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The following is an unedited press release, shown as received from the company represented. We've elected to present selected releases without editorial comment, as a way to provide our readers more information without further overtaxing our limited editorial resources. To avoid any possible confusion or conflict of interest, the Imaging Resource will always clearly distinguish between company-provided press releases and our own editorial views and content.

Fujifilm's logo -  click here to visit the Fujifilm website! PRESS RELEASE: Fujifilm unveils its latest "smart solutions for tomorrow" at PMA 2003


Fujifilm Offers Range Of Innovative Products To Move Towards Era of Ubiquitous Imaging - Pictures Anytime, Anywhere

ELMSFORD, NY, February 19 - Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc., will unveil a wide range of innovative, high-quality imaging products this year at PMA 2003, supported by its official show theme, "Smart Solutions for Tomorrow." The theme encapsulates Fujifilm's movement towards an era of ubiquitous imaging with products and services that can be used anytime, anywhere, for any stage of the photo process - from shoot, to store, to print, to share - whether digital or film.

"Ubiquitous imaging will allow users to create beautiful high-resolution images anytime, anywhere, under any conditions, simply by pressing the shutter - and get prints of those images anytime, anywhere," said Yasuo "George" Tanaka, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. "They'll also be able to edit, share and store those images in a multitude of ways. The wide range of product introductions we are unveiling at PMA 2003 will help consumers and professionals alike achieve this goal."

"The exciting new products Fujifilm is demonstrating here at PMA 2003 will offer camera owners everything they need to get high-quality images, while helping retailers and photo labs to be profitable in both film and digital camera development," said Stanley E. Freimuth, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. "Our tagline this year - Smart Solutions For Tomorrow - is based on our belief that these innovative new offerings will lead the way into a future of imaging that is easy, convenient and seamless for everyone."

New Digital Camera Developing Solutions Powered by Image IntelligenceTM
Fujifilm's digital imaging initiative, Digital Camera Developing, makes it as easy and convenient to obtain prints from digital cameras, as it is to get prints from film cameras. Fujifilm is showcasing its expanded Digital Camera Developing line of retail photofinishing products with supporting marketing materials at PMA 2003. The new products and materials underscore Fujifilm's continued commitment to helping retailers provide reliable and high quality service to consumers who want their digital photographs to be printed professionally.

In addition, at PMA 2003, Fujifilm is proud to showcase its proprietary Image Intelligence, the collection of Fujifilm's unique image-processing software technologies, which have been developed through nearly 70 years of experience and expertise in such diverse fields as consumer photography, graphic arts and medical imaging.

As Image Intelligence is applied to consumer imaging, it uses two sets of software technologies. Scene Analysis Algorithm automatically analyzes shooting conditions as well as the subject itself and, based on the analytical data and the image database, determines which methods to use for the best depiction of both the scene and skin areas. Image Expression Algorithm uses the Scene Analysis Algorithm to optimize the hues and brightness of the skin areas while applying a separate set of adjustments to the background so that not only the subject but also the background is defined clearly in the final image.

As a result of these technologies, the final product features vibrant skin tones, clear whites, sharp definition, and is an accurate reflection of the photographer's original vision. Image Intelligence technology is incorporated into many new products introduced at PMA 2003, such as the new Printpix DigiCam Picture Center 400, Frontier 340 Digital Lab System, Pictrography 4500 and FinePix digital cameras.

Fujifilm's new Printpix DigiCam Picture Center 400 is the company's latest stand-alone digital imaging kiosk that quickly and easily provides high quality prints from digital media, and joins a product line that includes the Printpix DigiCam Picture Center 1000 and 600 models. The Printpix 400 is an easy-to-use, compact and low-cost machine designed for retailers looking to enter into the profitable world of Digital Camera Developing.

Fujifilm will also introduce Frontier 340 Digital Lab System as a new addition to its highly acclaimed Frontier family of digital minilab systems. Incorporating Fujifilm's proprietary Image Intelligence, the new Frontier 340 boasts an impressive processing capacity of 900 prints per hour for 3R size high quality prints and 800 prints per hour for 4R size, while still maintaining the compact 13 square feet footprint of the Frontier 330. As a result of a newly developed processing mechanism and chemical system (CP-49E), the new digital minilab system possesses an incredibly fast processing speed that has helped cut processing time from three minutes and 40 seconds to only one minute and 40 seconds. The Frontier 340 can accept multiple input sources, including film, prints, slides, negatives or digital data as well as output pictures as prints or save them to Fujicolor CDs, floppy disks and Zip disks; and can even upload images to Web sites like Fujifilm.net.

The wide range of products, including the Printpix Digicam Picture Center, Pictrography, Frontier Digital Lab System and Aladdin Digital Photo Center (a user-friendly, easy-to-operate self-service imaging kiosk that allows digital camera users to select images for printing, edit them, and order prints in the desired sizes and quantities) is designed to help any business to increase profits and productivity.

New Net Print Solution on digitalcameradeveloping.com
Fujifilm's digitalcameradeveloping.com Web site gives consumers information about printing at retail and allows them to locate their nearby retailers offering Fujifilm Digital Camera Developing services. Now, a new service lets consumers use this Web site to order prints from their home for pick-up at their local Fujifilm Frontier retailer.

New Digital Cameras With New 4th-Generation Super CCD
Fujifilm has led the development of CCD technology with its award-winning Super CCD sensor, which was first introduced in 2000. This year Fujifilm has reached a new landmark in the industry's quest for a perfectly life-like digital image with its 4th-generation versions of the company's proprietary Super CCD, key devices that provide increased resolution and extended dynamic range, creating for the first time pictures that can begin to match those taken with film. The technology will be marketed under two names: Super CCD HR and Super CCD SR.

The first camera to utilize Fujifilm's proprietary new Super CCD SR (Super Dynamic Range) technology, Fujifilm FinePix F700 is the first 6.2 megapixel (S-pixel: 3.1 million, R-pixel: 3.1million) consumer digital camera on the market*. The camera captures pictures with quality approaching that of film, with 2,832 x 2,128 (6.03 million) recorded pixels, and with a dramatically increased dynamic range.

Fujifilm will also demonstrate the Fujifilm FinePix F410, the first digital camera with a new Super CCD HR (High Resolution) sensor of 3.1 million pixels in a 1/2.7" chip. The camera can produce high-resolution images with 2,816 x 2,120 (6.0 million) recorded pixels.

New Digital Camera Back with 20.8 Pixels Super CCD
Fujifilm will announce the development of a new state-of-the-art medium format digital camera back for professional use. The back is equipped with Fujifilm's newly developed 20.8 million total pixels Super CCD with a 52 x 37 mm size chip capable of producing a record breaking 7,648 x 5,408 (41 million) recorded pixels for exceptional quality. The CCD will produce ultra high-resolution images with superb color fidelity for professional photographers.

New Film Cameras, Films and QuickSnaps for Everyday Events
Building on the tremendous success already enjoyed by the fun, fashionable Fujifilm Nexia Q1 24mm camera, Fujifilm will display several colorful new versions of the camera. Fujifilm also will unveil the latest exciting models in its lineup of 35mm cameras - the new Fujifilm Zoom Date 160EZ, Zoom Date 140EZ and Zoom Date 60EZ.

Fujifilm will display new consumer versions of the Fujicolor Superia X-TRA 400 and Fujicolor Superia 1600 35mm color negative films. These high-speed films incorporate advanced new technologies which, combined with the existing 4th Color Layer Technology, produce vibrant and accurate color, exceptional sharpness and excellent gray balance.

The new Superia X-TRA 400 film achieves the world's highest* granularity in the ISO 400-class films by incorporating the new Super Fine-Σ (SIGMA) Grain Technology, producing exceptional image quality even under low-light conditions or in enlargements. The film's outstanding performance is even more evident when combined with the exceptional sharpness and exposure correction performed by Frontier digital image processing.

In the new Superia 1600, sharp, crisp images are achieved through newly developed Nano-Structured Σ (SIGMA) Grain Technology. This produces smooth granularity that is not typically expected of high-speed film.

Fujifilm continues to expand its full line of Fujicolor QuickSnap one-time-use cameras, meeting the rising demand from consumers who are using the product on a more consistent basis. To take advantage of this trend, Fujifilm will introduce a convenient 2-pack of the popular 27-exposure model, as well as a new 39-exposure model.

In a continuation of its broader branding efforts, Fujifilm will debut new consumer film and one-time-use camera packaging at PMA 2003. The attractive new packaging underscores the company's commitment to providing consumers with a selection of high quality photographic products to capture everyday life events. The new packaging features a curved header that differentiates Fujifilm from other brands and the recognizable green, in a dynamic design with a modern look.

New Professional Films Debut
In 1990, Fujifilm transformed the world of professional imaging with its launch of the first FUJICHROME Velvia color transparency film. Today, Fujifilm once again redefines the color reproduction palette for professional photographers, with the introduction of FUJICHROME Velvia 100F Professional. This new color transparency film brings the ultra-high-saturated color of Fujifilm's renowned Velvia to the ISO 100 speed class. Employing the industry's first Multi-Color-Correction Layer technology in a color reversal film, as well as new coupler and emulsion technologies, FUJICHROME Velvia 100F Professional delivers world-class color fidelity, reproducing the finest nuances of hues that test the limitations of conventional films, along with ultra-fine granularity (RMS** granularity of 8***).

Fujifilm will introduce FUJICHROME Astia 100F Professional, a new color transparency film offering strikingly improved reproduction of skin tone and texture, which will change the face of the fashion, portrait and commercial photography market segments. FUJICHROME Astia 100F combines exceptionally smooth, natural rendering of skin tones from highlights to shadows with world-class color fidelity across a full palette of hues, thanks to Multi-Color-Correction Layer technology which provides highly accurate color reproduction. With an RMS** granularity of 7***, this film offers photographers an unsurpassed freedom from grain.

U.S. Introduction of Instant, Peel-Apart Film for Professionals
Fujifilm will introduce to the U.S. marketplace its professional instant color film FP-100C, which produces exceptional picture quality and excellent color reproduction. This ISO 100 instant color film, optimized for use under direct sunlight or electronic flash, produces prints with little to no gradation imbalance, from highlights to shadows, superior light fading characteristics and reduced color variations caused by elongated peeling time. Fujifilm will also introduce FP-100B, an EI 100 instant black and white film, and FP-3000B, an EI 3200 instant black and white film to the U.S.

Selection of Storage Options
Fujifilm will be exhibiting a full line of Flash Memory products including: the new 256MB xD-Picture CardTM, SD-Secure DigitalTM, Compact FlashTM and Smart MediaTM for a variety of digital cameras in the marketplace. Additional items to be showcased at the booth will be a full line of optical products with special emphasis on DVD Products servicing all current formats including: DVD-RAM, DVD+R/+RW, and DVD-R/-RW for a host of recording applications. Camcorder tape formats will also round out the complete Fujifilm Imaging and Information product line up with: MiniDV, Hi8, 8mm, and VHS-C.

For more information on Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc., please visit Fujifilm's PMA 2003 Booth E6.

About Fujifilm
Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. is the U.S. marketing subsidiary of Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. of Tokyo (FUJIY), a leading global manufacturer in three business segments, including Imaging Solutions, Information Solutions and Document Solutions with consolidated sales of $18.1 billion for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2002. Recognized for its technological innovation and high quality, Fujifilm offers a complete portfolio of imaging, information and document products, services and e-solutions to retailers, consumers, professionals and business customers.

The complete Fujifilm product portfolio in the U.S.A. includes: professional and consumer film and cameras; digital imaging products, including cameras and printers for commercial and consumer use; digital minilabs and kiosks; photographic paper and photofinishing supplies; motion picture film; a complete range of optical, magnetic storage and flash memory products including: blank CD and DVD media for audio, video and data, LTO, DLTtape and Super DLTtape storage products, Zip storage products, USB Drive storage; videotape and audiocassettes; microfilm and other micrographic products; and graphic arts film, conventional and digital printing plates, analog and digital color proofing systems, drum and flatbed scanners, imagesetters and computer-to-plate systems.

Fujicolor Processing, Inc., a subsidiary of Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc., provides wholesale photofinishing through a network of laboratories across the country. Fujifilm e-Systems is a subsidiary of Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc., that develops workflow solutions to support the company's

photofinishing labs and consumer photographic businesses, including online imaging services such as Fujifilm.net. Enovation Graphic Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc., is the largest U.S. distributor of equipment, consumables and technical services for the graphic communications industry.

For more information on Fujifilm products, consumers can call 800-800-FUJI or access the Fujifilm USA Web site at www.fujifilm.com.

Other Fujifilm companies in America include:

Fuji Photo Film, Inc., Greenwood, SC, Fujifilm's North American manufacturing headquarters, produces 35mm color film, color photographic paper, QuickSnap one-time-use cameras, DLTtape(tm) IV computer data storage media, VHS-format video tape for the consumer and duplication markets, digital and conventional pre-sensitized printing plates and film for the graphic arts market and digital and conventional medical imaging products.

Fuji Hunt Photographic Chemicals, Inc., Allendale, NJ, is a leading manufacturer of photographic, medical and graphic arts chemicals.

Fujinon, Inc., Wayne, NJ, provides optics and lens assemblies for the broadcast, digital cinema and industrial markets.

Fujifilm Microdisks U.S.A., Inc., Bedford, MA, assembles Fujifilm tape media storage products.

Fujifilm Software California, Inc., San Jose, CA, develops workflow solutions for Fujifilm.

Fujifilm Medical Systems USA, Inc., Stamford, CT, provides an extensive line of products and systems, from traditional printing to a complete digital environment, that are used by healthcare facilities to produce superior diagnostic images and improve delivery of care.

###
Image Intelligence is a trademark of Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.

All brand names or trademarks are property of their respective owners.

*as of January, 2003

**RMS (root mean square) granularity is a widely used standard method for measuring and expressing the apparent graininess of photographic films and prints. Statistical density fluctuations in film granularity are measured, and then converted into numerical values. The lower the number, the lesser the fluctuation and the smaller the apparent grain.

***Read at a gross diffuse visual density of 1.0, using a 48-micrometer aperture.


(First posted on Wednesday, February 19, 2003 at 15:42 EST)

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