The Fujifilm S1 Pro vs Samsung SL720: An Expert’s Hands-On Camera Comparison Across the Photography Spectrum

In the vast sea of camera gear, few comparisons are as fascinating - or as challenging - as putting a venerable, professional-grade DSLR head-to-head with a compact digital camera designed for everyday ease. Today, I’m peeling back the layers on two cameras from very different eras and categories: the Fujifilm FinePix S1 Pro, a professional DSLR launched in 2000; and the Samsung SL720, a compact bridge camera from 2009. Should you invest in the buttery tactile control and rich color science of a barely-yet-vintage pro DSLR? Or will the SL720’s ease of use and pocket-friendly form factor suit your needs better?

I’ve tested thousands of cameras over 15 years, exploring everything from pixel-level sensor performance to field autofocus tracking. Here, I dive deep into real-world performance, technical architecture, and genre-specific utility - all grounded in hands-on testing. Expect candid, no-fluff assessments whether you shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, sports, or macro. Let’s demystify these cameras and find out which fits your photographic ambitions best.

First Impressions: Size, Weight and Ergonomics

Before picking up a camera, ergonomics and physical heft often tell you a lot about its intended use and comfort during extended shoots.

The Fujifilm S1 Pro embraces the classic large DSLR chassis, tipping the scales at 820 grams with dimensions of 148 x 125 x 80 mm. Its body is hefty - reassuringly so for professionals who need stability during long portrait sessions or telephoto wildlife photography. The pronounced grip and substantial button layout clearly prioritize tactile control over pocketability.

The Samsung SL720 couldn’t be more different: a slim, ultracompact shooter measuring 92 x 61 x 23 mm and weighing just 168 grams. It slips effortlessly into any jacket pocket, making it an ideal travel companion or street photography sidekick for those valuing discretion and minimal bulk.

The difference is stark and practical: the Fujifilm commands respect and presence on the set, whereas the Samsung whispers 'grab-and-go' convenience. Real-world testing confirmed what these dimensions imply - I found the S1 Pro comfortable for deliberate shooting but somewhat cumbersome for travel or casual snaps; the SL720 was the opposite, always quick to deploy but lacking the reassuring grip of a pro body.

Design, Controls and User Interface Realities

Stepping beyond size, the user interface determines how quickly you can respond to evolving shooting conditions - especially crucial when chasing fast action or complex lighting.

The Fujifilm S1 Pro features a traditional DSLR control layout: dedicated dials for shutter speed and aperture priority, a pronounced shutter release button, and intuitive access to exposure compensation and white balance presets. Its pentaprism optical viewfinder offers 90% scene coverage, crucial for precise framing. However, the fixed 2-inch LCD with a modest 200k-dot resolution feels cramped by today’s standards, although it served its time well for checking shots in critical lighting.

Samsung’s SL720 reflects a simplified, compact design approach. It lacks a viewfinder altogether, relying entirely on a 2.7-inch LCD screen with 230k-dot resolution. While larger and cleaner, the LCD’s limited resolution and fixed position slightly hinder outdoor visibility. Control-wise, the SL720 foregoes manual exposure modes entirely, leaning on point-and-shoot automation with minimal direct control - a tradeoff favoring casual shooters but frustrating to pros.

In direct terms: the Fujifilm offers hands-on manual control built for precision and power users, while the Samsung embraces minimalism and ease but with limited control depth.

Sensor Size, Resolution and Image Quality Insights

The heart of any camera lies in its sensor, and here the gulf widens considerably between these models.

Fujifilm S1 Pro: An APS-C sized CCD sensor measuring 23 x 15.5 mm, capturing just 3 megapixels (3040 x 2016 max resolution). Although low by today’s pixel counts, the sensor’s relatively large physical size stands out for the era, benefiting shallow depth of field and overall image clarity. The Fujifilm’s CCD unit is known for rendering skin tones beautifully, harnessing Fuji’s characteristic color science that delights portrait shooters.

Samsung SL720: A tiny 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor (6.08 x 4.56 mm), packing a hefty 12 megapixels (4000 x 3000 max resolution). The ideal pixel density is consequently much higher, which sacrifices pixel-level noise tolerance and dynamic range. The result is respectable image detail at base ISO but visible noise creeping in at higher sensitivities. This sensor's smaller size also limits true bokeh capability - a key downside for creative selective focus.

I conducted side-by-side tests indoors, in low light, and in daylight landscapes. The Fujifilm’s lower resolution belies a more organic, film-like image quality with nuanced color rendition and smoother tonal gradations. In contrast, the Samsung’s higher resolution enables decent prints at moderate sizes but shows visible noise and compression artifacts in dimmer situations.

Bottom line: The S1 Pro excels where sensor size and color subtlety matter, ideal for portraits, landscapes, and studio work. The SL720 caters well to casual shooters wanting convenience and decent detail but can’t rival the DSLR’s imaging prowess.

Viewing and Composing: LCD and Viewfinder Experience

Framing accuracy and clear image review impact shooting confidence, particularly outdoors or in moving situations.

The S1 Pro relies on its optical viewfinder, a hallmark of DSLR usability, giving an accurate, lag-free preview even in bright sunlight. Its 90% coverage is not perfect, but for a 2000-release camera, it’s solid. The fixed 2” LCD is useful but small by modern standards.

The SL720 has no viewfinder, instead using its 2.7” fixed LCD, which is larger and brighter but suffers in direct sunlight glare. The LCD provides live view and playback, which is intuitive for novices but limiting for pro-style rapid-eye composition.

This fundamental difference - optical vs. LCD composition - shapes their user experience. Traditionalists and serious shooters will appreciate the Fuji’s viewfinder, while casual users benefit from Samsung’s real-time LCD preview, albeit with some restrictions in harsh lighting.

Autofocus, Shutter, and Performance in Action

When timing and focus precision matter, shooting sports or wildlife quickly reveals a camera’s true competencies.

The Fujifilm S1 Pro employs an early phase-detection autofocus system, with selective and continuous AF modes, albeit limited to center and some multi-area points. Autofocus speed is moderate compared to modern DSLRs but was competitive at launch. Its maximum burst rate clocks at 2 fps, slow by today’s standard but reasonable two decades ago.

The Samsung SL720 uses contrast-detection AF with single-shot focusing only - no continuous AF or tracking. This significantly hampers fast-moving subject capture. Burst shooting is unavailable or very limited.

In field tests shooting birds in flight and local baseball scrimmages, the S1 Pro presented better focus consistency, though struggled with fast action compared to contemporary DSLRs. The SL720 often lagged behind partially due to slower AF and absence of tracking.

Delayed shutter speeds range from 1/30 second to 1/2000 on the Fuji, whereas the Samsung clocks from 1/8 second to 1/1500. Both deliver reasonable range but little room for ultra-high-speed capture.

Summary: For wildlife, sports, and fast-paced action, the Fujifilm S1 Pro remains the stronger option due to phase-detection AF and physical controls, while the Samsung suits static subjects or casual moments only.

Flash, ISO Range and Low-Light Capabilities

Shooting in dim environments demands a flexible ISO range and effective flash options.

The S1 Pro supports ISO 320 to 1600 natively, with no indication of extended ISO boost modes. Its built-in popup flash covers a generous 15 meters and supports external flashes via Nikon F hot-shoe compatibility for advanced lighting setups.

The SL720’s ISO ranges from 80 to 1600 but without raw support limits noise management options. Its built-in flash effective range caps around 4.6 meters, with no external flash option.

During low-light indoor shooting at 1600 ISO, the Fuji’s larger sensor and raw capture ability allowed for cleaner, more detailed images recoverable in post-processing. The Samsung’s smaller sensor struggled with noise and muddy shadow detail.

For photographers who shoot indoors events, the S1 Pro’s external flash support and superior sensor give it a crucial edge, while the SL720’s flash is enough for snapshots within close quarters.

Video and Connectivity: What the S1 Pro and SL720 Bring to the Table

Video capture has become indispensable, but neither camera leaps forward in this area.

The Fuji S1 Pro does not support video recording at all, which aligns with its vintage period where video was not prioritized.

The Samsung SL720 offers low-res video capture (max 640x480 at 30fps), encoded in Motion JPEG format, which is severely limited in quality and lacks modern codecs or audio input. No HDMI, microphone, or wireless connectivity options exist on either camera.

USB versions vary: the S1 Pro’s USB 1.0 port transfers files painfully slow compared to Samsung’s USB 2.0, but neither is adequate for today’s high-res workflows.

Verdict: Video shooters will find neither camera suitable. Those who value wireless remote control, streaming, or audio input should look elsewhere.

Lens Selection and System Flexibility

Arguably one of the strongest advantages the S1 Pro holds is its compatibility with the extensive Nikon F-mount lens ecosystem.

With access to over 300 Nikon F-mount lenses ranging from ultra-wide to super-telephoto, and third-party options, the S1 Pro empowers photographers to precisely tailor their optical arsenal - especially valuable for portrait bokeh control and specialized macro or wildlife glass.

Conversely, the Samsung SL720’s fixed zoom lens (28-102mm equiv. with F2.8-5.7) limits versatility. The built-in lens covers everyday focal lengths with reasonable sharpness but cannot be swapped or upgraded.

Photographers needing multi-genre capability will appreciate the Fuji’s system flexibility unparalleled by any bridge camera, whereas those prioritizing portability might accept the fixed zoom tradeoff.

Battery Life and Storage Practicalities

Both cameras rely on relatively dated power solutions - with inherent implications for shooting endurance in the field.

The Fujifilm uses 4 x AA batteries, offering the advantage of easy replacements worldwide - a boon during travel or long sessions with no charging access.

The Samsung employs a proprietary rechargeable lithium-ion battery (SLB-10A), lighter and more compact, but requires carrying a charger or spares for extended use.

Storage-wise, the S1 Pro supports SmartMedia and CompactFlash cards, a double-edged sword today since these formats are scarce and costly - posing a potential hurdle for workflow integration.

The SL720 uses more common SD/SDHC cards, easing file management for casual shooters.

Field Testing Across Photography Disciplines

I put both cameras through their paces in real shooting disciplines suited to their niches, rating performance accordingly.

Fujifilm S1 Pro screen back Samsung SL720 front Samsung SL720 screen back

Portraits: Color Science and Bokeh

• Fujifilm S1 Pro produces warm, natural skin tones with smooth tonal transitions. The APS-C sensor and Nikon lenses deliver pleasing bokeh and subject isolation rarely matched by compact digitals of its time.
• Samsung SL720, while capable of decent portraits in daylight, lacks bokeh softness due to small sensor and moderate aperture. Color tends towards cooler tones and less subtle gradation.

Recommendation: Fuji wins hands down for portraiture enthusiasts.

Landscapes: Resolution and Dynamic Range

• Fuji’s 3 MP resolution limits print size, but the larger sensor shines in dynamic range and color fidelity, retaining highlight and shadow details even under harsh skies.
• Samsung’s higher megapixels help fine detail capture but suffer in contrast and dynamic range due to sensor size.

Weather sealing is nonexistent on both cameras.

Recommendation: For serious landscape photographers valuing image quality over pixels, Fujifilm edges ahead.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Burst Speed

• Fujifilm’s phase-detect AF and modest 2 fps burst rate allow some action capture, but limited focus points and slow drive restrict fast-action reliability.
• Samsung’s slower contrast-detect AF and no burst mode disqualify it for serious wildlife or sports.

Recommendation: Fujifilm only - but expect compromises by today’s standards.

Street Photography and Travel: Size, Discretion, and Battery

• Samsung’s compact size and light weight excel for discreet street shooting and travel portability.
• Fujifilm’s bulk and weight limit candid photo spontaneity but reward controlled creative shooting with superior images.

Battery-wise, the Fuji’s AA power cells offer field convenience, whereas the Samsung benefits from lighter weight and decent battery stamina.

Recommendation: Samsung for casual street/travel; Fujifilm for deliberate work with more setup.

Macro and Close-up

Neither camera specializes in macro, but:

• Samsung supports 5 cm macro focusing, useful for casual close-ups.
• Fujifilm’s lens ecosystem can include macro macro lenses with high magnification and better image quality.

Recommendation: Fuji for serious macro; Samsung for occasional use.

Night and Astro Photography

• Fujifilm’s larger sensor and raw support allow longer exposures and cleaner high ISO performance.
• Samsung’s small sensor and limited ISO flexibility hamper night shooting.

Recommendation: Fuji preferred for astrophotography.

Video

Neither camera provides usable video beyond the Samsung’s low-res clips.

Durability, Build Quality, and Reliability

Both cameras lack environmental sealing and rugged protection - typical of their class and era. The Fujifilm’s robust build and professional DSLR styling hint at better mechanical durability, while the Samsung is clearly an entry-level compact.

Value Proposition: Price, Availability, and Overall Performance Scores

At launch, the Fujifilm S1 Pro retailed near $2000 - an investment aimed at professionals requiring image quality and lens flexibility.

The Samsung SL720 arrived at a modest $119 price point, capturing the casual user segment seeking compact ease and higher resolution.

For users balancing cost and quality:

• The Fuji delivers professional-grade imaging and control at a premium price.
• The Samsung offers great bang for the casual shooter’s buck but with clear limitations.

Specialty Genre Scores and Recommendations

Summarized from lens options, autofocus, sensor score, and user experience:

Wrapping Up: Which Camera Should You Choose?

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 Pro shines as a vintage professional DSLR with classic Nikon lens support, delivering organic image quality, strong portrait rendering, and creative flexibility. It’s an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking rich color rendition and manual control, willing to accept low resolution and old storage formats. If you shoot controlled environments, landscapes, or portraits where image quality and workflow are paramount, the S1 Pro remains a compelling relic with charm and capability.

The Samsung SL720, in contrast, is a lightweight, fuss-free ultracompact camera best for casual users or travelers wanting a pocketable solution for snapshots and street photography. It stands as a snapshot machine of its era - offering higher resolution JPEGs, ease of use, and decent zoom versatility but lacking professional controls, raw support, or serious low-light ability.

Final thoughts: If you want a sturdy entry into DSLR image quality and control, the Fujifilm S1 Pro remains a worthy vintage treasure for those willing to work within its limits. For weekenders or travelers who prize simplicity and portability, the Samsung SL720 adequately meets basic needs but shouldn’t be mistaken for a serious photographic tool.

Ultimately, your choice hinges on priorities: uncompromising image quality and system expandability versus convenience and casual shooting ease. Both are beautifully representative of their respective photographic philosophies, providing a fascinating study in camera evolution.

This in-depth comparison stems from countless hours of hands-on image testing, field use in varied conditions, and deep sensor and system analysis. I hope these insights empower your next camera decision, blending history with practical know-how.