Photography Digest

Panasonic exposed its first compact-body 'rangefinder-like' Little Four Thirds image photographic camera in September 2009, in the form of the DMC-GF1. This easily acquired a following as probably the best 'enthusiast' image photographic camera of its type, with its powerful operate set, fast reactions and system bristling with external controls. But since then the market has moved on and new opponents have exposed up on the scenery, with Sony's NEX cameras in particular developing a spread due to their awesome miniaturization and awesome image. Under this new-found stress of opponents, the GF has slimmed-down and exposed up with a new, structured look.

The DMC-GF2 is usually less scaled, externally-simpler version of the GF1 that's acquired many of the operate improvements we first saw on the G2 (most especially the touch-sensitive screen) plus Finish HD movie. Its individual has less sized impact scaled in every measurement than its predecessor's, developing it very nearly no more than the Panasonic NEX-5. In the procedure, though, it's reduce a considerable number of those external controls that until now have been the attribute of the G series - most obviously the exposure operate modify, but also the drive-mode manage that sat below it, along with several of the management control buttons on the back. This locations rather higher reliance on the touchscreen display show display for fast operate contrary to G2, and Panasonic has redesigned the interface (and the Quick Choice in particular) to help in this.

These changes all sign a apparent rethinking of the GF series in the market. Whereas the GF1 was unashamedly images photographic camera for lover digital cameras fans, the GF2 is now focused much more at lightweight image photographic camera entrepreneurs looking for an upgrade. According to Panasonic the design concentrate has been on offering impressive controls contrary to just offering a simple, unintimidating image photographic camera which happens to contain a bigger signal.

Despite this, there's still a few of apparent up-dates and improvements over previous times design, and while they're usually more major than impressive, this mainly reveals the growth of the GF1 design. Such as, the GF2 earnings Finish HD movie generating ability (1080i at 60fps from 30p capture) that is strengthened by a songs mic on the top bowl. In requirements conditions, at least, this creates for the most able identical connections image photographic camera movie ability aside from the GH2 (which provides 1080i at 60fps from 60p capture). On the image part the GF2 gets the G2's ability to catch at 2.6 fps while maintaining stay perspective, along with its ISO 6400 maximum possible knowing, improved Vehicle ISO system and a dedicated iAuto choice on the top bowl. Meanwhile 3D fans will certainly be satisfied by its assistance for the H-FT012 connections.

Much of the key requirements, though, remains the same, such as the stalwart (i.e. ageing) 12Mp Four Thirds signal and the 460k dot 3" 3:2 element amount LCD. The hot footwear and associated EVF port is still existing and appropriate, together with the little pop-up show, and luckily Panasonic hasn't been affected to remove the clickable thumbwheel that features the main exposure controls. However the pared-down system design certainly indicates the image photographic camera is managed by a new, a bit small energy.

One a little bit awesome marketing modify is that the GF2 isn't available involved with the awesome 20mm F1.7 hot dessert connections, but instead comes with a choice of either the newest 14-42mm zoom ability capability, the little 14mm F2.5 hot dessert, or in a dual connections kit with both. We're a bit disappointed by this choice, to be honest - yes the 14mm gives the smallest possible system, which has undeniable marketing value, but as far as we're concerned the stop-faster 20mm is a much more useful all-rounder. The GF2 comes in a choice of colors depending on market (out of black, red, silver, bright and pink), and for clients of the red and black modifications the 14mm connections activities a black (as in evaluation to steel grey) gun gun barrel.
Compared to the Panasonic NEX-5 and New new samsung NX-100

The trimming-down work out Panasonic has used to the GF2 indicates that it's now one of the smallest cameras in its category. Here it is with the 14mm F2.5 connections placed between two of its immediate opponents each dressed with their particular wideangle hot desserts, the Panasonic NEX-5 + 16mm F2.8 and New new samsung NX100 + 20mm F2.8.

The GF2 is now one of the smallest cameras of its type, although it's still not as tiny as the NEX-5 despite having a smaller sensor than the Sony's APS-C chip. The key difference is in the body height, though, which reflects the GF2's hot shoe and built-in flash: features which are missing from the NEX. The NX100 doesn't have a flash either.
Viewed from the top, the GF2 / 14mm F2.5 combo becomes, by a whisker, the slimmest of the three.

Compared to the Olympus E-PL2

Perhaps the GF2's most direct rival is the Olympus Pen E-PL2, which also belongs to the Micro Four Thirds system and therefore can use all the same lenses. The GF2 is smaller than the E-PL2 in every dimension, but not by all that much.

Side-by-side it's apparent that the GF2 is smaller than the E-PL2 in terms of both height and width. In compensation, though, the Olympus incorporates in-body image stabilization that works with all lenses.
Viewed from the top with the same lens attached, the GF2 is also fractionally slimmer than the E-PL2, which means it will slip in a pocket just that little bit more easily.

Compared to the Panasonic DMC-GF1

The GF2 is, unusually for Panasonic's recent releases, substantially different in design from its predecessor. Here it is sporting the 14mm F2.5 pancake alongside the GF1 wearing the 20mm F1.7. The sleeker, simplified design is immediately apparent.

From the front, what's most obvious is the reduced size of the GF2 - indeed it's not so much bigger than the LX5 (click here for a comparison). The loss of the mode dial (replaced by a stereo microphone on the top plate),the remolded grip and the closer integration of the hot shoe into the overall design all adds up to a cleaner, less boxy look. The GF2's 'Full HD' label signals the presence of its 1080i video mode.
Top-down, we can see that the GF2 is also somewhat slimmer the the GF1; Panasonic has succeeded in trimming about 4mm from the body depth.
It's at the rear, though, that the biggest changes lie. The wealth of buttons that adorned the GF1's back has been simplified right down, and the restyled four-way controller gives a more 'compact-like' appearance. The blue tinge to the GF2's LCD screen signifies a small, but welcome change - the addition of an anti-reflective coating to aid shooting in bright sunlight.

GF2 vs GF1 - major changes

Here's a brief summary of the major changes between the GF2 and GF1:

• Smaller and lighter body
• LCD screen now touch-sensitive, with added anti-reflective coating
• Fewer external controls (mode dial, drive mode lever, AEL and DOF preview buttons removed)
• Completely revamped, fully-customizable Quick Menu designed for touchscreen operation
• Built-in stereo microphone
• 1080i 60fps full HD video (from 25p sensor output)
• Continuous shooting at 2.6fps with Live View
• Increased maximum sensitivity (ISO 6400)
• iAuto button on top plate
• Variable 'Defocus Control' in iAuto and 'My Color' modes, with live preview
• Full support for F-FT012 3D lens
• No remote release socket
• 2nd curtain sync and flash exposure compensation no longer available
• New smaller DMW-BLD10 battery with slightly lower capacity (7.3Wh vs 9 Wh)

Original Article:www.dpreview.com

When Panasonic first released the GH1, its second Small Four Thirds photographic camera, it was commonly seen as simply being a G1 with film capturing and a significantly more costly kit contacts. And, if your concentration was pictures digital camcorders then this wasn't an entirely irrational evaluation. However, its real attraction was not that it had film, but that it provided what was, at the time, some of the most versatile, top excellent film available. Again, the 14-140mm F4.0-5.8 kit zoom capability may not have been inexpensive but it had been created and developed with fast, silent auto-focus and stepless aperture management to allow AF during film capturing and visibility changes without rapid changes in lighting.

Now that the G2 (along with a lot of modern cameras) is able to catch HD film, the variations between just being able to capture HD and to really management it become more obvious. Photos photographers may get some benefits from the new, greater quality indicator but the main variations between the GH2 and G2 are the capability to management the film capturing process (both with regards to shape rate and shutter speed).

In the years since Olympus and Panasonic mutually declared the Small Four Thirds conventional there have been eight designs released up to now, seven of which discuss the same 12MP indicator. The only exemption was the GH1 which, despite its 12MP outcome actually presented a 14MP indicator. The indicator was a little bit bigger than the format's picture quality group, which permitted it to provide pictures in different element percentages while maintaining the same picture angled. And now the GH2 follows the same routine, capturing 16MP pictures using its brand-new, in the same way over-sized 18MP indicator.

This indicator is able of much greater readout rate (120Hz) than its forerunner, providing a coordinator of benefits. Videographers will see an enhancement in the excellent of the finest excellent outcome - the 1080i outcome is resulting from 60p or 50p catch, rather than doubled-up from 24p or 25p on the GH1. The quicker readout also indicates the AF system can more regularly check the precision of its concentrate, which guarantees quicker auto-focus (on contacts that can react easily enough). Lastly, the quicker readout indicates the live perspective is modified 60 times a second (rather than 24fps shown at 60hz), providing a better watching experience with less shredding.

The digital viewfinder has also been a little bit increased - it now reveals 852 x 600 p in contrast to 800 across - which allows it to show 16:9 and 3:2 previews without the need for such comprehensive farming as before.

The G2 alongside one of its current nearest competitors - the Canon EOS 60D. Although it follows conventional DSLR styling, the considerably smaller size and bulk of the GH2 is obvious in this view - one of the advantages of a mirrorless and (comparatively) smaller sensor design.

Compared to GH1 - key differences

The GH2 might look very similar to its predecessor at a casual glance but there are some major differences between the two models. Let's have a look at the main changes:

• New sensor - multi-aspect Live MOS with 18.3 million total pixels
• ISO range 160 - 12800 (vs 100-3200)
• Sensor capable of 1080p video at 60 or 50 fps (rather than 24 or 25 fps), still output as 60i/50i
• Faster sensor read-out promises faster AF and smoother viewfinder image (less tearing)
• Larger EVF coverage to match multi-aspect shooting (852 x 600 rather than 800 x 600 pixels)
• Touch-sensitive LCD screen (same as G2)
• New, more modern looking menu screens
• G2-style combined AF mode/pattern control on top plate
• Direct movie shooting button moved to top plate from rear of camera
• Control dial moved from front of handgrip to rear of camera
• Dedicated metering and 'film mode' buttons replaced by highly customizable Fn buttons
• Q menu button moved from top plate to rear of camera
• New battery (DMW-BLC12E) with fractionally smaller capacity (1200mAh vs 1250mAh)
• Slightly heavier (394g compared to 385g body only)

Key feature comparison (vs G2 vs GH1)

Like the GH1, the GH2 is distinguished from its G-series contemporaries by its video shooting capabilities. The GH2 is a far more serious video shooting tool than the G2, and indeed the majority of its competitors - both mirrorless and DSLR. The GH2 offers a similar video specification to the GH1 but with one important difference - the sensor no longer doubles-up its sensor output in order to create its highest-speed video (the GH1 sensor could capture at 24 or 25 fps, which was then put out as 60i or 50i footage). Instead, the latest sensor can capture progressive (whole frames) at 60 or 50 fps. Its output is still limited to 60i or 50i because there are no common ways to distribute 60p or 50p footage, but this should certainly improve the output quality. In its 'Variable Movie Mode' the GH2 also has the ability to save footage at a different frame rate from the one captured - allowing slow-motion or high-speed effects.
From a still photography point of view the GH2 brings very little that is 'new' to the G-series apart from its increased resolution - up to 16MP from 12.1MP. This makes the GH2 the highest resolution camera in Panasonic's Micro Four Thirds range, and a maximum ISO of 12,800 makes it (at least on paper) the most versatile too. Like the G2, the GH2's LCD screen is touch-sensitive, but also like the G2, it is not 'mandatory'. In other words, GH1 users upgrading to the GH2 with no interest in experimenting with the touch technology can more or less ignore it if they wish. (Unfortunately, though, it doesn't share the GF2's new 'designed for touch' interface.)

From the front, the main difference between the GH2 and G2 is that the former is slightly taller, and more of a 'classic' SLR shape. The G2 is a noticeably squatter when viewed in direct comparison, but the family resemblance is unmistakable.

From the top, the GH2 is very similar to the G2. The most obvious difference is the stereo microphone which dominates the top of the flash housing of the GH2 (the G2 makes do with a single, tiny mic aperture just forward of the AF mode switch). Both cameras have a button for direct movie shooting, but whereas the G2 has a dedicated iA mode button, in its place the GH2 has a customizable 'Fn' button.

Compared to: G2 and GH1

	Panasonic GH2	Panasonic GH1	Panasonic G2
Sensor	� 4/3 type MOS ('Live MOS sensor') � 18.3 million total pixels � 16.0 million effective pixels � RGB (Primary) color filter array	� 4/3 type MOS ('Live MOS sensor') � 14.0 million total pixels � 12.1 million effective pixels � RGB (Primary) color filter array	� 4/3 type MOS ('Live MOS sensor') � 13.1 million total pixels � 12.1 million effective pixels � RGB (Primary) color filter array
Sensitivity	ISO 160-12800 in 1/3EV steps	ISO 100-3200 in 1/3 EV steps	ISO 100-6400 in 1/3 EV steps
Movie mode	� AVCHD : 1920 x 1080p 24fps (Approx 23 or 17 Mbps) 1920 x 1080i 60fps (Approx 17 or 13 Mbps) 1280 x 720p 60fps (Approx 17 or 13 Mbps) � Motion JPEG: 1280 x 720, 30fps 848 x 480, 30fps 640 x 480, 30fps 320 x 240, 30fps	� AVCHD : 1920 x 1080, 24fps (24 fps encapsulated in a 60i format) 1280 x 720 (60 fps) � Motion JPEG: 1280 x 720, 30fps 848 x 480, 30fps 640 x 480, 30fps 320 x 240, 30fps	� AVCHD Lite: 1280 x 720, 60p (from 30fps sensor output) 1280 x 720, 50p (from 25 fps sensor output) � Motion JPEG: 1280 x 720 (30fps) 848 x 480 (30fps) 640 x 480 (30fps) 320 x 240 (30fps)
LCD monitor	� Touch sensitive 3.0" TFT LCD monitor � Multi-angle swing and tilt (180� swing, 270� swivel) � 460,000 dots � Approx 100% frame coverage	� 3.0" TFT LCD monitor � Multi-angle swing and tilt (180� swing, 270� swivel) � 460,000 dots � Approx 100% frame coverage	� Touch sensitive 3.0" TFT LCD monitor � Multi-angle swing and tilt (180� swing, 270� swivel) � 460,000 dots � Approx 100% frame coverage
Microphone	� Built-in stereo � Socket for external mic	� Built-in stereo � Socket for external mic	� Built-in monoaural � Socket for external mic
Dimensions	124 x 90 x 76 mm (4.9 x 3.5 x 3 in)	124 x 90 x 76 mm (4.9 x 3.5 x 3 in)	124 x 84 x 74 mm (4.9 x 3.3 x 2.9 in )
Weight (body only, no card/battery)	394 g (13.9 oz.)	385 g (13.6 oz.)	370 g (13 oz.)

Multi-Aspect Sensor

Like the Panasonic LX5 and the GH1 before it, the GH2 uses a multi-aspect ratio sensor. It's slightly larger than usual for Four Thirds, and at any given aspect ratio (even at 4:3) the camera only uses a crop from the total available sensor area.

4:3	3:2	16:9	1:1

At first sight this may seem strange but the result is that the lens offers the same diagonal angle of view regardless of selected aspect ratio, making it much easier to get a feel for the behavior of the lens. It also means you make the most of the sensor area, getting similar pixel counts in all modes.
Original Article:www.dpreview.com

The G3 heralds the start of Panasonic's third creation of mirrorless camcorders. In some aspects it's a processing of past models; its digital viewfinder and easy-to-open back show are just like the G1 and G2, for example. However, behind the aluminum front side board of its slimmed-down, externally-simplified body can be found a absolutely new 16.7MP indicator. This creates it the first mass-market Small Four Thirds design to shift beyond Panasonic's 12MP processor.

While some of the new functions of the G3 recommend a shift upmarket, many other changes factor to an effort on Panasonic's part to create the G-series more available. A number of functions have been eliminated, presumably to create this design both less overwhelming and less costly (the suggested cost is $100 reduced than the release cost of the G2).

Mirrorless identical contacts camcorders are still relatively new. As such, producers are still trying to figure out their potential viewers as well as the stability of functions, abilities and costs that will have the greatest attraction. Panasonic's Lumix DMC-G1, launched back in 2008, was basically a reduced in size edition of the organization's L10 DSLR, giving identical functions and overall look. More lately, however, mirrorless photographic camera styles are looking to take advantage of the variations the technological innovation can provide, such as lightweight and smooth movie incorporation, rather than trying to imitate traditional DSLRs.

The compact-camera-like side hold is the first, most apparent proof that the G3 suits into this viewpoint. Gone is the popular group that has become conventional for DSLRs, and instead we have a hold that more carefully appears like that of the GF2 - a low information curved expansion that motivates a very different side place on the photographic camera. Actually, the G3 is as near in dimension and overall look to a Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 (with a viewfinder) as it is to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2.

From the GF2, the G3 profits a touchscreen display interface that is a wide enhancement over that seen in the G2. It allows many management over photographic camera configurations as well as immediate on-screen choice of the concentrate factor - something that no DSLR can provide. Further distancing itself from past G-series styles, the G3 allows you to place the AF factor anywhere throughout the whole shape, in contrast to just within a main section.

The G3 also profits enhanced movie capability, related the GF2's capability to outcome either 1080i60 or 720p60 (both from 30fps indicator output). And, while this isn't up to the same requirements as it clip capability of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2, the G3 does obtain that digital camera's picture processor processor and amazing auto-focus rate.

Beyond this, the large of the G3's new functions are step-by-step upgrades - there's a picture-in-picture guide concentrate magnifier choice so that you can concentrate while still watching the overall structure, and a Determine AF function that brings together a small AF area with a zoomed review for accurate concentrating. The G3 also functions subject-tracking AF while capturing movie.

Regrettably however, much has been eliminated from the new design, too. As compared to the G2, the G3 doesn't have an eye indicator for its viewfinder, so you'll have to personally change between it and the back show. It also drops the G2's concentrate factor change and concentrate function handle, along with the choice to get in touch an exterior mic (thus guaranteeing that it doesn't take on the GH2's toes).

Taken as a whole, these changes cause us to suppose that the G3 might substitute both the G2 and the lower-spec'd G10 in Panasonic's collection. It's important to note that its suggested cost also rests exactly mid-way between those two styles.

Panasonic G3 specification highlights:

• 16.7MP CMOS sensor (standard Micro Four Thirds size)
• ISO 160-6400
• 4 fps continuous shooting (20fps at 4MP)
• GF2-style touch screen interface
• 1080i60 AVCHD shooting (from 30p sensor output)
• All-area AF point selection
• Pinpoint AF mode (magnifies focus point to allow confirmation and fine-tune of AF position)
• Tracking AF in video mode
• Picture-in-picture manual focus magnification
• 460k dot articulated LCD
• 1.44M dot-equivalent electronic viewfinder (field sequential type)

Size compared to a typical DSLR

Placed next to the Rebel T3i / 600D - fairly typical in size for an entry-level DLSR - the size difference of the G3 becomes immediately apparent.
A top-down view further emphasizes the distinction; the G3 is considerably smaller in every dimension. Even at this size, however, the G3 is not going to fit in a pocket.

Original Article:www.dpreview.com

With the overall look of the GF3, Panasonic further confirms the modifications between its present G-series option. The enthusiast-targeted extensive variety locator identifiable heralded by the release of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 seems to be for when to have given way to a new directive; generating the tiniest, least considerable G-series picture picture picture photographic digital camera possible. The move towards little, less considerable large-sensor digital cameras with less exterior manages is not restricted to Panasonic of course, as both Olympus and Panasonic are also relationship the bought amazingly.

Announced just eight a few a few a few several weeks after the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2, the GF3 is as much about omission as addition. With the loss of the EVF slot and hotshoe, the GF3 seems to be as the only G-series picture picture picture photographic digital camera on which neither an digital nor identifiable viewfinder can be used. Other well-known changes contain the loss of the trademark Panasonic coming back click-dial and the picture picture picture photographic digital camera techniques structured, more curved aspects. These modifications offer the GF3 an overall look more in extensive variety with that of a high-end lightweight picture picture picture photographic digital camera than of its forerunner, the GF2.

Indeed, with the GF3, Panasonic provides a smooth update route for lightweight picture picture picture photographic digital camera customers looking for greater picture and more awesome getting alternatives. And perhaps for these customers, the deficiency of a show hotshoe and the decrease or eliminate from a music to mono mic for movies are decrease easily developed in come coming back for less scaly, lower-priced picture picture picture photographic digital camera. With regards to functions as well as, there is useful little in the GF3 that was not seen in either the GF2 or the more lately launched Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3.

Despite being centered around the same 12MP Little Four Thirds indication as the GF2, the GF3's new processer allows it to evaluate auto-focus information 120 times per second, a performance power that developed a aspect to performance of the DMC-G3, launched a few a few a few a few several weeks ago. Enhanced indication readout amount indicates in theory improved AF amount. Depending on our experience with the G3, we'd consequently determine AF amount to aggressive that of most entry-level DSLRs when provided with set topics.

The quicker processer also allows the ongoing getting amount advantages up to 3.8 fps - a 20% enhancement over the GF2. It is worth noting, however, that like past G-series designs, the quickest getting amount comes at the cost of stay perspective. The quickest getting amount possible with stay perspective is 2.8fps. Incredibly, given that they discuss a indication, the ISO knowing extensive comprehensive variety of the GF3 begins at 160, rather than 100 in the GF2. According to Panasonic, this is a recalibration to make the most of the indication reaction, rather than a easy renaming of the present creating.

Beyond the exterior changes, the GF3 income other considerable functions first seen in the G3, such as Amazing Automobile Plus (iA+), a version of the computerized function that allows restricted (but useful) individual management, a 4x improved picture-in-picture information concentrate function, as well as 'pinpoint' AF option. The more versatile 'Photo Styles' colour presets also move across from the G3, as do the 'Creative Control' handling liver body organ. The GF3 can, however, lay declare one of these liver body organ as its own. The 'Miniature' narrow is a version on the currently-fashionable faux-tilt relationships look. Panasonic's performance allows an increased level of individual management than unique provides from its opponents. Film alternatives contain rack-focus via touchscreen show display monitor show observe AF and (new to the G-series) the capability to draw out a type from a film during play-back and protected it as a still picture.

The GF3 is available as a system only buy, or engaged with the Lumix G 14mm F2.5 ASPH (28mm equivalent) wide-angle 'pancake' relationships or the image-stabilized Lumix G Vario 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH OIS relationships which will likely have more interest for customers improving from lightweight digital cameras.

Panasonic GF3 specification highlights:

• 12MP Micro Four Thirds format CMOS sensor
• ISO 160-6400
• 3.8 fps continuous shooting (max 2.8fps with live view)
• GF2-style touch screen interface
• 1080i60 AVCHD shooting (from 25p sensor output)
• All-area AF point selection
• Pinpoint AF mode (magnifies focus point to allow confirmation and fine-tune of AF position)
• AF Tracking in video mode
• Picture-in-picture manual focus magnification
• 460k dot fixed LCD
• Photo Styles (same color response presets as used in G3)

Compared to the Sony NEX-C3

Here's the GF3 alongside its most obvious direct competitor - Sony's NEX-C3. The two are very similar in size: the GF3 is a little bit taller, with a circular bulge on the top plate to accommodate its built-in pop-up flash (the Sony requires an additional bolt-on unit). Meanwhile the C3 is fractionally wider but squeezes in a larger APS-C sensor.
This comparison illustrates the two cameras' similarly compact camera-like, simplified rear layouts. Enthusiasts might balk at the lack of control points, but both cameras offer full manual control - the GF3 can get away with relatively few direct control points because it relies on its touch-sensitive screen for a lot of the more 'in-depth' operation, whereas the C3 (which lacks a touch-screen) features highly-customizable 'soft' buttons.

Original Article:www.dpreview.com

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH7 is a thin, fashionable lightweight picture photo photographic camera with a 16MP CCD indication and a 4x optically-stabilized contact, which protects a useful 28-112mm (equivalent) wide range. Similar in most aspects to its forerunner the FH5, the FH7 functions a new touch-sensitive LCD show, which allows Contact AF - a function which has been approved down from higher-end Lumix camcorders which allows you to concentrate and launch the shutter by simply in contact with the show.

With the FH7, Panasonic is immediately working on the consumer-level point-and-shoot market, and as such, apart from its fashionable, simple style, the picture photo photographic camera is loaded with beginner-friendly and 'lifestyle' functions. Beauty retouch, Noticeable and Cosmetics liver are all designed to easily enhance symbol images, and a built-in Picture Uploader is designed to make it easy to publish taken information to Facebook or myspace or fb or fb or YouTube when either the picture photo photographic camera, or storage space space, are of an Internet-enabled pc. Referring to of connection, the FH7 does not function an HDMI connection, only USB 2.0 for connection to a pc or tv (AV out).

Specification at-a-glance

• 16.2 effective Megapixel CCD
• 28-112mm equiv lens with optical stabilization
• 3in touch-sensitive LCD screen with 230k dot resolution
• 720p (30fps) video mode
• ISO sensitivity up to 1600
• Built-in Image Uploader (requires PC with Internet connection)
• Street price $179 (�110)

Design / Key Features

The FH7's slim metal body is free from the plethora of buttons that we'd expect to see on higher-end Lumix models. In fact, there are only two buttons (power on/off and the shutter release) on the top plate, and none on the rear. The only thing on the rear of the FH7 is its 3in touch-screen, and this is the camera's main control point. Virtually every aspect of the camera's operation is (or can be) controlled via the screen, using touch. Even the shutter release can be reassigned to touch operation if desired.

The FH7's operational ergonomics are Spartan, to say the least. External controls are limited to an on/off switch, zoom lever and shutter release, whilst everything else is dealt with via the large touch-sensitive LCD screen on the camera's rear.

With the exception of its touch-sensitive screen, the FH7 is a fairly typical consumer-level compact camera. Operation is effectively point-and shoot, although exposure compensation is available, and manual control is also possible over white balance ISO sensitivity, and AF/flash modes. If you miss the direct control points available in higher-end Lumix cameras, it is possible to assign a maximum of two functions to permanent 'shortcut' positions, on the left of the live view display. This sort of customization - although limited - is very welcome in a camera of this type.

The FH7 is well-featured for its price, although some functions are more useful than others. 'Beauty retouch' is fun, and in the portrait on the left it has added a passably natural 'glow' to our subject, but it doesn't always work out so well. A 5cm macro mode is genuinely useful though, and sharpness - especially in the centre of the frame - is high, as you can see from the picture of the rose, above right (taken from about a foot away).

The FH7's built-in Picture Uploader makes posting still and movies to Facebook or myspace or fb or fb and YouTube relatively stress-free, although you'll need to be using a Windows PC (sorry Mac users), and you will still need to adhere to quite particular suggestions discovered in the electrical powered digital camera's PDF suggestions to do it. Quite truly, if you're a reasonably knowledgeable computer-user we'd suggest just modifying information to your PC in the regular way, via USB or a cards audiences, and posting to the web using your regular work-flow.

Source:www.dpreview.com

Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GX1 is the organization's newest addition to its G-series option. And although the picture digital photographic camera preserves the '1' appendage in its design name, it is obvious from even a fast glimpse that with the GX1, Panasonic has offered the long-awaited religious heir to the well known Lumix DMC-GF1. Of perhaps even higher importance, the move to current a individual GX products (as in evaluation to launching the picture digital photographic camera as a 'GF4') would seem to recommend a long-term dedication by the picture digital photographic camera manufacturer to fulfill up with the requirements of lovers who accepted the GF1.

Launched coming back last period, the GF1 was, incredibly, Panasonic's try to evaluate compact-camera entrepreneurs looking to update, with what was then charged as, 'the global tiniest, least significant similar relationships camera'. Instead, the GF1's top awesome Raw result and traditional range finder noticeable obtained a impressive and enthusiastic following in the partner industry. DSLR entrepreneurs looking for a second 'go-anywhere' picture digital photographic camera with fantastic picture awesome accepted the electrical powered digital camera's extensive exterior manages and its relatively lightweight Little Four Thirds relationships unique deals.

It is absolutely these customers who have been dissatisfied twice over with the Lumix DMC-GF2 and Lumix DMC-GF3 produces. These camcorders staying from the GF1's traditional design and button-driven function. Instead, they suggested ever-smaller type aspects, and design recommendations that indicated unambiguously to customers who may be modified off by an far too complicated (and expensive) picture digital photographic camera, such as improving dependency on touchscreen display display show display manages. With the GX1 Panasonic is looking for instantly at more contemporary customers for whom the GF1 hit a eye-catching stability between sizing and operability.

Of course, the competitors for these customers is increasing much more highly effective these days, and Panasonic decides that if it wants to be successful the electrical powered digital camera's interest, the GX1 must provide benefits not only to the GF sequence but to a flourishing industry that contains impressive APS-C indication competitors from both Panasonic and New new new samsung. To this end, the GX1 uses the same 16MP indication we first saw in the Lumix DMC-G3, although with picture handling improvements that allow for a top ISO of 12,800.

A product new viewfinder, the DMW-LVF2 has been offered together with the GX1. With an enhanced magnifier and fantastic, the LVF2 is a recognizable enhancement over its forerunner, the LVF1. Most of all though, a new requirements and hook up makes the LVF2 mismatched with any GF models; neither is it possible to fit the LVF1 on the GX1. Quicker relationships between the picture digital photographic camera and relationships allows the GX1 concentrate even faster than the 120Hz indication readout permitted in past times G3 and GF3 designs, with Panasonic stating a 10% enhancement.

Panasonic's well-regarded touchscreen display display show display interface has also gotten some new techniques, with a level evaluate and awesome Contact Tab symbol that allows you to secure up, current (and of course activate) a little board of option alternatives instantly on-screen. Another very welcome function is the addition of an path indication that instantly goes instantly pictures even when taken with non-OIS relationships.

The GX1 is being designed available in both black and gold techniques. In contrast to past GF designs, none of the GX1's kit alternatives has a set main duration relationships. Instead, the kit relationships alternatives are restricted to just two; the Lumix G X Vario PZ 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH Energy OIS contact and the more traditional (and less expensive) Lumix G Vario 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH OIS relationships.

By developing a individual products for the GX, Panasonic has described modifications in its G-series unique deals. The GF wide range is placed as availability way for compact-camera upgraders. The GH2 is designed for customers who capture a lot of film and the G3 is targeted for (primarily) still digital camcorders lovers who wish a built-in EVF and articulated LCD. The GX1 then is rather successfully placed as an partner providing for those who want the greatest picture awesome from a Little Four Thirds picture digital photographic camera, in a type factor that absolutely provides a wide range of zoom capability ability capability relationships and does not be affordable on exterior manages.

Panasonic GX1 specification highlights

• 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor
• ISO 160-12,800
• Orientation sensor (providing information with non-OIS lenses)
• 3.0", 460k dot LCD
• Full AVCHD 1080/60i video (from 30fps sensor output)
• Continuous shooting up to 20fps (at reduced resolution)
• Electronic level gauge
• Four available Fn buttons (two onscreen)

Differences between the GX1 and the GF1

• Higher resolution sensor (16MP vs 12MP)
• Touchscreen interface
• Much-improved screen coatings for better visibility in bright light
• Faster AF acquisition times
• Top ISO of 12,800 (vs 3200)
• Continuous full resolution shooting at 4fps (vs 3fps)
• Higher burst depth in Raw mode (11 vs 5)
• AVCHD 1080/60i video (vs 720p AVCHD Lite format)
• Built-in stereo microphones
• Electronic level gauge
• Two additional Fn buttons
• No drive mode lever

Compared to the Samsung NX200

The Panasonic DMC-GX1 is taller than the Samsung NX200, which actually houses a larger APS-C sensor. The GX1's mode dial sits atop the camera plate as opposed to the recessed profile found on the NX200.
From this top view you can see that the GX1 packs more control points along the camera's top plate, which maintains a traditional rangefinder-inspired shape compared to the more aggressively contoured design of the NX200.

What's not evident in the images above is just how much more heft the GX1 has in comparison to the NX200. With a solid metal body construction that weighs in at nearly 320g without a lens, the GX1 feels in hand rather substantial, in a way that calls to mind not only the GF1, but classic film camera bodies.

Compared to the Sony NEX-7

The GX1 appears almost svelte in comparison to Sony's NEX-7, with significantly less bulk in the handgrip.
One of the more obvious distinctions here is the built-in EVF on the Sony NEX-7, whose forward-thinking design only reinforces the more traditional classic-camera aesthetic of the GX1.

Although the GX1 has slightly smaller dimensions in both width and depth, it's worth remembering that that Sony has managed to pack a built-in EVF, articulating LCD and of course an APS-C sensor into the NEX-7. The GX1's more conventional control point layout stands in sharp contrast to the sleek, hewn-from-a block-of-granite design of the NEX-7. Both cameras offer a sure, firm grip, although users with larger hands may find one-handed shooting slightly less comfortable with the lower profile handgrip of the GX1.

Source:www.dpreview.com

The GF5 is it all in Panasonic's broad variety of small-bodied 'GF' Little Four Thirds digital cameras, and places below the G3 in the existing choice. The variations between the GF5 and its forerunner are relatively few, and we question they'll confirm significant enough to entice any GF3 customers to update. But they do merge to make the new picture electronic picture photographic digital camera a more eye-catching beginning to lightweight upgraders than the GF3.

The GF3 wasn't well really well obtained by picture lovers at release. In element this was because it ongoing the process of rethinking the GF sequence as a super-point-and-shoot, rather than a GF1-style enthusiast's picture electronic picture photographic digital camera. Since then, however, those needs have satisfied by the GX1, while the overall look of Olympus' PEN Little and Nikon's 1 J1 have designed it apparent that Panasonic isn't alone in knowing there's a market for a little, cost-effective and simple mirrorless picture electronic picture photographic digital camera. With the key advantages of this perspective, the GF5's element is apparent - to put large-sensor picture into the arms of people looking to update from their lightweight picture electronic picture photographic digital camera.

With this in principles, Panasonic is forcing a kit that many the GF5 with its incredibly lightweight sinkable X Vario PZ 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH OIS power contact. The mixture is very little for pictures electronic picture photographic digital camera that provides near-DSLR abilities and is the nearest any mirrorless picture electronic picture photographic digital camera comes to being genuine when along with a contact.

Physically, the most apparent modify is a new distressing element keep, which increases on the rather smooth, uncoated keep of the GF3, and a new framework to our methods spend. Under the secured, the GF5's lately designed 12MP CMOS indication is an development of the one used in the GF3, but with enhanced trip that doesn't prevent as much mild arriving into the photosite, providing better low mild performance. The picture processer is also different, and Panasonic guarantees that the newest edition of its Venus Website will provide enhanced disturbance performance. These aspects, along with a disturbance decrease system that snacks features and eye eye dark areas in a different way (since the significant cause of the disturbance varies between the two regions), has emboldened Panasonic to provide a enhance to the electrical powered managed power digital camera's ISO broad variety, with it now being development to 12800, rather than the GF3's 6400.

Also a little bit enhanced is the GF5's ongoing getting amount, from 3.8 fps to 4 fps, but more significant are a significant power in awesome for the touch-sensitive arriving coming arriving back LCD, and modify of movie development provided. With the GF5, you have the choice to capture in the MP4 framework, as well as the now-standard (for Panasonic) AVCHD. Movies taken in the MP4 framework are much much simpler to execute with, because they're designed as just one pc pc pc pc computer file, rather than a being divided across a complicated pc pc pc pc computer file framework, personal from your pictures. MPEG 4 information are far more usually appropriate when it comes to play-back. As such, we think MP4 makes a lot more feeling for an entry-level picture electronic picture photographic digital camera.

Improved touch screen

The GF5's coming back LCD is now 920,000 details, which suits the best-in category, and indicates that everything from option direction-finding to picture structure and evaluation just looks that little bit better. The touch-screen interface has also been enhanced and enhanced. The addition of a hard option for 'Display' on the coming back of the picture photographic digital camera, for example, indicates the GF5 doesn't need to have any exclusive control management control buttons preventing your perspective as you capture.

Other upgrades are more simple - the GF5 income eight new narrow alternatives in its Contemporary Control Function (namely Smooth Concentrate, Impressive Black and white, Amazing Art, One Point Colour, Combination Process and Celebrity Filter) and narrow results can be previewed before they are used. A further managing for narrow lovers comes when the GF5 is set to awesome Vehicle or awesome Vehicle Plus operate. The picture photographic digital camera will now recommend narrow results that it views might improve your picture, depending on research of the landscapes.

Panasonic's information launch speaks happily about a option of professional images used to show the types of picture the picture photographic digital camera can be set to take, but the fact is a quite conventional icon-based interface for choosing between landscapes ways. These do at least include a couple of taking tips and an details of what the operate is actually doing to the electric digital camera's alternatives.

Panasonic GF5 specification highlights

• 12.1MP Live MOS sensor
• ISO 160-6400 (extendable to 12800)
• '3DNR' three-dimensional noise reduction system
• 3.0", 920k dot touch-sensitive LCD
• Full AVCHD 1080/60i video (from 30fps sensor output) with MP4 recording option
• Stereo microphones
• Built-in orientation sensor
• 14 Creative Control filter effects options
• Scene Guide mode with 23 modes

Differences between the GF5 and the GF3

• Top ISO of 12800 (vs 6400)
• MP4 video recording option (vs AVCHD only)
• Built-in stereo microphones (vs. Mono)
• Orientation sensor (not dependent on lens IS unit)
• 3in, 920k-dot LCD screen (vs 460k-dots)
• New 'Scene Guide' mode
• 14 filter options in Creative Control Mode (vs six)
• Redesigned, rubber hand grip
• New body texture

Source:www.dpreview.com

The Panasonic DMC-FZ150 CMOS-powered 24X superzoom is a replacement for the slightly unloved FZ100 and incorporates a lower-resolution 12MP sensor that the company says will outperform its predecessor's 14MP chip. The camera retains a 25-600mm equivalent lens but now incorporating 'Nano Surface Coating' to mitigate the effects of internal reflections. And, just like its predecessor, the FZ150 retains the ability to record Raw images. The FZ150 also shoots 1080p60 HD movies in the recently-created AVCHD Progressive standard.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150 key specifications:

• 12.1MP CMOS sensor
• 25-600mm (equivalent) zoom
• Articulated, 3in LCD screen with 460,000 dots
• Built-in EVF
• 1080p60 movies in AVCHD format
• Raw mode
• Weight (with battery): 528 g (1.16 lb / 18.62 oz)
• Dimensions: 124 x 82 x 92 mm (4.88 x 3.23 x 3.62 in)

The FZ150 comes with a traditional energy and energy battery power charger (with a highly effective position of about 400 injections per charge), USB wire, neck team, relationships cap with connection sequence, relationships cover and a small printed primary details. On the CD you'll find a full details, SILKYPIX Designer Features 3.1 SE, PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.5 BD edition (both for Windows) and a weblink to a evaluate edition of video manager Extremely LoiLoScope. You'll need a mini-HDMI wire to get in touch the photographic camera to an HDTV and an SD/SDHC/SDXC card to supplement the electrical powered digital camera's 70MB storage space area room. Amazingly, one of several components is a 1.7x telephoto relationships for the FZ150 (you'll need an adaptor as well), if the electrical powered digital camera's highest possible possible 600mm main range doesn't get you close enough to your subject.

These two images, taken from a fixed camera position at the wide and long end of the FZ150's lens, should give you an idea of what a 25-600mm effective zoom looks like.

Like all superzooms, the FZ150 is equipped with an LCD and EVF (electronic viewfinder). The 3-inch, 460,000 dot LCD is articulated and useful for shooting overhead or from low angles. Better yet, the monitor folds into the camera to protect its surface from scratches. The EVF is really small but generally bright and can be used when sunlight makes the LCD difficult to use. Even though the camera's image stabilization works quite well, bringing the viewfinder to your eye when shooting at telephoto also provides additional stabilization.

A zoom control and a triple focus switch (AF, AF macro, manual) are located on the lens barrel. Since you'll be (or should be) supporting the lens barrel with your left hand, using this zoom control may be a more natural fit than the topside lever.	Measuring 4.89 x 3.2 x 3.74 inches and weighing 1.13 pounds fully loaded, the FZ150 won't fit into most pockets, of course. But it's well built and comfortable to shoot with thanks to its contoured and rubberized grip and convenient control layout.
A large mode dial is packed with options including manual, semimanual and automatic exposure modes along with 3 custom settings, creative options, scene modes, and movie mode.	To the right of the mode dial you'll find the shutter/zoom lever, direct "red" movie button, burst shooting button (from 2-60fps) and the on/off switch.

The picture digital photographic camera features a lot of performance and personalization alternatives but once you get into the better details, be ready to be more slowly down by scrolling through Panasonic's usually significant alternatives. The best aspect about it though is that there's a Quick Option, which provides up the most often personalized alternatives allows amount things along. A few of the electrical powered digital camera's significant features contain contemporary landscapes methods, which allow you to fine-tune the chosen function. For example, under Symbol, you can decide on a Sleek Epidermis choice (one of four), that will smooth and secure up your model's skin blemishes.

The new 3D function details a sequence of pictures and chooses two, which are mixed (left and right) to kind an MPO picture that can be considered on any MPO appropriate program. Assessment, sharpness, vividness and disturbance decrease improvements, raw, encounter identification, and the capability to tag and publish pictures to Facebook or myspace or fb or fb and YouTube by simply linking the picture digital photographic camera to the pc are only a few other FZ150 features. While the exterior manages are quite uncomplicated and available, even knowledgeable shutterbugs should examine out the FZ150's details to find below the exterior covering position of this feature-packed picture digital photographic camera. Go to the inner main choice and you'll find no less than 5 'pages' of alternatives in the History position alone.

	The back panel is home to the pop-up button for the built-in flash, EVF/LCD switch, AF/AE lock, command dial, 4-way controller, display and playback, menu and quick menu buttons. Options on the 4-way controller include exposure compensation, self-timer, ISO and a programmable Fn key

But Panasonic didn't stop with still image options. The FZ150 has a myriad of video features that make this camera equally adept at capturing movies, too. For more detail on the video features of the camera - and samples - turn to the performance and image quality page of this review.

Source:www.dpreview.com

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 is a compact journey zoom capability capability ability capability image picture photo photographic camera with a quite complex GPS set up. Not only does the ZS20 log your position, it also has a internet directories of a million places and maps of 90 periods countries. The ZS20 also provides a new 20X get in touch with, 14.1 Mega-pixel MOS sign (which Panasonic says has less interference than the CCD used in the ZS10), super-fast auto-focus, 10 frame/second continuous getting, an excellent automated operate, in-camera environment stitching, and Complete HD 1080/60p films.

Compared to ZS10 and ZS15

As with all of Panasonic's recent travel zooms, the ZS20 has a little brother known as the DMC-ZS15. The ZS15 shares much in common with the ZS20, except for its lens (same as the ZS10), sensor (which is the same as the one on the DMC-FZ150 super zoom), and movie mode. It also lacks the touchscreen LCD and GPS functionality found on both the ZS10 and ZS20.

	Lumix DMC-ZS10	Lumix DMC-ZS15	Lumix DMC-ZS20
MSRP	N/A	$279	$349
Sensor resolution / type	14.1 MP (MOS)	12.1 MP (MOS)	14.1 MP (MOS) *
Lens focal range (zoom)	24 - 384 mm (16X)		24 - 480 mm (20X)
Lens max aperture	F3.3 - F5.9		F3.3 - F6.4
AF system	Sonic Speed AF	Light Speed AF
LCD size/resolution	3.0" / 460,000 pixel
Touchscreen LCD	Yes	No	Yes
ISO range (full resolution)	100 - 1600	100 - 3200
Burst rate (full resolution)	15 shots @ 10 fps	4 shots @ 10 fps	10 shots @ 10 fps
GPS receiver	Yes	No	Yes
Built-in maps	No	No	Yes
Intelligent HDR	No	Yes	Yes
In-camera panorama stitch	No	Yes	Yes
Movie resolution	1920 x 1080 / 60i **		1920 x 1080 / 60p
Stereo sound	Yes	No	Yes
High speed movies	Yes	No	Yes
Built-in memory	18 MB	70 MB	12 MB
Battery life (CIPA)	260 shots ***
In-camera battery charging	No	Yes	Yes
Dimensions	4.1 x 2.3 x 1.3 in.	4.1 x 2.3 x 1.3 in.	4.1 x 2.3 x 1.1 in.
Weight (body only, empty)	197 g	185 g	184 g
* Different sensor than the one used on the ZS10 ** Sensor output is 30p *** With GPS disabled (if available)

If you read last year's GPS-equipped Compact Ultra Zoom comparison, you may recall that I was quite disappointed with the DMC-ZS10, mostly due to its image quality. Panasonic says they've taken care of that on the ZS20. Did they? Find out now in our review!

What's in the Box?

The DMC-ZS20 has a rather unremarkable bundle. Then again, so do most cameras these days. Inside the box, you'll find:

• The 14.1 effective Megapixel Lumix DMC-ZS20 digital camera
• DMW-BCG10 lithium-ion battery
• AC-to-USB adapter
• Wrist strap
• USB cable
• DVD featuring PhotoFunStudio 8.1 Premium Edition, Map Tool, and LoiLoScope trial
• 34 page basic manual (printed) + full manual (on CD-ROM)

Despite being their major travel zoom capability ability capability camera, Panasonic has built just 18MB of storage area space into the DMC-ZS20. Unnecessary to say, you'll want to buy a storage area space right away, unless you have one placed around already. The ZS20 can handle SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, and I'd suggest a 4GB cards for most folks, and an 8GB or 16GB cards for movie lovers. You'll want a cards ranked Class 6 or quicker for best performance, especially when it comes to films.

The DMC-ZS20 uses the same DMW-BCG10 lithium-ion power as its forerunner. This power offers just 3.2 Wh of power into its plastic spend, but fortunately Panasonic controls to press very good power out of it, as you can see in this table. Note that power numbers are provided by the maker, and are identified with the GPS turned off.

Camera	Battery life (CIPA standard)	Battery used
Canon PowerShot SX260 HS *	230 shots	NB-6L
Fuji FinePix F770EXR *	300 shots	NP-50A (1)
Nikon Coolpix S9300 *	200 shots	EN-EL12
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS	200 shots	LI-50B
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 *	260 shots	DMW-BCG10
Pentax Optio VS20	200 shots	D-LI122
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V *	320 shots	NP-BG1
* Camera features built-in GPS

The ZS20's power stock up power energy power energy is a bit above the group frequent. That said, you might want to select up a extra power stock up power energy power energy, as that GPS is power-hungry, especially if it's on all a lot of your power and power (more on that later). An extra power stock up power energy power energy will set you coming back around $32.

Panasonic has customized the way in which power stock up power energy power energy are charged on their 2012 styles. Power are now charged inner via the USB connect, which can be linked with the places or your PC. The objective why manufacturers are using this strategy more and more is quite obvious to me: it costs a lot less to contain a little AC-to-USB adaptor than a finish external battery power charger. The bad details is that inner asking for is a lot more gradually -- it needs a large 260 minutes to definitely price the ZS20's power stock up power energy power energy. Luckily, Panasonic still provides the external battery power charger (model DE-A65BA), which can be yours for about $25. It's more authentic than inner asking for, allows you to price a extra, and it's 100 minutes faster, too.

Something else about the engaged charger: while it's an AC adaptor, you cannot use it to power the picture image picture image picture picture photo photographic camera -- it's for asking for only. If you want to use the ZS20 on "shore power", then you'll need to buy the hard-to-find AC adaptor particular below.

Optional Accessories

Accessory	Model #	Price*	Description
Underwater housing	DMW-MCTZ30	$299	Take the ZS20 up to 40 meters underwater.
External battery charger	DE-A65BA	$24	An old-fashioned external charger, which is considerably faster than in-camera charging. Also allows for charging of a spare battery.
AC adapter	DMW-AC5 DMW-DCC5	$60 $13	While not an official ZS20 accessory, the combination of these parts will let you power the camera without draining the battery. These can be very hard to find.
A/V cable	DMW-AVC1	$9	Composite audio/video cable for connecting to a standard television.
Leather case	DMW-CT3-K DMW-CT3-T	$49	A leather case which comes in black and tan. Includes a battery case.
*Prices accurate at time of publication

A quite narrow your search, yes, but then again, the ZS20 is a lightweight picture photo photographic camera. As I've suggested at several periods, Panasonic components can be very nearly hard to find - I don't even have costs for 50 % of the stuff!

Panasonic contains PhotoFunStudio 8.1 Expert Version program with the Lumix DMC-ZS20. This Windows-only program manages main projects quite well, though the whole "wizard" program gets used out easily. On the main display you'll see the regular thumbnail perspective, and you can perspective images by details information files, time period, or by things as particular as landscapes function. The program can comprehend to identify actions (much like the picture photo photographic camera itself), which provides you another way to look through through your images. Available modifying functions give you the capability to plants, move, or change the aspect amount of your images, as well as modifying color, lighting, vividness, and more. You can implement pc style to images, overlay launched published written text, or eliminate redeye. Something else that's awesome is that the program preserves a record of the changes you've made to images, so you can go back in its record if you don't like something you've done.

Another involved program is Lumix Map System (for Mac and Windows), which allows you decide which charts of the world you want to finish onto your storage area room. The North/Central The usa of the united states map is 1.88 GB, so maybe getting that 8 GB SDHC cards isn't such a bad idea, after all. Another important program, known as GPSASIST, is actually designed into the picture photo photographic camera itself. When you connect it to your Mac or PC via USB, choose "GPS Information Data" on the picture photo photographic camera, and you'll look for the program on the exclusive hard drive produce set up by the picture photo photographic camera. Handling the GPS Information Information can decrease satellite tv tv tv buy periods.

As with other latest Camera components, the ZS20's guides are divided into two locations. In the box is a flyer that will get you launched and identified, but not much further. For more details regarding the picture photo photographic camera, you'll have to stock up the finish details, which is in PDF structure on the DVD that comes with the picture photo photographic camera. The finish details certainly won't win any prizes for user-friendliness, but it should response most problems you'll have about the ZS20. Suggestions for using the involved program is set up onto your PC.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15 ($279) is a compact ultra zoom camera, and the little brother to the ZS20 that earned a mixed review when I reviewed it recently. Normally I don't review a pair of cameras that are this similar, but since there's a lot of interest in the ZS15, I'm doing both.
The DMC-ZS15 is more-or-less the same as the ZS20, but with a 12 Megapixel sensor (borrowed from the FZ150 super zoom), 16X zoom lens (from last year's ZS10), slightly less impressive movie mode, and no GPS functionality. The chart below compares the two models side-by-side.

ZS15 and ZS20: Specifications compared:

	Lumix DMC-ZS15	Lumix DMC-ZS20
MSRP	$279	$349
Sensor resolution / type	12.1 MP (MOS)	14.1 MP (MOS)
Lens focal range (zoom)	24 - 384 mm (16X)	24 - 480 mm (20X)
Lens max aperture	F3.3 - F5.9	F3.3 - F6.4
Touchscreen LCD	No	Yes
Burst rate (full resolution)	4 shots @ 10 fps	10 shots @ 10 fps
GPS receiver	No	Yes
Built-in maps	No	Yes
Movie resolution	1920 x 1080 / 60i *	1920 x 1080 / 60p
Stereo sound recording	No	Yes
High speed movies	No	Yes
Built-in memory	70 MB	12 MB
Battery life (CIPA)	260 shots **
In-camera battery charging	Yes	Yes
Dimensions	4.1 x 2.3 x 1.3 in.	4.1 x 2.3 x 1.1 in.
Weight (body only, empty)	185 g	184 g
* Sensor output is 30p ** With GPS disabled (on ZS20)

While the ZS20 is the clear winner in the specs department, I have a feeling that the ZS15 will one-up it when it comes to image quality. Keep reading to find out if that's the case!

What's in the Box?

Camera bundles have really gone downhill in recent years, as camera manufacturers try to keep their costs down. Here's what you'll find in the box with the ZS15:

• The 12.1 effective Megapixel Lumix DMC-ZS15 digital camera
• DMW-BCG10 lithium-ion battery
• AC-to-USB adapter
• Wrist strap
• USB cable
• CD-ROM featuring PhotoFunStudio 8.0 Advanced Edition and LoiLoScope trial
• 28 page basic manual (printed) + full manual (on CD-ROM)

For whatever reason, the DMC-ZS15 has more built-in memory than the more expensive ZS20. Panasonic has put 70MB of memory into the ZS15, which holds fifteen photos at the highest quality setting. While that's good for emergencies, you'll definitely want to buy an SD, SDHC, or SDXC card right away. Most folks will do just fine with a 2GB or 4GB card, though movie enthusiasts will want an 8GB or larger model. While buying a high speed card (Class 6 or greater) is a good idea, you certainly don't need to go overboard.
The DMC-ZS15 uses the same DMW-BCG10 lithium-ion battery as the ZS20 and other recent models in the series. This battery packs just 3.2 Wh of energy into its plastic shell, but thankfully Panasonic manages to squeeze pretty good battery life out of it, as you can see in this table:

Camera	Battery life (CIPA standard)	Battery used
Canon PowerShot SX260 HS *	230 shots	NB-6L
Fuji FinePix F750EXR	300 shots	NP-50A (1)
Nikon Coolpix S9300 *	200 shots	EN-EL12
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS	200 shots	LI-50B
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15	260 shots	DMW-BCG10
Pentax Optio VS20	200 shots	D-LI122
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V *	340 shots	NP-BG1
* Built-in GPS Battery life numbers are provided by the manufacturer, and are calculated with the GPS turned off.

The ZS15's battery life is just a bit above the average for the group. If you do want to pick up a spare battery, a Panasonic-branded one will set you back around $35. Panasonic cameras can be fussy about generic batteries, so consider yourself warned.
Panasonic has changed the way in which batteries are charged on their 2012 models. Batteries are now charged internally via the USB connector, which can be plugged into the wall or your PC. The reason why manufacturers are using this method more and more is pretty obvious to me: it costs a lot less to include a small AC-to-USB adapter than a full external charger. The bad news is that internal charging is a lot slower -- it takes a whopping 260 minutes to fully charge the ZS15's battery. Thankfully, Panasonic still sells the external charger (model DE-A65BA), which can be yours for about $25. It's more convenient than internal charging, allows you to charge a spare, and it's 100 minutes faster, too.
Something else about the included charger: while it's an AC adapter, you cannot use it to power the camera - it's for charging only. If you want to use the ZS15 on "shore power", then you'll need to buy the hard-to-find AC adapter listed below.

Optional accessories

There are just a few of accessories available for the DMC-ZS15. They include:

Accessory	Model #	Price	Description
Underwater housing	DMW-MCTZ20	$244	Take the ZS15 up to 40 meters underwater.
External battery charger	DE-A65BA	From $25	An old-fashioned external charger, which is considerably faster than in-camera charging. Also allows for charging of a spare battery.
AC adapter	DMW-AC5 DMW-DCC5	From $57 $9	While not an official ZS15 accessory, the combination of these parts will let you power the camera without draining the battery. These can be very hard to find.
A/V cable	DMW-AVC1	$9	Composite audio/video cable for connecting to a standard television.
Leather case	DMW-CT3-K DMW-CT3-T	$50	A leather case which comes in black and tan. Includes a battery case. Good luck finding these.
Prices were accurate at time of publication

Not the most exciting list, but hey, it's a sub-$300 compact camera.
Panasonic includes PhotoFunStudio 8.1 Advanced Edition software with the Lumix DMC-ZS15. This Windows-only software handles basic tasks fairly well, though the whole "wizard" system gets tired quickly. On the main screen you'll see the usual thumbnail view, and you can view photos by folders, date, or by things as specific as scene mode. The software can learn to recognize faces (much like the camera itself), which offers you another way to browse through your pictures. Available editing features give you the ability to crop, rotate, or change the aspect ratio of your photos, as well as adjusting color, brightness, saturation, and more. You can apply special effects to photos, overlay text, or remove redeye. Something else that's nice is that the software maintains a history of the changes you've made to a photo, so you can go back in time if you don't like something you've done.
PhotoFunStudio can also work with the movies produced by the ZS15. You can trim unwanted footage from a clip, overlay titles or "stamps", and convert the video to the easier-to-edit MPEG-4 format. If you want to use something else to edit your videos, most modern Windows video editing suites can work with the AVCHD files produced by the ZS15. On the Mac side, you can use iMovie or Final Cut Pro to work with the AVCHD files. Another option is to record your videos in MPEG-4 (MP4) format, which will be much easier to edit in the software of your choice.
As with other recent Panasonic cameras, the ZS15's manuals are split into two parts. In the box is a leaflet that will get you up and running, but not much further. For more information about the camera, you'll have to load up the full manual, which is in PDF format on the CD-ROM that comes with the camera. The full manual certainly won't win any awards for user-friendliness, but it should answer most questions you'll have about the ZS15. Instructions for using the included software is installed onto your PC.


Source:www.dpreview.com

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Panasonic's Lumix digital camera brand which makes it an appropriate year for launching some exciting new products. One of those is the Panasonic Lumix G5, the ninth model in the G-series which introduced the world to the Micro Four Thirds standard and mirrorless system cameras in the shape of the DMC-G1, in 2008.
With its electronic viewfinder and SLR-like form factor the G5 is arguably the most direct competitor to 'traditional' entry-level SLRs in the current Lumix lineup. It sits above the simpler GF5 and below the top-of-the-line and enthusiast models GH2 and GX1.
Under the hood, the G5's 'newly developed' 16MP Live MOS sensor is what Panasonic calls a 'digital sensor' with some of the processing happening on the chip itself. In theory this translates into improved high-ISO performance which is very welcome news, the more so because the G5's maximum ISO setting has been increased to 12,800. The continuous shooting rate has also been bumped up compared to the DMC-G3, from 4 to 6 frames per second, but almost certainly more important to most users is the increase in resolution for the touch-sensitive rear LCD, from 460,000 to 920,000 dots. The LCD now also comes with a feature that is called 'Touchpad AF'. It allows you to move the AF area across the frame with your finger on the LCD while you're framing the shot through the EVF.
Video specs have also been improved. Like the GF5 the G5 now records video in the MP4 format, as well as the now-standard (for Panasonic) AVCHD. The latter Video clips shot in the MP4 format are easier to organize because they're not stored in a separate file structure to stills, and are far more widely compatible when it comes to playback. However, shooting in the AVCHD format allows you to capture footage at 1080 60/50p, vs 1080 60i on the G3. In this mode the camera captures video a t a bit rate of 28 Mbps which is in line with Panasonic's high-end consumer camcorders.
With most of the competitors in the mirrorless system bracket of the market offering a variety of digital filter it was only a matter of time before Panasonic followed. The G5 boasts nine new filter options in the camera's Creative Control Mode (namely Soft Focus, Impressive Art, Cross Process, Star Filter, Miniature Effect, Dynamic Monochrome, One Point Color and Low key). As with the GF5 these filter effects can be previewed before they are applied and when the camera is set to intelligent Auto or intelligent Auto Plus mode it will suggest filter effects that it thinks might enhance your photo, based on an analysis of the scene.
All in all the G5 comes with some interesting improvements over its predecessor. We will have to see how many G3 users can be tempted into upgrading to the new model but on paper the G5 certainly looks like a compelling camera that should be attractive to a wide range of photographers. We are looking forward to putting the G5 through its paces to see what the sensor is capable of and what difference the new features make in real-life shooting. In the meantime we've produced a 3-page preview which should give an overview of the salient points.

Panasonic GF5 specification highlights

• 16 MP Live MOS sensor
• ISO 160-12,800
• 3.0", 920k dot touch-sensitive LCD with Touchpad AF control
• 1.44 million dots electronic viewfinder with eye sensor
  
• Full AVCHD 1080/60p video with 1080 30p MP4 recording option
• 6 frames per second continuous shooting, 3.7 fps with AF-tracking
• 14 Creative Control filter effects options

Differences between the G5 and the G3

• 16MP 'digital' Live MOS sensor (vs analog)
• Maximum ISO of 12,800 (vs 6400)
• 6 frames per second burst shooting (vs 4 fps)
• 1080/60p AVCHD and 1080/30p video recording (vs 1080/60i)
• MP4 video recording option (vs AVCHD and 720p MJPG only)
• 3 inch 920,000 dot LCD screen (vs 460,000 dots)
• Eye-sensor below the EVF
• Function lever
• Touchpad-AF control
• Aluminium front plate (vs plastic)
• Position of the shutter button
• Redesigned rubber hand grip and four-way controller
• Improved battery life (320 shots vs 270)
• 14 filter options in Creative Control Mode (vs 5)

Compared to its peers:

The Panasonic G5 and Olympus' flagship Micro Four Thirds camera, the OM-D, have similar dimensions but the Panasonic comes with a rounded, contemporary design while the Olympus features a retro-style. The latter also comes with an all-metal body. On the G5 only the front-plate is made out of aluminium.
Despite the different approaches to body design the control and button layout of the two cameras is not too dissimilar, with a four-way controller and a few buttons located to the right of the screen and a screen that can be flipped out and tilted. However, the Olympus features two control dials (G5 only one).

The G5's general size and shape are ver similar to the its predecessor G3 but in this front view the larger handgrip and the changes position/angle of the shutter botton are immediately visible. The new model has also gained an aluminium front plate.
On the back we can see the new eye-sensor below the EVF and the new design of the four-way controller which is now shiny and silver. There's also a new thumb rest next to the control dial and a slightly changed button-layout.

Source:www.dpreview.com