Prosumer / Medium, TheNerds.net Digital Cameras

Description:

Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FZ8 digital camera features a powerful 12x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 36-432mm on a 35mm film camera) with f/2.8 brightness. While the DMC-FZ8 boasts the same high 12x zooming power, it also enhances mobility with its compactness and easy joystick operation.The Venus Engine III image processing engine gives it even higher image quality and speedier processing. The FZ8 also incorporates the Intelligent Image Stabilization system, which Panasonic is including in other Lumix cameras being introduced simultaneously with the FZ8.Effective resolution has been increased to 7.2 megapixels, which supports the FZ8's enhanced functions. For example, Panasonic's Extra Optical Zoom function provides additional magnification - to 18x when taking photos with 3-megapixel resolution. The resolution of the LCD has also been increased to 207, 000 pixels, and the larger, 0.44-inch EVF (electronic viewfinder) has a resolution of 188, 000 pixels, making it easy to see both when monitoring and playing back images.Other features that improve usability and convenience include enhanced operation with a multi-purpose joystick, which further simplifies exposure compensation. Frequently used functions, such as light metering, AF (auto focus) mode, ISO setting, and white balance adjustment, are quickly and easily handled with the Quick Setting function. The position of the AF area can be selected among the 11 positions in the single point mode, the multi-point mode and the spot mode. When manually focusing, the focus area is automatically magnified and movable for greater control. White balance can be adjusted on two axes to better express the photographer's intended coloring.