Panasonic has added another feather in their cap by launching the impressive 10 megapixel Lumix digital camera, the Panasonic DMC-FZ50. Sporting a DSLR like design and having functionality of a 'prosumer' digicam ,this one offers the best of both worlds!. The DMC-FZ50 has the now famous MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) technology and boasts of a 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 420 mm on a 35 mm film camera) f/2.8 LEICA DC lens. Oh if you are wondering if this is a successor to the critically acclaimed FZ30, well you are bang on!

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 promises incredible images via its 10.1-megapixel high resolution CCD image sensor and Venus Engine III technology. ISO settings go upto 1600 and the MEGA O.I.S. system combats blurry images which appear due to camera shake or low light conditions. For those users who are always looking for something novel and unique, will be happy to know that the Panasonic FZ50 is equipped with the world’s first* Intelligent ISO Control and max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity recording capabilities within the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III. This helps in automatically detecting the subjects movements and then adjusting the ISO settings accordingly.

The camera sports a 2-inch LCD which flips out to 180 degrees and the Panasonic DMC-FZ50 is now compatible with TTL external flashes. For easy navigation , the digicam includes a Function Button from one can access important functions like recording image size, light metering, AF area, white balance, and ISO sensitivity. Another cool feature is that now users can customize their settings via the mode dial. The Panasonic DMC-FZ50 has a movie mode too and it can record standard VGA (640x480) at 30 fps as well as full-size movies in wide-aspect VGA (848x480) at 30 fps.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ50 has a much better life than its predecessors and Panasonic claims that they have improved the battery by almost 29% and it can hoot approx. 360 images on one charge. The AF mode includes 9-point, 3-point high speed, 1-point high speed, 1-point normal speed and Spot settings and the included SILKYPIX Developer Studio 2.0SE” software lets one edit and develops RAW and other formats easily. The camera would be available soon but no word on pricing. For more info visit Pansonic

Panasonic after launching the DLSR like FZ50 has unveiled the Press ReleasLumix DMC-LX2 digital camera for those who don’t care much for DSRL designs. This compact digicam packs quite a punch with its features which includes world’s first* Intelligent ISO Control and max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity recording capabilities within the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III . So what does that mean? Well in the digital photography world it simply means that it adjust the ISO setting in accordance with subject movements!

The Lumix DMC-LX2 can deliver up to 10.2 megapixels of high-quality images on its large 2.8-inch TFT LCD. This one too sports the Panasonic trademark MEGA O.I.S technology that takes advantage of its superior lens to compensate for handshake. Wondering what kind of lens this new offering from Panasonic sports? Don’t fret as it features an f/2.8 4x optical zoom 28mm wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens which can deliver high image resolutions of 4224 x 2376 pixels on the 16:9 aspect ratio. You have choices of selecting between 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9 of aspect ratio depending on your purpose of use. It also comes with an extra optical zoom feature where you will be able to zoom ratio to 5.5x for 5 megapixel image recording in 16:9 aspect.

Like all current digicams the DMC-LX2 also has a decent movie mode which is capable of recording the 4:3 VGA with resolutions of 640 x 480 and 16:9 wide VGA with resolutions of 848 x 480 @ 30 fps. If you think 848 x 480 is too small on your big 50-inch plasma TV then you have the option to choose a bigger resolution of 1280 x 720 @ 15 fps.Like all the other digicams in the Lumix series, this one too has a host manual controls which can be navigated via the onboard joystick. Via the joystick one can also access important functions like white balance, ISO, image size, compression format, light metering and AF mode. 17 Scene modes grace the digicam including Beach” mode, “Aerial” mode, High Sensitivity**” mode among others.

The included SILKYPIX Developer Studio 2.0SE” software lets one edit and develops RAW and other formats easily. Another impressive feature is its ISO settings which go till UP TILL 3200.The DMC-LX2 includes 13MB of built-in memory with an expandable external x card slot and is PictBridge compatible. DMC-LX2 weighs 187 grams and measures 105.7 x 55.8 x 26.3 mm. It is now available for around 500 US$ and for more info visit: Press Release

Panasonic is proud to announce the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX50 and DMC-FX07 digital cameras with EMA I.O.S (Optical Image Stabilizer) that boasts high picture quality, large LCD, compactness as well as stylish designs. The 7.2 megapixel Panasonic Lumix cameras are the slim and stylish models that incorporate 3.6x optical zoom (equivalent to 28mm to 102mm on a 35mm film camera) on the attached 28mm wide angle f/2.8 LEICA DC lens. The Panasonic DMC-FX07 has a 2.5-inch Polycrystalline TFT LCD screen while the Panasonic DMC-FX50 is slightly larger than the FX50 with 3-inch Polycrystalline TFT LCD. With the help of the Power LCD function, which boosts the backlighting of the LCD by 40%, even shooting in bright outdoors is not a problem. Panasonic DMC-FX50 has a bigger LCD display, so you can display 2 images at a time on that camera.

Every slight of hand movement of the cameras can cause a blurring image, so MEGA O.I.S. is equipped with 2 selectable modes. In “Mode 1”, the O.I.S. lens continuously compensates for vibration and in “Mode 2”, the O.I.S. lens suppresses hand-shake only at the moment the shutter button is pressed. MEGA I.O.S gives you the ability to take a beautiful picture shot without blurring at slower shutter speed compared to those without I.O.S capabilities; you can now enjoy shooting clear pictures for portraits and nighttime scenery as well as shooting using macro modes.

An AF method can be selected according to the shooting situation: 9-point, 3-point high-speed, 1 point high-speed, 1-point normal-speed and Spot. In addition, AF assist lamp is equipped for expanding the AF ability even at night or under the low-light conditions. Both cameras can deliver up to the highest still image resolutions of 3072 x 1728 on 16:9 aspect ratio and if you think that is too high, you can choose between 4:3 or 3:2 aspect to suit your needs. In addition to standard VGA (640x480) at 30 fps motion image recording, the DMC-FX50/FX07 cameras can also record stunning full-size movies in wide-aspect VGA (848x480) at 30 fps.

The Panasonic DMC-FX50 has 18 scene modes while the Panasonic DMC-FX07 has 19 scene modes. The "High Sensitivity" modes give you the ability to shoot an image clearly without blurring at a maximum sensitivity of ISO 3200. Additionally, there is the”Under Water” mode which, when shooting with the separately available marine case, helps produce spectacular underwater shots. Both cameras have a memory card slot which is compatible with SD, SDHC or MMC. DMC-FX50 weights 151grams with 97.7 x 57.1 x 25.1mm in size while the Panasonic DMC-FX07 weighs 132 grams with the size of 94.1 x 51.1 x 24.2mm. Both will be available from September but still no words on the pricing yet.

Panasonic's DMC-TZ1, already having the tag of being world's smallest 10x optical zoom digital camera now has one more in its kitty. Quiet obviously one of the prize winning reasons was, the O.I.S(Optical Image Stabilizer) technology, which minimises the jitter from shaky hands that causes many photos to look blurred by shifting the O.I.S lens unit to keep the optical axis aligned straight against the CCD, to ensure images are always beautifully clear. Also another reason is the en-ablation of the TZ1 to shoot at a maximum setting of ISO800, with its new High Sensitivity Mode. This ingenious mode reduces image blur caused by moving subjects especially indoors by shooting at fast shutter speed. TIPA.com

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-L1 boasts of a 2.5" high-resolution LCD, which offers a shooting style different from conventional digital SLRs that have only an optical viewfinder. It also has a full-time Live view function, thanks to Live MOS sensor, developed by Panasonic's very own Maicovicon technology. The DMCL1 also incorporates the Venus Engine III image processing LSI, which teams up with the Live MOS sensor to achieve stunning picture quality and responsive performance, with features such as rapid consecutive shooting. Also there is Supersonic Wave Filter technology, which serves as a dust reduction system. Also for starters, who usually get intimidated by other Digital SLRs, the DMC-L1, makes it easy for them to take beautiful shots and at the same time also gives professionals a powerful tool for creating photographic masterpieces that visually express the emotions of their subjects.

On the compatibility side of it, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-L1 goes with the SD Memory Card. It also is compatible with the mass-storage SD standard based on FAT32, including the upcoming super-high-capacity SD Memory Cards of more than 2 GB (SDHC). With the Panasonic LUMX DMC-L1, Panasonic is all set to create some vibes in the Digital SLR market. Pricing is yet to be revealed, although we don't expect it come cheap.

Checkout Panasonics great interactive display of the camera at Panasonic LUMIX DMC-L1

The 6MP Panasonic DMC-FX01 is powerhouse of performance in spite its compact size and has Extra High Refractive Index Aspherical Lens to boost its images. With a wide angle lens and a 3.6x optical zoom lens makes it a treat for photographers. It also has a special feature where the CCD etc you expand the 3.6x zoom ratio to 5.0x at 3-megapixel resolution with least deterioration. It also has the MEGA O.I.S. features which results in image stabilization and reduces blurriness. They also have added a High Sensivity Mode to make the MEGA O.I.S. more effective.

For further details check out the offical website

Capable of 10x zoom, Panasonic claims that the TZ1 is the world's smallest camera to offer such a high level of zoom. The zoom can go up to 12.5x, when you shoot images at 3-megapixel resolution. Pretty good as digital cameras go. The camera uses Leica DC F2.8 lens, and like the other Lumix models, features Mega O.I.S. (or Optical Image Stabilizer).

The TZ1 also allows you to capture action so that videos are not distorted when viewed on a wide-screen TV. It also provides 18 different scene modes, making it an ideal amateur point-and-shoot camera. Integrated 13.4MB memory (useful for - hmm, nothing actually) is available but it'd be wiser to invest in a separate SD memory card.

Available from March this year in silver, gold and comfort blue colors, more info about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 is available from Panasonic's website.

There's a 2.5" LCD that is guaranteed to work well in low-light. Battery life has been pumped up through the use of a 710mAh battery that allows you to shoot over 300 images on a single charge. There are 16 scene modes to choose from (including a "Baby" mode) plus a macro mode. The Panasonic DMC-FZ7 is equipped with both automatic and manual controls that meet the needs of prosumers and beginners alike. A joystick makes manual control a breeze.

The Panasonic DMC-FZ7 carries a MSRP of US$ 400 and will be on sale from March 2006. Optional accessories include ND filters, AC adaptor, MC protector, close-up lens, wide conversion lens, and tele conversion lens.

For a complete feature list visit Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7

Related Products:

Featuring a 5-megapixel CCD, the Panasonic DMC-LS2 implements Panasonic's MEGA Optical Image Stabilization, which ensures that even if the camera is shaken due to slight hand movements when clicking an image, the image does not become blurred. This is a very useful feature if you ask me.

Thanks to a power-saving Venus Engine Plus processor, you also get enhanced battery life. With the Panasonic Oxyride AA batteries, battery life is further extended, as compared to regular alkaline batteries. A 2" preview LCD is provided, and you can view 1, 9, 16 or 25 pictures at a time - simplifying your search process.

With 13 different scene modes, it is ideal for novices. A passable 14MB internal memory is available, which can be expanded using SD memory cards.

Scheduled for March 2006, the Panasonic DMC-LS2 digital camera is priced at $199.95.

Like the LZ3, the DMC-LZ5 features MEGA Optical Image Stabilization, which ensures that your pictures don't get blurry even when there's slight hand movement. It also comes with an autofocus assist-lamp, introduced for the first time in the LZ line-up of cameras.

With Panasonic's Oxyride AA batteries and the Venus Engine Plus, a processor that manages image capture and energy use for the camera, you can get up to 235 images with the LZ5, which is pretty good for a point-and-shoot camera.

With six new shooting modes, the DMC-LZ5 has a total of fourteen modes.Just stuff in a good capacity SD card and you're good to go.

Priced at US $279.95, the Panasonic DMC-LZ5 digital camera is slated for a March 2006 release. More info from Panasonic's website.

The DMC-LZ3 carries a 2.0" preview LCD and 6x optical zoom. It comes with Panasonic's Oxyride AA batteries - guaranteed to delivery longer life than standard alkaline batteries. Coupled with the Venus Engine Plus (a processor that manages image capture and energy use for the camera), you can get up to 250 images with the LZ3.

It presents the user with as many as 14 different scene modes, making it appealing to amateurs. On board, you find 14MB of memory, and the camera takes in SD memory cards.

Priced at US $229.95, the Panasonic DMC-LZ3 digital camera is slated for a March 2006 release. More info from Panasonic's website.

Panasonic is introducing the incoming LUMIX model Panasonic DMC-FX9, which is the next-generation model of the world-renowned stylish and compact MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer)-equipped FX series. The FX series boasts high picture quality, a large LCD, compactness and stylish design, features desired in a compact camera. Its startup time accelerated, the Panasonic DMC-FX9 is now with substantially upgraded with total effective pixels increased to 6-Megapixel, and includes the zoom function Extra Optical Zoom that extends zoom ratio up to 4.1x in 3-Megapixel recording and a clearer LCD based on the FX8 that was released earlier.

Panasonic is launching a new LUMIX 16:9 wide LX series with the introduction of the Panasonic DMC-LX1, 8.4-Megapixel 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 28 mm to 112 mm on a 35mm film camera) full manual compact camera. This creative compact incorporates a 8.4-Megapixel CCD and a high resolution 2.5-inch LCD in its undersized body. The aspect ratio is easily selectable between 16:9 wide, 3:2 and conventional 4:3 with a switch located on the lens barrel to shoot in the framing aspect that best suits the subjects composition or image's purpose of use.

Panasonic Europe today announced the new Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ30 Digital Camera.

The Optical Image Stabilizer, MEGA O.I.S. is deservedly continued as Panasonic advanced the theory that it should be standard in all digital still cameras.

Panasonic is proud to introduce the 8-Megapixel, 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35mm to 420mm on a 35mm film camera) Panasonic DMC-FZ30 inheriting MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) as an up-and-comer to its creative super zoom FZ double-digit line. The DMC-FZ20, released in 2004, has been internationally acclaimed for meeting the needs of the market by realizing the ideals of users.

Pro Review:
CNET.com Reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ1 and they write - 'Priced about $50 less than its 5-megapixel Lumix DMC-LZ2 sibling, this affordable point-and-shoot offers the same 6X zoom lens with a 37mm-to-222mm reach (35mm-camera equivalent) and the same highly desirable optical image stabilization to counter shaky hands at slow shutter speeds or high magnifications. Panasonic trimmed about a million pixels to create this 4-megapixel version, but its image quality is almost as good as the higher-res model's. The only key feature missing is a microphone to record video sound clips...'

Product Specifications