The Fuji FinePix S6500 fd

Even without its revolutionary face-detection technology, the FinePix S6500fd is a formidable package. Combining the highly-acclaimed 28-300mm (equiv) Fujinon zoom lens and the award-winning picture quality of the 6.3 million pixel 6th Generation Super CCD, this is a camera capable of stunning picture quality in all shooting conditions. However what really makes the S6500fd stand out from the crowd is its ultra-fast face detection technology. For families, portraiture and any other form of people photography, this camera can tell the difference between a vase of flowers and a human face, meaning that your people photos will be sure-fire winners every time.

Face detection technology

Have you ever cursed your camera for focusing on something completely irrelevant when you are taking pictures of your nearest and dearest? This is because a conventional camera has no idea of what you are taking a picture of - it can't tell the difference between a vase of flowers and your Aunt Betty. Fujifilm has developed a proprietary face detection technology that automatically recognises faces in the frame, ensuring that the camera knows to focus on the people, and also to ensure that they are exposed properly. What makes this system so impressive is its speed - it reacts to movement almost as quickly as the human eye, and locks on to faces in a mere 0.04 seconds. Using a special processor-based algorithm that recognises the combination of two eyes and a mouth, the S6500fd can detect faces even when held in the vertical portrait orientation. Not only does the system look impressive as it effortlessly tracks faces on the live LCD, but it also gives you the most important thing of all perfect pictures.

Super CCD VI with real photo technology: ISO 3200!

This camera's sensor and processor combination has already made waves in the photographic industry. Leading photo website dpreview.com commented: "Fuji has managed, with this sensor and processor combination, closer than ever before to 'SLR-like' output from a compact camera". Rather than focus on increasing the number of pixels, the emphasis with the S6500fd has been placed on improving image detail, tonal quality and reducing noise. What is more, the breakthrough sensitivity setting of ISO 3200 means that you will not be putting your camera back in its bag when the light levels drop. Never mind the pixels. Feel the picture quality.

Fujinon 28-300mm* lens

Unlike interchangeable lenses, this one's fixed to the camera for ever. And that is a good thing – not only will the interior of the camera be protected from dust and the elements, but you also have an incredible zoom range at your disposal. Fujinon optics have an enviable reputation within the photography industry for their clarity and quality, and the lens on the S6500fd lives up to the name. The 13 elements include one hybrid aspherical element, one glass moulded aspherical element, as well as ED glass. Furthermore, photography enthusiasts will like the manual twist barrel zoom control, as well as the manual focusing ring, both giving pinpoint control.

*35mm equivalent

2.5" LCD monitor

The back of the camera is dominated by a large 2.5-inch LCD screen with incredible 235,000 pixel resolution. This enables you to see every detail element in your picture, but also is roomy enough for the camera to be able to display large, legible shooting information.

Fast responses

People that use the S6500fd will not miss many shots. There is no agonising wait as a motor extends the lens (it is already in position), and the autofocus locks on to subjects with a speed that will make you think twice as to whether this really is not a DSLR. With its use of manual zoom ring, dials and buttons for important functions, the S6500fd is designed for photographers who do not want their camera to get in the way of their photography.

Movie mode

Anyone who doesn't think that much of movie modes on digital cameras has not tried this one. Not only does it offer the top-level 30 fps VGA benchmark, but you can also use the zoom lens during recording, which is a special enhancement of this feature. With the massive onboard media storage, the S6500fd offers extended movie potential, and is a valuable backup to the camera's still image capability.