Sunday, February 8, 2009

Lumix DMC-LX3 - It is Economic, User-Friendly, and Functional

By Matt Ryan

Panasonic has introduced a new product to their Lumix family - the Lumix DMC-LX3. This camera gives consumers the convenience of a point-and-shoot with professional grade functions and images. Regardless of your photography level of expertise, the Lumix DMC-LX3 is a grand addition to your camera collection.

This 10.1-megapixel camera, with 2.5x optical zoom, offers many standard features, along with a few advanced functions. Optical Image Stabilization, Intelligent Auto Mode, RAW support, and HD movies are just a few of the standard features you will find on the DMC-LX3. Like many point-and-shoot models, it will fit in your pocket with measurements of 2.34 x 4.28 x 1.06-inches. It is also lightweight, as it weighs less than a pound. Regardless of its size, you will still find a hefty 3.0-inch LCD screen, which displays images at 460,000-dot resolutions.

The DMC-LX3 would not be a Panasonic without auto face detection and autofocus tracking. A nice feature of the auto face detection, on this model, is the fact that it can detect up to 15 faces - in one shot. Moreover, it will adjust focus and exposure properly for all 15 faces. Auto focus tracking tracks moving objects and continually adjusts focus accordingly. The combination of these two features produces high quality, properly focused, and exceptionally exposed pictures.

There are 24 different preset shooting modes available on the DMC-LX3. These options are available for those with a little less expertise, but want to shoot the same quality pictures. For the more advanced users, you can manually adjust ISO, aperture, and shutter modes. ISO settings can be adjusted anywhere from 80 to an expanded 6,400.

Not only can you capture still images with the LX3, but video as well. The LX3 offers high-def video, with sound, at a resolution of 1,280 x 720. This resolution set will only allow the capture of 24fps; however, you can capture 30fps if you set the resolution to a lower setting.

Storage options are slim, but you do have options. You can store your files on the internal memory (50MB), on SD/SDHC memory cards, or even on multimedia cards. SD/SDHC memory cards are probably your best option.

The DMC-LX3 has three connectivity ports: USB 2.0, NTSC video output, and high-def component video output. Transferring and viewing images and videos are easy with these connection options and easy access to the ports.

Panasonic has kept the same body style for all of their LX models; this makes transitions between cameras seamless for consumers - after all - why fix it if it isn't broken. The body shape makes it fit comfortably in any size hand, and button locations allow consumers to effortlessly access different functions and actions. Additional options or settings are available via the LCD screen.

On top of being ergonomic, it has a very solid build. With a metal body, firm buttons, and hidden ports, the LX3 can definitely withstand daily usage. Its durability will allow it to hold up under pressure and even the occasional fall.

Panasonic has outdone themselves once again with the release of the Lumix DMC-LX3. They have provided photographers - of any level - with a functionally easy to use point-and-shoot camera. For only $500 you easily fit this model into your budget.

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