Questions on the Fuji FinePix 3800

10/12/2003 10:46:00 PM · #1

Hola photgraphers. I've got the Fuji FinePix 3800 and can't afford to buy a better camera right now. I'd appreciate any advice, tips or tricks you could share on this particular camera. The macro isn't too great and I don't think I have any shutter control, unless you can prove me wrong (I don't have the manual). Thanks for your consideration!

10/12/2003 11:44:38 PM · #2

a tripod is a must for this camera! use your sport mode to increase your shutter speed. i also think that the macro mode isn't of top quality but again the tripod will improve this aspect. get in touch with the self timer maybe? i'm actually quite satisfied with what it is capable of.

Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8

10/13/2003 12:32:04 AM · #3

I am pleased with a lot of the pictures i've taken with my Fuji, I just want more DOF, but I like the camera so much I had to name it. I call it T-Roy or if I'm feeling lazy, Troy!

pitsaman

Canon EOS-30D

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II

10/13/2003 01:11:40 AM · #4

Originally posted by sfranks:

I use it with manual F setting and EV controls your shutter speed {- EV faster,+ EV slower) auto white balance sucks, so make sure you select sun for sunny weather etc..Overall great camera for the buck!

pcody

Canon PowerShot G6

10/13/2003 02:01:25 AM · #5

I have a set of cheap close up filters for mine. I love doing macros with my 3800 using the +4 filter. It has too much lag for me to use it on anything that moves. I use it in manual mode mostly. I usually don't zoom out all the way. And I stopped using the hard focus option. Too much ca and artifacts.
It's a fun little camera to have.

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

10/13/2003 06:29:21 PM · #6

pcody, how does the +4 filter improve the macro shots?

EL-ROI

Canon EOS-450D Rebel XSi

10/13/2003 07:34:46 PM · #7

A +4 filter is a magnifier. It gets you in closer to the subject.

I got the 3800 too and really get frustrated with it because it needs lot's of light. It's a daytime camera mostly, not very good indoors. (Handheld anyway)

I am learning to use it better though and as soon as I can obtain the quality Pitsaman does, on a consistent basis, I will be happy.

It's a good starter or second camera.

Close up +3 filter for Fuji3800 $ 13 here

10/13/2003 07:56:02 PM · #8

i've read in the forums that a magnifying glass is just as useful. would anyone agree? besides, it's cheaper than a filter.

pitsaman

Canon EOS-30D

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II

10/13/2003 08:01:43 PM · #9

Originally posted by jackditch:

i've read in the forums that a magnifying glass is just as useful. would anyone agree? besides, it's cheaper than a filter.

Canon PowerShot Pro 90 IS

10/13/2003 08:05:39 PM · #10

thanks pitsaman, looks like i'll be picking up a new toy.

coolhar

10/14/2003 12:37:14 AM · #11

Fuji 3800 was my first digital camera, and a fine one at that. Yes, you do have shutter control, and it does macro reasonably well. You can download the manual from this page:
Fujifilm 3800 User Manual

zummer

10/14/2003 03:42:50 AM · #12

a little tip. (i use it pretty often)

as you know 3800's LCD shows a picture only about 95% of it when it is fully zoomed out (play mode)
but if you zoom in to the maximum zoom you can scan the edges to check it out if you got everything right on the picture..
the full zoom shows the actual picture edges (minimum zoom doesn't)

this technic takes time but what you gonna do :p

tip 2:
if you are shooting outdoors, use manual mode and manual whitebalance (sunny, cloudy) because automatic whitebalance doesn't get it right

EL-ROI

Canon EOS-450D Rebel XSi

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

10/14/2003 10:51:25 AM · #13

I don't even use automatic modes with the camera anymore. It's too easy to bracket shots by adjusting EV values. I also try to control the aperture by locking the AE/AF on different areas of a subject.

10/14/2003 11:16:08 PM · #14

Thank you all so much for the advice. I havn't had time to marinate on all of it yet, but I will. If you have any more tips regarding this particular camera, keep 'em coming!