Leica V-Lux 30 compact digital camera debuts

When it comes to attractive point and shoot digital cameras that have fantastic photo quality and large price tags the Leica name is right up at the top of the wish list for many fans of photography. The little Leica digital cameras tend to be retro designed and look as good as they perform. Leica has a new digital camera that is being unveiled called the V-Lux 30 and the little camera is perfect for shooting in just about any situation.

The camera has a 16x zoom lens and integrated GPS functionality. It also has a new 3D mode for shooting images, but the key feature is the new video recording mode. The quality is promised to be comparable to what you get from a normal digital camcorder. The video mode records in 1080i AVCHD format. The recording capability can use the entire 16x zoom range the camera offers and a stereo microphone is built-in as well.

The mic has an electronic filter that eliminates wind noise for clearer sound. The integrated GPS capability allows for the tagging of photos. The camera also has a POI database that allows the camera to help people on a trip find interesting things to do. The rear LCD is 3-inches wide and for the first time on the Leica brand the screen is touch sensitive and allows features to be controlled using the screen. The V-Lux 30 camera will ship in June for $749.