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.

Imaging Resource have posted their Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 Review and had this to say-

“Without a doubt, the Panasonic FZ30 is one of the stronger entries at the top end of the “enthusiast” all-in-one digital camera range. Its performance and specs may not quite match those of typical digital SLRs, but when you consider the superb optical quality of its image-stabilized 12x Leica zoom len, you’d have to pay literally a couple of thousand dollars to match its reach with a SLR body and kit of two or three zoom lenses. (You could certainly match the zoom range for less money than that, but matching the optical quality and image stabilization capability of FZ30’s lens would be expensive indeed.) Image quality overall is very good, with excellent resolution and sharpness and bright, saturated but hue-accurate color. (If you like more understated color, you could find the FZ30’s color a bit too much of a good thing, particularly in the blues and reds, but we suspect most consumers will find it very appealing.) The one negative point against the camera is its somewhat higher than average noise levels. As always though, we need to emphasize the importance of judging image noise in printed photos, rather than 1:1 on a computer display. Noise that seems dramatically obvious on-screen can become a non-issue at normal print sizes. The FZ30’s ISO 400 photos are a little rough when printed at 8×10 inches (albeit usable for wall display), but look just fine when printed at 5×7 inches. ISO 200 shots look fine at 8×10. With a full range of exposure control modes, including a full manual setting and no less than 14 preset “Scene” modes, the DMC-FZ30 is an approachable camera for both novices and more experienced users alike. Bottom line, the Panasonic Lumix FZ30 is a very strong player at the upper end of the all-in-one digital camera field, and represents an excellent bargain for anyone interested in a long zoom range, optical stabilization, high resolution, and responsive performance. We’d like to see less image noise at higher ISOs, but the FZ30 is a virtual shoo-in for a Dave’s Pick.”

Accessories
Monster Cable MB 8-PRO CHG AA ProCharge 2100 Digital Camera Power Pack w/ 8-2100
Monster Cable CTG FULL Camera Pack To Go Full Size Camera Pack Full Size Camera Pack
Three Year Digital and Film Camera Service Plan for Cameras Priced $300 or greater
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