These photos of the GX1 come from the forum by the name of Mobile01 based in Taiwan and don’t reveal one whole heck of a lot of information about the next-generation photo and video collection device. What we can see is that the camera is still quite compact, contains its own built-in flash, and will, quite obviously, be able to work with the X-series of Lumix lenses. Inside you’ll find stereo microphones, full HD video recording, and what’s said to be a complete lack of an electronic viewfinder. Wild!

There are also a few rumors floating around regarding this camera, and remember before you read that these are completely unconfirmed, but exciting: a 16 megapixel sensor, a completely new and improved image processor, and up to a massive 12,800 ISO. More than likely we’ll hear a lot more about this device inside November, early November if the stars align. Can’t wait!

[via TIMN]

Out of the box, the GH2 can record video in 24Mbit AVCHD format full HD resolution video. For some of us that is plenty of quality, but others want more. This new hack has cranked the GH2 up a bunch of notches and lets the camera record 176Mbit AVCHD Intra video. That Intra tagged onto the back is a huge change.

AVCHD grabs only some of the frames from the sensor to make the video. AVCHD Intra on the other hand will grab every frame from the sensor making video look better when played back. You can see a video below from a user going by Driftwood that was shot using the GH2 in 176Mbit AVCHD Intra and see what you think. How exactly you apply this hack isn’t mentioned in the video.

[via 43rumors]

What Panasonic has come up with here, along with about a billion other pieces of news today, if you did not know, is a performance upgrade including autofocus algorithms derived directly from Panasonic’s Light Speed autofocus system for improved AF speed. In addition to this, the upgrade will furthermore augment image stabilization with Active Mode from the sweetness of Power OIS, all this for excellence in video shooting without jumping all about.

Adjustments will be made to this camera’s auto white balance in low light, this making it easier for you to snap around in the club, if that’s you’re thing. You’ll have the ability once this update has gone through to invoke noise reduction for ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 shots. You’ll have a brand new “Miniature” effect added to your arsenal that we’re not aware of the details on at the moment. Your maximum shutter will be increased to 250 seconds. You’ll be able to adjust saturation, brightness, and warmth of your LCD as well as add EVF for a more accurate preview of color.

Panasonic lets us know that you will be able to download this firmware update starting at right around 1 AM ET on September 13th, 2011, right on over at the most hardcore update site on the internet: Panasonic.JP. Hit em up!

But it doesn’t look ultra strange as you’d expect such an innovative product to look, does it, it just looks sorta normal. Newness fills its innards, however, and the aesthetic appeal certainly is at a peak – would you mind carrying around such a device? This device will allow you to upload (should you have a connected Wi-Fi signal) photos and video to YouTube, Flickr, Facebook, and Picassa. No word at the moment on if we’ll be able to work with other online repositories for media like Google+, for example, down the line. Panasonic has also mentioned a new web photo-sharing service they’re innitiating called Lumix Club that you’ll be able to take advantage of as well.

In addition to being able to upload straight to the internet, you’ll be able to transfer photos and video using a Wi-Fi signal to your smartphones and other computers. While you’ll be able to upload content to the sites listed above right out of the box, you’ll have to download a special Panasonic app on Apple’s iOS or Google’s Android platforms if you want to transfer to your smartphone – note though that this app is completely free on each of the said platforms’ app markets.

This camera features a 5x optical zoom lens (24mm to 120mm) with a max aperture of F2.5 and the ability to capture 1080i video at 60fps. This device also features, as noted, a 3-inch touchscreen on the back that includes menu navigation, touchscreen controls, and post-shot editing tools.

This device has not had a formal date or price issued for it, but the mentioned Lumix Club portal will be launching on September 5th, 2011, so this device probably wont be far behind. A couple other Panasonic Lumix devices have also been released today including the DMC-FZ150 with a flip-out display and massive potential for zoom and speed, the Panasonic GF3X upgrade to the GF3, and the lens that makes the X. Check em all out.

Amongst a whole slew of specifications that’ll just blow your socks off, Panasonic notes that this device has both improved autofocus and tracking focus functions. The FZ150 has both a CMOS sensor and a brand new imaging engine alongside aperture-priority, full manual, and shutter-priority controls. These controls sit aside an awesomely odd assortment of automated in-camera features including filters for both photo and video as well as 3D still-image capture.

What the new processor and sensor packed into this little monster are set to do is bring you several things: your burst speed, first of all, is insanely fast at 12 fps at full 12-megapixel resolution. Next there’s the ability to record 220-fps high-speed video at 320×240 pixel resolution – intense! Then of course there’s improved HD video frame-rate capabilities as well as more high-quality low-light performance.

As far as features that set this device apart from its counterpart (by the name of FZ47,) you’ll find that this device has a big ol’ flipscreen at 3-inches that hangs out and allows you to check out the action from any direction. Then there’s lens-mounted secondary controls for all of your focus and optical-zoom settings. Finally there’s a hot shoe for your external microphones as well as your flashes.

This device will be available in late September for $500.

As you may already know, we certainly enjoy Lumix. Our review of the LUMIX DMC-GF2 should be evidence enough of that. What we’re pretty dern excited to hear about today is that the lens we spoke about in the first piece of this post will be coming out both on its own and as part of a kit which will upgrade the name of the GF3 to a much more hardcore GF3X. This camera is capable of recording 1920 x 1080 Full High Definition video in AVCHD format, is certainly one of the smallest profiles on a camera with such enticing specs, and it comes in black – and now silver as well!

In the GF3X full package deal, you get a camera and lens combination that allows you to grab Light Speed AF of approximately 0.1 second. That’s fast, man, real fast. With this combination you’re also getting POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) so you’ll be able to take high-class photos even in the lowest of light situations. Of course finally there’s the easy-to-operate zoom lever right down the side of the lens barrel along with the manual focus you’ve grown to love. All the options fitting of a cool customer of Panasonic.

The LUMIX GF3X will be available in a black body and black lens or a silver body and silver lens kits options in October 2011 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $749.99. Check out more information on the 14-42 lens in the post about the just-announced Panasonic Lumix X Series. Lots to be seen!

Both this first unit, again called the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm for short, and the second unit, the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm, are both coming out with nano surface coatings for reduction of ghosting and lens flare, and both of them with optical image stabilization. Now remember here I said “for short”, as the full names of lenses as powerful as these are prone to gigantic full names.

They read like so:

The full name for the first lens, as spoken about above, is LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S. (H-PS14042).

Th full name of the second lens, as mostly spoken about below, is LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. (H-PS45175).

Both are massive mouthfuls to speak of, and both are made for masterpieces. This second lens, the only in the 45-175mm range, is being billed as “the world’s smallest digital interchangeable power zoom lens”. It’s got the ability work with its internal zoom motor that’ll allow you to adjust your focal length using its side-mounted rocker. What Panasonic calls this lens kit’s “Multi-Actuator Floating Inner Focus System” controls three lens groups separately and as a result, as Panasonic puts it, “achieves a reduction in both size and weight without compromising picture quality.” The rest of this kit’s specifications read like a comic book description of Iron Man’s mobile suit:

The new lens system features two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) lenses which suppress chromatic aberration and contribute to high descriptive performance across the entire zoom range 45-175mm. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) integrated into the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. makes it easy to shoot sharp images even in low-lit situations. With improved sensitivity of the gyro sensor, the new POWER O.I.S. also suppresses large, slow movements two times more effectively** while small, fast movements are compensated for by the conventional MEGA O.I.S.

LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. contains seven aperture blades to help produce an attractive smoothness in out-of-focus areas even while shooting at large aperture. Adopting an inner focus system driven by a stepping motor, the lens’ superior optical design supports Light Speed AF of approximately .15 seconds and fast aperture control results in a shortened shutter time lag of approximately 20% when compared to the LUMIX G VARIO 45-200mm/F4.0-5.6/MEGA O.I.S.

Sound massively impressive to you? The first lens will be available as either a separate unit, all by itself for an SRP of $399.99 in October 2011 and will be compatible with the DMC-G3, the DMC-GF3, and the DMC-GF2 with a firmware upgrade. You can also get a combination of the first lens and the Lumix GF3, a combination therefor called the LUMIX GF3X, for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $749.99.

The second lens, aka the 45-175mm lens in this situation, will be available in either black or silver starting in September 2011 for an SRP of $449.99.

It also packs face detection and intelligent scene selection, switching between Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait, Night Scenery and Macro shooting modes automatically. The Panasonic LUMIX LS5 is expected to go on sale in November this year, in black, with pricing announced closer to the time.

As for the LUMIX FZ47, that has a 12.1-megapixel CCD sensor that can shoot 1080p AVCHD Full HD video, crunched through Panasonic’s Venus Engine FHD processor. While the optical zoom offers 24x magnification, thanks to that processor it can be fettled up to 32x using digital enhancement. 3.7fps continuous shooting at full resolution is supported (or 10fps if you scale down to 3-megapixels) and the camera start-up time is slimmed down by 35-percent compared to previous Panasonic digicams.

Simultaneous video recording and 3.5-megapixel still capture is possible, and there’s a “Creative Video” mode allowing for manual adjustment of shutter speed and aperture, plus the expected filters and effects. Optical image stabilization, face recognition and Panasonic’s iA “intelligent auto” mode are all present, together with a 3D photo system. On the back is a 3-inch 460k-dot preview display.

The Panasonic LUMIX FZ47 will go on sale in August, priced at $399.99.

The camera has a 16MP image sensor and has an external dial for access to common settings and modes like program, shutter, aperture priority, and manual. The dial also has a spots for two custom modes along with scene modes, and creative control mode. The camera has a dedicated button for recording video and changing to video recording without having to change modes. The G3 has integrated flash and a hotshoe for connecting optional camera flash devices.

Other features of the camera include an eye-level electronic viewfinder with a high resolution 1.44m-dot image that covers 100% of the field of view. The rear LCD on the camera is a touch sensitive 3-inch unit that allows things like touch to focus on an area. The camera has 23 auto focus points and has improved manual focusing compared to the earlier cameras in the G-series. That LCD I mentioned also tilts for aligning shots 180-degrees to the side and 270-degrees up and down. The DMC-G3 will come in black, white, red, white, and brown and will ship in June 11. A kit with the 14-42mm zoom lens will sell for $699.99.

The ZS10 has a 16x optical zoom, 3-inch touchscreen, GPS and Full HD video recording, while the ZS8 keeps the zoom and touchscreen but loses the GPS. As for the TS3, that’s wrapped in a ruggedized chassis and has a 12.1-inch display and full HD recording.

Finally, the FX78 has a 3.5-inch touchscreen supporting Touch AF, Touch Zoom, Touch Shutter, and Touch Playback, along with a 5x optical zoom and 24mm wide-angle lens.

Press Release:

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR ITS 2011 PREMIUM LINEUP OF LUMIX DIGITAL CAMERA MODELS

SECAUCUS, NJ (March 8, 2011) – Panasonic today announces pricing for its LUMIX DMC-ZS10, LUMIX DMC-ZS8, LUMIX DMC-TS3 and LUMIX DMC-FX78 digital cameras, all of which will be available in late-March 2011. All four models feature Leica lenses, High Definition video recording-capabilities and Panasonic’s iA technology – making shooting photos and videos simple and intuitive – while still producing beautiful images.

The LUMIX ZS10, LUMIX TS3 and LUMIX FX78 also include the new Panasonic 3D Photo mode, which produces a realistic 3D photo by taking 20 consecutive photos and overlaying the two best images to provide a 3D image that can then be played on a Panasonic VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of the 3D image is compatible with MPO, and can also be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment such as a televisions, digital photo frames and printers.

The LUMIX ZS10 will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $399.99 and is an extremely versatile digital camera with a 24mm ultra-wide-angle, a powerful 16x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, full-High Definition 1920×1080 video recording capability, plus a newly-adopted large 3.0-inch, 460,000-dot Smart Touch Intelligent LCD. The new touchscreen LCD allows for Touch Zoom, Touch Auto Focus (AF), Touch Shutter, and Touch Playback. The LUMIX ZS10 also features a built-in GPS (Global Positioning System) function allowing geotagged images to be pinpointed via online maps and easily shared with friends and families. The LUMIX ZS10 will be available in black, red, blue, silver and brown models. The LUMIX DMC-ZS8, with an SRP of $299.99, maintains the versatile 24mm ultra-wide angle and powerful 16x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens and includes a large 3-inch LCD and a manual exposure mode. The LUMIX ZS8 will be available in black and silver models.

The LUMIX DMC-TS3 (SRP: $399.99) is specifically designed for active users who want to capture high-quality photos and 1920 x 1080 full-High Definition videos, incorporating a powerful rugged design and new outdoor-friendly features, such as a built-in GPS function, a compass, altimeter and barometer. The 12.1-megapixel LUMIX TS3 further steps up its toughness, when compared to its LUMIX TS2 predecessor, and is now waterproof to approximately 40 feet (12m)*1; shockproof to approximately 6.6 feet (2m) *2; freezeproof to 14ºF (-10 degrees C); and dustproof*1. The LUMIX TS3 will be available in red, orange, silver, and blue models.

The LUMIX FX78, with an SRP of $349.99, features a new Smart Touch operation on the large 3.5-inch 16:9 aspect LCD that allows for intuitive touch operation, including Touch AF, Touch Zoom, Touch Shutter, and Touch Playback. The LUMIX FX78 also incorporates a new LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT, 24mm ultra-wide angle lens that has a 5x optical zoom with F2.5 aperture. The 24mm wide-angle lens offers approximately 213% larger viewing space when compared to a traditional 35mm camera. This high-performing lens has been designed to fit the slim body while still offering exceptional photo and video quality. With its wide and bright lens, the LUMIX FX78 excels when shooting dynamic landscapes and in low-light situations.

The LUMIX FX78’s Smart Touch Screen allows for the Auto Focus (AF) to be set by simply touching the subject on the LCD and a touch can even release the shutter. Once locked on the subject, the LUMIX FX78 tracks the subject with the AF tracking function even if it moves. With the Intelligent Scene Selector in the iA mode, the FX78 automatically switches to the appropriate mode according to the subject touched. The touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting, but also in playback, allowing the user to drag the images across the screen with a finger and browse the collection of photos as though flipping the pages of the book. The LUMIX FX78 will be available in black, gold and white models.

For more information all Panasonic’s LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 Waterproof/dustproof performance complies with the “IPX8” and “IP6X” ratings. Provided the care and maintenance guidelines described in this document are strictly followed, this camera can operate underwater, to a depth not exceeding 12 m for a time not exceeding 60 minutes. This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.
*2 Anti-shock performance complies with “MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock” of the U.S. Defense Department, which specifies performing drop tests from a height of 122 cm, at 26 orientations (8 corners, 12 ridges, 6 faces) using 5 sets of devices, and passing the 26 orientation drops within 5 devices. (If failure occurs during the test, a new set is used to pass the drop orientation test within a total of 5 devices). The camera has cleared a drop test from a height of 2 m onto 3 cm thick plywood. In most cases this camera should not sustain any damage if dropped from a height not exceeding 2 m. This drop test was passed. (Disregarding appearance change such as loss of paint or distortion of the part where drop impact is applied). This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.

Video demo after the cut

After you’ve taken a shot, you can use the 3.5-inch display to add makeup to your subjects, smearing rouge and lip gloss with a fingertip. It’s undoubtedly handy if you’ve always wanted to see what your father looks like wearing mascara, but never quite built up the courage to ask.

Otherwise there’s HDMI connectivity, an SDXC memory card slot, optical image stabilization and Leica optics with a 5x optical zoom. It’ll also shoot HD video. Currently on sale in Japan for the equivalent of $398, there’s no word on when it might launch in North America or Europe.

[via Red Ferret]

Hardware

Side by side with the GF1 and it’s clear that the new GF2 is an evolutionary design. The family resemblance is obvious, but Panasonic has also followed the trend in Micro Four Thirds cameras to shrink down the chassis: in fact, the GF2 is supposedly 19-percent smaller and 7-percent lighter, while still accommodating the 12.1-megapixel 17.3 x 13 mm sensor.

The innovative dual-hinge pop-up flash is still in place, triggered by a button on the rear panel, and there’s a hot-shoe with a port for the optional electronic viewfinder accessory (the same model as for the GF1). Storage is via SD/SDHC/SDXC card, while ports include mini HDMI and either USB 2.0 or AV Out via included adapter cables. A stereo microphone is on the top panel, just to the right of the hot-shoe, but there’s no external microphone input and the GF1′s remote release socket has been removed.

We’ll go into controls in the next section, but most obvious is the new 3-inch touchscreen on the rear of the GF2, which is used for operating the bulk of the camera’s functionality. It’s fixed, rather than angle-adjustable as on Sony’s NEX range, but has a new anti-reflective coating which makes for easier outdoor viewing than the screen of the GF1.

Inside there’s a new version of Panasonic’s Venus Engine FHD for image processing, together with an extended ISO range that now tops out at ISO 6400. Video recording has been boosted, with the GF1′s 720p 60fps mode joined by a new 1080i 60fps mode. The older camera only recorded mono sound, as well, which has been upgraded to stereo on the GF2, and the recording volume itself can be adjusted in the settings.

Two GF2 SKUs are available, following the example of the GF1, with the camera body paired with either a 14-42mm lens or a 14mm prime lens. Also carried over is the lack of in-body optical image stabilization, which is instead offered by certain lenses in Panasonic’s range. The 14-42mm lens supports it, but the much smaller pancake lens does not.

While we’re generally in favor of size-reduction, one unfortunate consequence is that the GF2′s battery is smaller than that of the GF1. That means fewer photos per full charge, Panasonic estimating 300 to 320 shots depending on which lens you’re using. We can’t argue with the GF2′s speed, however. Start-up is less than a second, auto-focus is one of the fastest we’ve seen on a Micro Four Thirds camera, and back-to-back shots are possible in around 1 second intervals. Alternatively there’s a burst mode for 3.2 frames/sec; it will grab up to 7 frames if you’re trying to save RAW files, or can shoot JPEGs indefinitely.

Controls

The biggest change is the new 3-inch touchscreen on the back of the GF2, a 460k dot 3:2 aspect TFT LCD which, while requiring a reasonably firm press, is responsive and straightforward. Physical control lovers may find the new LUMIX a step backward, however, since Panasonic has used the touchscreen to retire several of the hardware controls that stud the GF1.

Most notable is the mode dial, previously to be found up next to the shutter release, and the functionality of which has been subsumed into the touchscreen menus. Only a single function shortcut remains, a one-press button to toggle the GF2 into Intelligent Auto (iAuto) mode, which is backlit in blue when active. The power switch and video record button are still present, but the new stereo microphone is where the burst/timer shot switch used to be.

Rear panel controls have also slimmed down. The thumb-dial is still present – though we’d still prefer it to be slightly easier to turn and to protrude from the chassis a little more – as is the four-way control, playback button and quick-menu/function button, but others have been lost in the refresh. The AF/MF toggle and AF/AE Lock buttons are particularly missed.

Panasonic’s menu UI isn’t the most intuitive we’ve used, though after a while we grew familiar with its nuances. It’s possible to pull out shortcuts to the most commonly used controls and pin them to the quick menu for more straightforward access; you can also flick through the menus using the directional controls rather than reaching over to swipe at the touchscreen.

We’re left in two minds about the GF2′s controls. Coming from a GF1 there’s an obvious learning hurdle to get past, and as touchscreen smartphones have shown us, there’s a lot of flexibility on offer when you make buttons virtual rather than physical. Nonetheless, it’s arguably more immediate to twist a mode dial or quickly thumb a manual focus button when you’re in the midst of shooting frames, an immediacy that’s somewhat lost when you have to stab through various layers of menus. The touchscreen will probably make things easier for first-time users, but perhaps also encourage them to leave the GF2 in iAuto mode rather than experiment with the various manual modes on offer.

Image Quality

That reluctance to experiment would be a shame, because the GF2 is capable of some highly impressive photos and a fair degree of manual control. Obviously there’s RAW as well as JPEG output – as well as a hybrid mode which stores both formats – but the Panasonic’s JPEG system does a decent job on its own.

Given the GF1 struggled with visible noise at ISO 800 and above, the GF2′s new ISO 6400 mode is only really useful to impress on the spec sheet. In the more normal range of ISO 100 to 400, however, the LUMIX does far better, especially if you take the extra time to tweak the RAW files in post-production. The pop-up flash isn’t going to win any awards for strength – it’s rated at 6m at ISO 100 – but there’s little in the way of red eye.

As for more out of the ordinary shots, the GF2 supports a maximum shutter speed of 60 seconds, and there are various My Color Modes for tweaking the final picture. As well as eight presets – which work for stills and in movie mode – including Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Cinema, Monochrome, Dynamic Art and Silhouette, there’s a custom mode for your own balance of color, brightness, saturation and contrast.

The GF2′s contrast AF system offers face detection, AF tracking, 1-area and 23-area focusing modes, as well as touch-to-focus using the touchscreen. You can set the Fn button to lock the auto-focus, though that does then mean you lose the Q.Menu shortcut. As for AE, that uses a 144-zone system with a range of automatic or manual settings; the GF2 showed a tendency to over-expose frames, but you can easily notch that down with the thumb-dial.

Video Quality

Though there are plenty of arguments over whether 720p HD is in fact preferable to 1080i, and while we’d have liked to have seen 1080p on offer, in the end the GF2 offers a choice between the progressive and interlaced modes and users can take their pick. Footage is recorded in AVCHD format or Motion JPEG, and can be played back on a display from the LUMIX itself thanks to the HDMI output; you’ll need to supply your own HDMI cable, however, since that’s no longer bundled.

One of the benefits of Micro Four Thirds cameras over traditional DSLRs is the flexibility available during video recording, and the GF2 is no different. As in the still mode, there’s tap to focus support using the touchscreen, and while they’re not the quickest transitions we’ve seen the overall affect can be quite visually pleasing. There’s also less focus hunting than on some rivals.

Actual footage is crisp and sharp, though with the pancake lens it can be jumpy at times thanks to the absence of optical image stabilization. Mount the GF2 onto a tripod, however, and it’s far more successful. Audio can be hit and miss, however, and with no microphone input there’s no way around that. We’re hoping Panasonic release a microphone adapter for the hot-shoe for some extra flexibility.

Wrap-Up

The GF1 didn’t just count the SlashGear team among its admirers; in fact it was one of the most loved Micro Four Thirds models around. That leaves the LUMIX GF2 with plenty to live up to. Panasonic has clearly decided to shift the GF2′s positioning to target the consumer crowd, with a greater focus on the iAuto mode and the relegation of more complex – and often intimidating – manual controls into the new touchscreen menu structure. Those manual options are still there, of course, but they’re arguably harder to access on the fly than the various physical buttons of the GF1.

Still, there’s plenty on offer to make up for the changes, not least the physical decrease in weight and bulk. Based on the premise that the best camera is the one you have on you, the shrunken GF2 and its slimline pancake lens stand an even greater chance of slipping into a coat pocket than its predecessor, while still offering solid image quality. Sony’s NEX line is smaller again, but chubby lenses and the absence of an integrated flash have their own drawbacks.

GF1 users, then, are unlikely to see the GF2 as a sensible upgrade path, but for those looking to step away from compact cameras Panasonic have created a very legitimate option. While we’d hope such users would at least occasionally stray from the iAuto mode, the truth is that the GF2 does a decent job at managing its settings when left to its own devices, leaving the manual modes for more challenging scenes such as low-light or nighttime. At $699.95 (with the 14mm pancake lens) it’s not cheap, but it opens the door to flexible lens options and a solid core unit with plenty going for it.

The GF2 is compatible with Panasonic’s 3D interchangeable lens, the LUMIX G 12.5mm/F12, which be $249.95 on its own. Meanwhile there’s also pricing for the full camcorder and point-and-shoot digital camera ranges announced at CES 2011, which you can find in the press releases below.

Press Release:

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR NEW LUMIX GF2, THE COMPANY’S SMALLEST AND LIGHTEST DIGITAL INTERCHANGABLE LENS SYSTEM CAMERA WITH FLASH

Panasonic LUMIX GF2 Digital Camera Available in Mid- February 2011
SECAUCUS, NJ (February 1, 2011) – Panasonic today announces pricing for the LUMIX GF2 – the latest addition to the company’s compact system camera (CSC) lineup. The LUMIX DMC-GF2 will be available in mid-February 2011 and will come in black, silver, red, and white models. The LUMIX GF2 (body-only) will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $499.95.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF2 is Panasonic’s smallest and lightest interchangeable lens system camera – complete with a built-in flash. The LUMIX GF2 is compatible with lenses from the Micro Four Thirds standard, meaning the system is small and compact, while not compromising ease of operation or image quality. The LUMIX GF2 is also compatible with Panasonic’s new 3D interchangeable lens, the LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12, so users can take their own 3D photos anywhere.

The LUMIX GF2K (14-42mm) lens will have an SRP of $599.95 while the GF2C (14mm) lens will have an SRP of $699.95. Also available is Panasonic’s new 3D interchangeable lens, the LUMIX G 12.5mm/F12, which will have an SRP of $249.95.

For more information on the Panasonic LUMIX GF2 and all its accessories, please visit: www.panasonic.com/lumix.

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR 2011 LINE OF CAMCORDERS, INCLUDING 3D-CAPABLE, FULL HD MODELS

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 1, 2011) – Panasonic today announces pricing for its 2011 line of full-High Definition (HD) 3MOS models, the HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800; as well as its Full-High Definition 1MOS models, the HDC-TM90, HDC-SD90, HDC-TM80, HDC-HS80, HDC-SD80, HDC-SD40 and HDC-TM40; and the standard definition models, HDC-H100, HDC-T70 and HDC-S70. All 13 models, in addition to a new optional 3D conversion lens (VW-CLT1), will be available in March 2011.
The Panasonic Full-HD camcorders will be available for suggested retail prices (SRP) of $1,399.95 for the HDC-HS900; $1099.99 for the HDC-TM900 and $849.99 for the HDC-SD800. The new Full-HD camcorders feature 1920 x 1080 resolution with 1080/60p recording to create crisp, detailed videos, and can also shoot 3D videos when used with Panasonic’s optional 3D conversion lens (VW-CLT1). The 3D conversion lens has an SRP of $349.99 and can capture vivid 3D imagery, which can be played back on a Panasonic VIERA 3D TV* or AVCHD-compatible player/recorder. The HDC-TM900 and HDC-HS900 both feature a manual ring for increased creativity, a 20x zoom and an intuitive 3.5” touch-screen LCD. All three models can record to SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Cards, while the HDC-TM900 has 32GB** of internal memory and the HDC-HS900 has a hard disk drive that holds up to 220GB.
Panasonic’s Full-HD camcorders with a 1MOS sensor will have SRPs of $599.99 for the HDC-TM90 and HDC-HS80; $549.99 for the HDC-SD90; $499.99 for the HDC-TM80; $449.95 for the HDC-SD80; $399.99 for the HDC-TM40 and $349.99 for the HDC-SD40. These camcorders have 1920 x 1080 resolution with wide-angle lenses. The HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90 are capable of shooting Full-HD video with 1080/60p recording and can also record 3D video with the optional 3D conversion lens. The HDC-TM80 and HDC-HS80 both feature exceptional zooming power with a 42x Intelligent Zoom. The HDC-TM40 and HDC-SD40 are Panasonic’s lightest Full-HD camcorders, weighing approximately 0.39lbs. All seven models can record to SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Cards, while the HDC-TM90, HDC-TM80 and HDC-TM50 also have 16GB of internal memory, and the HDC-HS80 has a 120GB hard disk drive.
Panasonic’s standard definition cameras will have SRPs of $349.99 for the SDR-H100; $269.99 for the SDR-T70 and $249.99 for the SDR-S70. These camcorders pack advanced features including a 33mm wide-angle*** and a powerful Enhanced Optical Zoom of 78x. Like the HD camcorder models, all three models can record to SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Cards, while the SDR-H100 has an 80GB hard disk drive and the SDR-T70 has 4GB of built-in memory.
For more information on all Panasonic camcorder models, please visit www.panasonic.com/dvc.

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR LUMIX POINT-AND-SHOOT MODELS INTRODUCED AT 2011 CES

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 1, 2011) – Panasonic today announces pricing for the eight LUMIX digital camera models the company introduced last month at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show, which includes the LUMIX DMC-PF7, LUMIX DMC-FP5, the LUMIX DMC-FH27, LUMIX DMC-FH25, LUMIX DMC-FH5, LUMIX DMC-FH2, LUMIX DMC-S3, and the LUMIX DMC-S1. All eight digital camera models, available in March 2011, feature Optical Image Stabilization, High Definition video recording capabilities and Panasonic’s iA mode, which makes them extremely easy-to-use to help take high-quality photos.

Panasonic’s ultra-slim LUMIX and fashionable FP-Series will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $229.99 for the LUMIX FP7 and $199.99 for the LUMIX FP5. Both models maintain their slim profiles by incorporating an ultra-thin 4x optical zoom lens with folded optics. The LUMIX FP7 features a new 3.5-inch 16:9 touch-screen LCD.

The Panasonic LUMIX FH-Series are sleek and stylish digital cameras that feature a 28mm-wide-angle lenses. The LUMIX FH27 has a 3-inch touch-screen LCD with an SRP of $229.99 while the LUMIX FH25 has an SRP of $199.99. Both the LUMIX FH27 and LUMIX FH25 also feature an 8x optical zoom. The 16.1-megapixel LUMIX FH5 (SRP: $149.99) and the 14.1-megapixel LUMIX FH2 (SRP $139.99) feature a 4x optical zoom with a new retractable lens.

Finally, the company’s entry-level digital camera models, the LUMIX S-Series, are extremely easy to use, making them ideal for consumers wanting an extremely intuitive experience. The 14.1-megapixel LUMIX S3 has an SRP of $129.99 and the 12.1-megapixel LUMIX S1 has an SRP of $119.99. Both models have a 28mm* wide-angle 4x optical zoom lens.

Savoy judges the UI to be a bit difficult to master, but that the user manual that comes with relieves the load considerably. Moving away from a physical dial and to a touchscreen may not have been the best idea, but only to some. The camera itself is lovely to look at and all components seem to be very light, but pro. A more than substantially nice flash for non-pro users, bulk reduced from the previous model, and the inclusion of HD video 60fps (which is super hot, if you did not know), make this a camera that should definitely be out today rather than January. I want one too, Savov! Lemme just borrow that one!

A note from Savov:

Please note: Panasonic has not yet finalized the GF2′s firmware, meaning that the sample images … below may not necessarily be indicative of the quality you’ll get from the final product.

To see examples of video playback and sample images, head over to Engadget.

[Via Engadget]

On the back there’s a 3-inch touchscreen for control and navigation with the new Touch Q user menu (that includes things like icon-based scene selection), and users can lock the auto-focus with a touch and then use the camera’s AF tracking.  There’s a new contrast AF system, compatibility with Panasonic’s own 3D lens for MFT cameras, and a new dust removal system.

Impressive stuff, considering Panasonic still squeeze in a flash.  The LUMIX GF2 will go on sale in January 2011, pricing to be announced later, in black, silver, white, and red models with the following kit options: DMC-GF2C – 14mm F2.5 Lens Kit and DMC-GF2K – 14-42mm Zoom Lens Kit.  Which? managed to get their hands on the LUMIX GF2 and shot the following video:

Press Release:

PANASONIC INTRODUCES COMPANY’S SMALLEST AND LIGHTEST DIGITAL INTERCHANGEABLE LENS SYSTEM CAMERA WITH FLASH

New Panasonic LUMIX GF2 Features Touch-Screen Operation, Full HD Video Recording Capability and Compatible with Panasonic’s Interchangeable 3D Lens

SECAUCUS, NJ (November 4, 2010) – Panasonic today announced the LUMIX DMC-GF2, the latest of the company’s DSL Micro (DSLM) compact mirrorless cameras, which is Panasonic’s smallest and lightest interchangeable lens system camera – complete with a built-in flash. The LUMIX GF2 is compatible with lenses from the Micro Four Thirds standard, meaning the system is small and compact, while not compromising ease of operation or image quality. Even more, the LUMIX GF2 is compatible with Panasonic’s new 3D interchangeable lens, the LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12, so users can take 3D photos.

“The LUMIX GF2 is key in the Panasonic DSL Micro line-up, as it’s the smallest and lightest model we offer, while still offering superb image quality, which our consumers have come to expect from LUMIX. Compared to the GF1, its predecessor, the GF2 has been reduced approximately 19% in size and approximately 7% in weight yet is still retains its signature built-in flash,” said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “We expect the LUMIX GF2 to be an attractive model for consumers who want to step up to a more powerful camera that is easy to use, and a camera that is ‘future-proof’ with its 3D capabilities.”

The LUMIX GF2 is extremely easy to operate for consumers at any level, thanks to a newly- designed user interface, which allows for the focus to be set, or shutter released, by simply touching the large 3-inch touch-screen LCD. The touch-screen LCD with a 460,000-dot-resolution makes taking great photos intuitive. Once a user locks on a subject by touch, the LUMIX GF2 tracks the subject with the AF tracking function, even if the subject moves – making it easy to take photos of moving subjects, like children playing. The contrast AF system adopted by the LUMIX DMC-GF2 is not only accurate and easy to use, but also very fast. Users can choose from a wide range of AF (Auto Focus) modes, including multiple-area AF with up to 23 focus areas, 1-area AF with a selectable focus area, Face Detection, and AF Tracking.

The touch operation also dramatically shortens the time spent navigating the menus. With the LUMIX GF2’s newly-designed Touch Q-menu, the user can customize the camera’s shortcuts with the most commonly used settings. Together with the simple button components, including dedicated buttons for video recording and iA (Intelligent Auto) mode which lights in-use, users can operate the camera intuitively with ease.

With the Intelligent Scene Selector in the iA mode, the camera automatically switches to the appropriate mode according to the subject touched. For example, a touch on a human face switches to the portrait mode and a touch on the background or scenery switches to the scenery mode, while a touch on the subject close to the camera switches to the close-up mode. With the MF assist mode for manual focusing, users can enlarge the subject by just a touch to select 1x, 5x or 10x and smoothly move the subject by dragging it on the screen. In iA mode and the Peripheral Defocus mode, the range of defocus can be adjusted by just moving the slider with a finger, something not possible with larger more complicated DSLR cameras that don’t feature touch control.

While achieving breakthroughs in compactness of design and outstanding photo and video quality, the Panasonic LUMIX GF2 can contribute its professional-level imaging performance to well-balanced engine and sensor technologies. For the image processor, the Venus Engine FHD is incorporated, featuring exceptionally high performance signal processing capabilities in both photo and movie recording. With the advanced noise reduction system employing the 3D NR and CNR (Chromatic Noise Reduction), users can capture clear, naturally-balanced images even when shooting at high ISO sensitivity levels to help prevent the color bleeding.

Panasonic’s Venus Engine FHD enables Intelligent Resolution technology, which means that three areas – outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation – are automatically detected. Then, the outline parts are enhanced effectively to give edges more clearness while giving a moderate accentuation to the texture areas to look more finely detailed. To the soft gradation part, noise reduction system is applied to make it smoother. Apart from the uniform enhancement of sharpness, the innovative technology Intelligent Resolution precisely performs signal processing pixel by pixel, resulting in images that are naturally clear and crisp in both video and photos. The 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor featured in the LUMIX GF2 offers the best of both worlds – the superb image quality of a CCD sensor, plus the lower power consumption of a CMOS sensor.

All of Panasonic’s LUMIX G-Series DSLM cameras are equipped with the highly-efficient Dust Reduction System. If dust gets inside the camera when the user changes lenses, it could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in photos. The Dust Reduction System helps to reduce this risk by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor. Vibrating vertically around 50,000 times per second, the filter repels dust and other particles.

The LUMIX GF2 shoots professional-quality full High Definition (HD) videos as well as handling still photography. The LUMIX GF2 can record 1920 x 1080 videos at 60i or smooth HD 1280 x 720 movies at 60p in AVCHD. For those looking for better compatibility with computers, the LUMIX GF2 can also record HD Motion JPEG in 1280 x 720 and QVGA, VGA and WVGA. A dedicated video record button makes it easy to start shooting videos, and high quality sound is recorded with the stereo microphone for Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator. Panasonic’s iA mode extends to video recording, with the following features: Optical Image Stabilizer, Face Detection, Intelligent D-range Control and Intelligent Scene Selector.

The Panasonic LUMIX GF2 is artistic not only in form, but also in function, as it provides an array of features that lets users capture true-to-life images while also creating their own expressive, beautiful images. The LUMIX GF2 features My Color mode which is integrated with the conventional Film mode. My Color mode offers a total of eight preset effects — Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Cinema, Monochrome, Dynamic Art, Silhouette, plus Custom mode, which lets users manually set the color, brightness, saturation and contrast levels. Also, with the Full-time Live View function, users can see how these settings will affect the images before they shoot, which makes it easier to capture the exact effect desired. The LUMIX GF2 has 17 Scene modes, most which can be used during video shooting, too. The exposure meter can be displayed in the P/A/S/M shooting modes for entry-level users to visually learn the correlation between shutter speed and aperture to enhance their photography skills.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF2, with a quality and solid aluminum body, will be available in black, silver, white, and red models with the following kit options: DMC-GF2C – 14mm F2.5 Lens Kit and DMC-GF2K – 14-42mm Zoom Lens Kit. The LUMIX GF2 will be available in January 2011 and pricing will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipment.

Hardware specs are still unconfirmed, but the LUMIX GF2 is believed to have the 12-megapixel sensor from the Panasonic G2, and be capable of recording Full HD video.  It’s paired with a new imagine processor, while control of the camera is shifted to a new touchscreen display.

Unsurprisingly Panasonic has also fitted 3G and WiFi, and an easy four-way flick based interface that allows you to instantly send your photos via WiFi or 3G, upload them to an online gallery, or trash them.  Unfortunately there are no sample shots as yet, which will be the measure by which the Panasonic LUMIX phone lives or dies; it’s not a small handset, but there’s still only a relatively small space for the CMOS sensor.

Panasonic will launch the LUMIX phone in Japan later in the year, in a choice of black, silver, blue or pink.  No word on whether they’ll be delivering a similar model to North America or Europe.

That seems on the low side for a Lumix-branded device, though Panasonic is also leaning heavily on the sharing side of things with the promise of their Jump Picture technology for easily squirting shots to your friends.  There’ll also be a microSD card slot.  Anybody understand Japanese and can better translate the feature slide below?

Update: According to this press release the Panasonic LUMIX Phone will have a 3.3-inch VGA LCD, measure 116 x 52 x 17.7 mm and weigh 146g.

[via Akihabara News]

The lens is a 12.5mm/F12 until that puts those two optical elements within the diameter of the lens. Panasonic says that its new lens system allows the user to shoot images with no lag between the right and left images, which allows the user to take 3D photos of moving objects. The images taken with the lens can be viewed on Panasonic 3D Viera TVs.

The photos can also be viewed via Panasonic 3D Blu-ray players as well. It is impressive that the lens is so small and compact, other 3D lenses we have seen are very large and bulky. The lens will sell for $249.99 and will ship in November along with a new 14mm/F2.5 lens at $399.95 and a Vario 100-300mm lens at $599.99.

The Panasonic Lumix FX700, meanwhile, has a 14.1-megapixel sensor, 3-inch touchscreen LCD and 5x optical zoom with a 24mm ultra wide-angle lens.  It has AF tracking and HD video recording, together with an optical image stabilizer and night-shot mode that shoots 10 frames in quick succession and then combines them to create the best image.

As for the Panasonic Lumix LX5, that has the same ultra wide-angle lens but paired with a 3.8x optical zoom and a new, high-sensitivity 10.1-megapixel CCD.  It also has a highly color-accurate 3-inch LCD display.

Finally the Panasonic Lumix TS10 is the ruggedized model, with a 14.1-megapixel sensor, 4x optical zoom, and shockproof that can withstand a fall of 5 feet, underwater use to 10 feet, dust and temperatures down to 14-degrees F.  Since you’ll likely be shivering at that point it handily includes optical image stabilization, together with 720p HD video recording and a 2.7-inch LCD that can auto-boost its backlighting by 40-percent when used outdoors.

The Panasonic Lumix FZ100 will arrive in late August for $499.95, while the FZ40 will drop at the same time for $399.95.  The Lumix FX700 will also be $399.95 in late August, with the Lumix LX5 being $499.95.  Meanwhile the Lumix TS10 will ship for $249.95 in mid-September.

Press Release:

PANASONIC UNVEILS COMPANY’S FIRST FULL HYBRID DIGITAL CAMERA WITH MOS SENSOR AND HIGH-SPEED CAPABILITY

New LUMIX FZ100 Has Powerful 24x Optical Zoom*1 and 14.1-Megapixel MOS Sensor, Allowing for full 1080 High Definition Video Capabilities

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 21, 2010) – Panasonic announced today the new LUMIX DMC-FZ100, a top-of-the-line model in the popular FZ-Series of LUMIX digital cameras with a newly developed LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens that features a powerful 24x optical zoom*1. As the company’s first hybrid compact digital camera with a MOS sensor, the LUMIX FZ100 can record full 1080 High Definition (HD) video – giving consumers a powerful hybrid that can shoot video and still photos with ease and professional-like quality.

“Panasonic is excited to be introducing its first full hybrid camera with MOS sensor – pursuing a higher level in resolution, sensitivity and speed,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “This new highly-functioning MOS sensor can record high-quality 1080 full AVCHD video, making it the ideal hybrid camera for both the casual shooter and the seasoned professional.”

The LUMIX FZ100 has an incredibly fast burst shooting in 14.1-megapixel full resolution at 11 frames per second with a mechanical shutter, and increases the frames per second to 60 in 3.5-megapixel recording. Additionally, the LUMIX FZ100 features continuous Auto Focus up to five frames per second at full resolution for great action shots. It also features Intelligent Burst shooting. The digital camera judges the appropriate shutter speed to suppress the motion blur according to the movement of the subject, rising as high as possible, activating the high sensitivity recording.

Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto (iA) mode, a hallmark on all LUMIX digital cameras, now includes Motion Deblur mode*2. By updating the motion detection (Intelligent ISO Control) and brightness control (Intelligent Exposure) users can gain the highest shutter speed possible. Combined with the outstanding brightness of the lens and the POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), the LUMIX FZ100 prevents any blur created from a handshake or a moving subject. The iA suite of technologies include: POWER O.I.S., Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. Panasonic’s iA is also available while shooting video.

Featuring a free-angle 3.0-inch large 460,000-dot high-resolution LCD, the LUMIX FZ100 features wide-angle viewing with Face Recognition functions that automatically remembers registered faces for future recording. The Intelligent Scene Selector automatically selects one of 6 Scene modes to best suit the shooting situation.

The LUMIX FZ100 also features Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator. This high-quality stereo sound offers realistic sounds and effects to any movie. For greater sound quality, the LUMIX FZ100 has a newly-created port for an optional stereo microphone (DMW-MS1) and a Wind Cut function is available to drastically reduce background wind noise.

The LUMIX FZ100 can record photos and HD video in AVCHD format on SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. Additionally, My Color mode, first introduced in the LUMIX G Micro Systems cameras, is a special option that gives freedom to the user’s creativity. With a variety of options including new Pin Hole, Film Grain, High Dynamic and High Dynamic B&W, the My Color mode makes it easy to create innovative images and videos using new intensive color, brightness and saturation levels.

Other features of the LUMIX FZ100 include:
· Bundled Software – PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.2 HD Edition makes it possible to sort and organize photos. Videos can be uploaded directly to YouTube using the built-in YouTube uploader, while also letting the user create a 360-degree rotation panorama file in .MOV files. The software is compatible with the Windows 7.
· Happy Mode – An option in iA that optimizes color, saturation and brightness to make both photos and movies more vivid and true to the color of the scene you memorized.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ100 will be available in black in late-August for a suggested retail price of $499.95. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit: www.panasonic.com/lumix.
*1 Equivalent to 35mm camera:25-600mm
*2 In the high speed burst shooting at 60fps, the picture size in max. 3.5-megapixel (16:9), 3-megapixel (3:2), 2.5-megapixel (4:3) or 2-megapixel (1:1)

Press Release:

PANASONIC PACKS ADVANCED PHOTO AND VIDEO FUNCTIONS INTO A SLEEK, SLIM AND STYLISH LUMIX DIGITAL CAMERA

New LUMIX FX700 is small in size and big on features, including a MOS sensor, 3” Touch-Screen LCD and Full 1080 High Definition Video

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 21, 2010) – Panasonic announced today the addition of the new LUMIX DMC-FX700 digital camera, which records 1080 full High Definition (HD) videos in the AVCHD format and features a 3-inch touch-screen LCD. The 14.1-megapixel digital camera features a 24mm ultra wide-angle F2.2 super bright LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens with a 5x optical zoom*1 making the LUMIX FX700 extremely versatile in low-light conditions and when capturing moving subjects.

“The 24mm ultra wide-angle lens and 5x optical zoom on the LUMIX FX700 makes it a powerful and advanced addition to the FX-Series, known for being slim, sleek and high-performing,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The LUMIX FX700 offers a complete suite of creative ways to capture superior quality photos and full HD videos in all shooting situations.”

The LUMIX FX700 adopts full touch-screen operation, which allows for Auto Focus (AF) to be set by touching the 3.0-inch, 230,000-dot LCD screen. Once a subject is locked with a single touch, the AF tracking function will follow the subject while moving. With the Intelligent Scene Selector, the camera automatically switches to the appropriate mode according to the subject selected. All menus settings are now available with one-touch control for shooting images and videos.

The LUMIX FX700’s advanced 24mm ultra-wide-angle lens, a rarity for a compact camera of this size, makes it easy to capture many subjects due to the great depth-of-field provided by the extra light. Additionally, photographers now have a wider range of composition possibilities with approximately 213% larger viewing space compared to that of a 35mm camera.

The LUMIX FX700 can also record HD video in the AVCHD format, which allows for almost double the recording time in HD quality compared to the conventional Motion JPEG format. The LUMIX FX700 records in 1920×1080 full HD with enhanced picture quality and Intelligent Resolution technology. Along with this high-quality HD video with a 5x optical zoom*1, the FX700 also features Dolby Digital Stereo Creator to record high-quality audio.

Panasonic’s iA (Intelligent Auto) mode is further advanced in the FX700 with the addition of Motion Deblur mode* by updating the motion detection (Intelligent ISO Control) and brightness control (Intelligent Exposure) to gain the highest shutter speed possible. Combined with the outstanding brightness of the lens and the POWER O.I.S (Optical Image Stabilizer), the LUMIX FX700 reduces any blur either caused by handshake or a moving subject. Intelligent Burst mode now determines the frame rate in burst shooting according to the speed of the subject’s motion, making it easy to capture any image. Included in the iA suite of technologies is: POWER O.I.S., Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure.

The LUMIX FX700 features the new Venus Engine FHD image processor which includes advanced signal processing capabilities. It also incorporates Intelligent Resolution technology, which examines three areas pixel-by-pixel, to automatically detect and enhance any degradation created during the digital zoom process.

Other features of the Panasonic LUMIX FX700 include:
· Handheld Night Shot: Using the high-speed MOS sensor, this new mode shoots 10 consecutive shots to simulate and detect the perfect shot of any subject while simultaneously fixing the subject’s position. Through the MOS sensor’s short shutter speed, exposure is increased while noise is reduced to create a blurless, beautifully- illuminated night shot without the use of a tripod.
· Battery Life: The high-performance Venus Engine FHD is also highly energy efficient despite its high processing capabilities, extending the battery life up to 300 shots (CIPA) on a single charge.

The Panasonic LUMIX FX700 will be available in black in late-August for a suggested retail price of $399.95. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX digital camera models, please visit: www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 Equivalent to 35mm camera: 24-120mm.
*2The picture size may be reduced.

Press Release:

NEW PANASONIC LUMIX TS10 BRINGS AN AFFORDABLE PRICE FOR A RUGGEDIZED DIGITAL CAMERA

LUMIX TS10 is Waterproof, Freezeproof Shockproof and Dustproof*1
Ideal for Active Use
SECAUCUS, NJ (July 21, 2010) – Panasonic today introduced the new LUMIX DMC-TS10 digital camera, the latest addition to the company’s TS-Series of rugged models, ideal for active users wanting a versatile camera for outdoor use. Featuring a flat, slim profile, and a folded optics design with a 4x optical zoom lens, the new 14.1-megapixel LUMIX TS10 is waterproof to approximately 10 feet, shockproof to 5 feet, dustproof and freezeproof to 14˚F*1. For even further protection, the LUMIX TS10 comes with a silicone jacket to help prevent scratches.
“Rugged digital cameras are a growing category, and the Panasonic LUMIX TS-Series continues to be very popular among consumers who are looking to use their digital camera while playing sports, at the beach, or simply to take high-quality photos and videos, regardless of the shooting environment,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The new LUMIX TS10 is also our most affordable rugged model and extremely easy-to-use – making it attractive for any consumer looking for a waterproof, freezeproof, dustproof and shockproof, rugged digital camera.”
Panasonic’s popular Intelligent Auto (iA) mode makes it easy for anyone to take beautiful photos by offering a full suite of shooting-assist functions. The LUMIX TS10 makes it extremely easy for consumers to engage this setting, with a dedicated iA button on the top of the camera. The MEGA O.I.S. helps reduce blur due to hand-shake and the Intelligent ISO control prevents a moving subject from being blurred by optimizing the shutter speed and ISO sensitivity setting, to produce sharp, clear images. Human faces are captured in focus and with correct exposure using the Face Detection mode and unwanted red-eyes are digitally corrected and backlight compensation automatically adjusted. Intelligent Scene Selector automatically selects one of six Scene Modes – Macro, Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait, Night Scenery and Sunset – that best suits the shooting situation. The Quick AF system allows the camera to keep focus on the subject while the camera is in recording mode even before pressing a shutter button halfway.
The LUMIX TS10 can also shoot High Definition video in 720p Motion JPG and the image-processing Venus Engine IV features advanced signal processing technology for rendering high-quality images and videos. The camera’s quick response makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities.
The Panasonic LUMIX TS10 features an easy-to-see, 2.7-inch 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD for comfortable viewing while both monitoring shots and playing back the results. The Intelligent LCD function detects the light condition and automatically boosts the LCD backlighting by 40% when shooting outdoors in bright sunshine, and adjusts the frame rate when shooting in low-lit situations. Detecting the lighting condition precisely and automatically controlling the brightness with a total of 11 fine steps, this function gives the display the most appropriate clarity in any situation without using extra energy. The High-Angle mode makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view when the camera is held high, such as when shooting over a crowd.
The Panasonic LUMIX TS10 will be available in blue, red, black and silver in mid-September for a suggested retail price of $249.95. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit: www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 When used according to Panasonic’s operating guidelines, waterproof to a depth of 10 feet and dustproof in accordance with “IPX8″ and “IP6X” ratings. Shockproof from a height up to 5 feet in accordance with the “MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock” test standard. All components including the lens unit are evaluated to endure the temperature as low as -10 degrees C to make the T10 freezeproof.

Press Release:

NEW PANASONIC LUMIX HYBRID DIGITAL CAMERA FEATURES INTUITIVE CONTROLS, HD VIDEO RECORDING AND SUPER 24X OPTICAL ZOOM WITH LEICA LENS

LUMIX FZ40 features improved HD movie recording with Creative Mode to shoot superb quality video

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 21, 2010) – Panasonic announced today the newest addition to its popular LUMIX FZ-Series digital cameras. The LUMIX DMC-FZ40, a feature-packed, hybrid digital camera, combines a powerful 24x optical zoom*1 and creative manual operations to offer photographers of all levels the opportunity to take crisp, artistic photos and High Definition (HD) videos. This 14.1-megapixel model features a 25mm ultra-wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens and a new image processing system which achieves high picture quality for both still images and videos. The LUMIX FZ40 joins the Panasonic LUMIX FZ100, also introduced today.

“Building on the versatility and depth of the FZ-Series, the LUMIX FZ40 provides outstanding and advanced creative hybrid camera capabilities and features to photographers – giving them increased flexibility and a wide-range of features,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “In the LUMIX FZ40, consumers will find easy-to-use features they would find in super-compact point-and-shoots, but with the added 24x optical zoom and improved manual controls.”

The LUMIX FZ40 features Intelligent Resolution technology which leads to optimum signal processing, giving images outstanding natural clarity, specifically focusing on the finer details. The Sonic Speed Auto Focus (AF) and high-speed start-up found on the FZ40 are at the industry’s fastest level, helping users to catch even the most fleeting photo opportunities.

The LUMIX FZ40 has upgraded intuitive manual and creative controls including the new jog dial which helps to elevate the camera’s operability. The jog dial is a focus button which allows users to change settings quickly including shutter speed and aperture, depending on the shooting conditions. Additionally, the new My Color mode which has been popular on LUMIX G Micro System cameras is available in both still and movie modes, and gives users creative freedom with a suite of options, including new Pin Hole, Film Grain, High Dynamic and High Dynamic B&W.

Panasonic’s hallmark Intelligent Auto (iA) mode automatically selects the most suitable Scene mode and remembers previously-registered faces. And the intuitive system also includes POWER Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.), featuring double the repression power compared to that of Panasonic’s previous image stabilization system, MEGA O.I.S. This system helps to eliminate blur resulting from hand-shake, a common problem when pressing the shutter button while taking photos or shooting video.

Users can now enjoy easy shooting of HD movies in AVCHD Lite with double the recording time in HD quality compared with the conventional Motion JPEG format. Additionally, a separate and dedicated button located on the top of the camera allows users to instantly begin recording in video mode – so switching between capturing still photos and video is quick and seamless.

Other features of the LUMIX FZ40 include a 3.0-inch 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD with 100% field of view, high energy efficiency which extends the battery life up to 580 shots (CIPA) per charge, and a new Video Divide function with which users can separate a video they’ve shot into two sections to shorten or delete any unwanted parts. Also, the LUMIX FZ40’s Wind Cut function blocks out noise from background wind when shooting in video mode.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ40 will be available in black in late-August for a suggested retail price of $399.95. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit: www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 Equivalent to 35mm camera: 25-600mm.

Press Release:

PANASONIC LUMIX LX5, THE ULTIMATE COMPACT HIGH-PERFORMING DIGITAL CAMERA AIMS FOR SUPERB PHOTO QUALITY, ESPECIALLY IN LOW-LIGHT ENVIRONMENTS

Panasonic LUMIX LX5 Features New High Sensitivity CCD and F2.0 Leica Lens for Shooting Stunning Photography and Vivid High Definition Videos

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 21, 2010) – Panasonic today announced the LUMIX DMC-LX5, the ultimate compact, high-performing digital camera offering photo enthusiasts the ideal camera for capturing professional-quality photos and High Definition (HD) video. With an ultra-bright F2.0 ultra-wide-angle 24mm LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens, the LUMIX LX5 minimizes image distortion, resulting in stunning, true-to-life images with outstanding resolution and detail. The 24mm wide angle lens offers extraordinarily large viewing space and now the optical zoom is extended to 3.8x(90mm) making the LX5 even more versatile.

“The Panasonic LUMIX LX-Series cameras have been extremely popular models for us with professional and enthusiast photographers, who understand and value the superb image quality such a compact, affordable digital camera can offer,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “We expect the same enthusiasm, if not more, for the LUMIX LX5, which features improvements to the lens and processing – resulting in even better images.”

The Panasonic LUMIX LX5 is a unique compact digital camera in that it offers superb image quality along with a super-bright lens and increased creative modes. The F2.0 lens is twice as bright as a F2.8 lens, making it easy to produce beautiful photos with a soft-focused background thanks to the shallow depth of field provided by the extra light. In addition to the newly-designed lens, the LUMIX LX5 features an image processing engine that combines technologies resulting in professional-quality photos, especially in low-light situations. Like its predecessor, the LUMIX LX5 features the highly-acclaimed 10.1-megapixel CCD, but it has an expanded dynamic range by increasing the sensitivity and the saturation.

The newly developed Venus Engine FHD image processor enables higher-speed, higher-performance while compiling the Intelligent Resolution technology. The triple CPUs in this imaging engine dramatically speeds up processing while achieving exceptional noise reduction performance. With its high-sensitivity CCD and the brightness of the lens, minimum illumination of the LUMIX LX5 is as low as 3 lux while shooting video.

In addition to capturing high-quality still photos, the LUMIX LX5 can record HD videos in AVCHD Lite, a format that allows almost doubling the recording time in HD quality compared with the conventional Motion JPEG format. Creative video shooting modes include Creative Movie mode, where users can set shutter speed and aperture manually to make even more impressive movies. My Color mode and Film mode are available for more extended expression not only in photography but also in videography. The LUMIX LX5 also features Dolby Digital Creator to record high quality audio and the 3.8x optical zoom is available while shooting video.

The LUMIX LX5 has also been redesigned externally – with a thicker grip making it easier to hold and a newly-incorporated turn-and-push jog dial achieves various selection and setting more quickly. The LUMIX LX5 also features a hot shoe, which allows for the attachment of a wide-variety of accessories, such as an optional Live View Finder which helps shooting under strong daylight with high visibility or an external flash. The 1:1 square format setting is added in the aspect ratio option which can be selected with the switch at the side of the lens barrel.

Other features of the Panasonic LUMIX LX5, include:
The 3.0-inch large 460,000-dot high resolution Intelligent LCD also redesigned by adopting High CRI (Color Rendering Index) backlight LED to greatly increase the color reproduction, making it more visible both in shooting and playing back images in any conditions from at dark night to under bright sunlight.
Battery life is extended to shoot 400 photos (CIPA) per a single charge.
A wide-variety of accessories, including a Live View Finder (DMW-LVF1), External Optical View Finder (DMW-VF1), Wide Conversion Lens (DMW-LWA52), Conversion Lens Adaptor (DMW-LA6), MC Protector (DMW-MC52), ND Filter (DMW-LND52), PL Filter: DMW-LPL52, External Flashes, Leather Case (DMW-CLX5) and a Battery Pack (DMW-BCJ13).
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX5 will be available in late-August 2010 for a suggested retail of $499.95 and will be available in black and white models.

Each gets 23-point autofocus, face tracking and optical image stabilization, together with an ISO range from 80 to 12,800 and 9-step, 2-axis white balance adjustment.  Up to 720p HD 30fps video can be recorded, complete with face detection, with various shooting modes for both still and movie use.

Storage is via SD/SDHC/SDXC card while ports include an NTSC AV-output, mini HDMI and USB 2.0.  Both can shoot 2.5fps for up to five consecutive shots, and there’s a 3-inch TFT LCD display together with a hot-shoe for an external flash or EVF.  No word on pricing at this stage.

[via iTechNewsNet]

As with the Panasonic G1, the DMC-G2 is a Micro Four Thirds camera.  However it’s also the first such model to include a flip-out, articulated touchscreen preview display.  The 3.0-inch 460,000-dot LCD can be used to set autofocus simply by tapping, as well as for other settings, while the camera itself can record 1280 x 720 HD videos in AVCHD Lite format.

Meanwhile the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G10 is intended as an entry-level Micro Four Thirds shooter with 720p HD video recording and an iA (Intelligent Auto) mode – with dedicated button – that automatically adjusts the settings to suit the current conditions.  Both the LUMIX G2 and LUMIX G10 will come equipped with the LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens, and each will go on sale in late May 2010.

Press Release:

Panasonic Announces Pricing For New LUMIX G Series Digital Single Lens Micro Four Thirds Cameras

Panasonic LUMIX G2 and LUMIX G10 digital cameras available in late-May 2010

Panasonic today announces pricing for the Panasonic LUMIX G2 and LUMIX G10 – the latest additions to the company’s award-winning LUMIX G Series Digital Singles Lens (DSL) Micro Four Thirds cameras. Both available in late-May 2010, the LUMIX G2, which will come in red, blue and black models, will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $799.95, while the LUMIX G10 will have an SRP of $599.95.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G2 is the world’s first* digital interchangeable lens system camera with a movable LCD that allows for touch-control, and the successor to the award-winning and revolutionary LUMIX G1, which was the world’s first DSL Micro Four Thirds digital camera. The intuitive touch-control shooting elevates the camera’s operability, letting the user adjust auto focus (AF) simply by touching the subject on the large 3.0-inch 460,000-dot high-resolution LCD. The LUMIX G2 also shoots 720p High Definition video using the AVCHD Lite format.

With the touch-screen operation, users can even snap a photo by touching the LUMIX G2’s screen. Additionally, the touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting but also during playback. Users can touch one thumbnail viewed among many to quickly and easily see the full size of the desired photo. Also, to view images one-by-one, photos can be dragged across the screen to browse as though flipping the pages of a book. Once a user locks onto a subject, the LUMIX G2 enables AF Tracking and will track the subject as it moves within the frame. Then, with a touch on the screen, users can select the part and the size of AF area with the 1-area AF. The Multi-area AF sets a group of AF points according to the composition. With touch operation, menu settings can be changed quickly; cutting the time it takes to navigate using standard cursors. However, all setting changes can still be made using the control pad, if preferred.

The LUMIX G2 records 1280 x 720 HD videos in the AVCHD Lite format, which increases recording capacity and is highly compatible with audio-visual equipment. With a dedicated video record button, users can easily start recording a video. To complement its high-quality video capabilities, the LUMIX G2 features advanced audio options, as sound is recorded with Dolby Digital Creator and an optional accessory stereo microphone can be attached. A Wind Cut function further enhances the sound as it helps reduce noise caused from background wind.

For entry-level users wanting to step-up to a digital interchangeable lens camera, the LUMIX DMC-G10 is an affordable, high-performing and compact option. The LUMIX DMC-G10 is the world’s lightest* digital interchangeable lens camera with a viewfinder, which packs a host of advanced digital camera functions designed to be easy-to-use for users new to system cameras. The new compact and portable LUMIX G10, can also record 720p HD video in JPEG, QVGA, VGA and WVGA formats. Users can enjoy recording HD videos while taking advantage of the high-quality lens and the flexibility to change to other lenses.

The LUMIX G10, with its incredible compact body and portable design, uses a mirrorless structure as part the Micro Four Thirds System standard, eliminating a number of components that are found in a conventional interchangeable lens camera, including the mirror box and optical viewfinder unit. Also, Panasonic designed the LUMIX G10 to be easy to use and offers iA (Intelligent Auto) – an easy shooting mode with automatic optimization according to the scene in either photo and video recording. This feature is helpful to beginner users unfamiliar with an interchangeable lens system camera, as the settings engage automatically. With the new dedicated iA button, which illuminates in blue when engaged, activating this mode is even easier.

Both the LUMIX G2 and LUMIX G10 will come equipped with the LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens. The new lens offers a versatile zoom range of 14-42mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-84mm), making it suitable for shooting a wide-range of scenes, from dynamic landscape to portrait. Furthermore, both models are compatible with all LUMIX G-Series DSL Micro Four Thirds system lenses, allowing users even higher levels of performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX DMC-G10 and LUMIX DMC-G2 DSL Micro Four Thirds digital cameras can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds standard via an optional mount adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R Lenses via DMW-MA2M or MA3R.

There’s also 720p HD video recording in AVCHD Lite format, along with 3-inch rear LCD with 460K dot resolution and Live View.  No word on pricing – the black original came in at $900 when it first went on sale last September – but Japanese buyers will be able to pick up the new micro four thirds cameras from March 12th 2010.

It’s capable of submersion in up to 10m of water, withstanding 2m drops and -10 degree centigrade temperatures, as well as boasting dust resistance.  The 2.7-inch LCD display gets a 1.3x thicker cover than the last-gen TS1.

As for the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-ZS7, that has a 12.1-megapixel sensor and 12x optical zoom, along with GPS geotagging and super-speedy autofocus/shutter-release.  Panasonic have also preloaded it with over 500,000 landmarks, which can be added to image metadata if nearby.  It and the LUMIX DMC-ZR3 – which measures 1-inch thick but has an 8x optical zoom and HD video capture – both get the somewhat bizarre “Happy Mode”, which automatically tweaks color, saturation and brightness so that photos and video look “more vivid”.  Think of it as the photography version of Xanax.

No prices or release dates for any of the three new models.

Press Release:

PANASONIC’S RUGGED DIGITAL CAMERA GETS TOUGHER – WATERPROOF TO 33 FEET, FREEZEPROOF, SHOCKPROOF*1 – WITH THE ABILITY TO RECORD HIGH DEFINITION VIDEO

New Panasonic LUMIX TS2 Features a Rugged Design, Allowing for Extreme Outdoor Use, Yet Still Easy to Use to Capture High Quality Photos

Secaucus, NJ (January 26, 2010) – Panasonic today introduced the new LUMIX DMC-TS2, a successor to the company’s first rugged digital camera designed for active outdoor use, the LUMIX DMC-TS1. Featuring High Definition video recording capability, in the AVCHD Lite format, the new 14.1-megapixel LUMIX TS2 further strengthens its toughness when compared to its predecessor and is waterproof to 33 feet (10m), shockproof to 10 feet (2m), freezeproof to 14° F (-10° C) and dustproof*1.

“We have been very pleased to see that consumers found true value in Panasonic’s first rugged digital camera, knowing that they could take it on their outdoor adventures where it could withstand drops, water and dust. But even more, we saw that users enjoyed our LUMIX TS1 for their daily photo needs – they were able to take high-quality video and photo without worrying if they casually tossed it in their bag or used it in the rain,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The new LUMIX TS2 gets tougher and we expect it to be a key product in 2010, as its rugged features are becoming even more desirable for active users, especially with this year’s new freezeproof capabilities. Families will enjoy this digital camera, both for their own outdoor activities, vacations, but also so they can allow children to take photos without the anxiety they might otherwise feel of damage.”

With its enhanced toughness, The LUMIX TS2 features an airtight body protected against water immersion, dust and sand. The new model is waterproof to a depth of 33 feet and dustproof, which can be attributed to its rubber padding and reinforced glass and carbon inside the camera. Furthermore, the LUMIX TS2′s cover panel for the LCD is thickened by 1.3x compared to the predecessor LUMIX TS1 to withstand increased pressure underwater. The LUMIX TS2 is shockproof, encased with shock-resistant material, and its folded optics design protects its lens when dropped during operation. Furthermore, the lens unit is protected by a supplementary damper to absorb the force from shock impact. Also, all components including the lens unit, have been tested to endure temperatures as low as14°F (-10°C). For increased durability, the Panasonic LUMIX TS2 will come with an optional silicon jacket that helps protect its exterior from scratches.

The Panasonic LUMIX TS2 features Sonic Speed AF (Auto Focus), which enables a super-fast response time, and a shutter release time lag as short as approximately 0.005 second. With the camera’s quick response, it is easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities. Combining that with the Sonic Speed AF (Auto Focus) that lets users lock on the subject in approximately 0.24 second(wide-end) / 0.28 second (tele-end)*2 and the short startup time of approximately 1.1 second.

The Panasonic LUMIX TS2 features new image processing technology, Intelligent Resolution, which is incorporated in its Venus Engine HD II. With Intelligent Resolution technology, three areas – outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation – are examined pixel by pixel and automatically detected to enhance any degradation created during the digital zoom process or in high-sensitivity shooting, when details in an image tend to get lost in the noise reduction process. The outline areas are enhanced effectively to give the edges more clarity, while simultaneously giving a moderate accent to the textured areas so it looks accurately detailed. To the soft gradation area, such as a face, the increased noise reduction system of the Venus Engine HD II is applied to make it smoother. As a result of Intelligent Resolution, images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and video recording. The Intelligent Resolution technology powers Panasonic’s new Intelligent Zoom feature, which extends the camera’s zoom ratio by approximately 1.3x while maintaining the picture quality – and enhancing the digital zoom and making it comparable to the quality of an optical zoom. Thus, with Intelligent Zoom, the Panasonic TS2 features a total zoom up to 6x.

The LUMIX TS2 features a 28mm wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO ELMAR lens that extends to a 4.6x optical zoom, giving consumers great shooting range. The wide-angle lens provides flexibility for all shooting scenarios, especially useful underwater where movement is often restricted and the shooting angle becomes important for composing shots. The LUMIX TS2 features a 2.7-inch, 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD with a wide-viewing angle that ensures high visibility during recording and playback, thanks to its automatic brightness control depending on the lighting conditions. Also, the LUMIX TS2 features a built-in LED light, which is extremely convenient when shooting in dark situations, such as underwater.

The LUMIX TS2 can record HD video in Motion JPEG and AVCHD Lite– with the latter format almost doubling the recording time in HD quality compared with the Motion JPEG format. To complement the HD video capabilities, the Panasonic LUMIX TS2 features Dolby Digital Stereo Creator, which enables high quality audio.

The Panasonic LUMIX TS2 features iA (Intelligent Auto) modem, a popular feature on LUMIX digital cameras, making them intuitive to use without changing any settings, as the technologies engage automatically. For instance, iA incorporates Panasonic’s POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), which doubles the repression power compared to the conventional image stabilization system, MEGA O.I.S.

Other technologies incorporated into the LUMIX TS2’s iA mode include:
Face Recognition – With new enhancements when compared to previous editions, Face Recognition allows users to register up to three different images for a person, helping to improve detection accuracy. Face detection is also included for up to 15 faces.
Intelligent Scene Selector – Automatically selects whichever of 6 Scene Modes – Macro, Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait, Night Scenery and newly added Sunset – best suits the shooting situation.
Other iA Technologies: Intelligent Resolution and Intelligent Zoom, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control and Intelligent Exposure.

Panasonic’s iA is also available in video mode, and it automatically selects the most suitable Scene mode and helps to reduce blur due to handshake and improves focus, brightness and exposure. In addition, iA in video mode features Intelligent Scene Selector, which automatically switches between Normal, Portrait, Macro, Scenery, and Low Light modes according to the shooting environment.

Other features of the Panasonic LUMIX TS2 include:
Happy Mode – New Scene mode that optimizes color, saturation and brightness to make both photo and video more vivid and true to the color the users remember when they took it.
High Dynamic – New mode is newly added to the existing Scene modes. This mode helps to capture a scene with moderate exposure, even though the scene contains both bright and dark area together. The user can select one of three options, Standard, Art, or B/W, depending on the desired effect and personal taste to make the photo look natural to artistic.
Compatibility – Compatible with SDXC Memory Cards, including Panasonic’s newly announced 64 GB*3 and 48 GB SDXC Memory Cards – to enable high capacity content storage and fast data transfer speeds. Also compatible with Windows 7*4.
Video Divide – Users can divide video into two sections to shorten or delete the unwanted clips directly on the camera. Users can also grab a still image from a video – all within the menus on the camera.
Battery Life – Can take up to 360 images on a single battery charge*5.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic LUMIX TS2 will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. The Panasonic LUMIX TS2 will be available in silver, blue, orange and yellow.

*1 When used according to Panasonic’s operating guidelines, waterproof to a depth of 10m and dustproof in accordance with IEC60529 standard. Shockproof from a height up to 2.0m in accordance with the “MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock” test standard. All components including the lens unit are evaluated to endure the temperature as low as -10 degrees C to make the TS2 freezeproof.
*2 Using 1-area AF.
*3 1GB = 1,073,741,824 bytes. Usable capacity will be less. SDXC Memory Cards can only be used in SDXC host devices, which support the SDXC Memory Card.
*4 Windows and the Windows logo are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
*5 Based on the CIPA standard.

* Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
*Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.
*The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lenses are manufactured using measurement instruments and quality assurance systems that have been certified by Leica Camera AG based on the company’s quality standards.
*The “AVCHD Lite” and the “AVCHD Lite” logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.
* AVCHD Lite motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD disc cannot be played from a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.
*Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

Press Release:

PANASONIC UNVEILS THE WORLD’S SMALLEST PHOTO/VIDEO HYBRID SUPERZOOM DIGITAL CAMERA*1 COMPLETE WITH A 25MM WIDE-ANGLE LEICA LENS AND POWERFUL 12X OPTICAL ZOOM

With New Built-In GPS Feature, Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 Digital Camera is Ultimate Travel Companion, Allowing Users to Geo-Tag Photos and Videos

Secaucus, NJ (January 26, 2010) – Panasonic today introduces the LUMIX DMC-ZS7, the newest member of the acclaimed superzoom ZS-Series of digital cameras that have gained worldwide popularity. Complete with its hallmark 25mm ultra-wide-angle Leica lens and a powerful 12x optical zoom (operable in video recording mode), this 12.1-megapixel powerhouse performer, also includes a new built-in GPS (Global Positioning System) feature that embeds photos and videos with the latitude and longitude location details, a useful feature when using an online photo-sharing website. The LUMIX ZS7 is also the world’s smallest photo/video hybrid superzoom digital camera*1, which can also record High Definition (HD) video using the recording capability in AVCHD Lite, which includes a dedicated video record button and new to the ZS-Series is a manual shooting mode.

“As a successor to the Panasonic LUMIX ZS3, which was last year’s most popular compact model, we are confident the Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 will continue the success, thanks to big features like HD video, 12x optical zoom and the newly added GPS capabilities and it’s super-fast Auto Focusing,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Panasonic is excited to introduce our first GPS-enabled digital camera, and it adds to the ZS7’s appeal as the ultimate travel companion – from its range of shooting options, both far and wide, and now the ability to record exactly where photos were taken. We are confident consumers will have all the features they need to capture high quality photos and video and share their travels with their friends and family.”

The Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 features Sonic Speed AF (Auto Focus), which enables a super-fast response time, and a shutter release time lag as short as approximately 0.006 second. The camera’s quick response makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities and together with the Sonic Speed AF that lets users lock on the subject minimum in approximately 0.35 second (wide-end) / 0.41 second (tele-end)*3. The LUMIX ZS7 also features a short startup time of approximately 1.1 second.

With the new GPS feature, the Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 is the ultimate travel companion, and can record the latitude and longitude in the EXIF (Exchangeable Image File Format) data, while also displaying the location information real-time while shooting and during playback. These geo-tagged images can be pinpointed on maps common in photo-sharing websites and social media sites – so travels can be archived and also visually represented on a map – and easily shared with friends and family. The Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 also shows the name of the city, country and state, and information for more than 500,000 popular landmarks, covering 73 countries, are stored in the camera’s internal memory. For instance, when users are taking photos of the Eiffel Tower or Empire State Building, landmarks stored within the camera, these locations will be displayed on the screen while taking it and tagged in the data. Users can also refer to the locations using the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO HD Edition Version 5.1. The LUMIX ZS7 automatically adjusts its internal clock to the local time, so there’s no need to set the clock manually when traveling.

The Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 also features a new image processing technology, Intelligent Resolution, which is incorporated in its Venus Engine HD. With the Intelligent Resolution technology, three areas – outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation – are examined pixel by pixel and automatically detected to enhance any degradation created during the digital zoom process or in high-sensitivity shooting. The outline areas are enhanced effectively to give the edges more clarity, while simultaneously giving a moderate accent to the textured areas so it looks accurately detailed. To the soft gradation area, such as a face, the increased noise reduction system of the Venus Engine HD II is applied to make it smoother. As a result of Intelligent Resolution, images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and video recording. The Intelligent Resolution technology powers Panasonic’s new Intelligent Zoom feature, which extends the camera’s zoom ratio by approximately 1.3x while maintaining the picture quality – and enhancing the digital zoom and making it comparable to the quality of an optical zoom. With Intelligent Zoom, the Panasonic ZS7 features a total zoom range up to16x.

For more advanced users, the Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 adds manual control features, allowing for adjustments in shutter speed, aperture and exposure – and encouraging more creative photography options. For digital camera users looking for an easy-to-use setting that still ensures high quality photos, Panasonic’s iA (Intelligent Auto) mode is the solution. Panasonic iA is a popular feature on LUMIX digital cameras, making them intuitive to use without changing any settings, as technologies engage automatically. For instance, iA incorporates Panasonic’s POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), which doubles the repression power compared to the conventional image stabilization system, MEGA O.I.S.

Other technologies incorporated into the LUMIX ZS7’s iA mode include:
Face Recognition – With new enhancements when compared to previous editions, Face Recognition allows users to register up to three different images for a person, helping to improve detection accuracy. Face detection is also included for up to 15 faces.
Intelligent Scene Selector – Automatically selects whichever of 6 Scene Modes – Macro, Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait, Night Scenery and newly added Sunset – best suits the shooting situation.
Other iA Technologies: Intelligent Resolution and Intelligent Zoom, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control and Intelligent Exposure.

Panasonic’s iA is also available in video mode, and it automatically selects the most suitable Scene mode and helps to reduce blur due to handshake and improves focus, brightness and exposure. In addition, iA in video mode features Intelligent Scene Selector, which automatically switches between Normal, Portrait, Macro, Scenery, and Low Light modes according to the shooting environment.

The LUMIX ZS7 can record AVCHD Lite HD video, which almost doubles the recording time in HD quality compared with the Motion JPEG format. To complement the HD video capabilities, the Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 also features Dolby Digital Stereo Creator to record high quality audio. Also, the Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 has a 3.0”, high resolution 460,000-dot Intelligent LCD with a wide-viewing angle with excellent visibility during recording and playback.

Other features of the Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 include:
Happy Mode – New Scene mode that optimizes color, saturation and brightness to make both photo and video more vivid and true to the color the users remember when they took it.
High Dynamic – Newly added to the existing Scene modes. This mode helps to capture a scene with moderate exposure, even though the scene contains both bright and dark area together. The user can select one of three options, Standard, Art, or B/W, depending on the desired effect and personal taste to make the photo look natural to artistic.
Compatibility – Compatible with SDXC Memory Cards, including Panasonic’s newly announced 64 GB*3 and 48 GB SDXC Memory Cards – to enable high capacity content storage and fast data transfer speeds. Also compatible with Windows 7*4.
Video Divide – Users can divide video into two sections to shorten or delete the unwanted clips directly on the camera. Users can also grab a still image from a video – all within the menus on the camera.
Battery Life – Can take up to 340 images on a single battery charge*5.

Panasonic also introduces the LUMIX DMC-ZS5, which like the LUMIX ZS7, features a 25mm ultra-wide angle Leica lens, 12x optical zoom and manual controls. Distinguishing it from the LUMIX ZS7, the LUMIX ZS5, has a 2.7-inch, 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD, records HD video in Motion JPG at 30fps, and has a high performance Venus Engine VI. Battery life on the LUMIX ZS5 has approximately 330 photos and does not include GPS capabilities.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 and LUMIX ZS5 will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. The Panasonic LUMIX ZS7 will be available in silver, black, red and blue models; while the Panasonic LUMIX ZS5 will be available in black and silver.

*1 Superzoom defined as digital camera with a 10x optical zoom and greater; single lens digital camera as of January 26, 2010.
*2 Using 1-area AF.
*31 GB = 1,073,741,824 bytes. Usable capacity will be less. SDXC Memory Cards can only be used in SDXC host devices, which support the SDXC Memory Card.
*4 Windows and the Windows logo are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
*5 Based on the CIPA standard.

Press Release:

PANASONIC INTRODUCES SUPER COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA FEATURING AVCHD LITE HD VIDEO RECORDING CAPABILITY

Panasonic LUMIX ZR3 includes 25mm ultra-wide-angle Leica lens and powerful 8x optical zoom in a slim and portable body

SECAUCUS, NJ (January 26, 2010) – Panasonic today announced the introduction of the LUMIX DMC-ZR3, a fully-featured digital camera complete with AVCHD Lite High Defintion (HD) video recording capabilities, a25mm ultra-wide-angle Leica lens and a powerful 8x optical zoom – giving consumers a wide-range of shooting options, yet in a slim body that is small enough to fit in a pocket or small purse. New to the ZR-Series this year, Panasonic also introduces Intelligent Zoom, which extends the LUMIX ZR3’s zoom to an impressive 10x.

The Panasonic LUMIX ZR3’s incredible 8x optical zoom is not found on many conventional point-and-shoot cameras, especially ones that are approximately 1-inch thick. With a powerful zoom, users will be thrilled with the close-up shots they are able to take. And for an added boost, zoom power can be increased to 10x with Panasonic’s new Intelligent Zoom function, which takes advantage of the newly-added Intelligent Resolution technology. Intelligent Resolution, a component of Intelligent Auto mode, helps to maintain optimal picture quality by capturing higher quality signal processing and through the detection of three areas – outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation – examining them pixel by pixel to enhance any degradation created during the digital zoom process or in high-sensitivity shooting. As a result of Intelligent Resolution, images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and video recording.

“The 2010 Panasonic LUMIX lineup of digital cameras pack advanced functions into smaller, more compact bodies without compromising the ability to take high quality photos and video,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronic Company. “With a remarkable 8x optical zoom power, sleek design, HD video capabilities, the LUMIX ZR3 is a compact and versatile camera that is also extremely easy and intuitive to use.”

The LUMIX ZR3 takes video recording to the next level with its AVCHD Lite HD video format. Featuring double the recording time in HD quality compared to the conventional Motion JPEG format, and offering Dolby Digital Stereo Creator to record high-quality audio, the LUMIX ZR3 is perfect for capturing those spur-of-the-moment video opportunities in high-quality. With the newly-added Video Divide function, users can cut their video into two sections on the spot – within the menus of the camera – to shorten or delete the unwanted half.

Continuing with the trademark iA mode, Panasonic has incorporated this intuitive and innovative feature into the LUMIX ZR3. Working to enhance the potential of all photos and videos, iA mode automatically selects the best Scene mode, and also helps to correct handshake and any focus or brightness issues.

Other technologies incorporated into the LUMIX ZR3’s iA mode include:
• Face Recognition – Allows users to register various faces, helping to improve detection accuracy of friends and family.
• Happy Mode – New color mode that optimizes color, saturation and brightness, to make both photos and videos more vivid and true to the color originally experienced.
• Other iA Technologies – Intelligent Resolution and Intelligent Zoom, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control and Intelligent Exposure.

The LUMIX ZR3 features a super-fast AF (Auto Focus) speed of 0.26 second (wide-end) / 0.31 second (tele-end)*1. This combined with a high-speed start-up of just 1.1 second, gives the LUMIX ZR3 an ultra-fast response that helps to catch even the most fleeting photo opportunities. Additionally, the 2.7-inch large Intelligent LCD screen offers a dynamic, clear view and automatically adjusts its own brightness level. Also, the LUMIX ZR3 accepts the SD/SDHC Memory Card, but is also compatible with the next-generation SDXC Memory Cards, which feature a high-potential in both capacity and data-transfer speed.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic LUMIX ZR3 will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. The Panasonic LUMIX ZR3 will be available in silver, black, red and blue. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 Using 1-area AF.

*The “AVCHD” is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation. The “AVCHD Lite” is a subset of the “AVCHD format” for HD digital video cameras with HD video recording restricted to 720P. The new “AVCHD Lite” Logo and the “AVCHD Lite” License are restricted to devices within the AVCHD Video Camera category. Digital cameras have been added to the AVCHD Video Camera category.
*The “AVCHD Lite” and the “AVCHD Lite” logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.
*SD Speed Class is the speed standard regarding continuous writing.
*Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.
*The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lenses are manufactured using measurement instruments and quality assurance systems that have been certified by Leica Camera AG based on the company’s quality standards.
*Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
*Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

The micro four thirds systems means that lenses for the camera are interchangeable. Other features of the GF1 include the ability to record HD video in 720p resolution in AVCHD Lite format. The camera also supports lesser video resolutions as well. The camera features a wealth of different modes for artistic photos including a new My Color mode that offers seven different preset effects.

The GF1 has a 3-inch rear LCD with 460K dot resolution and Live View. The camera’s sensor is 12-megapixels and it uses an autofocus system that is very fast. A dust removal system is integrated into the camera to keep image quality at optimum levels. Panasonic will ship the camera in October for $899.95 in two kits.

One kit will include a Lumix G 20mm/F1.7 ASPH pancake lens and the other kit will have a Lumix G Vario 14-45mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA OIS lens. Other lenses will be offered at prices ranging from $199.95 to $249.95.

There also seems to be a slot for an external viewfinder (EVF) just below the hot-shoe on top of the camera.  Rumored specifications include a 13.1-megapixel sensor, with 720p 30fps HD video recording and up to 1/4000s shutter speed.  The LCD is tipped to be 3-inches and 460k pixels.

Dimensions – again rumored – are tipped as 119 x 71 x 36.3 mm and the whole thing is said to be 285g.  Of course, these could all turn out to be inaccurate by the time the Lumix GF1 actually arrives on the market.

[via T3]

The LUMIX ZR1 uses what Panasonic are calling the world’s first 0.3mm thin aspherical lens, which basically means it can offer a decent optical zoom without ending up huge.  Meanwhile the LUMIX FZ35 has an HD video recording mode with adjustable shutter speed and aperture.

The Panasonic LUMIX FZ35 “superzoom” will be priced at $399.99, the LUMIX ZR1 at $279.95 and the LUMIX FP8 at $299.95.  All three models will hit the market in September 2009. 

The kit includes a 14-140mm, f4.0-5.8 lens. The officially released price confirms the pricing posted on the J&R website yesterday. You can expect to get your hands on this camera starting in June in the U.S. The only color option will be black, however, even though red and gold are available in Japan.

The Lumix GH1 features the ability to record 1080p/24p HD videos, 60fps video at a 720p resolution, continuous autofocusing and more. The silent motor also cuts down on annoying mechanical sounds. As a Micro Four Thirds camera, the GH1 is smaller than a traditional DSLRs since it lacks an internal mirror.

The housing of Panasonic DMC-TS1 is not the typical rubber outfit for a waterproof camera. It features heavy-duty hulking brushed metal chassis that is slim enough for your pocket. What most impressive about this camera is its the first rugged camera capable of recording AVCHD Lite in 720p mode with 4.6x zoom optics at 28-129mm (35mm equiv).

Impenetrable by dust, built to withstand 5-feet drop, waterproof up to 10-feet, and able to work in a freezing climate as low as -10 degree, the Lumix is practically an “strong as tank camera”. The 12MP DMC-TS1 ruggedized Lumix will be available in silver, green and bright orange for $399 this April.

For $150 less, they take away the rugged armored casing, widest edge optics at 29mm and restrict video at 848×480 resolution without the AVCHD lite feature; but there more than handfuls of advanced photography features to improve your captures. The new addition of the FS lineup now includes AF tracking and Intelligent Exposure Auto Mode (iA) in addition to the standard Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Face Detection.

The DMC-FS25 will be available in silver, black and gold for a suggested retail price of $249.95 and like the rest of the Panasonic’s rollout, it will be available in April 2009.

Panasonic LUMIX FS25

• 12.1 effective Megapixel CCD
• F3.3-5.9, 5X optical zoom lens, equivalent to 29 – 145 mm
• Optical image stabilization
• ISO sensitivity – 80-6400
• 3-inch LCD display with 230,000 pixels
• Venus Engine IV processor
• Intelligent Auto mode (the standard version)
• Records movies at 848 x 480 (30 fps) with sound
• 50MB onboard memory + SD/SDHC/MMC slot
• Uses proprietary li-ion battery; 330 shots per charge
• Macro Zoom function lets users pull subjects even closer to capture dramatic close-up shots by using the 3x digital zoom in the wide-angle.
• Dynamic tracking function may fail to lock, lose the subject in AF Tracking, or track different subject depending on the recording conditions

[via imaging-resources]

The AVCD Lite video feature increases recoding capacity in HD 720p format and boosts Dolby Stereo high quality audio. Unlike most digicams at its size, both units have a built-in stereo microphone, as feature in a dedicate camcorder, but most impressive of all features is its noise reduction feature to block out background wind buzz and enabling audio sampling at 48khz.

The Panasonic ZS3 boosts 12.1MP image sensor, 3-inch LCD screen, Optical Image Stabilizer, advanced Face Recognition and a 12x optical zoom lens of 25-300mm (35mm equiv.). Its superior optics features a high-quality LEICA DC VARIO ELMAR series zoom lens, constructed from 2 ED lenses, 2 aspherical lenses with 3 aspherical surfaces and a total of 10 optics elements in 8 groups design. Panasonic also packs a step-down ZS1 a smaller 10Mp image sensor, smaller LCD at 2.7-inch, similar big lens but only capable of capturing motion video up to 848×480 resolution without the AVCD Lite video feature.

The TS1, on the other hand, is a rugged version of Lumix with shockproof, waterproof and dustproof digital camera, built to withstand water to a depth of 10 feet, falls from up to 5 feet while operating in freezing cool temperature of -10 degrees Celsius. The rugged Lumix offers most of the advance features like the ZS3, including the same image sensor of 12.1MP, but a smaller 2.7-inch LCD screen and a 4.6x Leica DC Vario-Elmar optical zoom lens at 28-128mm (35mm Equiv).

Both will be available from April at the suggested retail of $399.

DMC-ZS3

• Sensor – 10.1 megapixel (effective), 1/2.33″ CCD (ZS3); 10.1 megapixel (effective), 1/2.5″ CCD (ZS1)
• Lens/Zoom – 12x (25-300mm) Leica DC Vario-Elmar, f/3.3-6.3
• LCD/Viewfinder – 3.0″, 460K-dot TFT LCD (ZS3); 2.7″, 230K-dot TFT LCD (ZS1)
• Sensitivity – ISO 80-1600 (High Sensitivity mode to ISO 6400)
• Shutter Speed – 8-1/2000 seconds
• Shooting Modes – Intelligent Auto, Normal Picture, My Scene 1, My Scene 2, Scene, Clipboard, Motion Picture
• Scene Presets – Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Panorama Assist, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Food, Party, Candle Light, Baby 1, Baby 2, Pet, Sunset, High Sensitivity, Hi-Speed Burst (Image Priority / Speed Priority), Flash Burst, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial photo, Pinhole, Film Grain, Underwater
• White Balance Settings – Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Halogen, User Set
• Metering Modes – Intelligent Multi, Center-Weighted, Spot
• Focus Modes Face, AF Tracking, Multi, One Point High Speed, One Point
• Drive Modes – Normal, Burst, Self Timer
• Flash Modes – Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced Off
• Self Timer Settings- 10 seconds, 2 seconds, Off
• Memory Formats – SD, SDHC
• Internal Memory- 40 MB
• File Formats – JPEG, AVCHD Lite (ZS3), Motion JPEG
• Max. Image Size – 3648×2736
• Max. Video Size- 1280×720, 30 fps (ZS3); 848×480, 30 fps (ZS1)
• Zoom During Video – Yes
• Battery – Rechargeable 895 mAh lithium-ion
• Connections – USB 2.0, AV output, HDMI, DC input
• Additional Features – Mega O.I.S., iA Intelligent Auto mode, Intelligent ISO, Venus Engine HD processing, AF Tracking, face detection, Face Recognition, Intelligent Exposure

DMC- TS1

• Sensor- 12.1 megapixel (effective), 1/2.33″ CCD
• Lens/Zoom – 4.6x (28-128mm) Leica DC Vario-Elmar, f/3.3-5.9
• LCD/Viewfinder – 2.7″, 230K-dot TFT LCD
• Sensitivity – ISO 80-1600 (High Sensitivity mode to ISO 6400)
• Shutter Speed – 8-1/2000 seconds
• Shooting Modes – Intelligent Auto, Normal Picture, Scene, Beach and Surf, Snow, Sports, Clipboard, Motion Picture
• Scene Presets – Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Panorama Assist, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Food, Party, Candle Light, Baby 1, Baby 2, Pet, Sunset, High Sensitivity, Hi-Speed Burst (Image Priority / Speed Priority), Flash Burst, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial photo, Pinhole, Film Grain, Underwater
  White Balance Settings -Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Halogen, User Set
• Metering Modes – Intelligent Multi
• Focus Modes Face, AF Tracking, Multi, One Point, One Point High Speed
• Drive Modes – Normal, Burst, Self Timer
• Flash Modes – Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced Off
• Self Timer Settings- 10 seconds, 2 seconds, Off
• Memory Formats – SD, SDHC
• Internal Memory- 40 MB
• File Formats – JPEG, Motion JPEG, AVCHD Lite
• Max. Image Size – 4000×3000
• Max. Video Size- 1280×720, 30 fps
• Zoom During Video – Not Specified
• Battery – Rechargeable 940 mAh lithium-ion, 350 shots
• Connections – USB 2.0, AV output, DC input
• Additional Features – Mega O.I.S., iA Intelligent Auto mode, Intelligent ISO, Venus Engine HD processing, AF Tracking, face detection, Face Recognition, Intelligent Exposure

[via dpreview, DMC-FT1, DMC-TZ-ZS3]

[via imageresources]

The new Lumix is packed with an 8.1 MP sensor and 2.5-inch LCD screen with 230k dot resolution. Optical distance has been increased to 4x, enabling a zoom range coverage of 33-132mm (35mm equiv.), with a fast and bright Lumix DC Vario lens at F2.8 – a superior optic constructed with 6 elements in 5 groups lens structure, which includes 3 aspherical lenses and 4 aspherical sufaces to eliminate image distortions. For movies, the DMC-LS85 can record motion pictures at 848 x 480 and 640×480 resolution at 30fps.

Despite its class as an entry-level model, the camera is loaded with many advanced features such as the MEGA O.I.S and Intelligent ISO Control, both work in conjunction to battle motion blurs; an automate Face Detection technology up to 15-face recognition simultaneously; and an Intelligent Scene Selector to automatically sets the appropriate scene mode according to user setting.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS85 will ship from April 2009, with an estimated retail pricing of $120.

[via imageresource]