FujiFilm FinePix F80EXR vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3: The Ultimate Compact Camera Showdown

Choosing your next camera can feel like navigating a maze, especially when two models come from reputable brands with seemingly comparable specs. Today, we’re diving deep into a detailed comparison between two small-sensor compact cameras released around the same era: the FujiFilm FinePix F80EXR and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3. Both are aimed at everyday photographers seeking portability without sacrificing too much control or image quality.

We’ll break down every key aspect, from design and handling to sensor performance and real-world photography disciplines. Whether you’re a casual snapshooter, an aspiring enthusiast, or a seasoned pro looking for a handy travel companion, this expert comparison will help you make an informed choice.

Seeing Them Side by Side: Size and Ergonomics

First impressions count. The size and handling drastically influence your shooting experience, especially for compact cameras you’ll carry often.

The FujiFilm F80EXR feels more substantial in hand, with a slightly larger grip area that provides a comfortable hold for extended shooting sessions. This makes it easier to control, especially with one hand. The Panasonic FH3, by contrast, is lighter and more pocketable, fitting discreetly into smaller bags or large pockets, ideal if minimalism is your priority.

For you, if weight and packing light are critical, the Panasonic FH3 wins. If ergonomics and a firmer grip for stability matter more during active shooting, consider the FujiFilm.

Design Details: Control Layout and Interface

Handling extends beyond size; the control layout, button placement, and screen play crucial roles in intuitive operation.

Here, the FujiFilm sports a more pronounced mode dial and dedicated buttons for exposure compensation and aperture priority mode - features rare in this compact class. This offers greater creative control, letting you adjust settings rapidly without diving deep into menus.

The Panasonic FH3 opts for simplicity, with fewer external controls and no manual or shutter priority modes. This makes it beginner-friendly but limits quick access to advanced settings.

If you want to gradually experiment with manual exposure while staying compact, FujiFilm’s F80EXR ergonomics support that journey better. For straightforward point-and-shoot ease, Panasonic FH3 is straightforward and less intimidating.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality

Image quality depends heavily on the sensor and processor pairing. Let’s compare their technical specs.

Though the Panasonic FH3 offers 14 megapixels versus FujiFilm’s 12MP, the difference in sensor size slightly favors FujiFilm, resulting in larger individual pixels. This often translates to better noise handling and dynamic range, especially in challenging light. FujiFilm’s EXR processor also integrates unique modes designed to optimize image quality by balancing resolution and dynamic range - an advanced feature aiming to help you capture more nuanced photos.

The Panasonic FH3, however, achieves a respectable resolution jump and slightly faster lens aperture range at the wide end (F2.8 vs. FujiFilm’s F3.3), allowing better light gathering for casual shooting.

In practical terms, if your priority includes shooting with richer color depth, lower noise, or pushing ISO ranges, the FujiFilm F80EXR’s sensor and processor combo has an edge. For everyday daylight photography emphasizing resolution and versatility, Panasonic holds its own.

Viewing and Composing: LCD Screens and Viewfinder

Compact cameras seldom come with electronic viewfinders, making LCD quality and size paramount.

The FujiFilm’s slightly larger 3-inch screen helps frame shots more easily, especially useful when outdoors in bright light or when experimenting with macro photography. Both models lack touchscreens and viewfinders, limiting you to composing solely via the rear display.

While small resolutions limit fine detail in preview images, both screens remain serviceable for casual shooting. The FujiFilm’s display aids usability but neither excels as you might find on higher-end compacts.

Real-World Use Case #1: Portrait Photography

Capturing pleasing portraits demands good skin tone rendition, attractive bokeh, and autofocus accuracy.

FujiFilm F80EXR:

• Lens range extends to 27mm wide but zooms to 270mm equivalence, enabling flattering headshots with background compression.
• Macro mode allows focus from 5cm, useful for detailed close-ups.
• No face or eye-detection autofocus, but contrast detection autofocus is responsive.
• Aperture priority mode allows creative control over depth of field.
• Sensor and EXR processor combination produces pleasing skin tones with subtle color gradations.

Panasonic Lumix FH3:

• Lens is shorter at 28-140mm equivalent, limiting telephoto reach for tight portraits.
• Macro focus starts similarly at 5cm but with a smaller max aperture at telephoto end (F6.9), potentially reducing background blur.
• Autofocus has 9 focus points, a slight step up, but no specialized face or eye-detection.
• No aperture priority mode; limited manual exposure control.
• Skin tones are slightly less nuanced, with more aggressive JPEG processing and contrast.

Takeaway: The FujiFilm F80EXR offers more control for artistic portraiture, albeit with autofocus limitations. Panasonic is simpler but lacks flexibility for advanced portrait techniques.

Real-World Use Case #2: Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters prioritize resolution, dynamic range, and durability.

• FujiFilm’s EXR sensor enriches dynamic range - critical for balanced skies and shadow detail.
• FujiFilm’s broader zoom lets you capture wide vistas at 27mm equivalent.
• Both cameras lack weather sealing - no rain or dust resistance.
• Neither offers RAW, limiting post-processing flexibility.
• Panasonic FH3’s higher megapixels support detailed landscapes, but dynamic range is comparatively limited.

Landscape shooters looking to maximize tonal gradation will appreciate the FujiFilm’s sensor design. If you prioritize pixel count for large prints, Panasonic may suffice but with compromises in highlight retention.

Real-World Use Case #3: Wildlife and Sports

For fast-moving subjects, autofocus speed, burst rate, and zoom reach matter.

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Both cameras feature slow contrast-detection autofocus systems without predictive tracking or face/eye detection. FujiFilm’s longer zoom range is ideal to get closer to wildlife without disturbing subjects. Despite Panasonic’s faster burst speed, absence of continuous autofocus limits tracking fast movement.

For casual wildlife or sports moments in stable environments, Panasonic’s speed gives a slight edge. Serious wildlife photographers will find neither camera ideal for fast autofocus but FujiFilm’s zoom range opens creative framing options.

Real-World Use Case #4: Street and Travel Photography

Discretion, quick operation, and portability define street photography needs, plus versatility aids travel shooting.

• Panasonic FH3 scores with its compact, lightweight body suited for snapping candid street scenes unobtrusively.
• FujiFilm’s slightly larger build and greater zoom versatility provide more compositional creativity but at the cost of stealth.
• Both cameras lack Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so photo sharing on the go is manual.
• Battery life is modest with no official ratings but expect a few hundred shots per charge in either.
• Panasonic’s simpler control scheme allows rapid point-and-shoot operation.
• FujiFilm better suits travelers wanting manual exposure for varied light situations.

If you value a pocketable, fuss-free experience, the Panasonic FH3 will be your companion. For more photographic control on trips where size is less restrictive, FujiFilm steps up.

Real-World Use Case #5: Macro and Close-Up Imaging

Macro enthusiasts want precise focusing, effective stabilization, and close minimum focus distance.

FujiFilm performs well here with sensor-shift stabilization that, in practice, yields steady close-up shots at slower shutter speeds. Panasonic’s optical stabilization also helps but with narrower macro aperture and shorter zoom range, it constrains subject framing more.

For macro shooters starting out, FujiFilm’s balance of stabilization and zoom is advantageous.

Real-World Use Case #6: Low Light and Night Photography

Noise control and shutter speed range define how well you can shoot in dim conditions.

• FujiFilm’s ISO extends to 12800 boosted, allowing noisier images but more light sensitivity.
• Panasonic maxes at ISO 6400 native, with lower noise thresholds.
• FujiFilm’s shutter range dips to 8 seconds, better for night scenes or light painting.
• Panasonic’s slowest shutter is 60 seconds but at ISO 80 lowest - best suited for long exposures but not low light action.
• Both lack manual exposure video or advanced night modes.
• Neither features RAW, limiting post-capture noise reduction.

FujiFilm gives more flexibility for creative night photography - especially with aperture and exposure priority modes helping to optimize low light shots.

Video Capabilities Explored

Both cameras offer HD video recording at 720p, 30 fps, using Motion JPEG format.

Neither model shines with video specs, both lacking 1080p recording or external microphone options. FujiFilm offers HDMI output, helpful if you want to preview on a larger screen. Panasonic lacks this feature.

For casual video clips integrated into your photo workflow, either works. Expect basic quality, no cinematic advantage.

Build Quality and Durability

Neither compact is weather sealed or rated for rugged use. Both rely on plastic composites for the body.

FujiFilm feels sturdier but bulkier; Panasonic trades off robustness for lightweight portability.

The Lens Ecosystem: Fixed Zoom Lenses

Fixed lens design means you’re limited to built-in optics.

FujiFilm’s lens versatility far outstrips Panasonic’s zoom reach, opening creative possibilities from wide landscapes to distant subjects.

Panasonic’s brighter wide aperture can benefit indoor or low light shooting but compromises reach.

Connectivity and Storage

• Both cameras support SD/SDHC card storage.
• Panasonic additionally supports SDXC cards for expanded capacity.
• No Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC in either model; wireless photo transfer not possible.
• USB 2.0 port present in both for basic PC connection.
• FujiFilm unique for having HDMI output for external display.

Pricing and Value Considerations

At launch, FujiFilm carried a higher price (~$400) vs. Panasonic’s budget-friendly (~$160).

Given its advanced zoom, aperture priority, and robust sensor, FujiFilm commands a premium justified for users stepping into creative photography.

Panasonic offers solid baseline features and is a compelling bargain for pure point-and-shoot users.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Photography Discipline Recommendations

To help you pick based on your passion, here’s our genre-specific assessment:

• Portraits: FujiFilm for richer skin tones and zoom reach.
• Landscape: FujiFilm for dynamic range; Panasonic good for highly detailed daylight shots.
• Wildlife: FujiFilm for 10x zoom; Panasonic’s faster burst less useful without strong autofocus.
• Sports: Neither ideal; Panasonic has faster burst but lacks tracking AF.
• Street: Panasonic for portability and speed; FujiFilm bulkier but more control.
• Macro: FujiFilm’s image stabilization and zoom advantage.
• Night/Astro: FujiFilm offers more shutter control and ISO flexibility.
• Video: Both entry level; FujiFilm’s HDMI marginally better.
• Travel: Panasonic for light carry; FujiFilm for creative versatility.
• Professional Use: Neither suited for demanding pro workflows (no RAW, weather sealing).

Our Final Verdict

Both FujiFilm F80EXR and Panasonic Lumix FH3 were strong contenders in their compact camera era, each fulfilling different user needs.

• The FujiFilm FinePix F80EXR stands out for photographers ready to experiment with manual controls, value extended zoom, and demand higher dynamic range in images. It supports creative growth on a budget, especially for portraits, macro, night scenes, and landscapes. The trade-off is slightly heavier build and higher price.

• The Panasonic Lumix FH3 is a compact, straightforward shooter that suits beginners or casual users who prioritize lightweight gear and simplicity. It captures good resolution photos with decent color in daylight, is pocket-friendly, and economically priced but limits creative exposure control and zoom flexibility.

Look beyond specs: If you’re passionate about evolving your photography with more control and image quality, start with the FujiFilm F80EXR. If convenience and affordability top your list while getting decent results in most everyday conditions, the Panasonic FH3 is a worthy pick.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Feel inspired? Trying out these cameras hands-on at your nearest store or renting both for a weekend can illuminate which fits your style better. Don’t forget to explore compatible accessories - protective cases for travel, extra batteries, or quality SD cards to optimize performance.

Feel empowered to choose wisely, knowing that your photography journey is supported by tools adaptable to your evolving creative vision.

See Sample Images and Performance Ratings

Before we wrap up, take a look at sample shots captured under diverse conditions with each camera side by side.

FujiFilm F80EXR front FujiFilm F80EXR screen back Panasonic FH3 screen back

Also, a quick glance at our overall and genre-specific performance scores:

This comprehensive evaluation underscores the nuanced trade-offs to consider.

Thank you for exploring this detailed FujiFilm FinePix F80EXR vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3 comparison with us. Your perfect camera awaits - happy shooting!