Pre-PMA 2005: Fujifilm has today announced replacements for the A330 and A340 Zoom with the four and five megapixel FinePix A345 Zoom and FinePix A350 Zoom. The cameras are identical in almost everyway except for image sizes, resolution and digital zoom; they boast a 1.7-inch LCD and a 3x optical zoom (35 - 105 mm). The entry-level pair store images on an xD-Picture Card and are powered by two AA-type batteries. They will be available in the UK in March.
Fujifilm’s FinePix A345 Zoom and FinePix A350 Zoom: an ‘A’ in entry level excellence
Four and five megapixel digital cameras that are high on performance and low in complexity featherweight contenders that pack a secret punch
Following in the footsteps of their predecessors – the hugely popular FinePix A330 and A340 Zoom – these models offer exceptional power and value in a new and improved design. Whilst the entry-level category can often mean that corners are cut on build quality and feel, anyone who handles these cameras will be pleasantly surprised by their compact solidity.
Although simple in conception, the FinePix A345 and A350 Zoom still boast bags of photo power – with one-touch, fully-automatic operation that includes easy navigation for beginners and enough megapixels to allow images to be printed as enlargements without loss of quality.
These competitively-priced new cameras are sturdy but stylish, with smooth metallic casing and a high-quality finish. What’s more, their low power consumption (operating on standard AA batteries) and compatibility with xD-Picture Card™ format, makes them a great choice for anyone concerned about having a system that will work well into the future. Furthermore, PictBridge™ compatibility allows the user to print directly without the need for a PC or Mac.
FinePix A345 Zoom features at a glance:
4.1 effective megapixels
High quality 1.7-inch LCD monitor for clarity and detail
3x optical zoom lens
One-touch, fully automatic operation, with easy navigation for beginners
Highly efficient energy consumption: uses 2 x AA-type alkaline batteries (or rechargeable batteries)
Movie capture of 15 frames per second with monaural sound
xD-Picture Card™ providing large storage capacity, lower power consumption and fast write speeds (currently available in 16MB to 512MB capacities)
PictBridge™ ™ compatible for direct printing without a PC
FinePix A350 Zoom features at a glance:
5.2 effective megapixels
High quality 1.7-inch LCD monitor for clarity and detail
3x optical zoom lens
One-touch, fully automatic operation, with easy navigation for beginners
Highly efficient energy consumption: uses 2 x AA-type alkaline batteries (or rechargeable batteries)
Movie capture of 15 frames per second with monaural sound
xD-Picture Card™ providing large storage capacity, lower power consumption and fast write speeds (currently available in 16MB to 512MB capacities)
PictBridge™ compatible for direct printing without a PC
Adrian Clarke, Director of Photo Products, Fujifilm, said, “More often than not, entry-level digital cameras lack the ability for photography newcomers to get the most out of them. By building on a successful formula of simplicity, optical precision and great image quality, Fujifilm has created the FinePix A350 and A345 Zoom - two desirable and affordable cameras capable of producing exceptional images, whatever your ability.”
Copyright www.dpreview.com
This well-designed nice metal compact camera makes a good impression : cursor, jog dial, efficient ergonomics and a wide screen equivalent to 16/9 format. It comes with panoramic format for both photo and video modes. The removable flash is slightly shifted from the optical axe to avoid red eye effect; and the exclusive Fuji sensor integrates a new technology designed to increase dynamic patch function. 
