Fujifilm's fast wide compact — the Natura Black, fixed 24mm f/1.9, program AE, 2001.
The Fujifilm Natura Black F1.9 is a fixed-lens 35mm compact and the black-finish version of Fujifilm's Natura S, a Japanese-market camera built around fast available-light shooting. It headlined the Natura series with a very fast wide lens intended for use without flash on high-speed film. Optically and mechanically it matches the Natura S, differing in its all-black finish.
Built for 35mm film, the Natura Black F1.9 has a fixed 24mm f/1.9 Super EBC Fujinon lens of seven elements in six groups, an unusually fast aperture for an ultra-wide compact. It uses autofocus with a selectable infinity setting, programmed AE exposure and Fujifilm's Natural Photo low-light mode. It has a built-in flash and is powered by a single CR2 lithium cell.
The fast 24mm lens and available-light bias make the Natura Black suited to street, travel and documentary shooting in low light without flash, particularly on ISO 800 and faster film. The wide angle captures groups and interiors, and the bright lens allows shooting in conditions that defeat slower compacts. It is a specialised low-light tool rather than a general zoom camera.
When buying used, check that autofocus confirms and that the infinity setting works, and inspect the 24mm lens closely for haze, fungus and coating marks, since a fast wide lens shows flaws readily. Confirm the LCD is complete and bleed-free, test the flash and Natural Photo mode, and listen for smooth film transport. Inspect the CR2 battery compartment for corrosion and verify the film-door light seals are intact.