Product Description

3 separate CCD sensors for red, green, and blue * 640,000 effective pixels per sensor for video * 710,000 effective pixels per sensor for photos * variable-speed 10X Leica® Dicomar® optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 700X) * manual focus ring * records video on tiny Mini DV tapes * digital photo mode * 3.1-megapixel photo capture with Quad-Density Pixel Distribution * SD memory card slot * microphone input * Optical Image Stabilizer * ... Read more

Features

• Leica Dicomar lens
• 3.1 Mega Still picture recording
• 2.5 inches diagonal LCD
• USB 2.0 hi-speed port
• 3CCD camera system

Reviews (2)

Highly Recommended
Perhaps the biggest failure of this product is the lack of documentation on how well this camcorder operates with Macintosh.Using a 4pin to 6pin Firewire cable (not included), this camera easily connects to Macs making an easy tranfer into iMovie for editing. In fact, I couldn't find any mention of how to use Firewire with this camcorder.
This camcorder is extremely small and I was concerned about how well I would like the small controls. I was very surprised at how easy the controls were to use.
Picture quality is very good, even in low light conditions. In-door shooting will usually require the whitebalance to be manually set because in auto mode lighting is yellow, but it is as easy as clicking a menu item.
It also makes transfering from VHS to miniDV easy with the enclosed cables.
I'm giving 4 stars due to the documentation.

MotionDV socks
Excellent camcorder with a lot of feartures. Bravo to Panasonic hardware engineers. However, I spent entire weekend in trying to connect camcorder to Motion DV. Instructions in English are made from direct computer translation from Japanese, so it is very hard. French version a little better. No a clear expalnation between USB and IEEE connection options. As the result, you will do a false step in installation, then you will be not able to desinstall Motion DV, you will need to manipulate your registry files and so on. Finally I gave up and installed Premiere LE from my last camcorder whichwas working immediately with all features.
... Read more

Product Description

three separate CCD sensors for red, green, and blue * 440,000 effective pixels per sensor for video * 530,000 effective pixels per sensor for photos * records video on tiny Mini DV tapes * digital photo mode * 2.3-megapixel photo capture with Quad-Density Pixel Distribution * SD Card slot for use with MultiMediaCard? or SDmemory cards * variable-speed 10X Leica Dicomar optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 700X) * Digital Electronic Image Stabilizer * ... Read more

Features

• 2.3 Mega Still picture recording
• Leica Dicomar lens
• USB 2.0 hi-speed port
• 1.7 second quick start
• 3CCD camera system

Reviews (3)

Price Buster !!
This camera takes the best still pictures of any mini-dv I have owned yet !! Low transport noise and the joystick rocks . You basically just open the box and shoot . As with any camera you should always adjust your own white balance .It fits in the palm of your hand and comes with a remote and a mic ! No battery complaints as of yet . For the price get it !!

Pretty decent camera for the price
I have had this camera for about 3 weeks. Bought this after lot of research(mini-dvd versus miniDV). Read some horror stories about an entire disk getting wiped out with mini-dvd camcorders.

GS150 does an amazing job in bright day light. Colors are vibrant compared to 1 CCD cameras. Low light performance is so so. Overall, I am a satisfied customer.

If you plan on transferring video to a computer, get a fire-wire cable. This camera needs a 4 pin male connector. I have a MAC and transferring video and burning into a DVD was a breeze.

Decent camcorder with a few cons
The camcorder offers outstanding video quality (at its price level)in adequate lighting condition. I had a chance to compare it to Cannon Opture 500. I think GS150 produces better color than Opeture does, due largely to 3ccd, but makes slightly more noise in low light settings.
I like the joystick, which makes the control panel look clean and simple.
However, there are a few things I am not happy with.
1. Generally, EIS does not improve much from GS120. Without a tripod, you still need to hold your breath if you want to get really stable video.
2. There is no EIS in widescreen mode.
3. Again, low light performance is not satisfactory.
So, if you do most of your shooting outdoor and are confident on your "stability skills," this is a great camcorder to buy.
... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Optics and Resolution
Featuring a 5-megapixel CCD sensor, the DMC-FZ20K delivers a wide range of detail and color with images up to 2560 x 1920 pixels--enough information to make photo-quality prints up to 13 by 17 inches. Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 12x zoom lens, with 3 aspheric elements, combines comfortably small size with superb image rendering. By combining with a 4x digital zoom, users will have an equivalence of a 48x zoom lens in a very compact body, though users should note that digital zoom degrades picture quality.

Movie Mode and Audio
The DMC-FZ20K lets you shoot QuickTime Motion JPEG video at resolutions up to 320 x 240 pixels with sound. The amount of video you can capture is limited by space on the memory card; you'll fit more at low quality (10 frames-per-second) than at high quality (30 frames-per-second). The movies aren't camcorder quality, but they're fun and convenient, and they're perfect as e-mail attachments. You can also record audio comments, up to five seconds in length, for your still pictures.

More Features

• Flip Animation: Allows you to create your own frame-by-frame animations.
• Unlimited Consecutive Shooting: Allows consecutive shooting up to the capacity of the SD memory card.
• Two-inch diagonal polycrystalline TFT LCD display (130k pixels)
• Hot shoe for external flash attachment
• Mega Burst Shooting Mode: Shoot up to seven images at three or two frames-per-second in standard resolution, or up to four images in fine resolution. This option is designed to provide you with the best selection of photos during action, such as a sporting event.

Storage and Transfer
Images and video are stored on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards. A 16 MB SD card is included. Files can be downloaded to either a Mac or PC via USB connectivity, which means it can be connected to any USB-based Windows 98/Me/2000/XP and Mac OS 8.6 or later computer without installing any software.

Printing
This camera supports thePictBridgestandard. PictBridge is a technology that lets you transfer pictures from a digital camera to a compatible printer, without a PC or image-editing software. Because PictBridge is an industry standard, users can connect PictBridge-compatible devices made by many different manufacturers. Learn more about PictBridge.

Power and Size
The camera is powered by lithium-ion battery pack (included with charger). It measures 3.43 by 5.02 by 4.18 inches and weighs 1.14 pounds.

What's in the Box
DMC-FZ20K digital camera, battery charger, battery pack, 16MB SD memory card, lens cap, lens hood with adaptor, A/V and USB cables, strap, and CD-ROM ... Read more

Features

• 5-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 13-by-17-inch enlargements
• Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 12x zoom lens combines with 4x digital zoom for 48x total zoom
• MEGA optical image stabilizer; 2-inch TFT LCD screen; PictBridge Compatible
• Store images on Secure Digital (SD) memory card (16 MB SD card included)
• Powered by lithium-ion battery pack (included with charger)

Product Description

Digital Palmcorder MultiCam Camcorder with 24x Optical Zoom and 800x Digital Zoom Compact-Design, Still Picture Capability; SD Slot; 24x Optical Zoom; 800x Digital Zoom; Electronic Image Stabilization; USB 2.0 Get Up Close with a 24x Optical Zoom and 800x Digital Zoom - The optical zoom feature acts like a telescope to produce close-up shots with extraordinary clarity so you won't miss a single detail. It also offers variable zoom speeds, so you can adjust your zoom speed from wide angle to full telephoto. In addition, the digital zoom ratio can be increased up to an extraordinary 800x. Now that's close up! Simultaneous Motion Video & Still Picture Recording (VGA) - Now you can snap off a still shot (VGA) while recording video without having to change recording modes. The video is recorded onto the Mini DV tape and the still image is recorded onto the SD Memory Card. This 2-in-1 capability means you can catch sudden photo opportunities without interrupting a great moving picture scene. Soft Skin Mode Helps Soften Blemishes and Lines - This feature detects skin tones and softens the focus in that area of the picture. It helps make blemishes and lines appear less noticeable, while preserving resolution in areas of the picture outside the skin. One-Touch Navigation and Joystick Control - The joystick makes the camera much easier to use, letting you control all basic operations with one hand. As you shoot, just watch the image in the monitor and follow the instruction guide. ... Read more

Features

• SD memory card slot
• USB 2.0 hi-speed port
• 2.5-inch diagonal LCD
• 1.3-second quick start
• 24x optical zoom

Product Description

680,000-pixel CCD * variable-speed 30X optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 1,000X) * digital photo mode * records video on tiny Mini DV tapes * 2-1/2" color LCD viewscreen * color viewfinder * Digital Electronic Image Stabilization * wireless remote * ... Read more

Features

• 3-hour battery
• USB 2.0 hi-speed port
• SD memorycard slot
• 1.7 second quick start
• 30x optical zoom

Reviews (2)

Great Camera so far.....
Just bought this camcorder a few days ago and so far, I've been very impressed.The low-light capabilities appear very adequate.The ease of transfer to the PC via the DV-Firewire link is excellent.Haven't had a chance to check out many features yet, but easy of use for picking up the camera and shooting a video is great.So far, I think I've made a good choice.

Wow! Great camera!
I just got back from my local electronics store which, to my surprise, had the GS35 in stock and on sale. I was very pleased with the ease of use and accuracy of the thumbstick control. Though, the menu button was a bit out of reach for my thumb thus requiring me to use my other hand to push it. The built-in LED lights help shed some light on dark situations, but I noticed an even greater benefit from the increase in gain when the light was switched on. The lens used on this camera is out-of-sight! Not only does it offer high telephoto optical zoom, it offers what few other camcorders out there have: built-in wideangle. The lens is 1.9-57mm which equates roughly to a 35mm equivalent of 35-1040mm. So, go ahead, shoot video indoors and get the whole group in the shot at once! ... Read more

Product Description

A new level of film-like realism and impact.

The PT-AE700U is the most impressive home cinema projector ever from Panasonic. Compact enough to sit on a bookshelf, it is packed with advanced features designed to bring you a whole new level of home theater enjoyment.

Dynamic contrast is now 2000:1, by far the best in its class, so the picture is sharp and clear even in a well-lit room. New integrated cinema quality circuitry includes a Dynamic Iris optical system that constantly adjusts the brightness and gamma characteristics in real time, so the picture is always optimal and transitions betweens scenes are more natural. An innovative color correction system - developed after consultation with top Hollywood colorist David Bernstein - incorporates Cinema Color Management technology to ensure faithful color reproduction. This cinema-quality integrated circuitry brings you on-screen colors just as you would see them in a movie theater. And the PT-AE700U comes with advanced Smooth Screen technology that effectively eliminates the typical "screen door" effect, so the images you see on the screen are natural and lifelike.

... Read more

Features

• Smooth Screen technology for smooth, film-like images
• Measures 13.2 x 3.7 x 10.6 inches (W x H x D) and weighs just 7.9 pounds
• High-definition HDMI, component-video, composite-video, S-video, and RGB inputs
• 1,280 x 720 native HD resolution (displays 480i, 576i, 480p, 576p, 720p, and 1080i inputs)
• 1,000 ANSI lumens brightness, up to 2,000:1 contrast ratio; widescreen (16:9) native aspect ratio, 4:3 compatible

Reviews (2)

Great projector for the price!
This was my first projector. I researched a lot of different models and finally decided on this one because on paper it looked to give the most bang for the buck (my price range was $2000-$3000).I also wanted native 16:9.
After owning it for over a month, I'm quite happy with it.It has none of the flaws usually associated with LCD projectors.There is no "screen door" effect at all, and the black levels are very impressive.
I have the unit mounted to the ceiling (purchased RPA mount for $190) and project onto a 120" gray screen.
One feature that helped clenched the deal for me is the 2x zoom lens - I have the projector situated less than 14 feet from a 10-foot diagonal screen.
I had a little trouble with the mount I purchased, but the projector itself is incredibly easy to setup and operate.The joystick next to the lens lets you to control the horizontal and vertical shift without tilting or moving the whole unit.Remote is back-lit.Menus allow plenty of tweaking.You can store user-defined settings or use factory presets (like cinema, natural, dynamic, etc.).
I have the projector in a dedicated home theater room with no windows and keep the lights turned off while it's running.If I had to deal with ambient light though, I probably would have chosen a brighter projector since this one is only 1000 lumens.
I mostly watch DVDs on this, but also use it to watch cable and play video games - playing Halo 2 on this is an awesome experience!

Best Value for your money!
Don't be fooled by the low price of this projector. Until DLP HD+ Projectors drop to this price range there is nothing that can come close to beating this projectors value for money. The new breed of LCD projectors have come a long way in displaying BLACK close to true black with high contrast ratios.

I shopped around a lot for projectors and seen projectors from Runoco, Sony, Sim, Marantz, etc which vary in price from 3k to well over 15K. I wouldn't say this Panasonic is the best but for the price I am paying, I am really not losing much of quality gain. I project the picture on 100" screen from Carada (another value/quality company) and it did nothing less than 'WOW' many of my friends who watched movies on it.

The picture looks very bright and sharp and colors are very vivid. The build quality of the projector is also excellent. You will not go wrong with this purchase. With little tweaking, the picture quality can be improved a lot. You can find intructions to do that at avsforums another well known Home Theater forums. But, please make sure you know what you are doing before you attempt the tweaking. ... Read more

Product Description

12x Optical Zoom and a Brightness of F2.8 to 3.3 The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens is a small, lightweight lens that packs the samezoom power as a big, clunky 400mm-class film camera lens. This 12x optical zoom lens is super-bright too, at F2.8 to 3.3 with a focal length of 6 to 72mm (equivalent to 36mm to 432mm in a 35mm film camera).You've got all the power and flexibility you need to take exquisitely beautiful shots all the way from telephoto to wide angle and macro. The DMC-FZ5 also has a 4x digital zoom. Use it together with the 12x optical zoom and you've got ultra-powerful 48x zooming, roughly equivalent to a huge 1680mm lens on a 35mm camera.MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer Helps Eliminate Blurry Pictures Jitter from shaky hands is one of the main reasons why cameras produce blurry images. We don't expect everyone to have hands of stone when taking pictures, that's why Lumix cameras help solve the problem of unsteady hands with advanced MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer technology.The DMC-FZ5 has a built-in gyrosensor that detects any hand movement and relays a signal to a tiny microcomputer inside the camera, which instantly calculates the compensation needed. A linear motor then shifts the Optical Image Stabilizer lens as necessary to guide incoming light from the image straight to the CCD. You won't even notice it working-all you'll see are the outstanding results!Snap Off Consecutive Shots at 3 Frames per Second! Yo ... Read more

Features

• Stores images on Secure Digital (SD) cards; 16MB card included
• Powered by a Lithium-Ion battery pack (7.2V, 680 mAh); battery charger included
• 5.0-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 13 x 17-inch prints
• Amazing 12x optical zoom gets you close to the action without sacrificing image quality
• Super-fast shutter times: .008 seconds to release (not including AF time) and .4 seconds between shots

Reviews (8)

Pansonic Got It Right!
This camera has far exceeded my expectations. I am one of those geeks that research everything on the market before making a purchase. There are plenty of cameras that looked like they would meet my needs, but as I researched and tested, too many had glaring flaws or fell short on critical features.

I'm not going to waste your time and mine repeating all the details of every feature from the earlier reviewers. They did a great job of listing its strengths and weaknesses. Instead, I will waste our time sharing my personal impressions on the use and results of this fine camera.

The image stabilizer is like magic. I have been able to take indoor, hand held shots that would have been impossible with an un-stabilized camera. I cannot overstate the value of this feature. In well lit pictures the stabilization makes for a crispness I haven't seen in a point and shoot type camera (perhaps the massive Leica lens may have had something to do with this too). The flash has impressed me as well. It seems to meter very well compared to my Cannon A70. No more flash blown out shots on close up groups. Rarely did it get it wrong.

I spent yesterday at the Point Defiance Zoo in Seattle, running the FZ5 through its paces. The resulting pictures blew me away. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face looking at the pics on my computer afterwards. I'm no pro, but some of the pics were. It was a bit humorous to hear comments all day long by other Point and Shoot photographers "I wish I had more zoom", all the while I am taking crisp 12x close-ups of all the fuzzy critters in cages.

Also, I like a camera that looks and handles like a camera, not some kind of Star Trek shuttle craft with a lens on the front. The Minoltas look goofy and handle goofy. Scotty, beam me up.

Is it perfect? Nope, but so close I'm still smirking with smug satisfaction. After the zoo trip, I would like a manual focus option. There were times that glass or chain link fence made focusing a chore. Would I trade for a bigger, heavier camera that had manual focusing? Not for my uses. You can keep your bloated and clunky DSLRs. This camera carries like a Point and Shoot, but functions like a much bigger beast. Toting it around was barely noticeable (that is a key feature for me). This is a camera that you can carry easily and it excels at 95% of any use I may deem for it. The size is perfect. A gargantuan 12x stabilized lens on a camera this small is unreal (somebody pinch me).

Of course, please upgrade the included SD card. I get annoyed when reviews gripe about the small included memory cards in today's cameras. I don't want the camera company deciding for me which high capacity card to use (and jacking up the price of the camera). I say put in a tiny inexpensive card to allow camera testing, then let the end user pick their favorite card. This camera is already speed demon compared to my Canon A70. Imagine my surprise after plugging in a SanDisk Ultra II card and watching the write speeds cut in half. It was dramatic. Get a fast 10mb SD card and snap pictures at will.

As far as the review by "jjmmdd" I have to say "Either you don't know how to hold a camera still, or the camera is defective" If it is the former, spend more time on your technique. If it is the latter, then for heaven sakes, get the camera fixed or replaced. Across the board Panasonic puts out some of the most consistently reliable consumer products available. "jjmmdd", you were so very right. Every positive review written for Panasonic products is written by a Panasonic employee. Dude, put on your aluminum foil hat, check yourself for alien implants, and "buy a vowel".

Regarding the review by "D. Rosenfeld", as far as I am concerned, any "movie mode" in a "still camera" is a defect, not a feature. If you need a video camera, buy a video camera. Anyone buying a still camera for its video features is looped. It is consumers like you that make me fear the camera companies will start putting cell phones in digital cameras. D'oh! Oh another thing "D".... The stabilizer "ROCKS!!!"

It has been a while since I purchased a toy that lived up to my expectations after I lived with it for a while. The Panasonic FZ5 did just that. I'm now dreaming of this same camera with manual focus and a magnesium chassis......mmmmmm, magnesium. Wake up man!!!In the category of "Stellar, Point, and Shoot, Mega-Zoom, Cameras" This baby is getting all 5 stars from me.

(Subliminal message to follow)

Panasonic, please release the DMC-FX8 in the US market..... Panasonic, please release the DMC-FX8 in the US market..... Panasonic, please release the DMC-FX8 in the US market.....

Great Camera
Okay, maybe I'm not qualified to give it a 5 star rating since this is the first digital camera I've owned, but I've been very happy with this camera and it's performance.I've been a traditional SLR user for about 10 years, and while this camera doesn't have the full range of control of an SLR, it seems to be the best for the price if you want some manual controls and a great zoom compared to it's competitors in the same price range.I'm stopping here, the other reviews already give a lot of detail about the camera.

Almost perfect
This review should really be 4.7 stars. The only 'flaws' I have found are the absence of manual focusing (if you need that, get the Panasonic FZ20) and spot focus being potentially aimed outside of the little focus box (test where yours is).

I knew about the lack of manual focus going in, and weighed against the larger (3/4 inch wider, 1/2 inch taller, and 1 inch deeper), more expensive 20 oz. FZ20, the smaller 11 oz. FZ5 wins easily.I already own the FZ10 which is very similar to its replacement the FZ20, and its sheer size and weight prevented carrying it regularly.Its bulk is the reason I replaced it.

I'm not certain yet if my spot focus is aimed correctly, but others have had problems, and a few of my pictures have been out of focus.Many of those seem due to hand shake with a slow shutter speed.When zoomed even image stabilization/antishake technology won't compensate for slow shutter speeds - use the flash or a higher ISO.

You have the flexibility to do that because other than manual focus, you have endless options.At least 4 ISOs, shutter priority mode, aperture priority mode, manual mode, and a variety of pre-programmed shot settings if you don't want to mess with the details.Fireworks, party, night landscape, night protrait, sports, macro and on, it's all there.The exposure system is the most accurate I've seen in not over-exposing and losing white tones and highlights.The white balance is actually accurate enough that you may need to adjust it, although 'auto' does pretty well.Focusing can be whole screen, spot, high-speed spot, etc.It also has two image stabilization modes, one that gives you the greatest accuracy stabilizing, another that makes focusing easier.

An often ignored consideration in picking a camera is whether it has a focus assist light.Inside, especially at night under incandescent light, many cameras may have trouble getting enough light to focus correctly.You won't notice this in a well-lit store or outside, but when you need a picture of a birthday party or other event, half your shots will be out of focus.This has the light.I believe only Canons also have this feature consistently.

If you've made it to this camera, you are probably already aware of the benefits of an extended zoom.It's wonderful to be in total control and able to get as close as you want to your subject.Since I'm unable to hand-hold even at 6x zoom, image stabilization is vital in an ultrazoom model.

There are cameras available with more megapixels. While more pixels may give you the ability to capture more detail, that must be weighed against the file sizes created by more megapixels.You'd need extra or larger memory cards to hold those files, or compress them and lose resolution in order to fit in a smaller size.If you're only printing 4x6s or even 5x7s, it's too small to see that detail.Most web images are less than 1 MP, and a standard 1024x768 screen is also less than 1MP.If you are sending images by email, larger images and files only making it harder to send those to people with dial-up.Don't buy a camera on megapixels alone - it may be more trouble than it's worth.

Other than the FZ20, only the Konica Minolta Dimage Z5 is comparable to this model.The Dimage is heavier and larger, making the Panasonic the best option for me so that I carry it as often as possible and get the most from my investment.Other than hard-core photography afficionados who need the manual focus (or a hot shoe which this also lacks), I doubt anyone would be disappointed.

Panasonic DMC-FZ5

I just bought one and am very disappointed to find that a user can not change the degree of zooming when in movie mode; in other words, once you select a focus that includes a certain amount of telephoto zoom, you are stuck at that zoom level till you stop the movie and start a new movie. BUMMER!

Secondly, even though everyone raves about the image stabilizer, I have to say that my old Sony Mavica MVC-FD91 had/has a far superior stabilizer.

The new Canon S2 may be the way to go.

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0504/05042201canons2is.asp

Nicely done Panasonic
I have been very pleased so far with the DMC-FZ5.I have been taking very sharp pictures indoors and outdoors with the Lumix.The LCD is very readable (might not be as easy in full sunlight), and I was able to figure out most menu items without the instructions.

Image stabilization works wonders on this long zoom camera.I took a 12X zoom picture outside in a 25 mph wind, and the result was outstanding.The wind was shaking me all over, but the pic came out as crisp as can be, thanks to the image stabilization.

To Ann I say that the DMC-F5Z may be kind of big by your standards, but I would have to say this Lumix is a very compact camera, even compared to my Canon G2, which is no monster by any stretch.

To Jimmy, I am certainly not a Panasonic employee, but I can't give this camera a poor review.If 75% of your shots are blurry with the Lumix, then either your camera is defective, or the operator is defective!Is it possible to take a blurry picture with this camera?Yes, but it's pretty hard, especially with Image Stabilization turned on.

For mid-priced long zoom cameras, the Lumix DMC-FZ5 has to be at or near the top of its class, at least for right now.For those who can wait, you might want to compare this camera to the Canon 2S IS, which is coming in June. ... Read more

Product Description

MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer Helps Eliminate Blurry Pictures Jitter from shaky hands is one of the main reasons why cameras produce blurry images. We don't expect everyone to have hands of stone when taking pictures, that's why Lumix cameras help solve the problem of unsteady hands with advanced MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer technology.The DMC-LZ2 has a built-in gyrosensor that detects any hand movement and relays a signal to a tiny microcomputer inside the camera, which instantly calculates the compensation needed. A linear motor then shifts the Optical Image Stabilizer lens as necessary to guide incoming light from the image straight to the CCD. You won't even notice it working, all you'll see are the outstanding results!6x Optical Zoom in a Compact Body Use the 6x optical zoom together with the 4x digital zoom1 to enjoy up to 24x zoom power, which approximates a 888 mm zoom lens on a 35mm camera, with a body size as compact as an ordinary 3x optical zoom camera. Snap Off Consecutive Shots at 3 Frames per Second! You can take up to 5 images in Standard Mode and 3 images in Fine Mode with fullresolution. In addition, the Unlimited Consecutive Shooting function lets you continue shooting until the memory card or built-in memory is full. All this is made possible by the Venus Engine Plus, which reduces power consumption by about50% compared with our previous Venus Engine. The multi-task image processing inthe Venus Engine Pl ... Read more

Features

• 5 MP CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 13 x 17-inch prints
• 6x image-stabilized optical zoom; 2.0-inch LCD display
• 14MB built-in memory
• Stores images on SD memory cards; powered by 2 AA-size batteries

Reviews (3)

Amazing quality picture, tons of features, compact design
Panasonic blows the big name competitors away with this model digital camera. This is the only compact digital camera on the market to offer 6x optical zoom. It is also the only camera in this price range equipped with image stabilization and all for well under $300.
The picture quality is simply remarkable. Camera has both simple menus for the novice user as well as many manual controls and advanced menus for the pro.
The camera is super fast, not only at initial startup, but also shot to shot pictures. Huge 2- inch LCD display with great battery life. Excellent camera with lots of features, good design, compact and very light weight. I have no regrets neither will you.

Strengths:
6x optical zoom, image stabilizer, sharp clear images, compact size, extended battery life, 2-inch LCD, SD media, 5MP, movie mode with audio, works with regular AA batteries, 4x digital zoom.

Weaknesses:
No viewfinder but you won't need it because of the camera's huge LCD and extended battery life. The LCD however is only average resolution, but does display sharp, clear images in low lighting or direct sunlight. A higher resolution LCD screen wouldn't hurt.

Get this camera. You will not have any regrets.

One Great Camera!
This is one great camera!I also have a Canon Powershot A75, so I have another great camera to compare it to.I thought the Powershot took excellent pictures until I got the Panasonic DMC-LZ2.The LZ2's pictures are even better.The 6x optical zoom is one of the reasons I wanted the LZ2, and it works great!I took some pictures of my kids racing (swimming) in the pool using Auto, and they came out beautifully.They were not blurry at all, and you can even see the splashes of water in the air. I thought they might be blurry since I didn't use the "Sports" mode, but they were not.I also took several pictures of them from about 100 feet away and zoomed in the whole way with the optical zoom.The pictures are very close, clear, and look terrific.I am no where near a professional photographer.I am just a Mom who wants to take great-looking pictures of her family in all situations.I am very impressed with this camera, and I highly recommend it.

AMAZING! (LZ1 review since there are none for LZ2)
I've known what I wanted in a digital camera for several years:
1. Fast shutter release (my Canon S-200 takes 3+ sec., 5+ flash).
2. Small and light (for backpacking, travel).
3. Point and shoot zoom(5X plus with image stabilization).
4. 4+ megapixel, under $250.
5. No proprietary batteries, 2 AA preferred.

Up until now, nothing has come close. Then I read in Business Week that the LZ1 and LZ2 had become the best selling cameras in Japan within several months of their introduction. No independant reviews were available (even CNET) so I bought the LZ1 on the strength of it's technical spec's and my previous experiences with Panasonic products.

I took the LZ1 to the rodeo several days ago to test it under demanding conditions. I used the "sports" setting and burst mode(four exposures in about 1 1/2 seconds under those circumstances), all freehand. The results were stunning! No noticeable shutter lag, no blurry or out of focus pictures, all action frozen. Simply put: point, shoot, you got it!

Notes: Actual weight with 2 batteries is 8.2 ozs. The user interface is the best I've seen- full functioned and simple. Flash shots have shutter lag of approx. 1/2 second. I use Panasonic 2300 mah nmh rechargeable batteries purchased at Costco. Panasonic specs claim 370 pictures with those batteries, 30 seconds between shots, flash every shot, full zoom in and out each shot. This camera has no optical view finder. I use Panasonic high speed 256mb SD memory cards- expensive, but after having a Viking card quit and swallow 200 pics on another camera, I don't pinch pennies on memory. I may try a Sandisc Ultra II SD card if Amazon gets some in stock. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Blending innovative technologies with new, simple-to-operate controls, Panasonic's entry-level PV-GS9 camcorder is an affordable entry into digital video with powerful features. Panasonic continues to innovate, adding more optical zoom capability while reducing the overall size. This MiniDV camcorder features a 20x optical zoom, ultra-fast 1.3-second start-up time, digital stills saved to tape, and webcam capability. For a step up in price, the Panasonic PV-GS12 offers digital electronic image stabilization and enables you to save digital stills to SD/MMC memory cards.

Optics
The PV-GS9 is equipped with a 1/6-inch, 680,000-pixel CCD and 20x optical zoom It also features a 800x digital zoom that allows you to zoom in on incredible close-ups.

Digital Stills
In addition to video camcorder operation, you can also use the PV-GS9 as a digital still camera. Using Panasonic's PhotoShot function, images are stored on tape.

More Features
The 2.5-inch LCD screen can be opened a full 120 degrees away from the camcorder's body, making it easier to view motion images as they're being captured.

The Quick Start feature enables the PV-GS9 to begin taping 1.3 seconds after turning the power on so those unexpected moments won't be missed.ÊAfter pressing the Quick Start button, the camcorder will bring up the previous settings that you were shooting with--even if they were manually entered.

The PV-GS9 has several built-in digital effects during record and playback, including:

• Digital Mirror: Creates a mirror like symmetrical image
• Strobe: Digitally "freezes" a series of images
• Mosaic: Turns the image into a mosaic pattern
• Stretch: The image expands horizontally
• Trail: Forms multiple impressions of all images in motion, which gradually fade-out as the motion comes to a halt, creating a "trail" effect
• Slim: The image expands vertically

The Soft Skin Detail function detects the different skin tones being recorded and softens the focus to create a realistic blend. Other features include:

• The image-enhancing MagicPix feature allows for rich videos under low-light conditions.Ê
• Web cam capability, which is ideal for video conferencing with friends or family, or use as a simple monitoring device when consumers are away from home.
• The unsnapping hand strap doubles as wrist loops, enabling you to carry the camcorder like a small bag or purse.
• Black and white viewfinder

Dimensions and Weight
This camcorder measures 3.3 x 2.75 x 4.38 inches (H x W x D) and weighs 14.1 ounces.

MiniDV Format
MiniDV is the preferred format for personal and broadcast-quality video, and it is highly regarded for its high audio and image quality. With up to 540 lines of horizontal resolution and minimum color noise, MiniDV delivers a 2 percent clearer picture than analog camcorder formats. This is all delivered on a cassette that's 1/12th the size of a standard VHS tape. A MiniDV tape offers digital recording time of 2 full hours--20 times the capacity of a CD. ... Read more

Features

• Compact digital Palmcorder MultiCam camcorder and still camera with 680,000-pixel CCD
• 20x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 800x)
• 2.5-inch LCD swings open 120 degrees and black-and-white viewfinder
• Low-light recording settings, records stills to tape, and Web cam capability
• Rechargeable Li-ion battery pack lasts for up to 1 hour and 15 minutes

Reviews (10)

DO NOT BUY THIS CAMERA!
IT DOES NOT INCLUDE THE PC CONNECTION CABLE AND DRIVER SOFTWARE AS TARGET IS ADVERTISING IN THE DESCRIPTION. WHEN YOU GET THE CAMERA YOU ARE STUCK WITHOUT A WAY TO CONNECT IT TO YOUR COMPUTER, AND YOU HAVE TO BUY YOUR OWN CARTRIDGE BEFORE YOU CAN USE THIS. IT NEEDS SOFTWARE THAT IS NOT INCLUDED. I HAVE TRIED FOR TWO DAYS TO CONTACT PANASONIC AND ORDER OR FIND THE SOFTWARE NEEDED, HELD FOR OVER AN HOUR TWICE AND SENT TWO EMAILS TO THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE THAT STILL HAVE NOT BEEN ANSWERED. SAVE YOURSELF THE TROUBLE I HAVE GONE THROUGH - FIND ANOTHER CAMERA.

Good Camcorder but...
...there are too many things wrong with it. This is the 2nd time I've taken this one home to try out. The first one had great video and I really liked it, but the sound didn't work. I took it back and they gave me another. This one has great video and sound, but full of the mosaic problem I've read about on other digital camcorders. The booklet says this is not a malfunction but a normal instance of digital. Give me a break...why would people put up with this and pay the prices they're paying. No way. I'm waiting until they find a cure and then I'll be back, but I don't believe this is a normal thing.

Good cam.
I bought this camcorder, like everybody else, because i need small, digital, and low-cost. this camera does all that, and the outdoors video quality is excellent.

It's not fair to compare this model with 3CCD or other much more costly models, but i will say that the EIS is not very good, and particularly poor when used in low light-lots of image smear. Of course, i think EIS stinks, period...

Overall, buy it. Best at price point.

molto bene!
For a while, my friends and I have been searching for a digital camcorder to make movies with. We had one already but it was...bad...to say the least. We needed something new.

I got this camcorder and absolutely love it. The picture quality and sound quality is amazing. I can now record at a crisp, clear 720*480 resolution.

Another pro: the zoom is amazing. Don't believe it when it says 800x zoom because that's just false, but if you turn the digital zoom down to 50x, the quality still remains almost the same as optical zoom.

Within minutes after I opened it, I had transfered a video onto my computer using windows movie maker, and saved it as an avi. All you need is a firewire cable (which I bought at the time I bought the camera).

I can't think of any cons for this camera because it has exceeded my expectations in every way.

You can also transfer videos from your computer back on to the camera using the firewire cable, and then record them onto VHS tapes.

Not as good as it should be
Pros: Really good zoom (sorta)

Cons: When you zoom in, it looses pixels; No extra features; can't connect to PC or MAC without buying the driver from panasonic

Overall - wish i hadn't bought it! Over priced! ... Read more

Product Description

DVD Recording is Easy, Convenient and Fun - Record directly onto DVD-RAM or DVD-R discs for multiple recording and playback options. With DVD-RAM discs you never have to worry about erasing a recording or finding blank space. You can just start recording. DVD-RAM discs can also be played back in compatible devices, like select computers and home DVD-players. DVD-R discs are strong and versatile, and can also be played back on most home DVD players. Take Digital Still Images using the Built-In Digital Still Camera - The VDR-M53 has a built-in digital still camera which lets you capture incredibly lifelike still images directly onto a DVD disc or SD Memory Card. Now you can store all your memories form a special event conveniently in one place. Get an Incredibly Close Shot with 24x Optical Zoom and 800x Digital Zoom - The optical zoom acts like a telescope to produce close-up shots with extraordinary clarity. And, with variable zoom speeds, you can adjust how fast the camcorder lens moves from wide-angle to full telescope. In addition, the digital zoom ratio can be increased up to an extraordinary 800x. Now that's close up! Digital Electronics Image Stabilizer (D-EIS) Helps Eliminate Blurred Images - Digital EIS compensates for unintentional hand and camcorder movement to help stabilize your recordings, even while you're recording as a passenger from a moving vehicle or while walking. With Digital EIS, you will not have to worry about shaky soccer games or family outings. ... Read more

Features

• 24x optical / 800x digital zoom
• 2.5 inch diagonal color LCD monitor
• Digital Electronics Image Stabilizer (D-EIS)
• Record directly onto DVD-RAM or DVD-R discs
• Built-In digital still camera

Reviews (1)

Easy to use
I just bought this camcorder and am not a good reader of manuals.I had it recording in a matter of minutes.You do have to format the mini dvds, but that is easy to find in the manual.The quality of the recording looked great on my computer screen.I bought office depot mini dvds and they worked fine, for the great price.This Panasonic is great and recording straight to mini dvds is a wonderful idea.I would have given it a 5 star rating, but the finalizing of the mini dvd took a while and you have to plug it in, you can't do this using the battery.Also I was warned, that if you use the dvd-ram instead of the dvd-r, they will not work on all players and they prefer to work on Panasonic equipment.This is why I opted for the non re-writable mini dvd-r from office depot.I also bought the PNY SD card from them and the card reader, all very affordable and easy to use. ... Read more

Product Description

PV-GS65 3CCD Ultra-Compact Digital Palmcorder MultiCam Camcorder with 1.2 Megapixel Still Picture Recording Get True, Crisp Color Images with our 3CCD Mini-DV Camcorders - The PV-GS65, with its 3CCD Camera System, reproduces color in great fidelity by using a separate CCD for reds, greens and blues. It's the same 3CCD technology used in Panasonic professional broadcast equipment, resulting in 540 lines of breathtaking resolution. You can count on Panasonic 3CCD Digital Camcorders to give you colors that are as rich and vibrant as your life. Capture Still Pictures With Outstanding Quality - The PV-GS65 captures still images with incredible detail at up to 1.2 Megapixels. The Quad-Density Pixel Distribution Technology, a technology used in Panasonic professional broadcast equipment, makes it possible to capture still pictures with amazing quality. Digital Electronics Image Stabilizer (D-EIS) Helps Eliminate Blurred Images - Digital EIS compensates for unintentional hand and camcorder movement to help stabilize your recordings - even while you're recording as a passenger from a moving vehicle. With Digital EIS, you won't have to worry about shaky soccer games or family outings. Get up close with 10x Optical Zoom and 700x Digital Zoom - An optical zoom this powerful works like a telescope to produce close-up shots with extraordinary clarity. And with the different zoom speeds, you can control how quick you go from a wide angle to telephoto zoom. ... Read more

Features

• 10x optical zoom
• 1.7second quick start
• 3CCD camera system
• 1.2 Mega Still picture recording

Reviews (1)

Zoom sacrificed for great color
I just compared the GS65 and GS35 at my local electronics store. To my surprise, they were already in stock and on sale! The GS65 has significantly better color than the GS35 due to its 3CCD style. However, is the better color worth the sacrifice in the zoom range? That's a question you'll have to ask yourself. Not only do you loose some optical zoom in the telephoto range, the GS65 starts at a higher zoom than the GS35. Therefore, it also looses out in the wideangle range. By comparison, the lens on the GS65 is 2.45-24.5mm (35mm equivalent of 44.7-447mm) whereas the GS35 is 1.9-57.0mm (35mm equivalent of 35-1040mm). The extra optical tele and wider base focal length may just be enough for some users to outweight the color difference. Except for a headphone out and the features mentioned above, the two models are nearly identical. I was happily surprised at the ease of use and accuracy on the joystick thumb control. Although, the menu button was just out of reach for my thumb. ... Read more

Features

• Compact 3-CCD DV Palmcorder for peerless video quality
• 12x optical zoom and 700x digital zoom with digital image stabilization
• 2.5-inch LCD screen with color viewfinder
• 4.0-megapixel digital still picture capability, SD memory card slot
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack

Features

• Connects wirelessly through 802.11b or G Wireless port
• Tilt/Scan tools for moving the camera vertically, with Pan/Scan tools for horizontal motion
• Pan and tilt, center the image automatically or choose from 8 preset positions
• Compact design with hideable lens, for added comfort and privacy
• Automatically upload images to an FTP server or Web page -- images can be viewed by 30 users at once

Features

• Professional 3-CCD MiniDV camcorder with 60i and 30p movie mode 16x optical, 160x digital zoom
• optical image stabilization 3.5-inch color LCD monitor rotates 260 degrees
• adjustable handle 16:9 widescreen recording
• selectable shutter speeds
• full manual controls Powered by lithium ion rechargeable battery pack

Product Description

Panasonic's new DMC-FZ5 Lumix digital still camera with 12x optical zoom and MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) offers 5.0-megapixel resolution and incorporates a newly developed 12x optical zoom equivalent to 36mm to 432mm on a 35mm film camera lens. The remarkable 12x optical zoom combined with 4x digital zoom magnifies images by as much as 48x, enabling users to capture images of subjects at longer distances. The DMC-FZ5 features a high-performance Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens. 12x Optical Zoom and a Brightness of F2.8 to 3.3 - The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens is a small, lightweight lens that packs the same zoom power as a big, clunky 400mm-class film camera lens. This 12x optical zoom lens is super-bright too, at F2.8 to 3.3 with a focal length of 6 to 72mm (equivalent to 36mm to 432mm in a 35mm film camera). You've got all the power and flexibility you need to take exquisitely beautiful shots all the way from telephoto to wide angle and macro. The DMC-FZ5 also has a 4x digital zoom. Use it together with the 12x optical zoom and you've got ultra-powerful 48x zooming - roughly equivalent to a huge 1680mm lens on a 35mm camera. Panasonic's MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer Helps Eliminate Blurry Pictures - Jitter from shaky hands is one of the main reasons why cameras produce blurry images. ... Read more

Features

• Stores images on Secure Digital (SD) cards; 16MB card included
• Powered by a Lithium-Ion battery pack (7.2V, 680 mAh); battery charger included
• 5.0-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 13 x 17-inch prints
• Amazing 12x optical zoom gets you close to the action without sacrificing image quality
• Super-fast shutter times: .008 seconds to release (not including AF time) and .4 seconds between shots

Reviews (8)

Pansonic Got It Right!
This camera has far exceeded my expectations. I am one of those geeks that research everything on the market before making a purchase. There are plenty of cameras that looked like they would meet my needs, but as I researched and tested, too many had glaring flaws or fell short on critical features.

I'm not going to waste your time and mine repeating all the details of every feature from the earlier reviewers. They did a great job of listing its strengths and weaknesses. Instead, I will waste our time sharing my personal impressions on the use and results of this fine camera.

The image stabilizer is like magic. I have been able to take indoor, hand held shots that would have been impossible with an un-stabilized camera. I cannot overstate the value of this feature. In well lit pictures the stabilization makes for a crispness I haven't seen in a point and shoot type camera (perhaps the massive Leica lens may have had something to do with this too). The flash has impressed me as well. It seems to meter very well compared to my Cannon A70. No more flash blown out shots on close up groups. Rarely did it get it wrong.

I spent yesterday at the Point Defiance Zoo in Seattle, running the FZ5 through its paces. The resulting pictures blew me away. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face looking at the pics on my computer afterwards. I'm no pro, but some of the pics were. It was a bit humorous to hear comments all day long by other Point and Shoot photographers "I wish I had more zoom", all the while I am taking crisp 12x close-ups of all the fuzzy critters in cages.

Also, I like a camera that looks and handles like a camera, not some kind of Star Trek shuttle craft with a lens on the front. The Minoltas look goofy and handle goofy. Scotty, beam me up.

Is it perfect? Nope, but so close I'm still smirking with smug satisfaction. After the zoo trip, I would like a manual focus option. There were times that glass or chain link fence made focusing a chore. Would I trade for a bigger, heavier camera that had manual focusing? Not for my uses. You can keep your bloated and clunky DSLRs. This camera carries like a Point and Shoot, but functions like a much bigger beast. Toting it around was barely noticeable (that is a key feature for me). This is a camera that you can carry easily and it excels at 95% of any use I may deem for it. The size is perfect. A gargantuan 12x stabilized lens on a camera this small is unreal (somebody pinch me).

Of course, please upgrade the included SD card. I get annoyed when reviews gripe about the small included memory cards in today's cameras. I don't want the camera company deciding for me which high capacity card to use (and jacking up the price of the camera). I say put in a tiny inexpensive card to allow camera testing, then let the end user pick their favorite card. This camera is already speed demon compared to my Canon A70. Imagine my surprise after plugging in a SanDisk Ultra II card and watching the write speeds cut in half. It was dramatic. Get a fast 10mb SD card and snap pictures at will.

As far as the review by "jjmmdd" I have to say "Either you don't know how to hold a camera still, or the camera is defective" If it is the former, spend more time on your technique. If it is the latter, then for heaven sakes, get the camera fixed or replaced. Across the board Panasonic puts out some of the most consistently reliable consumer products available. "jjmmdd", you were so very right. Every positive review written for Panasonic products is written by a Panasonic employee. Dude, put on your aluminum foil hat, check yourself for alien implants, and "buy a vowel".

Regarding the review by "D. Rosenfeld", as far as I am concerned, any "movie mode" in a "still camera" is a defect, not a feature. If you need a video camera, buy a video camera. Anyone buying a still camera for its video features is looped. It is consumers like you that make me fear the camera companies will start putting cell phones in digital cameras. D'oh! Oh another thing "D".... The stabilizer "ROCKS!!!"

It has been a while since I purchased a toy that lived up to my expectations after I lived with it for a while. The Panasonic FZ5 did just that. I'm now dreaming of this same camera with manual focus and a magnesium chassis......mmmmmm, magnesium. Wake up man!!!In the category of "Stellar, Point, and Shoot, Mega-Zoom, Cameras" This baby is getting all 5 stars from me.

(Subliminal message to follow)

Panasonic, please release the DMC-FX8 in the US market..... Panasonic, please release the DMC-FX8 in the US market..... Panasonic, please release the DMC-FX8 in the US market.....

Great Camera
Okay, maybe I'm not qualified to give it a 5 star rating since this is the first digital camera I've owned, but I've been very happy with this camera and it's performance.I've been a traditional SLR user for about 10 years, and while this camera doesn't have the full range of control of an SLR, it seems to be the best for the price if you want some manual controls and a great zoom compared to it's competitors in the same price range.I'm stopping here, the other reviews already give a lot of detail about the camera.

Almost perfect
This review should really be 4.7 stars. The only 'flaws' I have found are the absence of manual focusing (if you need that, get the Panasonic FZ20) and spot focus being potentially aimed outside of the little focus box (test where yours is).

I knew about the lack of manual focus going in, and weighed against the larger (3/4 inch wider, 1/2 inch taller, and 1 inch deeper), more expensive 20 oz. FZ20, the smaller 11 oz. FZ5 wins easily.I already own the FZ10 which is very similar to its replacement the FZ20, and its sheer size and weight prevented carrying it regularly.Its bulk is the reason I replaced it.

I'm not certain yet if my spot focus is aimed correctly, but others have had problems, and a few of my pictures have been out of focus.Many of those seem due to hand shake with a slow shutter speed.When zoomed even image stabilization/antishake technology won't compensate for slow shutter speeds - use the flash or a higher ISO.

You have the flexibility to do that because other than manual focus, you have endless options.At least 4 ISOs, shutter priority mode, aperture priority mode, manual mode, and a variety of pre-programmed shot settings if you don't want to mess with the details.Fireworks, party, night landscape, night protrait, sports, macro and on, it's all there.The exposure system is the most accurate I've seen in not over-exposing and losing white tones and highlights.The white balance is actually accurate enough that you may need to adjust it, although 'auto' does pretty well.Focusing can be whole screen, spot, high-speed spot, etc.It also has two image stabilization modes, one that gives you the greatest accuracy stabilizing, another that makes focusing easier.

An often ignored consideration in picking a camera is whether it has a focus assist light.Inside, especially at night under incandescent light, many cameras may have trouble getting enough light to focus correctly.You won't notice this in a well-lit store or outside, but when you need a picture of a birthday party or other event, half your shots will be out of focus.This has the light.I believe only Canons also have this feature consistently.

If you've made it to this camera, you are probably already aware of the benefits of an extended zoom.It's wonderful to be in total control and able to get as close as you want to your subject.Since I'm unable to hand-hold even at 6x zoom, image stabilization is vital in an ultrazoom model.

There are cameras available with more megapixels. While more pixels may give you the ability to capture more detail, that must be weighed against the file sizes created by more megapixels.You'd need extra or larger memory cards to hold those files, or compress them and lose resolution in order to fit in a smaller size.If you're only printing 4x6s or even 5x7s, it's too small to see that detail.Most web images are less than 1 MP, and a standard 1024x768 screen is also less than 1MP.If you are sending images by email, larger images and files only making it harder to send those to people with dial-up.Don't buy a camera on megapixels alone - it may be more trouble than it's worth.

Other than the FZ20, only the Konica Minolta Dimage Z5 is comparable to this model.The Dimage is heavier and larger, making the Panasonic the best option for me so that I carry it as often as possible and get the most from my investment.Other than hard-core photography afficionados who need the manual focus (or a hot shoe which this also lacks), I doubt anyone would be disappointed.

Panasonic DMC-FZ5

I just bought one and am very disappointed to find that a user can not change the degree of zooming when in movie mode; in other words, once you select a focus that includes a certain amount of telephoto zoom, you are stuck at that zoom level till you stop the movie and start a new movie. BUMMER!

Secondly, even though everyone raves about the image stabilizer, I have to say that my old Sony Mavica MVC-FD91 had/has a far superior stabilizer.

The new Canon S2 may be the way to go.

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0504/05042201canons2is.asp

Nicely done Panasonic
I have been very pleased so far with the DMC-FZ5.I have been taking very sharp pictures indoors and outdoors with the Lumix.The LCD is very readable (might not be as easy in full sunlight), and I was able to figure out most menu items without the instructions.

Image stabilization works wonders on this long zoom camera.I took a 12X zoom picture outside in a 25 mph wind, and the result was outstanding.The wind was shaking me all over, but the pic came out as crisp as can be, thanks to the image stabilization.

To Ann I say that the DMC-F5Z may be kind of big by your standards, but I would have to say this Lumix is a very compact camera, even compared to my Canon G2, which is no monster by any stretch.

To Jimmy, I am certainly not a Panasonic employee, but I can't give this camera a poor review.If 75% of your shots are blurry with the Lumix, then either your camera is defective, or the operator is defective!Is it possible to take a blurry picture with this camera?Yes, but it's pretty hard, especially with Image Stabilization turned on.

For mid-priced long zoom cameras, the Lumix DMC-FZ5 has to be at or near the top of its class, at least for right now.For those who can wait, you might want to compare this camera to the Canon 2S IS, which is coming in June. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Optics and Resolution
Featuring a 5-megapixel CCD sensor, the DMC-FX7 delivers a wide range of detail and color with images up to 2560 x 1920 pixels--enough information to make photo-quality prints up to 13 by 17 inches. Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 3x zoom lens, with 3 aspheric elements, combines comfortably small size with superb image rendering. By combining with a 4x digital zoom, users will have an equivalence of a 12x zoom lens in a very compact body, though users should note that digital zoom degrades picture quality.

Movie Mode
The DMC-FX7 lets you shoot QuickTime Motion JPEG video at resolutions up to 320 x 240 pixels with sound. The amount of video you can capture is limited by space on the memory card; you'll fit more at low quality (10 frames-per-second) than at high quality (30 frames-per-second). The movies aren't camcorder quality, but they're fun and convenient, and they're perfect as e-mail attachments. You can also record audio comments, up to five seconds in length, for your still pictures.

More Features

• Flip Animation: Allows you to create your own frame-by-frame animations.
• Unlimited Consecutive Shooting: Allows consecutive shooting up to the capacity of the SD memory card.
• 2.5-inch diagonal polycrystalline TFT LCD display (114k pixels)
• Mega Burst Shooting Mode: Shoot up to seven images at three or two frames-per-second in standard resolution, or up to four images in fine resolution. This option is designed to provide you with the best selection of photos during action, such as a sporting event.

Storage and Transfer
Images and video are stored on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards. A 16 MB SD card is included. Files can be downloaded to either a Mac or PC via USB connectivity, which means it can be connected to any USB-based Windows 98/Me/2000/XP and Mac OS 8.6 or later computer without installing any software.

Printing
This camera supports the PictBridge standard. PictBridge is a technology that lets you transfer pictures from a digital camera to a compatible printer, without a PC or image-editing software. Because PictBridge is an industry standard, users can connect PictBridge-compatible devices made by many different manufacturers. Learn more about PictBridge.

Power and Size
The camera is powered by lithium-ion battery pack (included with charger). It measures 1.97 by 3.70 by 0.95 inches and weighs 0.30 pounds.

What's in the Box
DMC-FX7 digital camera, battery charger, battery pack, battery carrying case, 16 MB SD memory card, lens cap, lens hood with adaptor, A/V and USB cables, strap, and CD-ROM ... Read more

Features

• 5-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 13-by-17-inch enlargements
• Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 3x zoom lens combines with a 4x digital zoom for 12x total zoom
• MEGA optical image stabilization; Mega Burst shooting mode; PictBridge compatible
• Store images on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (16 MB SD card included)
• Powered by lithium-ion battery pack (included with charger)

Features

• 256 MB capacity
• Maximum data transfer speed - 25MHz
• Up to 10 Mbps Data transfer write speed
• Read Speed - Up to 3 Mbps
• Includes SD Memory Card case

Features

• Tilt/Scan tools for moving the camera vertically, with Pan/Scan tools for horizontal motion
• Pan and tilt, center the image automatically or choose from 8 preset positions
• Compact design with hideable lens, for added comfort and privacy
• Automatically upload images to an FTP server or Web page -- images can be viewed by 30 users at once
• Built-in thermal sensor can be programmed to email an alert with an image attached, whenever someone gets near your computer

Features

• Superior Image Rendering with the Leica Dicomar Lens
• 410,000-pixel (NTSC), 3CCD Image System Provides F11 Sensitivity for Superior Image Quality
• High-Sensitivity Slow Shutter
• High Image Quality with 12-Bit A/D Conversion
• RGB Gamma Processor Provides Rich, Cine-Like Tones

Product Description

680,000-pixel CCD * variable-speed 26X optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 1,000X) * digital photo mode * records video on tiny Mini DV tapes * 2-1/2" color LCD viewscreen * color viewfinder * Digital Electronic Image Stabilization * ... Read more

Features

• LED light
• Color viewfinder
• 1.7 second quick start
• USB 2.0 hi-speed port
• 26x optical zoom