Another Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8 review, this one from CNET. Featuring a powerful 12x optical zoom, LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens and the ever popular and indispensable Optical Image Stabiliser (O.I.S). With a joystick control for manual adjustment of focusing and exposure setting, the DMC-FZ8 offers high end specification and portability. Bridging the gap between high-end compacts and digital SLRs, Panasonic’s DMC-FZ8 offers a level of control close to that of an SLR, but without the need for interchangeable lenses.

"While the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8 has problems with noise, in many other ways it is a very nice camera. Its controls make it easy to use, and it packs a very impressive feature set. If you’re not persnickety about noise or image quality, it makes a nice camera for beginner and intermediate photographers to learn on. Advanced shooters who want pristine image quality should look elsewhere."

  • 7.2 effective Megapixel CCD
  • F2.8-3.1, 12X optical zoom lens, equivalent to 36 - 432 mm
  • Optical image stabilization
  • 2.5" LCD display with 207,000 pixels; Power LCD and High-Angle modes available
  • Higher resolution electronic viewfinder than FZ7 (188k pixels vs. 114k pixels)
  • Venus Engine III image processor
  • AF-assist lamp
  • Full manual controls
  • RAW image format supported (that’s new)
  • Two-speed zoom controller (also new)
  • Records movies at 848 x 480 or 640 x 480 (30 fps) with sound
  • Optional conversion lenses
  • 27MB onboard memory plus SD/SDHC card slot
  • Uses proprietary li-ion battery; 380 shots per charge
  • Comes in silver and black

Read on…