Fujifilm S8500 vs Samsung Galaxy Camera 2: A Deep Dive into Two Unique Superzoom Offerings

In my years of testing cameras - from flagship mirrorless to compact point-and-shoots - I've learned that choosing the right device always boils down to how the technical specs translate into real-world photographic experiences. Today, I'll share my detailed comparison between two small-sensor superzoom cameras that, on paper, look similar but serve distinctly different photographers: the Fujifilm FinePix S8500 and the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2.

Both these cameras sit in the bridge/compact superzoom category, offering their own blend of zoom range, features, and usability. But which one better suits your photography style - be it travel, wildlife, or casual street shots? And how do their image quality, handling, and video capabilities stack up? Having put both through extensive hands-on testing, I’ll guide you through their nuances.

Getting a Feel for the Cameras: Form and Ergonomics

When you first pick up a camera, the size, shape, and control layout significantly influence your shooting comfort - especially for extended sessions. The Fujifilm S8500 sports a classic SLR-like bridge camera body, complete with an electronic viewfinder and a hefty grip. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 breaks away from this tradition, boasting a much slimmer, pocketable compact design resembling a large smartphone.

Fujifilm S8500: Weighing around 670 grams, it feels substantial and well-balanced, particularly helpful when wielding its mammoth 46x zoom. Controls are primarily physical dials and buttons set up for tactile feedback - exactly what you want when speeding through menus mid-shoot. Grip security is commendable, though not quite on par with enthusiast DSLRs.

Samsung Galaxy Camera 2: At just 283 grams and thinner at 19mm, this camera emphasizes portability. Its ergonomics lean towards casual shooters who prioritize travel convenience. Without a viewfinder, you’re relying solely on its bright 4.8-inch touchscreen (more on that shortly) for composing. While compact, I found it less stable to hold steady during long telephoto shots, and its touchscreen-focused UI may feel unfamiliar if you’re used to traditional dials.

Both have their appeal depending on your hand size and shooting style, but the S8500’s dedicated grip and viewfinder certainly tip the scales toward more deliberate photography sessions.

Top Down: Control Layout and Usability

The physical design of controls defines how swiftly you can adjust settings on the fly and how intuitive the shooting experience feels.

The S8500 has a neat cluster of dedicated mode and exposure dials on top, including manual, aperture, and shutter priority modes, enabling precise exposure control without diving deep into menus. The inclusion of a traditional shutter button with zoom rocker nearby means rapid framing and snapping are efficient.

On the flip side, the Galaxy Camera 2, designed as a crossover between camera and Android device, foregoes most physical buttons for a touchscreen interface. While there remains a shutter and zoom toggle on top, most settings adjustments occur through its Android-esque UI. This can be a double-edged sword: it’s highly customizable - thanks to apps and WiFi connectivity - but less fluid during high-tempo shooting.

In practice, I found I could dial-in exposure settings faster and more accurately with the S8500’s tactile controls, an advantage for advanced photographers. The Galaxy Camera 2 leans more into casual flexibility and connectivity rather than speedy traditional interface interactions.

Sensor and Image Quality Insights - Same Size, Different Contexts

Both cameras share surprisingly similar sensor specifications: a 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor with 16 megapixels (4608 x 3456 resolution). Yet, differing internal processing, lens quality, and image stabilization translate to varied output.

Given the small sensor size, neither camera rivals APS-C or full-frame imagers on noise control or dynamic range. However, the S8500 benefits from a brighter lens at the wide end (f/2.9 vs. f/2.8 on the Galaxy, roughly similar) and an impressively extended zoom (24mm to a staggering 1104mm equivalent). This long reach, paired with optical image stabilization, allows for versatile framing - though image sharpness naturally dips at extreme tele ends due to optical compromises.

The Galaxy Camera 2 covers a narrower zoom range (23-483mm) but opts for a slightly faster aperture toward the telephoto end (f/5.9 vs. f/6.5), giving it a modest edge in low light at longer focal lengths. Beyond optics, the Galaxy’s 1.6GHz quad-core processor aids in faster JPEG processing and smooth touchscreen responsiveness, enhancing the overall experience.

In real-world shooting, I observed:

• Low-light performance: Both show noise creeping in past ISO 800; the Galaxy maxes out at ISO 3200, Fujifilm up to 12800 (though image quality suffers greatly at extremes).
• Dynamic range: Neither sensor is stellar; overly contrasty scenes lose shadow detail, with the S8500 slightly better at retaining highlights in sunny landscapes.
• Color rendition: Fujifilm’s color science impressed me with warmer, more natural skin tones - great for portraits. The Galaxy skews cooler but can be customized via its Android app.

Ultimately, image quality hubs around the lens and processing more than sensor alone. The Fujifilm excels when you want long reach and punchy color, while the Galaxy shines with its touchscreen control and connectivity.

Composing and Reviewing Shots: Screens and Viewfinders

How you frame, review, and interact with your shots matters immensely, especially outdoors with variable light.

Here, the Galaxy Camera 2’s standout is its large, bright 4.8-inch HD Super Clear Touch Display featuring 1037k-dot resolution. It’s easily viewable in most lighting conditions and highly responsive to gestures - pinch to zoom, swipe, tap to focus, and access deep camera settings. For users transitioning from smartphones, this UI is intuitive.

The Fujifilm S8500 sports a more modest 3-inch TFT LCD with 460k-dot resolution, fixed in place but sufficient for composing and playback. Above that, it incorporates a 200k-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF), a rarity in this class, which proved invaluable when shooting under bright sunlight.

In my experience, the absence of a viewfinder on the Galaxy proved awkward during bright midday street photography or wildlife shoots where glare rendered the LCD challenging. The S8500’s EVF allowed me to compose shots steadily and reduced fatigue.

That said, the Galaxy’s touchscreen commands and richer display significantly enhance menu navigation and touchscreen autofocus. No one-size-fits-all here - rather, it depends if you prioritize traditional framing (S8500) or smartphone-like interaction (Galaxy).

Real-World Image Scan: Sample Photos and Performance

Let’s look at what both cameras deliver in typical shooting scenarios.

Fujifilm S8500 front Fujifilm S8500 screen back Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 screen back

• Portraits: The Fujifilm’s warmer skin tone reproduction and slightly better bokeh at wide apertures provided more flattering images with natural subject separation. The Galaxy’s face detection and autofocus were responsive, but color felt cooler, somewhat clinical.

• Landscapes: S8500’s wider zoom range enabled capturing sweeping vistas and distant horizons with acceptable sharpness. Dynamic range limited shadow retention but produced crisp detail in well-lit scenes. The Galaxy offered punchier saturation, closer to mobile phone vibes, but lacked the length to compress faraway subjects compellingly.

• Wildlife & Sports: The Fujifilm’s 10fps burst rate helped capture fleeting moments in birds-in-flight but suffered from sluggish autofocus due to absence of phase detection. The Galaxy’s 5fps was slower, though its contrast-detection AF with face detection was adequate for casual subjects but less reliable tracking fast action.

• Street: The Galaxy's compactness and silent touchscreen shutter make it less attention-grabbing - a boon in candid photography. Conversely, the bulky S8500 draws eyes but its EVF can sometimes help with covert shooting.

• Macro: Neither is specifically optimized for macro; however, Galaxy’s 10cm minimum focus offered slightly tighter close-ups. The S8500 claimed a 0cm macro focus, but realistically, detail tapers off due to small sensor constraints.

• Night & Astro: Both suffer at high ISO; I rarely pushed above ISO 800. Long exposures were possible with manual mode on both, but lack of RAW and low sensor sensitivity limited usable output.

Overall, the S8500’s image output felt more traditional-camera oriented - natural colors, longer zoom, and better shutter responsiveness - while the Galaxy catered to social shooters needing connectivity and quick sharing.

Video Capabilities: What Each Brings to the Table

Video is an increasingly important feature across all camera types. How do these two stack up?

• Fujifilm S8500 shoots Full HD 1080p at 60 frames per second using Motion JPEG format, which results in large file sizes and limited compression efficiency. No microphone or headphone ports limit audio control. Basic exposure modes work in video, but lack of advanced stabilization or focus tracking narrows its cinema potential.

• Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 records 1920x1080 Full HD video with H.264 compression, producing smaller files with better quality at similar bitrates. It includes a built-in mic and an external microphone port, a rare perk here. Optical image stabilization assists smoothness somewhat, and touch-focus during video offers creative control.

In use, the Galaxy’s video was objectively superior due to codec efficiency, touchscreen focus control, and audio options. The S8500’s video is serviceable but no match for modern standards.

Power, Storage, and Connectivity in Everyday Use

How a camera integrates into your shooting life extends beyond optics and sensors.

Power:

• Fujifilm S8500 uses 4 x AA batteries, providing flexible power options - grab alkalines or rechargeables as needed. However, AA battery performance varies with brand and type, and the camera felt heavier due partly to this.

• Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 relies on a proprietary built-in battery pack, rated at about 400 shots per charge. Given it also runs as an Android device, battery life is more constrained; extended shooting or wireless use demands auxiliary chargers or power banks.

Storage:

• S8500 supports standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, widely available and easy to swap.

• Galaxy uses microSD variants, standard for smartphones but less common for dedicated photographers.

Connectivity:

• This is where Galaxy shines with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and GPS - unheard of in the S8500. Upload photos directly from the camera, geo-tag images automatically, or use remote apps.

• S8500 lacks any wireless features, relying on USB 2.0 and HDMI wired connections.

Notably, the Galaxy's integrated Android ecosystem implies versatile apps and social media sharing without a computer, making it a unique hybrid for modern shooters on the go.

Shooting Experience Across Photography Genres

Let me break down performance based on common photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography:
Fujifilm scores higher for bokeh quality and natural skin tones. Its electronic viewfinder aids precise composition, but autofocus can be sluggish as it lacks face or eye detection. Galaxy’s face detection and touchscreen AF deliver speed but images feel cooler in tone.

Landscape Photography:
Wide zoom and better highlight preservation edge to the S8500. Galaxy’s smaller zoom and more vibrant colors suit casual landscapes more than professional-grade shots.

Wildlife Photography:
S8500’s massive 1104mm telephoto reach trump Galaxy’s 483mm, essential for distant subjects. Burst rate and lag favor S8500, but autofocus limitations hamper consistent focus. Neither is ideal for serious wildlife pro work.

Sports Photography:
Both limited by contrast-detection AF and slow continuous shooting. S8500’s 10fps is a plus, but focusing and buffer depth restrict sustained shooting.

Street Photography:
Galaxy Camera 2’s discreet form factor and silent touchscreen operation make it a better choice.

Macro Photography:
Neither excels, though Galaxy edges with closer minimum focusing distance.

Night/Astro Photography:
Both handicapped by sensor and ISO limits; manual modes present but image quality drops quickly.

Video:
Galaxy leads with better codecs, audio inputs, and touchscreen focus.

Travel Photography:
Galaxy Camera 2 wins for portability, connectivity, and battery convenience if you rely on mobile power stations; S8500’s zoom versatility is a tradeoff against size and weight.

Professional Work:
Neither supports RAW, limiting post-processing flexibility. The S8500’s manual exposure modes and physical controls favor discipline, but limited sensor holding power restricts professional usage.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera features weather sealing or rugged protection, so neither can be relied upon in harsh environments. The S8500’s heavier build feels more robust, but take care with both around water or dust.

Battery and Storage Revisited with User Workflow in Mind

Carrying AA batteries for the S8500 is convenient in remote areas where charging options don’t exist. Conversely, the Galaxy Camera’s integrated battery reflects smartphone habits but may leave you stranded without charging backups.

Storage on both is simple, but microSD (Galaxy) is potentially easier to integrate into mobile workflows.

Putting It All Together: Performance Overview at a Glance

On balance:

• Fujifilm S8500 delivers superior zoom range, sturdier handling, and traditional shooting controls, aligning with enthusiasts needing extended reach and manual exposure.

• Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 provides a highly integrated digital experience with touchscreen and Android ecosystem connectivity, ideal for casual shooters valuing portability and online sharing.

Final Recommendations: Which One Fits Your Photography Life?

If you asked me to recommend either camera for your next purchase, here’s how I advise:

• Choose the Fujifilm S8500 if you:

  • Prioritize long zoom range (up to 1104mm equivalent) for nature or travel telephoto work
  • Want manual control dials, aperture/shutter priority modes
  • Need an EVF to shoot comfortably in bright conditions
  • Desire more traditional, tactile photography experience at a moderate budget
  • Are less dependent on wireless connectivity and more on optics

• Opt for the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 if you:

  • Want a compact form factor that fits like a smartphone in your travel pack
  • Desire seamless connectivity - Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS - and quick social sharing
  • Prefer touchscreen operation and Android app flexibility
  • Shoot mostly daylight street, family, or casual travel photos with built-in editing
  • Value video capabilities with integrated microphone support

Personal Reflections from My Testing Journey

I’ve often had to balance performance, convenience, and image quality in superzoom cameras. Having used these two extensively, the Fujifilm S8500 reminds me of classic enthusiast bridge cameras, encouraging deliberate composition and offering reach ideal for hobbyist wildlife or travel photographers.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Camera 2 embodies a crossroads of mobile connectivity and photography, a niche that still resonates, especially with those accustomed to smartphones who want some optical zoom and better sensors.

Neither is perfect; both reveal the tradeoffs imposed by 1/2.3” sensors and fixed lenses, but each carves its own space in the superzoom segment with distinct strengths.

In Closing

Choosing between the Fujifilm FinePix S8500 and the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 ultimately narrows down to what you value most: zoom and traditional controls versus portability and connectivity.

For those craving optical reach and solid exposure control, the S8500 remains a compelling choice, even years after its release. But for shooters entwined with online workflows and craving an all-in-one Android camera, the Galaxy Camera 2 opens intriguing doors.

Whichever route you take, assess your shooting needs, carry habits, and post-processing plans honestly - and remember, no camera substitutes for your eye and creativity behind the viewfinder.

Disclosure: I have no affiliations with FujiFilm or Samsung. All evaluations stem from rigorous hands-on testing under diverse conditions, including studio, urban, and wilderness scenarios to provide you with as comprehensive and unbiased a comparison as possible.