Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ-30

The Panasonic FZ30 follows on from the remarkably popular FZ20, it continues that camera's standard of providing SLR-like features and body design with a big zoom and image stabilization. Primary changes are more megapixels, a mechanically linked zoom ring, a higher resolution flip-down and twist LCD monitor, RAW capture, longer exposures, improved control layout and faster operation.

The 12x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT Lens, which has been handed down since the first launch of the FZ series, underwent further development to provide even more superb picture rendering. The other key feature, the Optical Image Stabilizer, MEGA O.I.S. is deservedly continued as Panasonic advanced the theory that it should be standard in all digital still cameras. The newly incorporated Extra Optical Zoom extends the zoom ratio by using the center part of the high resolution CCD, to achieve 15.3x for 5-Megapixel and 19.1x for 3-Megapixel images with minimal deterioration.

LetsGoDigital have today posted their Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ30 Digital Camera Preview and had this to say-

"Although based on a pre-production model I find it easy to control the Panasonic FZ30 camera. It has a lot to offer, although I feel as if the Panasonic is meant more for the amateur/hobbyist than for the serious hobbyist. It is just that it feels different compared to the competitor's range of digital cameras in this class. Here and there I am missing some quick buttons for functions that are now only accessible in the menu (e.g. image quality, white balance and ISO, etc.) But for the rest the Panasonic offers a lot of user-friendly features and of course the Optical Image Stabilizer... It's addictive!"

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30S 8MP Digital Camera