Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7
This compact, feature-packed model is Panasonic’s most “anti-blur” camera ever, addressing the two major causes of blurred images: hand movement and subject movement. The DMC-FZ7 incorporates Panasonic’s acclaimed MEGA Optical Image Stabilization technology, which uses a gyrosensor to detect and compensate for hand movement by shifting internal lens elements. It is a true optical system; the image is not electronically processed so there is minimal degradation and exceptional picture quality. MEGA OIS is especially important when utilizing the 12x optical zoom of the DMC-FZ7. At the greatest zoom, even the smallest hand movement could ruin the shot. With MEGA OIS, the image remains steady.
Additionally, the new DMC-FZ7 features a new High Sensitivity Mode which suppresses blur caused by quickly or unpredictably moving subjects, especially when shooting indoors with fast shutter speeds. The MEGA O.I.S. feature and High Sensitivity Mode allow the user to shoot with a maximum ISO 1600 setting.
“Panasonic’s Optical Image Stabilizer technology used with this new High Sensitivity Mode dramatically helps consumers at all skill levels capture great shots,” said Monica Helmer, marketing manager for Panasonic’s Optical Group. “Everything about the DMC-FZ7 is designed to allow anyone to get high-quality results, whether composing a macro shot or catching the action on the fly.”
The DMC-FZ7 packs a wealth of advanced technology and easy-to-use features in a sleek, compact package. It is equipped with both automatic and manual controls that meet the needs of prosumers and beginners alike.
Panasonic’s LSI Venus Engine II handles image processing, LCD functions, and writing to the memory card simultaneously, making the DMC-FZ7 incredibly responsive with an industry-leading release time lag of 0.008 seconds minimum and shutter interval of approx. 0.5 seconds(1) minimum. The LSI also enables lightning-fast consecutive shooting capability, capturing sequential shots at a rate of up to 3 frames per second at full resolution(2). An unlimited(3) consecutive shooting function allows the user to take photos in succession until the memory card is full. The LSI also improves horizontal, vertical and diagonal resolution.
Users may choose from selectable AF settings. In addition to the 9-point, 3-point high speed, 1-point normal speed and Spot autofocus, the DMC-FZ7 can be set to 1-point high-speed autofocus. This setting nearly eliminates the time lag that often occurs with high-magnification zoom shots, letting users capture those great, spontaneous moments. An AF Assist Lamp provides extra lighting as a focusing aid for slightly dark situations where AF focusing would ordinarily be difficult.
The DMC-FZ7 also includes a new, large 710 mAh battery to help extend the amount of pictures taken on one charge; 16 scene modes; 4x digital zoom; color viewfinder; 2.5-inch LCD monitor; and normal (640 x 480) and wide (848 x 480) VGA motion image recording. Optional accessories include ND filters, AC adaptor, MC protector, close-up lens, wide conversion lens and tele conversion lens.
The DMC-FZ7 is scheduled for March delivery and will have a suggested retail price of $399.95.
1- Not including time for AF.
2- Max 13 images in standard mode/7 images in fine mode.
3- The speed of the consecutive shooting varies depending on the memory card. The number of recordable pictures depends on the memory card size, battery life, picture size and compression.
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[…] Saturday we went and got ourselves into a little more debt, because its such an easy thing to do and we bought a video camera so we can capture all the important Harry moments as he grows. This is the camera we got (couldn’t find a better site) and while we were at it spending money we bought me a new still digital camera, it is awesome and i *love* it, have been taking endless photos of H, cos lets face it you can never have enough photos of the exact same thing can you lol […]
I bought this camera cheaper as is an “old” model. Even if it’s two-year-old model, there are no major differences between FZ7 and FZ8. I mean the image sensor is the same so FZ8 must have a better video engine to raise the number of pixels.
The use of FZ7 is a breeze, very light camera, shot by shot is about 1 photo/sec that is more than enough for any family that has kids for example.
The movie mode in 16×9 is just brilliant, much better than the VGA resolution most of cameras offers today. One 2GB card will allow you to record a 20 min movie.
I also have a Kodak P880 and I can tell that FZ7 is much better.
The only problem I noticed are the indoor photos without flash where the noise becomes a problem and you need to choose the right set-up.
The optical stabilisation is very, no blur image anymore and also the battery last for a long time.