downside is that the display is all digital. Through the viewfinder it is digital. Otherwise, easy to use and understand and works with XP. Love it!
by: Anonymous On: 2004-01-24
I was really excited when I purchased this camera because of the 6xs optical zoom and the price, which varies, was resonable. I loved the features and the zoom level and thought the quality of the pictures was very good. I was however, very unhappy with the shutter speed in this camera and as I took pictures of my (active)children noticed a big difference in the freeze frame shot and the actual picture saved to my card. I gave it a couple of weeks to get comfortable and experiment with all of the settings/features and ended up returning the camera. I dont know if anyone else had this problem...maybe I had a defective camera...but it turned out not to be what I was looking for.
On: 2004-01-17
I ordered this camera a couple of months ago and love it. Unlike some Sony models my fingers dont have to be miniatures to move pictures forward or backward. You can zoom in on a pic even after you take the pic. The qualify of the pics are excellent. Spend the money for the larger memory. And buy the rechargeable batteries. Even a novice will be working with this camera in no time. Only one negative. In low light, you can shoot closer, but no pics of kids on stages, they blur when the lighting is low.
On: 2004-01-16
I ordered this camera a couple of months ago and love it. Unlike some Sony models my fingers dont have to be miniatures to move pictures forward or backward. You can zoom in on a pic even after you take the pic. The qualify of the pics are excellent. Spend the money for the larger memory. And buy the rechargeable batteries. Even a novice will be working with this camera in no time. Only one negative. In low light, you can shoot closer, but no pics of kids on stages, they blur when the lighting is low.
On: 2004-01-06
If you are only going to take pictures on sunny days, by all means buy this camera. However, if you are like most folks who often take pictures on overcast days or need to use a flash in low-light conditions - forget this camera! On overcast days, the camera often indicates that there is too little light for hand-held pictures. And when it is dark enough to warrent using the flash, the cameras auto-focus cant operate, resulting in brighly illuminated out-of-focus photos. A call to Fuji technical support about this problem was a waste of time. This is a very flawed product.
by: Anonymous On: 2004-01-06
I bought this camera about a year ago, and I LOVE IT! This camera takes beautiful shots any time of day. I get excellent pictures of animals at the zoo or even in my own home. In gyms, at first, the pics are too dark, etc. So, i go into manual mode, and set it for specific conditions, instantly, i start getting excellent pictures again. When i print on my Office Jet printer, i get exceptional prints, any size! No grainieness, nothing! Yes, there is a bit of delay from when you press the shutter button, but, i found a way around this. Press it down halfway, to focus, then, when you get it to where you want it, or your subject to his location, Click it all the way, youll get an excellent picture. I took a picture of the thunder mountain railroad at disneyland and the camera caught it at the PERFECT moment, as it was just passing us at an angle.BUY THIS CAMERA!!
On: 2004-01-02
We brought this camera back in February 2003. We researched and researched. Read so many reviews, our brains felt clogged. Then we read the reviews in Consumer Reports, and it was decided. We LOVE LOVE LOVE this little thing!!! Can not say enough good things about it. It is compact, light weight and takes beautiful pictures. I have had so many people comment on what great quality pictures they were! Even at the lowest setting, this camera takes better pictures that my mother-in-laws high priced Cannon. My boss owns the Sony Mavica (the newest one with the cd drive), and there is no comparison. Even she had to comment on how crisp and clear the pictures come out each time!! Now shes the one who likes to borrow my camera. :) My son is almost 2 years old, and those quick movies (1 min or 3 - depending on the resolution) are great!!!!!! I even won an amateur photo contest, and I attribute the quality of the picture on this camera alone... because let me tell ya, I am no photographer! This is just a happy customers review. Nothing technical, purely from a users point of view. Do your research, read the reviews and then go GET THIS CAMERA!!!!!!! Happy customer & amateur photographer in FL.
On: 2003-12-31
I bought this camera in February of 2003 as my first digital camera. I am studying photography in school so I wanted a camera that was more than just "point and shoot". A lot of digital cameras now are being made just to look cute and trendy instead of take good pictures. The FinePix 3800 isnt the prettiest camera on the market, but it does its job well. I take mostly outside shots during the day, and this camera is perfect for those types of photos. My biggest issue with this camera, though-- aside from the fact that it eats batteries like a child eats candy-- is that it just doesnt work well in low light conditions or for action shots. The shutter speed is rather slow and cannot be adjusted, so most moving shots end up blurry. The flash is bright enough so that if youre shooting at night or in low light, you can clearly see everything in the picture-- but sometimes you want the atmosphere of low light, and in that situation, this camera falls short. Also when using the flash, it tends to wash out color from peoples faces, so I have to go into Photoshop and edit the pictures before I get prints made. Overall this camera is great for casual photographers and/or students who just want a bit more from their digital camera, but if youre thinking about doing professional photography, I would not reccommend this particular model. If you wish to see examples of what this camera can do, visit - http://photo.umi.nu - my collection of photography.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-12-30
Even after telling my brother about the issues i had with 2800 my brother bought this 3800 for me. As i was almost sure about this camera is JUNK. takes poor pictures at night. can not take movie pictures like animals etc.
Service at fuji sucks. just save yourself from trouble and dont buy this camera.
On: 2003-12-29
Even after telling my brother about the issues i had with 2800 my brother bought this 3800 for me. As i was almost sure about this camera is JUNK. takes poor pictures at night. can not take movie pictures like animals etc.
Service at fuji sucks. just save yourself from trouble and dont buy this camera.
On: 2003-12-23
This is a very good camera for the price. This is very true that it has troubles autofocusing in the low light conditions. However, I found that changing angle helps in very many cases. I love manual/"advance" controls. They helped me take great pictures in different situations. This camera is the best for outdoor shots. Zoom works just great.
If you take many of indoor pictures and hate manual controls - get a Cannon Elph (just 2X zoom). Otherwise this is as good as it can get
by: terridoney On: 2003-12-22
I dont know what that other person was saying or the guy in Best Buy, but this camera is awesome. Sure you will get fuzzy photos if you dont hold the camera still, but it will take some excellent pictures if you know how to use an SLR camera. I have had this camera since September and I am soooooo pleased with it, indoors and out. It actually took photographs of snow as it was falling, my christmas tree lights, etc. Love this camera. Of course, not every picture came out great. It would be nice if I could remember to open the flash, lol. But frankly, this camera is awesome and I love it more than any digital I have had, that was 4 of them.
On: 2003-12-22
This is a very good camera for the price. This is very true that it has troubles autofocusing in the low light conditions. However, I found that changing angle helps in very many cases. I love manual/"advance" controls. They helped me take great pictures in different situations. This camera is the best for outdoor shots. Zoom works just great.
If you take many of indoor pictures and hate manual controls - get a Cannon Elph (just 2X zoom). Otherwise this is as good as it can get
On: 2003-12-17
I owned this camera for about four months.. Ive owned three digital cameras total (HP PhotoSmart 215, the Fuji FinePix 3800, and a Kodak DX6490) and this one, as far as image quality goes, is by FAR the very best (even though the Kodak is 4mp and costs $200 more *rolls eyes*) I fell in love with this camera time and time again because it never did me wrong. My photos always came out great, with such clarity and detail (http://www.deviantart.com/view/3885157/)
It pretty much worked like a charm. It did everything I needed it to do and then some.My only complaint is that its performance in low-light situations/surroundings does indeed suffer.. photos taken in the dark (with the flash on of course) come out beautifully, just as crisp and sharp as photos during the day.. HOWEVER.. you absolutely can NOT see what youre taking a picture of before you shoot it! The LCD basically becomes worthless, even if you have a light on, it suffers. If the room is not entirely well lit, youll have to do a bit of guessing. Besides that, this camera is perfect. Its a digital camera, a digital VIDEO camera (for short periods of time, which is unfortunate.. I dont understand why you can have 16 one-minute long videos but not have 1 sixteen-minute long video.), as well as a webcam.. and its pretty much needless to say that the image quality when used as a webcam is much better than almost every webcam you can buy all by itself. I cant rave about this camera enough, my heart broke when it quit working (no fault of the camera, entirely my own fault.. I.. *whispers* was taking pictures of my family cooking hotdogs over a fire.. got a little too close.. apparently I melted something inside of the camera.) If someone came to me with a brand new one of these ($300) and asked me to trade it for my brand new $500 Kodak, Id trade in an instant. Having doubts about getting this camera? Quit doubting, and get it. Its amazing.
On: 2003-12-11
I bought the 3800 at a very reduced closeout price. I like this camera, but have found a few situations--as mentioned in other reviews--where the image results are unpredictable, at best. Do NOT buy the Fujifilm SC-FX304W case for the 3800 or the 3000. (See my review for the case.)
On: 2003-12-10
I bought the 3800 at a very reduced closeout price. I like this camera, but have found a few situations--as mentioned in other reviews--where the image results are unpredictable, at best. Do NOT buy the Fujifilm SC-FX304W case for the 3800 or the 3000. (See my review for the case.)
On: 2003-12-07
This is my third digital camera and by far the best. The pictures are very clear and all I have to do is point and shoot. It has a lot of special features but I just use the close up feature and the standard. It does not use batteries as fast as my last two. Always carry spares though..just part of owning a digital.
On: 2003-12-06
This is my third digital camera and by far the best. The pictures are very clear and all I have to do is point and shoot. It has a lot of special features but I just use the close up feature and the standard. It does not use batteries as fast as my last two. Always carry spares though..just part of owning a digital.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-12-04
I bought the FinePix 3800 about 6 months back, and I couldnt possibly have made a better choice. Its easily the best camera in its class. Taking and transferring pictures is a snap, and the picture quality is superb. If you are looking to buy your first digital camera for home use, then this is the camera for you.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-11-30
With 2 active kids, I thought this would be a great way to cut down on photo processing costs. The camera takes great photos so long as the kids arent moving around. There is almost a 1 second delay (shutter lag) between pressing the button and taking the picture. If you have two young kids, you know that 1 second is a LONG time. Half the photos I shoot have half a kid in them! Works great for still photos. Look for something else for those action shots.
On: 2003-11-18
I researched digital cameras exhaustively before I made the jump from film to digital and all the research paid off with the Fuji 3800. 10x Optical Zoom beats the competition hands down in this price category. NiCad Battery Life is very good because they use 4 cells instead of many of the competitors that use 2 and the battery compartment is what fills up the handle portion of the camera body so its much easier to hold steady on low light shots. Lets face it, the little flash units on digital cameras arent much good past about 15 feet and never will be. The electronic viewfinder is extremely limited in low light but if you can prefocus on a bright object and hold the camera steady enough/use a tripod, the meter is very good even in low light conditions (the picture is exposed better than I could do manually with a 35mm). Ive learned to forget bracketing exposures as the multipoint metering is better than I am and I used to take photos for a living! Ive taken fantastic pictures in very difficult lighting conditions, Ive even gotten great pictures of a fireworks display by just trusting the cameras metering system.
On: 2003-11-17
I researched digital cameras exhaustively before I made the jump from film to digital and all the research paid off with the Fuji 3800. 10x Optical Zoom beats the competition hands down in this price category. NiCad Battery Life is very good because they use 4 cells instead of many of the competitors that use 2 and the battery compartment is what fills up the handle portion of the camera body so its much easier to hold steady on low light shots. Lets face it, the little flash units on digital cameras arent much good past about 15 feet and never will be. The electronic viewfinder is extremely limited in low light but if you can prefocus on a bright object and hold the camera steady enough/use a tripod, the meter is very good even in low light conditions (the picture is exposed better than I could do manually with a 35mm). Ive learned to forget bracketing exposures as the multipoint metering is better than I am and I used to take photos for a living! Ive taken fantastic pictures in very difficult lighting conditions, Ive even gotten great pictures of a fireworks display by just trusting the cameras metering system.
On: 2003-11-12
The pictures we have printed that were taken with this camera came out as good as if they were taken with a 35mm camera. I would recommend anyone looking for an average priced camera that is a good deal to buy this camera.
On: 2003-11-08
Ive been very pleased with the camera with the exception of the EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) visibility under low light. The 6X zoom is outstanding, the pictures are excellent, and the battery life great. I wish you could adjust the ISO but most cameras at this range do not offer that capability. Occasionally the camera would not focus too well under low light. Also, I dont use the bundled software as the WinXP camera wizard works quite well with the camera.
On: 2003-11-07
Ive been very pleased with the camera with the exception of the EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) visibility under low light. The 6X zoom is outstanding, the pictures are excellent, and the battery life great. I wish you could adjust the ISO but most cameras at this range do not offer that capability. Occasionally the camera would not focus too well under low light. Also, I dont use the bundled software as the WinXP camera wizard works quite well with the camera.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-11-06
I had the finePix 2800 before, which I liked, and this one is even better. The Zoom has no match, in this price range for sure, plus the whole thing is simply working. I love the quality of the photos.
The cons are the flash is too strong and there is no way to adjust it, and the movies need good lighting to produce good quality. xD memory costs more then the other memory cards, but it is fast.
Bottom line - good in general, great for the price range.
On: 2003-11-05
I had the finePix 2800 before, which I liked, and this one is even better. The Zoom has no match, in this price range for sure, plus the whole thing is simply working. I love the quality of the photos.
The cons are the flash is too strong and there is no way to adjust it, and the movies need good lighting to produce good quality. xD memory costs more then the other memory cards, but it is fast.
Bottom line - good in general, great for the price range.
On: 2003-11-04
I decided on this camera when I saw the 6x zoom. I have enjoyed the camera and the pictures are great. There are a few major drawbacks though. The one drawback that is causing me to sell the camera is that the camera is way too large. I wasnt prepared to wear this camera around my neck at all times. I value a smaller camera to the zoom. The other drawback is that the camera suffers horribly in low light conditions. The eyepiece seems to be a small lcd display; in low light, you cant see anything. Last but not least, I wish that it was more point and shoot. It is difficult passing the camera and asking a stranger to take a picture. You then have to explain how to focus the camera.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-11-01
Takes very good pictures.
On: 2003-11-01
I have three ditigal cameras (all Fuji), and Ive owned this camera for a few months now. I can say without hesitation, that when taking pictures out of doors its really a very good camera. If it has any fault at all its the flash. There have been times when it doesnt fire properly, but I do mostly outdoor photography so the flash hasnt been that big of a problem. If you want to see just how good a picture it does take you can see one of my pictures in the November 2003 issue of the magazine "Digital Photographer" (page 52). I took several pictures that day and they all came out great! The camera only comes with a 16MB memory card, so youll need to invest in a larger card. Would I recommend this camera? You bet. I even bought one for my wife. She wanted something simple to operate and yet she wanted a camera that gives good, clear photos. This camera fills the bill. If you take a lot of indoor pictures, this may not be the one you want.
On: 2003-10-31
Takes very good pictures.
On: 2003-10-24
I brought my brand new Finepix 3800 to Las Vegas and took about 200 pictures with it, both indoor and out, in the daytime and at night, mostly without using the flash. The pictures came out sharp and the colors were brilliant. My pictures of the Strip at night of the casinos are postcard quality. For outdoor night shots, I put the camera on something solid before shooting the picture to prevent shaking, since I did not bring a tripod with me. Most of the pictures were taken at 1/2 second with f/2.8 (Note: Fuji includes this info in the file, I only find out after loading the pictures on my computer). When situations permit, I have also put the camera down and used the self-timer to take pictures, further eliminating camera shake.This is my very first digital camera. My other camera is a Nikon N70 SLR, shooting pictures since the 60s with a Minolta SRT-101. The color of a picture of an orchid taken at the Mirage was so rich, it put all of my Nikkor lenses to shame. I also took some pictures inside St Marks Square (indoor) at the Venetian. The 3800 was able to produce accurately the color of the performers costumes. The night shots taken on top of the Eiffel Tower at Paris were fantastic. What I am trying to illustrate is that I have no problems taking pictures in low light and how accurate the 3800 is in terms of color. Other than the small 16MB xD card, the only other problem Ive found with the 3800 is that once you press the shutter to focus, the picture on the cameras LCD screen "freezes" and you wont see the subject moving (this was a problem shooting lion pictures at the MGM). So you really cant focus first and take a shot even a second later. Ive bought a 512MB xD card, with it I can take up to 400 pictures using 3.2 megapixels in "fine" mode. I find 3.2 megapixels just the right size, fine enough for my pictures and not too big in terms of file size. Another must is a set (or 2) of rechargeable NiMH AA batteries. I use a Rayovak 1 hour charger. I do wish the flash has a higher guide number, allowing it to reach a subject farther away, but then I shouldnt compare it with my Nikon SB-28 dedicated flash. :-) Others have complained about Fuji always uses the same filenames beginning with 0001. Some have also complained about the lens cap falling off. I dont find either to be a problem. I do keep the adapter ring on at all times. It protects the camera lens from accidental scratches and the lens cap fits the adapter ring nicely. The 3800 comes with a CD-ROM. The only software you must load is the USB Mass Storage Driver. Once youve loaded that and connected the camera to the computer with the USB cable provided, the camera becomes a "removable drive" on your computer and you can use Windows or MS-DOS to copy the picture files to your computer hard drive. It works extremely well. The camera is also suppose to work with the Mac. The 6X optical zoom lens is mighty long. The camera is easy to use, though you do have to read the manual at least once to learn how to use all the features. It was rated no. 1 by Consumer Report two years (2002 & 2003) in a row for 3 megapixel digial cameras. Even though the 3800 is an older model, it is still an excellent camera. I paid $296 for it, before a $60 manufacturer mail in rebate. It is also a great value.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-10-07
I purchased this camera in early February of 2003, I got a great deal on it at a local electronics store (It came with a free 32 Meg card for $349). I rushed home eager to begin taking pictures; I was not disappointed! The picture quality of this camera is excellent and I have enlarged several prints to 11x14 without any pixelation showing up on the prints. However, now 8 months later I am regretting my decision to not purchase the extended warranty. In August of 2003 the camera began stuttering into playback mode while I was shooting. At first this was just an annoyance that I was willing to overlook. But next thing I know I cant keep the camera on long enough to take any photos. I turn it on, it immediately turns off. So I contacted Fuji were I was informed that my batteries might be the problem. I checked the batteries and all three sets of my rechargeables are fine. So Fuji tells me that I can send it in for a repair that could cost anywhere from $25-$275 plus $12 shipping each way. I refuse to pay $275 in repairs for a $349 camera! I have called several local camera shops to get info on repair and as soon as I tell them what model camera it is they say "Oh, no we dont do that here." So I have now decided to purchase a new camera, it unfortunately is another Fuji(the s5000), but it has everything and more that I want in a camera and hopefully Ill have better luck. Anyway, I gave this camera 4 stars because it truly was a great and versatile camera until the malfunctioning began. I do recommend getting at least a 256 xd card as you will take so many pictures you will want the extra storage. And I also recommend getting an extended warranty no matter what.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-10-06
this is a good camera, however it hard to get night pictures to turn out. . .i just bought a tripod to help...also if youre looking for a point and shoot camera.///this isnt it.. you have to do alot of setting to get the picture just right... but when it takes good pictures it take good pictures.. the finepix zoom is really nice for upclose shots.--
On: 2003-10-05
this is a good camera, however it hard to get night pictures to turn out. . .i just bought a tripod to help...also if youre looking for a point and shoot camera.///this isnt it.. you have to do alot of setting to get the picture just right... but when it takes good pictures it take good pictures.. the finepix zoom is really nice for upclose shots.--
On: 2003-10-04
Ive owned my 3800 for a year now and dont have any real complaints. It takes very good quality pictures, many of which Ive blown up to 8x10, and am very happy with. Its not the best in low light situations in terms of using the view finder or LCD but I manage just by pointing and shooting. Generally the pictures come out fine. I like the zoom feature, and the ability to add aftermarket lenses. I have both a telephoto and a wide angle that work fine. It takes passable short video clips w/sound, and has a host of programed features that cover nearly all of the situations you may encounter. At the time Im writing this Ive noticed that the price for the 3800 is dropping. For the current price you really cant beat the performance of this camera. Bottom Line: This camera is a very good value, and will more than satisfy all but those few who need a professional grade digicam.
On: 2003-10-04
My first digital camera was the bottom of the range Fujifilm camera and after being an SLR man for many years, decided I needed an upgrade if I was to stick with digital photography (the decision basically being dictated by budget restraints). I read many and varied reviews and eventually decided to go for the Fujifil FinePix 3800 for the following reasons: 6x zoom, through the lens viewing and because I had been very happy with Fuji.The camera has given me a great deal of fun, satisfaction and enjoyment. The quality of pictures has been excellent although varied. I say varied because I have had to get used to some of its minor quirks and limitations but with practice they can be overcome. One caution that I have though is that Im not sure how suitable it is for beginners without film camera experience. Sure, the standard snap will be excellent but for special effects one does need some skill and previous know-how.
One feature that I have found a little disappointing is the so-called "macro" setting. It should rather be called "close-up" as one cannot get close enough for it to be macro in its truest form. Having said all that I have been thrilled with the camera and love to use it and feel that it is excellent value for money and can recommend it unreservedly. I also found buying through Amazon very easy and their service without reproach (although I did have it sent to a US address to a friend who was coming here on a visit)
On: 2003-10-03
Ive owned my 3800 for a year now and dont have any real complaints. It takes very good quality pictures, many of which Ive blown up to 8x10, and am very happy with. Its not the best in low light situations in terms of using the view finder or LCD but I manage just by pointing and shooting. Generally the pictures come out fine. I like the zoom feature, and the ability to add aftermarket lenses. I have both a telephoto and a wide angle that work fine. It takes passable short video clips w/sound, and has a host of programed features that cover nearly all of the situations you may encounter. At the time Im writing this Ive noticed that the price for the 3800 is dropping. For the current price you really cant beat the performance of this camera. Bottom Line: This camera is a very good value, and will more than satisfy all but those few who need a professional grade digicam.
On: 2003-10-03
My first digital camera was the bottom of the range Fujifilm camera and after being an SLR man for many years, decided I needed an upgrade if I was to stick with digital photography (the decision basically being dictated by budget restraints). I read many and varied reviews and eventually decided to go for the Fujifil FinePix 3800 for the following reasons: 6x zoom, through the lens viewing and because I had been very happy with Fuji.The camera has given me a great deal of fun, satisfaction and enjoyment. The quality of pictures has been excellent although varied. I say varied because I have had to get used to some of its minor quirks and limitations but with practice they can be overcome. One caution that I have though is that Im not sure how suitable it is for beginners without film camera experience. Sure, the standard snap will be excellent but for special effects one does need some skill and previous know-how.
One feature that I have found a little disappointing is the so-called "macro" setting. It should rather be called "close-up" as one cannot get close enough for it to be macro in its truest form. Having said all that I have been thrilled with the camera and love to use it and feel that it is excellent value for money and can recommend it unreservedly. I also found buying through Amazon very easy and their service without reproach (although I did have it sent to a US address to a friend who was coming here on a visit)
by: Anonymous On: 2003-09-21
for those people having trouble with this camera taking out of focus shots, you are not holding it still! With the person who was told by Fuji to take a class in photography, I would agree with that assessment. This camera handles very much like an SLR. I have used this camera with the full zoom and wide angle and have excellent, clear, sharp photos. I turned off the lights in my office, no windows and took pictures with the flash, excellent, clear, sharp photos. The zoom is awesome, the quality is definitely Fuji. I have read the negative reviews here and I have to disagree with everything they have said. They do not know how to use this camera. If they wanted a point and shoot camera, they need to get one with a smaller zoom or no zoom because you need to have muscular control if you are going to use a 6x zoom all the way extended. My only problem with this camera is the movie mode. I have another camera with a movie mode that shoots continuously. This one does not and really is ineffective when used this way. This is the only reason I am giving this camera 4 stars. If the movie mode was better, this camera would be getting 5 stars. Excellent camera for the money.
On: 2003-09-20
for those people having trouble with this camera taking out of focus shots, you are not holding it still! With the person who was told by Fuji to take a class in photography, I would agree with that assessment. This camera handles very much like an SLR. I have used this camera with the full zoom and wide angle and have excellent, clear, sharp photos. I turned off the lights in my office, no windows and took pictures with the flash, excellent, clear, sharp photos. The zoom is awesome, the quality is definitely Fuji. I have read the negative reviews here and I have to disagree with everything they have said. They do not know how to use this camera. If they wanted a point and shoot camera, they need to get one with a smaller zoom or no zoom because you need to have muscular control if you are going to use a 6x zoom all the way extended. My only problem with this camera is the movie mode. I have another camera with a movie mode that shoots continuously. This one does not and really is ineffective when used this way. This is the only reason I am giving this camera 4 stars. If the movie mode was better, this camera would be getting 5 stars. Excellent camera for the money.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-09-06
This camera is easy to use and the pictures are wonderful.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-09-05
Having tryed differnt cameras I stopped on this one. The quality of pictures exceeds all expectations. The colors are very natural
and pictures are very sharp. The 6x zoom makes a huge differnce, and optics are superb. Own one for 2 month -- it is flawless camera.
Viewfinders display is clear, dont even need to use LCD.
Indors pictires at low light are noisy but it is a common broblem with all digital cameras. Just use a brighter light bulb for your room and problem solved. Great camera, just get it.
On: 2003-09-05
This camera is easy to use and the pictures are wonderful.
On: 2003-09-01
I purchased my FinePix 3800 in early spring of 2003. I also purchased extra memory flash cards, because the standard 16 MB card wont really store enough high resolution photos. A 64MB card will take about 45-50 pictures at the highest resolution. The picture quality is superb, very clear and defined, even when enlarged. This camera is not only easy to use, but it actually resembles a camera! So many of the digitals today look like a small box, it was refreshing to see something familiar again. The zoom is about twice as powerful as what you will find installed in other cameras of this price range, and it works very smoothly. The only complaint is the display can sometimes be a little "dim" when used outside in bright sunlight, but that is true of most digital cameras. All in all, this is really a great little digital camera, especially when considering the pixel count versus price. I am very satisfied with this purchase.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-09-01
This is a very good camera. It fits the category of semi-professional. the settings are easy to be taken care of, as long as you know the function (like the flash, timer, white balance and etc...) the manual mode can really help you to be a semi-pro. the auto mode is for beginners to get started. and this camera really helped me to shot some good quality pictures. super awesome!!!
On: 2003-08-30
I researched digital cameras for a few months before choosing this model. The things that were most important to me were picture quality, grip/handling comfort, and audio/video capabilities. I felt good that Consumer Reports rated the picture quality as very good for this camera. This is our first digital camera. For me, this model was head and shoulders more comfortable to hold onto than any other camera I tried out. I found so many of the smaller cameras very uncomfortable to hold-too thin, slippery, or poorly balanced. I also liked the larger LCD screen, the matte black border around the screen (no glare), and the protective cover over the LCD screen surface. One reviewer of this camera highlighted the importance of the 6x optical zoom. I can say with experience that this is definitely something to NOT OVERLOOK when comparing other models. The zoom is indeed awesome and it will enable you to take pictures that you would otherwise miss or end up with a lousy miniture distance shot. I am so not techno savvy, but Ive had no problems learning how to use this cameras many features with just skimming through the manual. The XD card is the bomb. So quick and efficient, very easy to use, and the read/write capability is amazing! The video with audio works well and will be awesome to have when I dont have our digital camcorder with us. I dont want to miss any cute kid moments. I find that in bright outdoor shooting the LCD screen looks dim, but dont fret. I was concerned about the LCD screen brightness because of other reviews, but I neednt be. The screen is plenty visible in any light to frame your shot. You will be shocked and amazed at the brightness and clarity of your actual shots regardless of the view via the LCD screen. You can still make out your subjects fine and the photos taken will have you shaking your head in utter disbelief. I even took pictures looking into our bathroom at night with just the night light (the room was very, very dark-no flash used). The pictures I took were completly focused and the coloring was very accurate. I truly had no difficulty viewing/focusing via the LCD screen in this very low light circumstance. The photos Ive taken (about 250 or so) have blown me away. My pictures look three dimensional!! I am absolutely floored at the quality and the richness in every regard. Ive made one 8x10 from a 3 "Normal" MG shot and the photograph was gorgeous. It looked better than shots Ive taken with 35mm cameras. I take at least 24-48 photos a month on average-most of my kids. Ive taken photos of my kids swinging on the playground from quite a distance using the full 6x zoom and they have come out razor sharp! I decided to give digital a try because of all the "no good" shots I was consistently paying for. It is awesome to have instant gratification of picture review and the ability to only print shots which are "keepers". I am certain this will be a cost saver in developing fees. One last note, I also had concern about the lens cap. Some people said it doesnt stay on. I have found this to be not the case whatsoever. The lens cap locks on just like my SLR. You have to depress two areas on the cap simultaneously to remove it. Once again, no problems and only the best possible experiences to report. I wasted time researching so dilegently and worrying so over a few "issues of concern" which have turned out to be no issue at all!
On: 2003-08-29
I researched digital cameras for a few months before choosing this model. The things that were most important to me were picture quality, grip/handling comfort, and audio/video capabilities. I felt good that Consumer Reports rated the picture quality as very good for this camera. This is our first digital camera. For me, this model was head and shoulders more comfortable to hold onto than any other camera I tried out. I found so many of the smaller cameras very uncomfortable to hold-too thin, slippery, or poorly balanced. I also liked the larger LCD screen, the matte black border around the screen (no glare), and the protective cover over the LCD screen surface. One reviewer of this camera highlighted the importance of the 6x optical zoom. I can say with experience that this is definitely something to NOT OVERLOOK when comparing other models. The zoom is indeed awesome and it will enable you to take pictures that you would otherwise miss or end up with a lousy miniture distance shot. I am so not techno savvy, but Ive had no problems learning how to use this cameras many features with just skimming through the manual. The XD card is the bomb. So quick and efficient, very easy to use, and the read/write capability is amazing! The video with audio works well and will be awesome to have when I dont have our digital camcorder with us. I dont want to miss any cute kid moments. I find that in bright outdoor shooting the LCD screen looks dim, but dont fret. I was concerned about the LCD screen brightness because of other reviews, but I neednt be. The screen is plenty visible in any light to frame your shot. You will be shocked and amazed at the brightness and clarity of your actual shots regardless of the view via the LCD screen. You can still make out your subjects fine and the photos taken will have you shaking your head in utter disbelief. I even took pictures looking into our bathroom at night with just the night light (the room was very, very dark-no flash used). The pictures I took were completly focused and the coloring was very accurate. I truly had no difficulty viewing/focusing via the LCD screen in this very low light circumstance. The photos Ive taken (about 250 or so) have blown me away. My pictures look three dimensional!! I am absolutely floored at the quality and the richness in every regard. Ive made one 8x10 from a 3 "Normal" MG shot and the photograph was gorgeous. It looked better than shots Ive taken with 35mm cameras. I take at least 24-48 photos a month on average-most of my kids. Ive taken photos of my kids swinging on the playground from quite a distance using the full 6x zoom and they have come out razor sharp! I decided to give digital a try because of all the "no good" shots I was consistently paying for. It is awesome to have instant gratification of picture review and the ability to only print shots which are "keepers". I am certain this will be a cost saver in developing fees. One last note, I also had concern about the lens cap. Some people said it doesnt stay on. I have found this to be not the case whatsoever. The lens cap locks on just like my SLR. You have to depress two areas on the cap simultaneously to remove it. Once again, no problems and only the best possible experiences to report. I wasted time researching so dilegently and worrying so over a few "issues of concern" which have turned out to be no issue at all!
On: 2003-08-26
Movies, Photos, 6x zoom, and it doesnt eat up batteries like other digital cameras--what else can you ask for in a mid-priced camera. If you are looking for a great, easy-to-use digital camera--this is the one!
On: 2003-08-18
I just got this camera and absolutely love it. Its lite weight, compact and easy to use. It does everything but wash the dishes.
On: 2003-08-09
My experiences with the Finepix 3800 are doubleplus ungood.The biggest problem is that it refuses to focus unless there is plenty of light. Either you use the flash or you have broad daylight. Anything less and the camera refuses to focus. The shutter speed is slow. The Sony digital I have used has a quick and responsive shutter. This thing takes the picture at least a second or two after you press the button. You also have to wait a couple of seconds before you can take another. If you want to take a picture quickly or something not posed and the target is holding absolutly still, then this is not the camera for you. Since the shutter speed is so low, you have to hold it absolutly still. If not, you will get blurry pictures. (Even more so in low light.) If you are taking pictures outdoors with subjects that dont move, then this is the camera for you. Otherwise look at something else.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-08-09
Out of all of the digital cameras Ive owned (3), this one is by far the best. I guess I should just be content, especially for the price, but I wish they would improve on the Autofocus when shooting under dim lighting. Half the time the pictures come out in focus, even though the out of focus indicator is lit. I would also like to see a version that actually allows you to set the shutter speed manually. The manual mode lets you indicate whether or not you want to use a fast or slow shutter speed but doesnt allow you to set the actual shutter speed you want to use.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-08-01
I bought the FinePix 3800 in May 2003, and after having used it for three months, I can safely say that this is one of the very best digital cameras around, in any price range. The pictures come out to be really good in all kinds of light conditions, the zoom works great, the flash allows you to take pics even in pitch darkness. If you are an amateur photographer looking to buy your first digital camera then the FinePix 3800 is perfect for you. Happy snapping! :)
On: 2003-07-23
Even if you havent tried any other digital cameras, Believe me this is the ONE! After a lot of Digital Cameras research, Ive found the Fuji Finepix 3800 to go beyond the performance expected for a digital camera. Great picture quality that would leave you in awe! Easy to use point and shoot capabilites,with results that would make others think that you were a professional, The camera is very light and beautifully designed, Everybody that has seen the results of my pictures, cant believe that this camera produced such amazing photos. I take this camera everywhere, The LCD screen helps me make easy decisions for photos I decide to keep and those I dont, and when I want to get in on a picture and no one wants to touch the camera (for fear they would break it)just set the automatic timer and PRESTO. Although I wouldnt recommend trying to view your subject in night or low-lighted areas, this is by far the only flaw Ive witnessed with this camera. (the pictures come out great, you just cant see the subject in the LCD or viewfinder before you take the picture). The battery life on the rechargeables are great, I get about 275 pictures before I have to recharge.
On: 2003-07-22
Even if you havent tried any other digital cameras, Believe me this is the ONE! After a lot of Digital Cameras research, Ive found the Fuji Finepix 3800 to go beyond the performance expected for a digital camera. Great picture quality that would leave you in awe! Easy to use point and shoot capabilites,with results that would make others think that you were a professional, The camera is very light and beautifully designed, Everybody that has seen the results of my pictures, cant believe that this camera produced such amazing photos. I take this camera everywhere, The LCD screen helps me make easy decisions for photos I decide to keep and those I dont, and when I want to get in on a picture and no one wants to touch the camera (for fear they would break it)just set the automatic timer and PRESTO. Although I wouldnt recommend trying to view your subject in night or low-lighted areas, this is by far the only flaw Ive witnessed with this camera. (the pictures come out great, you just cant see the subject in the LCD or viewfinder before you take the picture). The battery life on the rechargeables are great, I get about 275 pictures before I have to recharge.
On: 2003-07-22
I received this camera from Fuji as a "Complinebtary Upgrade" 6 months ago. The Fuji 2600 I bought earlier broke in 3 weeks and the one Fuji replaced it with -guess what??? broke again in a week.
Anyways, I just love this camera. The 6 optical zoom and 3.2 MP
is matchless with the price tag it carries. Plus the pictures turn out as sharp as any other 3.2 cameras.
But...
It seems to me that for some lighting conditions the auto function has problems focusing on objects indoors. Even though you use the "focus-click" (that is pressing the button halfway while pointing at the object to secure it is the center of focus)
pictures sometimes turn out blurry.
One other inconvenience is that the camera is cumbersome. Forget about putting it in your pocket and going hiking. You need to have a not so small size carrying case.
Still it is an unbeatable deal.
On: 2003-07-17
It takes pictures with beautiful color. Not a tiny camera, but light and easy to carry and use.The main selling point for me was the 6x optical zoom. For any one with an SLR, 3x just wont be enough. This camera also has very little chromatic aboration, a problem with a lot of other digital cameras. .... I also recommend; a larger xD card - the 16mb that it comes with wont hold many pictures rechargeable batteries - alkaline batteries dont last long a tripod - its easy to get blurry pictures because of camera shake at 6x zoom (this will happen with all zoom cameras) If you can afford more than this, look at the Olympus C740 and C750. More pixels and a great 10x Optical zoom on both. If you want a party camera that you can hide in a pocket, look at 3x zoom or less.
On: 2003-07-15
I have been taking digital pictures for a couple of years and with my daughters wedding coming up I really wanted a camera that had a zoom lens. I purchased my camera about 2 weeks before the wedding and took a few pictures just to make sure that I knew what I was doing. I knew all the pros and cons before I purchased this camera. This camera does a wonderful job. The pictures are clear. Out of 139 pictures that I took at the wedding, I only deleted 3 and those were my error not the cameras. You will not go wrong with this camera. Downloading is automatic when you connect the camera to the computer. I could not ask for anything more. This camera is wonderful. Yes low light is a problem, but I was able to get the the bouquet being caught even though I couldnt see much through the viewfinder. I just aimed at the area and the picture came out great. I did purchase the 256 memory card. The 16 just wont hold enough. You will not be disappointed. Just do your homework and know what problems you can encounter. Enjoy!
by: Anonymous On: 2003-07-10
My first of hopefully many digital cameras, I knew the faults before buying so I wasnt disappointed by my camera at all. Quite the contrary! One of the deciding factors for me (other than the zoom lens and the fact that the photo quality exceeded the Olympus C series which was the only zoom camera under a grand Canadian) was the promotional deals that Fujifilm has. I got a free 32 MB card from Fujifilm Canada and if I had decided to purchase the accessories set I would have saved a hefty bundle. Check out the Fuji website for any current coupons or refunds. Dont bother to get a brand-name battery charger, go to Radioshack or Futureshop, but get the special photography rechargeble batteries from your photo store, they will usually have a larger mA capacity. Buy a specialty photo printer, not a one-in-everything! I have the Epson C82, but I am not thrilled with it. 6 colour cartridges is much better than 4, and dpi doesnt guarantee quality, as I found out! The Fuji FinePix software for uploading your photos is practically useless for touchups - youll probably want the Adobe Photoshop Elements package or something similar. The camera and accessories was a large initial purchase, especially on a student budget, but other than than the upkeep price of more paper and ink (I havent yet run out!) the biggest cost is the picture frames I have to keep buying to frame all of my gorgeous shots!
On: 2003-07-09
My first of hopefully many digital cameras, I knew the faults before buying so I wasnt disappointed by my camera at all. Quite the contrary! One of the deciding factors for me (other than the zoom lens and the fact that the photo quality exceeded the Olympus C series which was the only zoom camera under a grand Canadian) was the promotional deals that Fujifilm has. I got a free 32 MB card from Fujifilm Canada and if I had decided to purchase the accessories set I would have saved a hefty bundle. Check out the Fuji website for any current coupons or refunds. Dont bother to get a brand-name battery charger, go to Radioshack or Futureshop, but get the special photography rechargeble batteries from your photo store, they will usually have a larger mA capacity. Buy a specialty photo printer, not a one-in-everything! I have the Epson C82, but I am not thrilled with it. 6 colour cartridges is much better than 4, and dpi doesnt guarantee quality, as I found out! The Fuji FinePix software for uploading your photos is practically useless for touchups - youll probably want the Adobe Photoshop Elements package or something similar. The camera and accessories was a large initial purchase, especially on a student budget, but other than than the upkeep price of more paper and ink (I havent yet run out!) the biggest cost is the picture frames I have to keep buying to frame all of my gorgeous shots!
On: 2003-07-02
Ever wonder how to take great (and I do mean great) pictures without all the hassels? Its simple with Fujifilms 3800 Digital Camera. This camera is packed with the latest features that make it easy for the novice and gives full control for those who like to control lighting, depth of field and exposure.However, if youre like me, just set the control to "auto" and get ready to take some amazing pictures. So if youre a pro or an armchair photographer, the 3800 is a solid buy.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-06-29
This is my 3rd digital camera. Was not satified until I got this one. Wow what great pics!!! The zoom is fantastic especially at kids sport and music events. The only flaw is the viewfinder. Its almost impossible to see thr |
