The 6M pixel Fujifilm Finepix F11 is Fujifilm's improved version of the highly regarded F10 camera. The improvements over the F10 are: Aperture and shutter priority modes, increased LCD resolution and a new macro focus distance of 5cm.

Like the F10 the F11 camera will fit in the WP-FXF10 underwater housing, which means people wanting to upgrade could use the same housing. In terms of underwater use the F11 is probably one of the best specified compact cameras; due to Fujifilms unique sensor design the F11 has a greater range of sensor sensitivity than most of its competitors, without the usual levels of image degrading noise. This allows the user to shoot in darker conditions without fear of camera shake. The F11 also has a manual white balance function which allows for the creation of custom white balance settings on any and every dive if need be. This will somewhat make up for the fact that at the moment there are no accessory filters that will attach to its housing. The macro function has also been improved which will please potential divers who enjoy close up photography. Also the improved screen resolution will help as, the larger LCD screens on modern compacts are greatly improving the ease of viewing underwater. Other features I feel are valuable for use underwater are the continuos mode that will allow continuos shooting until the card is full at 1.3 frames a second for 40 frames. This is useful for fast action sequences where you can hold your finger on the shutter button and should easily capture anything which happens to be unfolding in front of you. The F10 is known for its nearly non existent shutter lag, with the F11 there is a specific function designed to improve the focus speed and shutter lag.

How do all these features feel in use? Well I found that the F11 was responsive in use. In conjunction with the WP-FXF10 housing it was a quick and easy combination to shoot with. I never found myself waiting for the camera as can be the case with some compacts. Personally I have always felt that Fuji cameras produce some of the nicest images, and with the F11 I was not disappointed; the colours were vibrant and images are pleasing. In all it is a superb package.

Post script: 30th June 2006.
The Camera and housing can be used with an external slave flash, and there is now an adapter allowing the housing to be used with Inon AD mount lenses.