have a 4x optical zoom that starts at 30mm; the DMC-FS3, with a 3x optical f/2.8 zoom lens and 8MP; The 10MP DMC-FX35, which offers a 25-100mm (35mm equivalent) optical zoom; and the 9.1-megapixel DMC-TZ5 and 8.1-megapixel DMC-TZ4, each of which features a 28mm wide-angle 10x optical zoom lens.
For complete details and specifications, read the Panasonic press releases:
Panasonic introduces Two New, High Performance, Compact Digital Cameras with 5x Optical Zoom Leica DC Lens and Manual Operation
Panasonic introduces the new LUMIX 10.1-megapixel DMC-LZ10 with 30mm wide angle (35 mm equivalent: 30-150mm) and the DMC-LZ8 with 32mm (35 mm equivalent: 32-160mm) 5x optical zoom Leica DC lens, combining excellent optical performance with compactness. The CCD has been upgraded to 10.1-megapixel (DMC-LZ10) and 8.1-megapixel (DMC-LZ8) high resolution, whilst the newly adopted manual control over aperture and shutter speed lets the user enjoy creative photography. The high-performance image-processing LSI has now entered its fourth generation with the Venus Engine IV, assuring higher-quality pictures with an advanced signal processing system..
The DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 feature iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, comprising 5 shooting-assist functions; Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection and Quick AF functions. Mega O.I.S. suppresses hand-shake and Intelligent ISO Control prevents motion blur. The Intelligent Scene Selector sets the appropriate scene mode by automatically selecting it from the most frequently used scene modes, such as Portrait, Scenery, Macro, Night Portrait and Night Scenery, whilst the Face Detection system detects a human face and automatically sets the focus and exposure for the best possible picture. The Quick AF system allows the camera to detect and start focusing on the subject even without pressing the shutter button halfway, ensuring you get the best results from every shooting opportunity by minimizing the AF time. Once you enter iA mode, these multi-capable functions happen automatically so you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change, allowing you to enjoy easy, trouble-free shooting in any situation and get the satisfaction that comes with capturing clear, beautiful images.
The DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 boast a 230,000 pixel high-resolution LCD with Intelligent LCD function, which detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the display, giving you the best possible picture in any shooting condition.
The slim and compact DMC-LZ8 is available in black, while the LZ10 is available in silver and black with a sophisticated metal-finished front panel* now offer a music effect feature on slideshows of captured images so you can enjoy watching or showing your pictures with music that complements the slideshow.
The DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 offer the best solution for photographers who enjoy taking beautiful pictures successfully or for those who would like to experience creative photography.
Advanced lens unit delivers an exceptional optical performance The 10.1-megapixel DMC-LZ10 is equipped with a 30mm* wide-angle Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, whilst the 8.1-megapixel DMC-LZ8 comes with a 32mm* Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, Both feature a 5x optical zoom. Comprising seven elements in six groups, including three aspherical lenses with four aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit achieves an outstanding slimness yet passes Leica’s stringent standards to deliver an exceptional optical performance. Furthermore, in 3-megapixel resolution mode, the Extra Optical Zoom function provides additional magnification, extending the zoom power to 8.9x (LZ10) or 8.0x (LZ8) by using the center part of the CCD.
The Easy Zoom feature shifts the lens instantly to full 5x optical zoom power at the touch of a dedicated button, and with a second touch, the zoom ratio is further extended to 8.9x (LZ10) or 8.0x (LZ8) by activating the Extra Optical Zoom function*.
In addition, the newly adopted iris diaphragm allows the camera to have a manual control.
*35mm film camera equivalent: 30-150mm(LZ10), 32-160mm (LZ8)
*When the picture size is set to 3 megapixels or larger, the photo is automatically resized to 3 megapixels. When the lens is shifted back to the wide-end, the picture size is set to the original size automatically. The original size is maintained for photos smaller than 3 megapixels.
1. Great Photography with Intelligent Auto Mode
Panasonic incorporated the iA(Intelligent Auto) mode into its compact cameras in pursuit of the ultimate ease of operation and the reduction of misshots. Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) to compensate for hand-shake and Intelligent ISO Control to detect and suppress motion blur are built into all Lumix cameras, as the industry’s most advanced countermeasures against blurring. Both image stabilizing technologies have been further advanced in detection accuracy and correction effect thanks to the new image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV.
In addition to these two key anti-blurring technologies, Panasonic continues to pursue the idea that anyone at any technical level of photography should be able to take beautiful pictures with ease, by incorporating the Intelligent Auto mode. Increasing the number of scene modes is one thing, but taking advantage of them is another, and that’s where the Intelligent Scene Selector comes in. It automatically sets the appropriate scene mode according to the scene you’re going to take from among the most frequently used scene modes, such as Portrait, Scenery, Macro, Night Scenery and Night Portrait mode. The Face Detection system helps the camera to recognize human faces and to focus and set the exposure automatically. Up to 15 faces can be recognized simultaneously. The Quick AF system allows the camera to keep focusing on the subject even without pressing the shutter button halfway, to get the best results from every shooting opportunity by minimizing the AF time.
These multi-capable functions happen automatically, so you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change – the powerful Intelligent Auto Mode does all the work for you, so that you can enjoy easy, trouble-free shooting in any situation and get the satisfaction that comes with capturing clear, beautiful images.
High-Speed, High-Quality Image-Processing
The DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 feature a new image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV, with advanced signal processing technology which produces even higher-quality images. Parallel noise reduction in both luminance signal and chromatic signal processing systems, a technology established by the preceding Venus Engine III, gains a more sophisticated process. First, the luminance noise is two-dimensionally separated into high-frequency and low-frequency noises and only the low-frequency noise, which tends to be conspicuous, is eliminated without affecting the high-frequency noise that greatly influences resolution. Second, the information of the change point between colours is minutely stored for precise determination of edges, thus colour bleeding is dramatically suppressed. This not only produces a clearer image in high ISO sensitivity recording, but also faithfully reproduces details in low-lit areas of pictures taken at low ISO sensitivity.
The Venus Engine IV also elevates the detection accuracy and corrective effect in both Mega O.I.S., which prevents hand-shake, and Intelligent ISO Control, which suppresses motion blur.
The multi-task image-processing engine, Venus Engine IV also supports a super-fast response time. The shutter release time lag is as short as 0.005 seconds and the camera’s quick response makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities. In burst shooting mode, the DMC-LZ10 and LZ8 can snap 2.5 shots per second at full resolution,** whilst in High-Speed Burst shooting mode,*** it fires off an incredible 5 (LZ10) / 5.5 (LZ8) shots per second. You also get unlimited consecutive shooting,**** which lets you keep shooting until the memory card is full.
In addition, the Venus Engine IV supports a new High Sensitivity mode that lets the DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 record at a setting of up to ISO 6400, sensitive enough to capture subjects in near-total darkness without using a flash.***
*Not including auto focusing time
**Max. 5 (LZ10) / 7 (LZ8) images in standard mode, 3 (LZ10) / 4 (LZ8) images in fine mode.
*** In 2-megapixel(4:3), 2.5-megapixel(3:2), 2-megapixel(16:9) recording
****The consecutive shooting speed varies with the memory card, image size, and image compression mode. The number of shots depends on the memory card size, battery life, image size and image compression mode.
***** In 3-megapixel(4:3), 2.5-megapixel(3:2), 2-megapixel(16:9) recording
Operational Ease
The DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 have adopted a manual control function, which is normally found on high end models, which allows users to set aperture and shutter?speed manually.; A-aperture priority, S-shutter speed priority and M-manual. Together with the powerful 5x optical zoom, this function helps the photographer take more creative control. Another additional function that broadens the fun of photography is an Advanced Scene Mode that provides the users with more control over some frequently-used scene modes; Portrait, Sports, Landscape and Night portrait. For example select the Portrait or Sports mode and you’ll then be given further options to define whether it is in outdoor or indoor. Select Landscape mode and you’ll have options to specify if you’re going to take nature or architecture. Alternatively, you can simply select the original mode or select Creative mode which adds manual controls over an aperture or a shutter speed to the optimized setting of the mode.
High-resolution LCD for Easy Shooting and Playback
The DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 incorporate an easy-to-see, 2.5-inch 230,000 pixel high-resolution LCD for comfortable viewing when monitoring shots or playing back the results. The Intelligent LCD function detects the light condition and automatically boosts the LCD backlighting by max. 40% when shooting outdoors in bright sunshine, and adjusts the frame rate when shooting in low-lit situations in addition to using the pixel mixed readout method to secure clarity. Detecting the lighting condition precisely and automatically controlling the brightness with a total of 12 steps, this function gives the display the most appropriate clarity in any situation without using extra energy.
These two cameras also feature the High Angle mode makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view from below, for example, when holding the camera up high to take pictures over a crowd.
Exciting Options to Expand the Fun of Photography
Lumix cameras offer a wide variety of options to expand fun of photography. Both the DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 provide slideshows complete with music. Simply select the pictures you want to show and choose the music that best matches your selection from natural, slow, urban or swing.
All Lumix cameras can take 1920×1080 pixel high-definition quality photos that are ideal for full-screen viewing on a wide-screen (16:9) Panasonic Viera TV with internal SD card slot.
The DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8 can also record WVGA (848 x 480) motion pictures at 30 frames per second in addition to standard VGA (640 x 480). The WVGA motion picture also fits a wide-screen (16:9) Panasonic Viera TV perfectly, offering impressive viewing.
Other Features
The DMC-LZ10 and LZ8 run on AA batteries,, and you are able to shoot 160 and 180 images respectively with the included Alkaline batteries, or 460(LZ10) /470(LZ8) images with optional Ni-MH rechargeable batteries (2600mAh)*.
All new Lumix cameras incorporate a REC/PLAYBACK mode switch. This helps the photographer to instantly switch between recording and playback modes. The GUI (Graphic User Interface) has been upgraded to look more futuristic in terms of design and colour while maintaining the visibility of characters.
Also interesting is the Title Edit* function, which allows text to be input as additional information on the picture, for example, names of children or pets, or holidays. This information, can be stamped on photos with the Text Stamp function and can be useful when making a photo album. A total of 18 scene modes and Advanced Scene Mode help you to take more beautiful pictures in a wide range of situations.
Around 20 MB of internal memory is built-in to back up the SDHC/SD Memory Card recording and copying. A newly added speaker lets you enjoy the slide show with music or a motion picture with voice on the high resolution LCD of the camera. All the major features mentioned above can be easily and quickly understood with the newly installed slideshow programme, Demo mode.
*Based on the CIPA standard.
10.1-Megapixel LUMIX DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5
with 30mm Wide-Angle 4x Optical Zoom Leica DC Lens*
Combines Simple Operation and Slim, Stylish Profile
Featuring Intelligent Auto Mode
*35mm film camera equivalent: 30-120mm
Panasonic is pleased to introduce the new 10.1-megapixel DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 cameras with 30mm wide angle Leica DC lens and 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 30mm to 120 mm on a 35mm film camera) as part of the new Lumix FS series. The FS series is similar to the world-acclaimed FX series, pursuing easy and simple operation with its high-grade profile for users at every stage to enjoy taking beautiful pictures. Despite its remarkably compact and slim body, the stylish DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 boast a 30mm wide-angle Leica DC lens which captures the subject and the wider scene at the same standpoint as the normal 35mm camera does. The DMC-FS20 incorporates a large 3-inch LCD screen whereas the DMC-FS5 sports a compact 2.5-inch LCD screen. Both have 230,000-dot high resolution and Intelligent LCD function, which detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the LCD in 11 fine steps, thus offering a display with the most appropriate clarity in any situation.
The DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 feature the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, which comprises 5 shooting-assist functions; Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection and Quick AF functions. Mega O.I.S. suppresses hand-shake and Intelligent ISO Control prevents motion blur. The Intelligent Scene Selector sets the appropriate scene mode by automatically selecting it from the most frequently used scene modes, such as Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait and Night Scenery. The Face Detection system detects a human face to set the focus and appropriate exposure for it automatically. The Quick AF system allows the camera to start focusing on the subject even without pressing the shutter button halfway, to get the best results from every shooting opportunity by minimizing the AF time. Once you enter iA mode, these multi-capable functions happen automatically so you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change. You can enjoy easy, trouble-free shooting in any situation and get the satisfaction that comes with capturing clear, beautiful images.
Panasonic’s own high performance image processor has newly entered its fourth generation, to be reborn as Venus Engine IV assuring higher-quality pictures with an advanced signal processing system. The Easy Zoom feature shifts the lens instantly to full zoom at the touch of a button. The slideshow setting now comes equipped with a musical option, allowing users to listen to music whilst viewing their images, giving emotional impact when desired.. The DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 also boast an internal 50 MB memory (approx.) giving users more flexibility when shooting.
With a metal finish, the DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 are both sleek and stylish. Offering the ability to take great snapshots with committed ease of operation, even for beginners. The DMC-FS20 will be available in silver and black, and the DMC-FS5 in silver, black and red*
*Availability of models and colours may vary depending on the sales area.
1. Newly Developed 30mm Wide Angle 4x Optical Zoom (30-120mm) Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR Lens and 1/2.33-inch 10.1-megapixel High Resolution CCD
The 10.1-megapixel DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 come with a 30mm wide-angle* Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR lens with 4x optical zoom complementing the slim and compact body of the camera. Comprising seven elements in six groups, including three aspherical lenses with four aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit fits well with the outstandingly slim and compact body yet passes Leica’s stringent standards to deliver an exceptional optical performance. Further, in 3-megapixel resolution mode, the Extra Optical Zoom function provides additional magnification, extending the zoom power to 7.1x by using the centre part of the CCD.
The Easy Zoom** feature shifts the lens instantly to full 4x optical zoom power at a touch of a button, and with a second touch, the zoom ratio is further extended to 7.1x by activating the Extra Optical Zoom function.
*35mm film camera equivalent: 30-120mm*
**When the picture size is set to 3 megapixels or larger, the photo is automatically resized to 3 megapixels. When the lens is shifted back to the wide-end, the picture size is set to the original size automatically. The original size is maintained for photos smaller than 3 megapixels.
2. Great Photography Is Not Only from Professional Photographers Anymore — Intelligent Auto Mode
Panasonic incorporated the Intelligent Auto mode to ensure ultimate ease of operation and the reduction of misshots. The Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) compensates for hand-shake and the Intelligent ISO Control detects and suppresses motion blur., As the industry’s most advanced countermeasures against blurring, both image stabilizing technologies have been further advanced in detection accuracy and correction effect thanks to the new image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV.
In addition to these two key anti-blurring technologies, Panasonic continues to reinforce the idea that anyone at any technical level of photography should be able to take beautiful pictures with ease.. Increasing the number of scene modes is one thing and taking advantage of them is another, this is where the Intelligent Scene Selector comes in. It automatically sets the appropriate scene mode according to the picture you are about to take. Most frequently used scene modes include Portrait, Scenery, Night Scenery and Night Portrait mode. The Face Detection system helps the camera to recognize human faces and to focus and set the exposure automatically. Up to 15 faces can be recognized simultaneously. The Quick AF system allows the camera to continue focusing on the subject without pressing the shutter button halfway, giving the best results from every shooting opportunity by minimizing the AF time.
These multi-capable functions happen automatically, so you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change — the powerful Intelligent Auto Mode does all the work for you. You can enjoy easy, trouble-free shooting in any situation and get the satisfaction that comes with capturing clear, beautiful images.
3. High-Speed, High-Quality Image-Processing LSI Further Evolves into the Venus Engine IV
The new image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV, features more advanced signal processing technology for rendering even higher-quality images.
Notably, dual noise reduction for luminance signal and chromatic signal processing systems, a technology established by the preceding Venus Engine III, gains a more sophisticated process. Firstly, the luminance noise is two-dimensionally separated and only the low-frequency noise, which tends to be noticeable, is eliminated without affecting the high-frequency noise that greatly influences resolution. Secondly, the information of the change point between colours is minutely stored for precise determination of edges, thus colour bleeding is dramatically suppressed. This not only produces a clearer image in high ISO sensitivity recording, but also reproduces details in low-lit areas of pictures taken at low ISO sensitivity.
The Venus Engine IV also enhances the detection accuracy and corrective effect in both Mega O.I.S., which prevents hand-shake, and Intelligent ISO Control, which suppresses motion blur.
Featured in the DMC-FS20 and the DMC-FS5, the multi-task image-processor, the Venus Engine IV supports a super-fast response time. The shutter release time lag is as short as 0.00X second and the shutter interval is as short as 0.X sec* despite high-resolution picture recording. The camera’s quick response makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities. In burst shooting mode, the DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 can snap 2.5 shots per second at full resolution.** And in High-Speed Burst shooting mode,*** it delivers an incredible 6 shots per second. You also get unlimited consecutive shooting,**** which lets you continue shooting until the memory card is full.
The Venus Engine IV also supports a High Sensitivity mode that lets the DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 record at a setting of up to ISO 6400, sensitive enough to capture subjects in near-total darkness without using a flash.*****
*Not including auto focusing time
**Max. 5 images in standard mode/ 3 images in fine mode.
*** In 2-megapixel(4:3), 2.5-megapixel(3:2), 2-megapixel(16:9) recording
****The consecutive shooting speed varies with the memory card, image size, and image compression mode. The number of shots depends on the memory card size, battery life, image size and image compression mode.
***** In 3-megapixel(4:3), 2.5-megapixel(3:2), 2-megapixel(16:9) recording
4. Advanced 3-inch (FS20) / 2.5-inch (FS5) Large Intelligent LCD with 230,000-dot High Resolution for Easy Shooting and Playback
The DMC-FS20 boasts a large, easy-to-see, 3-inch (2.5-inch for DMC-FS5) 230,000-dot high-resolution LCD screen for clear viewing while both monitoring shots and playing back the results. The Intelligent LCD function detects the light condition and automatically boosts the LCD backlighting by a maximum of 40 percent when shooting outdoors in bright sunshine. It also adjusts the frame rate when shooting in low-lit situations in addition to using the pixel mixed readout method to secure clarity in such situations. Detecting the lighting condition precisely and automatically controlling the brightness with a total of 11 fine steps, this function gives the display the most appropriate clarity in any situation without using extra energy.
The High Angle mode makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view when the camera is held high, such as when shooting over a crowd.
5. Exciting Options to Expand the Fun of Photography
The Lumix camera further offers a wide variety of options to expand the fun of photography.
Both DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 now provide slideshows complete with a musical option. Just select the pictures you want to show and choose the mood that best matches your selection from natural, slow, urban or swing. You are then able to view your slideshow along with the chosen music, giving it an emotional touch.
All Lumix cameras can take 1920×1080 pixel high-definition quality photos that are ideal for full-screen viewing on a wide-screen (16:9) HDTV. Panasonic is focused on making photography more enjoyable and accessible by letting people view their images easily on a Panasonic Viera TV with internal SD card slot.
For the motion picture, the DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 can record WVGA (848 x 480) motion images at 30 frames per second in addition to standard VGA (640 x 480). The WVGA motion picture also fits a wide-screen HDTV perfectly, to offer extremely impressive viewing.
6. Other Features
The Panasonic DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 feature a variety of functions which expand convenience and fun for users at every stage. The energy-efficient Venus Engine IV imaging engine encourages the long battery life of the DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 to shoot around 280 (FS20) / 300 (FS5) shots despite their large, bright LCDs on a single battery charge*.
With reference to design improvements, all new Lumix cameras incorporate a REC/PLAYBACK mode switch. This helps the photographer to instantly switch between recording and playback modes, while always knowing which mode the camera is in. The GUI(Graphic User Interface) has been modified to look more futuristic in terms of design and colour while maintaining the visibility of characters.
A total of 20 (FS20) / 21 (FS5) scene modes help you to take more beautiful pictures in a wide range of situations.
Another valuable function is the Title Edit* option, which allows text to be input as additional information for the picture, for example, names of children or pets, and travel places. This information, as well as dates, which can be helpful when making a photo album, can be stamped on photos with the Text Stamp function whether you print them yourself at home or have a photo shop do them. Around 50 MB of internal memory is built-in to back up the SDHC/SD Memory Card recording and copying.
The major features mentioned above can be quickly understood with the newly installed slideshow program called Demo mode.
The DMC-FS5 is compatible with an optional marine case (DMW-MCFS5) with which users can shoot underwater while scuba diving, etc.
*Based on the CIPA standard.
8.1-Megapixel LUMIX DMC-FS3
with 3x Optical Zoom f2.8 Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT Lens*
Combines Simple Operation and Slim, Stylish Profile
Featuring Intelligent Auto Mode
*35mm film camera equivalent: 33-100mm
Panasonic is pleased to introduce the new 8.1-megapixel DMC-FS3 with f2.8 Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens with 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 33mm to 100 mm on a 35mm film camera) as part of the new Lumix FS series. The new FS series is similar to the world-acclaimed FX series, pursuing easy and simple operation with its high-grade profile for users at every stage to enjoy taking beautiful pictures.
The new DMC-FS3 features iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, which comprises 5 shooting-assist functions; Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection and Quick AF functions. Mega O.I.S. suppresses hand-shake and Intelligent ISO Control prevents motion blur. The Intelligent Scene Selector sets the appropriate scene mode by automatically selecting it from the most frequently used scene modes, such as Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait and Night Scenery. The Face Detection system detects a human face to set the focus and appropriate exposure for it automatically. The Quick AF system allows the camera to start focusing on the subject even without pressing the shutter button halfway, to get the best results from every shooting opportunity by minimizing the AF time. Once you enter iA mode, these multi-capable functions happen automatically so you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change. You can enjoy easy, trouble-free shooting in any situation and get the satisfaction that comes with capturing clear, beautiful images.
Panasonic’s own high performance image processor has newly entered its fourth generation, to be reborn as Venus Engine IV assuring higher-quality pictures with an advanced signal processing system. The DMC-FS3 boasts a 230,000-dot high-resolution LCD with Intelligent LCD function, this detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the LCD in 11 fine steps, thus offering a display with the most appropriate clarity in any situation. The slideshow setting now comes equipped with a musical option, allowing users to listen to music whilst viewing their images, giving emotional impact when desired. The Easy Zoom feature shifts the lens instantly to full zoom at the touch of a button.?It also boasts an internal 50 MB memory (approx.) giving users more flexibility when shooting.
With a metal finish the DMC-FS3 is slim and sleek. It takes a great photo yet combines it with ease of operation. The DMC-FS3 will be available in silver, black blue, pink and green*
*Availability of models and colours may vary depending on the sales area.
1. Newly Developed 3x Optical Zoom (33-100mm) Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT Lens and 8.1-megapixel High Resolution CCD
The 8.1-megapixel DMC-FS3 comes with a 33mm 3x optical zoom Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens with f2.8 brightness. Comprising six elements in five groups, including three aspherical lenses with four aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit complements the outstandingly slim and compact body yet still passes Leica’s stringent standards to deliver an exceptional optical performance. Furthermore, in 3-megapixel resolution mode, the extra optical zoom function provides additional magnification, extending the zoom power to 4.8x by using the centre part of the CCD.
The Easy Zoom** feature shifts the lens instantly to full 3x optical zoom power at the touch of a button, and with a second touch, the zoom ratio is further extended to 4.8x by activating the Extra Optical Zoom function.
*35mm film camera equivalent: 33-100mm*
**When the picture size is set to 3 megapixels or larger, the photo is automatically resized to 3 megapixels. When the lens is shifted back to the wide-end, the picture size is set to the original size automatically. The original size is maintained for photos smaller than 3 megapixels.
2. Great Photography Is Not Only from Professional Photographers Anymore — Intelligent Auto Mode
Panasonic incorporated the Intelligent Auto mode to ensure ultimate ease of operation and the reduction of misshots. The Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) compensates for possible hand-shake and the Intelligent ISO Control detects and suppresses motion blur. As the industry’s most advanced countermeasures against blurring, both image stabilizing technologies have been further advanced in detection accuracy and correction effect thanks to the new image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV.
In addition to these two key anti-blurring technologies Panasonic continues pursuing the idea that anyone at any technical level of photography should be able to take beautiful pictures with ease. This is due to the introduction of Intelligent Auto Mode. Increasing the number of scene modes is one thing and taking advantage of them is another, and that’s where the Intelligent Scene Selector comes in. It automatically sets the appropriate scene mode according to the picture you are about to take. Most frequently used scene modes include Portrait, Scenery, Night Scenery and Night Portrait mode. The Face Detection system helps the camera to recognize human faces and to focus and set the exposure automatically. Up to 15 faces can be recognized simultaneously. The Quick AF system allows the camera to keep focusing on the subject even without pressing the shutter button halfway, to get the best results from every shooting opportunity by minimizing the AF time.
These multi-capable functions happen automatically, so you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change — the powerful Intelligent Auto Mode does all the work for you. You can enjoy easy, trouble-free shooting in any situation and get the satisfaction that comes with capturing clear, beautiful images.
3. High-Speed, High-Quality Image-Processing LSI Further Evolves into the Venus Engine IV
A new image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV, features more advanced signal processing technology for rendering even higher-quality images.
Notably, dual noise reduction for luminance signal and chromatic signal processing systems, a technology established by the preceding Venus Engine III, gains a more sophisticated process. Firstly, the luminance noise is two-dimensionally separated and only the low-frequency noise, which tends to be noticeable, is eliminated without affecting the high-frequency noise that greatly influences resolution. Secondly, the information of the change point between colours is minutely stored for precise determination of edges, thus colour bleeding is dramatically suppressed. This not only produces a clearer image in high ISO sensitivity recording, but also reproduces details in low-lit areas of pictures taken at low ISO sensitivity.
The Venus Engine IV also enhances the detection accuracy and corrective effect in both Mega O.I.S., which prevents hand-shake, and Intelligent ISO Control, which suppresses motion blur.
Featured in the DMC-FS3, the multi-task image-processing engine Venus Engine IV supports a super-fast response time. The shutter release time lag is as short as 0.00X?second and the shutter interval is as short as 0.X second* despite high-resolution picture recording. The camera’s quick response makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities. In burst shooting mode, the DMC-FS3 can snap 3 shots per second at full resolution.** And in High-Speed Burst shooting mode,*** it delivers an incredible 7 shots per second. You also get unlimited consecutive shooting****, which lets you continue shooting until the memory card is full.
The Venus Engine IV also supports a High Sensitivity mode that lets the DMC-FS3 record at a setting of up to ISO 6400, sensitive enough to capture subjects in near-total darkness without using a flash.*****
*Not including auto focusing time
**Max. 7 images in standard mode/ 4 images in fine mode.
*** In 2-megapixel(4:3), 2.5-megapixel(3:2), 2-megapixel(16:9) recording
****The consecutive shooting speed varies with the memory card, image size, and image compression mode. The number of shots depends on the memory card size, battery life, image size and image compression mode.
***** In 3-megapixel(4:3), 2.5-megapixel(3:2), 2-megapixel(16:9) recording
4. 2.5-inch Large, 230,000-dot High-resolution LCD for Easy Shooting and Playback
The DMC-FS3 boasts a large, 2.5-inch 230,000-dot high-resolution LCD display for clear viewing while both monitoring shots and playing back the results. The Intelligent LCD function detects the light condition and automatically boosts the LCD backlighting by max. 40%?? when shooting outdoors in bright sunshine, and adjusts the frame rate when shooting in low-lit situations in addition to using the pixel mixed readout method to secure clarity in such situations. Detecting the lighting condition precisely and automatically controlling the brightness with a total of 11 fine steps, this function gives the display the most appropriate clarity in any situation without using extra energy.
The High Angle mode makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view when the camera is held high, such as when shooting over a crowd.
5. Exciting Options to Expand the Fun of Photography
The Lumix camera offers a wide variety of options to expand the fun of photography. The DMC-FS3 now provides slideshows complete with a musical option. Just select the pictures you want to show and choose the mood that best matches your selection from natural, slow, urban or swing. You are then able to view your slideshow along with the chosen music, giving it an emotional touch.. .
All Lumix cameras can take 1920×1080 pixel high-definition quality photos that are ideal for full-screen viewing on a wide-screen (16:9) HDTV. Panasonic is focused on making photography more enjoyable and accessible by letting people view their images easily on a Panasonic Viera TV with internal SD card slot.
For the motion picture, the DMC-FS3 can record WVGA (848 x 480) motion images at 30 frames per second in addition to standard VGA (640 x 480). The WVGA motion picture also fits a wide-screen HDTV perfectly, to offer extremely impressive viewing.
6. Other Features
The Panasonic DMC-FS3 features a variety of functions which expand convenience and fun for users at every stage.. The energy-efficient Venus Engine IV imaging engine encourages the long battery life of DMC-FS3 to shoot around 330 shots despite their large, bright LCD on a single battery charge*.
With reference to design improvements all new Lumix cameras incorporate a REC/PLAYBACK mode. This helps the photographer to instantly switch between recording and playback modes, while always knowing which mode the camera is in. The GUI (Graphic User Interface) has been modified to look more futuristic in terms of design and colour while maintaining the visibility of characters.
A total of 21 scene modes help you to take more beautiful pictures in a wide range of situations.
Another valuable function is the Title Edit* option, which allows text to be input as additional information for the picture, for example, names of children or pets, and travel places. This information can be helpful when making a photo album, it can be stamped on photos with the Text Stamp function whether you print them yourself or have a photo shop do them. Around 50 MB of internal memory is built-in to back up the SDHC/SD Memory Card recording and copying.
The major features mentioned above can be quickly understood with the newly installed slideshow program called Demo mode.
The DMC-FS3 is compatible with an optional marine case(DMW-MCFS5)which allows users to shoot underwater while scuba diving, etc.
*Based on the CIPA standard.
Panasonic announces the Lumix DMC-FX35 Camera with 10.1 mega pixels
25mm Ultra Wide-Angle Lens Featuring Advanced Intelligent Auto Mode
*35mm film camera equivalent: 25-100mm*
Panasonic is pleased to introduce the new Lumix DMC-FX35, its first 10.1-megapixel camera with astonishing 25mm ultra-wide-angle LEICA DC lens and 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 25mm to 100mm on a 35mm film camera). Capturing almost double the viewing space at the same shooting distance compared to ordinary 35mm cameras, the DMC-FX35 records remarkable images with unprecedented width and depth.
The new DMC-FX35 integrates 720p HD (high-definition) recording capabilities for capturing motion pictures alongside its primary function as a stills camera, allowing users to watch both still and motion images in impressive HD quality. The DMC-FX35 comprises a variety of additional shoot-assist functions on top of Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto Mode with conventional Mega O.I.S which suppresses hand-shaking, and its Intelligent ISO Control prevents motion blur. New Intelligent Scene Selector Function chooses the appropriate scene mode by automatically selecting the most frequently used setting from modes Portrait, Scenery, Macro, Night Portrait and Night Scenery. New Face Detection System automatically detects human faces to set the focus of potential shots and insure the best possible exposure. Unwanted red-eye effects caused by the flash can now be digitally corrected, and newly added Intelligent Exposure Function controls ISO sensitivity to partially increase the exposure of darkened areas in shot, allowing users to capture scenes suppressing extreme brightness or darkness in images.
Quick AF System allows the DMC-FX35 to pre-determine focus on a subject without pressing the shutter button halfway, to maximize results for every shooting opportunity. In IA Mode the multi-capable functions of the DMC-FX35 adapts to changes in a variety of shooting environments allowing users to capture images automatically without the need to adjust settings every time conditions alter. This allows for simple, accurate image reproduction in any situation with the reassurance of capturing clear, beautiful stills.
High-performance image-processing LSI has entered its fourth generation, to be reborn as Venus Engine IV, assuring higher-quality images with an advanced Signal Processing System. The DMC-FX35 boasts a 230,000-dot high-resolution LCD with Intelligent LCD function introducing control of light detection and brightness levels in 11 steps, to ensure the clearest possible images are achieved.
Slideshows of captured images now offer a background music option so users can enjoy watching pictures with a musical accompaniment to enhance the mood of a screening.
The DMC-FX35 will be available in silver and black, each with a distinctive finish or texture according to its colour.*
* Availability of models and colours may vary depending on the sales area.
1. 25mm Ultra-Wide-Angle 4x Optical Zoom (25-100mm) f2.8 High-Quality Leica DC Lens and 10.1-Megapixel CCD
The 10.1-megapixel DMC-FX35 boasts a 25mm Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT high-quality lens with 4x optical zoom, offering f2.8 brightness. Comprising 7 elements in 6 groups, including 4 aspherical lenses with 6 aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit surpasses Leica’s stringent standards and delivers exceptional optical performance. Newly developed unevenly thick concave meniscus aspherical lens with high refractive index, allows the 25mm ultra-wide-angle to achieve high optical performance, encompassed in a slim design and lens unit. The 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens records almost double the viewing space at the same shooting distance compared to other ordinary 35mm cameras and in 3-megapixel resolution mode, the Extra Optical Zoom function provides additional magnification, extending the zoom capacity to 7.1x by using the central part of the CCD.
The Easy Zoom** feature shifts the lens instantly to full 4x optical zoom power at the touch of a dedicated button, and with a second touch, the zoom ratio is further extended to 7.1x by activating the Extra Optical Zoom function.
** When the picture size is set to 3 megapixels or larger, the photo is automatically resized to 3 megapixels. When the lens is shifted back to the wide-end, the picture size is set to the original size automatically. The original size is maintained for photos smaller than 3 megapixels.
2. Great photography is not only for Professional Photographers anymore — Intelligent Auto Mode
Panasonic has incorporated its Intelligent Auto mode into this model in pursuit of easy operation and more accurate shooting,,further enhanced by an Intelligent Exposure feature and digital red-eye correction function. Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) compensating for unsteady captures and Intelligent ISO Control to detect and suppress motion blur are built into all Lumix cameras, and lead the way as the industry’s most advanced technology to counteract blurring. Image stabilizing has been further advanced in the DMC-FX35 by detecting accuracy and correcting misdemeanors thanks to new image-processing LSI, the Venus Engine IV.
In addition to these two anti-blurring technologies, Panasonic continues pursuing the ideals that anyone at any technical level of photography would strive to achieve, the ability to take beautiful pictures with ease. This is what incorporating the DMC-FX35’s Intelligent Auto mode aspires to. Increasing the number of scene modes is one step and taking advantage of them is another, but the DMC-FX35’s Intelligent Scene Selector develops this further. This function automatically sets the appropriate scene mode from the most frequently used scene modes, such as Portrait, Scenery, Macro, Night Scenery and Night Portrait mode.
Face Detection System helps the camera to recognize human faces and sets the focus and exposure automatically in relation to these, with up to 15 faces being located simultaneously and red-eye effects can be digitally corrected.
The Quick AF system allows the camera to keep focusing on the subject without users having to press the shutter button halfway, to get the best results from any potential shooting opportunity by minimizing the AF time.
Newly incorporated Intelligent Exposure Function increases exposure only in under-exposed areas by detecting the brightness level part-by-part in the picture. For example if the background of an image includes sky, the DMC-FX35 automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed to keep the setting slightly under-exposed. This prevents a washed-out,dullness common with some cameras, as it brightens the area by only increasing the ISO in that area. If the background of an indoor portrait receives insufficient lighting from a flash and becomes dark, the ISO sensitivity is raised only in the low-lit area to make the image brighter without causing graininess in the subject’s face, resulting in a well balanced picture.
The multi-capable functions are automatic and allow for shooting without the bother of adjusting the settings every time conditions change as the powerful Intelligent Auto Mode does all the work.
3. Exciting Options to Expand the Fun of Photography in the High-Definition Era
All Lumix cameras have the ability to take 1920×1080 pixel HD (high-definition) photos that perfectly fit a wide-screen (16:9) HDTV for full-screen viewing. The new DMC-FX35 even records dynamic HD motion images in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 30 fps, in addition to WVGA (848 x 480) and normal VGA (640 x 480). With newly added HD component output capability,, users can enjoy watching still and motion images in stunning HD quality by simply connecting the camera to a TV via an optional component cable (DMW-HDC2).
The DMC-FX35 allows for slideshows to be formatted complete with music. This brand new function allows users to choose pictures and match music that best suits the selection from natural, slow, urban or swing and upload in a simple fashion. By doing so users have the ability to enhance tone and add personality and uniqueness to their slideshow with a variety of slide change effects. If compiled with HD photos in 1920 x 1080 pixels, users can watch these on a large-screen HDTV aided by an optional component cable.
4. High-Speed, High-Quality Image-Processing LSI further evolves into the Venus Engine IV
New image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV, features more advanced signal processing technology for rendering even higher-quality images. Parallel noise reduction in both luminance signal and chromatic signal processing systems, a technology established by the previous Venus Engine III, is more sophisticated in the DMC-FX35. The luminance noise is two-dimensionally separated and only the low-frequency noise is eliminated without affecting the high-frequency noise that greatly influences resolution. Colour information regarding the change point between colours is minutely stored for precise determination of edges, thus colour bleeding is dramatically reduced. This improvement not only produces clearer images in high ISO sensitivity recording, but also accurately reproduces details in low-lit areas of pictures taken at low ISO sensitivity. The Venus Engine IV also elevates the detection accuracy and corrective effect in both Mega O.I.S., preventing hand-shake, and Intelligent ISO Control, which suppresses motion blur.
The DMC-FX35’s multi-task image-processing engine, the Venus Engine IV, supports an incredibly fast response time. The shutter release time lag is an incredibly fast 0.005 seconds at its quickest and such a quick response time makes it easier to capture those sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities. In burst shooting mode the DMC-FX35 can snap 2.5 shots per second at full resolution.*** In High-Speed Burst shooting mode,**** it fires off an incredible 6 shots per second but users can also get unlimited consecutive shooting,***** which allows for continuous image capture until the memory card is full.
The Venus Engine IV also supports a High Sensitivity mode that allows the DMC-FX35 to record at a setting of up to ISO 6400, sensitive enough to capture subjects in near-total darkness without using a flash.******
*** Max. 5 images in standard mode/ 3 images in fine mode.
**** In 2-megapixel (4:3), 2.5-megapixel (3:2), 2-megapixel (16:9) recording.
***** The consecutive shooting speed varies with the memory card, image size, and image compression mode. The number of shots depends on the memory card size, battery life, image size and image compression mode.
****** In 3-megapixel (4:3), 2.5-megapixel (3:2), 2-megapixel (16:9) recording
5. Advanced 2.5-inch large intelligent LCD with 230,000-dot high resolution for easy shooting and playback
The DMC-FX35 incorporates a large 2.5-inch, 230,000-dot high-resolution LCD screen for clear playback of shots and footage. Intelligent LCD function detects light conditions and automatically adjusts LCD backlighting (a maximum of 40% when shooting outdoors in bright sunshine and by adjusting frame rates when shooting in low-lit situations) as well as using the pixel mixed readout method to ensure the clearest possible image is captured. Detecting precise lighting conditions and automatically controlling brightness levels with a total of 11 steps, allows this function to produce the clearest possible image in any situation.
The High Angle mode makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view when the camera is held high, for example when shooting over a crowd.
6. Other Features
The DMC-FX35 features a variety of functions to provide convenient solutions and experimental fun for users to enjoy whilst capturing beautiful images.
The energy-efficient Venus Engine IV contributes to the long battery life of the DMC-FX35, making it possible to shoot around 290 shots on a single battery charge******* despite the large, bright LCD. A total of 21 scene modes help users to take more beautiful pictures in a wide range of situations and environments.
The Title Edit function which allows text to be input as additional information to accompany images such as the names of children and pets, as well as travel places can be useful when compiling a photo album for example. A Text Stamp function allows this text to be added to photos and printed off. Around 50 MB of internal memory is built-in to back up SDHC/SD Memory Card recording and copying.
All new Lumix cameras incorporate a REC/PLAYBACK mode switch which helps photographers to switch instantly between recording and playback modes, while always knowing which mode the camera is in. The GUI (Graphic User Interface) has been upgraded with a more futuristic design and colour while maintaining the visibility of characters.
The major features mentioned above can be quickly understood with the newly installed slideshow program called Demo mode.
The DMC-FX35 is compatible with an optional marine case (DMW-MCFX35) enabling users to shoot underwater for example whilst scuba diving
******* Based on the CIPA standard
