The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 is the latest in an ever increasing market of long zoom lens digital cameras. This 8 megapixel (CCD) digicam features a 12x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer. The lens is equivalent to a 35 - 420mm focal length lens which is sure to attract many buyers.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 will hit stores in September of 2005.
Panasonic Cameras Lumix DMC-FZ30 Reviews
Lets Go Digital has a comprehensive preview/review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ30 and sums up the digital camera with the following - 'The Panasonic DMC FZ30 is a highly attractive high resolution camera. The combination of the powerful 12x optical zoom, the Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S) and the bright and high resolution turnable LCD display were a pleasure to experience. Once you have learned the benefits of the O.I.S I am afraid your next digital camera will not be without it. The high resolution is nice for those who are seeking for the highest amount, although more pixels on such a small image sensor has some disadvantages. At this moment almost every high resolution model experiences the same problem, except for the Fujifilm FinePix S9500. The latter one is not completely noise free in the highest ISO values but definitely a lot better compared to its competitors. Innovations and introductions in this world sometimes succeed one another extremely fast. It was only some days ago that Sony released it's latest flagship: the Sony Cybershot R1 with a new large CMOS sensor, ISO up to 3200, and 10.3 effective Megapixels. Today Panasonic entered the high resolution market with the FZ30 digital camera, a product which will give them a stronger position in this oh so active market.'
DP Review has reviewed the Panasonic Cameras Lumix DMC-FZ30 digital camera and gives it a rating of 'recommended'. They write - 'In many ways the FZ30 is everything the FZ20 could (and maybe should) have been, and Panasonic must be applauded for implementing a huge raft of handling and control improvements, as well as speeding up overall performance. On the other hand you cannot help but wonder how much better this camera would be with a less noisy chip - the 7MP Sony CCD used in models such as the SD500 springs to mind (not that Panasonic would be caught dead using a Sony sensor of course!).'
Michael at the Gadgets Page reviews the Panasonic Cameras Lumix DMC-FZ30 and writes - 'Last but not least, it takes great pictures. Some reviews have complained about noise, but the pictures have less noise than equivalent pictures taken with my Nikon 5700, and noise has never caused me any trouble. I�ve been surprised how many pictures come out looking good, especially considering I�m taking handheld shots at 12X zoom.'
Megapixel reviews the Panasonic DMC-FZ30 and gives it a very high rating of 8.2 for Functionality and 9.2 for Photographic Qualities - They write - 'The FZ30 is a well-crafted camera that offers a good ergonomic design. Its powerful 12X Leica zoom functions entirely within the camera's lens barrel, making it easy to use. Similarly, it is controlled by a ring at the front of the lens barrel, a much better and more precise system than the usual W/T rocker zoom control of most other compact cameras.'
Firing Squad has an interesting review that has an in depth comparison between the Canon EOS-20D and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30. In many ways the comparison between these cameras is not fair as they are designed with different users in mind and sell for very different prices - however it does make an interesting read:
'The decision between a digital SLR such as the EOS-20D and a superzoom point-and-shoot such as the Panasonic Cameras Lumix DMC-FZ30 is not that simple. Although the more expensive digital SLR is better in many ways, the extended depth-of-field is a unique feature inherent to the lower-priced cameras with smaller sensors. It is both an advantage and a weakness. There is even a Magnum photographer (Magnum being for photojournalists what Elite is for models) who chooses to shoot with an Olympus point-and-shoot digital camera for that very effect.'
Hardware Zone reviews the Panasonic DMC-FZ30 and writes - 'From its design elements, we feel that the FZ30 is suited for prosumers who are aiming to step up to a full DSLR camera in future, but aren't quite ready for one just yet. Since the handling of both camera types is very similar, it is easy for one to transition to a more complicated DSLR camera later. So long as one can cope with the aforementioned shortcomings, the FZ30 is a near perfect long-zoom camera for those aspiring to eventually springboard to the arena of pure DSLR cameras. All things taken in to consideration, the Panasonic DMC-FZ30 is a superb camera with many features and advancements that address the issues of its predecessors.'
CNET reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 and writes - 'When you want to look like a professional photographer but not pay the price that comes with it, Panasonic's Lumix FZ-30 may do the trick for you. This prosumer is built to look like a digital SLR, but without the option of interchangeable lenses. The FZ-30 went through a mini design overhaul with its new button layout, control wheels (which are traditionally sported on dSLRs) and manual zoom and focus rings on its non-extendable lens. Not considering the bulk and cost, the Lumix FZ-30 marks an improvement in the overall design, feature set and performance, but its image quality wasn't something to rave about compared with its predecessor.'
Steves Digicams reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 and writes - ' Panasonic has done it yet again with a model that offers great image quality and awesome performance all with a multitude of powerful exposure modes and features. Therefore, we feel the Lumix DMC- FZ30 will make a great choice for any user that wants a consumer digital model that offers powerful features like that found on more expensive dSLRs, regardless of their experience. All of this without having to deal with purchasing and changing lens. With a street price of around $699, it offers a good overall value for an 8- megapixel Super-zoom model and is sure to be on many holiday gift lists this season.'
Imaging Resource reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 Digital Camera and writes - 'Without a doubt, the Panasonic FZ30 is one of the stronger entries at the top end of the "enthusiast" all-in-one digital camera range. Its performance and specs may not quite match those of typical digital SLRs, but when you consider the superb optical quality of its image-stabilized 12x Leica zoom len, you'd have to pay literally a couple of thousand dollars to match its reach with a SLR body and kit of two or three zoom lenses.... Bottom line, the Panasonic Lumix FZ30 is a very strong player at the upper end of the all-in-one digital camera field, and represents an excellent bargain for anyone interested in a long zoom range, optical stabilization, high resolution, and responsive performance.'
Camera Labs reviews the Panasonic DMC-FZ30 and writes - 'The Panasonic DMC-FZ30 is without a doubt a very classy all-in-one camera. Its massive zoom range simply beats rivals into submission, while the optical stabilisation really works a treat. Despite its low price, the FZ30's build quality is also of a higher standard than the competition.... If you decide and all-in-one camera is better for you than a Digital SLR, the Panasonic DMC-FZ30 is a great choice. It boasts a massive optically-stabilised zoom, fully-flippable screen, great build quality and decent images.'
DigiCam Review has reviewed the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 digital camera and writes - 'The Panasonic Lumix FZ30 is an excellent ultra zoom digital camera, offering excellent image quality, an excellent Leica 12x optical zoom lens with image stabilisation, and a manual zoom ring. The high resolution 2" swivel screen is very good, and the camera is very good value for money. The easy to use camera offers speedy performance, good battery life, with good controls and excellent build quality thanks to a solid metal camera body. I would highly recommend this camera, especially to people who like it's SLR styling, although be aware that noise is on the high side. If you can stick with the lower ISO settings or only wish to print small images then this camera should be high on your shopping list! I'd recommend trying the camera before purchase, as this camera is definitely large when compared to your average sized ultra zoom camera.'
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 News Release:
PANASONIC 8-MEGAPIXEL SUPER ZOOM DIGITAL STILL CAMERA PUTS AMAZING QUALITY, CONTROL INTO PHOTOGRAPHERS’ HANDS
New DMC-FZ30 Also Has 12x Optical Zoom, Optical Image Stabilization
With the new DMC-FZ30, Panasonic thrusts its super zoom category of digital still cameras firmly into the hands of photo enthusiasts with an 8-megapixel, 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35mm to 420mm) camera. Equipped with both automatic and manual controls that will meet the needs of prosumers and amateurs alike, the DMC-FZ30 incorporates Panasonic’s acclaimed MEGA Optical Image Stabilization, which the company maintains should be a standard in all digital still cameras.
“The DMC-FZ30 answers the call of photography enthusiasts,” says Monica Helmer, national marketing manager for Panasonic’s optical group. “We listened to the consumers. They wanted a high-resolution CCD and a superior lens – and we’ve delivered a camera that will exceed their high exceptions.”
The 12x optical zoom Leica DC Vario-Elmarit Lens, which has appeared in all of the FZ series cameras from Panasonic, has undergone further development to ensure more superb picture rendering. Along with the CCD size and total effective pixels, the FZ30 also has enhanced and added a host of other features: a manual zoom ring along with a manual focus ring; an easy-to-see, free-moving LCD; and adjustable dials for the aperture and shutter speed controls. Both the LCD and the electronic viewfinder have had their resolution increased by about 180 percent, offering a sharp, clear view.
The FZ30 combines high-speed and high-quality image processing with the Venus Engine II LSI. It boasts quick responsiveness with best-in-class level release time lag of 0.01 seconds. Adopting a non-collapsible lens has substantially reduced start up time from about five seconds to about 0.97 seconds. Autofocus time in 1-point high-speed AF has been reduced to a quarter of the level achieved in Panasonic’s DMC-FZ20 (based on the CIPA standard).
One interesting feature is the FZ30’s Extended Optical Zoom, made possible by using the center part of the 8-megapixel CCD, extends the zoom ratio beyond 12x when the resolution is decreased. For example, when shooting at 5-megapixels, the zoom ratio can be extended to 15.3x, and up to 19.1x when shooting at 3 megapixels.
Two rings on the lens barrel of the FZ30 provide manual control of zoom and focus, allowing quick and fine control that typically can’t be achieved with button controls. Shutter speed and aperture controls area also very easy and quick to adjust with dials. Shutter speed can be set from 1/2000 to 60 seconds and the aperture from F2.8 to F11 to meet a wide range of shooting conditions. The AE lock button, a new control, is convenient for taking multiple shots at the same exposure setting regardless of subject color conditions.
In addition to advanced features are great enhancements to basic functionality. A newly developed lithium-ion battery has increased capacity, allowing for up to 280 images with one charge. There are also 14 scene modes for beginning photographers, including five news modes: Baby, Soft Skin, Food, Starry Sky and Candle. Each scene has its own help screen to describe the affect and advise the photographer on how to get the best shot possible. Auto angle detection recorders when an image is taken horizontally or vertically and displays the file appropriately on the LCD monitor or on a TV or PC, using included software.
“The most demanding and exacting photographer will find the DMC-FZ30 suits all his or her needs,” Helmer says. “The manual controls, the excellent zoom range, and the optical image stabilization provide all the tools necessary for capturing amazing images.”
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 will be available this September for an MSRP of $699.95.