Face detection expands to Fuji digital SLR cameras in early 2007

Fuji today said that it will ship its Finepix S5 Pro digital SLR camera in early 2007. The camera will be compatible with Nikon F-mount lenses, including the Nikkor AF-D/G and AF-S series. The camera will provide a resolution of 12.1 megapixels and introduce a face recognition feature : According to the manufacturer, the feature can detect up to ten faces in one image and will allow users to zoom in facial detail, for example whether eyes are open or closed.

The S5 Pro will support up to ISO 3200, which Fuji promises will produce less noise than comparable mechanisms in competing cameras. Shutter speeds will range from 30 seconds to 1/8000 second, with a maximum flash sync speed of 1/250 second. A unique feature of the S5 will be dual-CCD offering increased dynamic range from the 6.17-megapixel CCD-SR and "more outstanding, film-like results" from the 6.17-megapixel RP-CCD. Fuji hopes that the technology will push the camera into more professional applications such as outdoor and high endurance commercial photography.

Pricing of the camera has not been announced.

Fuji will also offer the face detection feature in its snapshot camera Finepix F31fd. The F31fd will provide a resolution of six megapixels and a 2.5" LCD. The compact camera will be available in December for about $400.