Panasonic Brings New Lumix Cameras into Focus

Panasonic has introduced three new consumer digital cameras: the full-sized superzoom Lumix FZ35 and the compact point-and-shoot Lumix FP8 and Lumix ZR1.

Panasonic has introduced three new models in its Lumix camera lineup, the full-size Lumix FZ35 and two new compact point-and-shoot cameras, the Lumix FP8 and the Lumix ZR1. The cameras are designed to appeal to a broad range of consumer photographers, from folks who want substantial zooming capabilities and HD video to folks most concerned about putting a camera discretely in a bag or pocket.

First up, the Lumx FZ35 sports a 12.1 megapixel resolution and features a substantial 27mm wide-angle Leica lens with an 18× optical zoom, along with a dedicated video recording button for shooting 720p ACVHD LiteHD video with motion zoom. The camera also features a “creative mode” that enables users to set shutter speeds and aperture manually, along with color and dynamics controls. The FX35 features optical image stabilization, high speed autofocus, and face recognition—and users can tweak the face recognition to specify subjects under three years old to have the camera automatically go into a “Baby mode.” The FX35 is a followup to last year’s Lumix FX28, and boasts a DSLR-like body. Expect to see it for a suggested price of $399.99 this September.

On a slimmer front, Panasonic’s new FP8 features the same 12.1 megapixel resolution, but with a 28mm wide-angle lens and a 4.6× optical zoom—all in a much smaller package. The FP8 can also shoot 720p HD video and send it to Panasonic gear via Viera link networking; the camera also features a 2.7-inch LCD display, optical image stabilization, face recognition (no “Baby mode” though!), and a fast autofocus. The FP8 should be available in September in black, silver, or red for a suggested price of $299.99.

Finally, if you’re looking for a tiny camera Panasonic’s Lumix ZR1 might fit the bill. Panasonic describes the ZR1 as having the world’s first 0.3mm thin aspherical lens, letting them build a super-thin camera with a 25mm ultra wide angle lens with an 8× optical zoom. The ZR1 also sports a 12.1 megapixel resolution, 2.7-inch lCD display, and optical image stabilization with a “hand shake component” to compensate for camera motion pressing the shutter button. the ZR1 also touts face recognition, face autofocus, and an intelligent auto mode for scene selection. The ZR1 should be available in September in red, blue, black, and silver for a suggested price of $279.99.