Panasonic Introduces Five New Cameras, Including Bright Lens Versions & Rugged Models
Panasonic introduced five new digital cameras, including a hybrid model with a MOS sensor, two "bright-lens" cameras, a rugged model, and a super zoom. Bright-lens is a marketing term that describes cameras with a lens aperture that can open much larger than most point and shoot models. By offering a larger aperture, the cameras allow more light to be directed through the lens to the image sensor.
As one of Panasonic's compact models, the new LUMIX DMC-FX700 packs many advanced features into a sleek, slim package. The LUMIX FX700 can record 1080 full HD videos in the AVCHD format. It also has a 3-inch touchscreen LCD, 24mm ultra wide-angle F2.2 super bright LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens, and a 5x optical zoom.
The new LUMIX DMC-FZ100 offers 24x optical zoom capabilities as well as a 14.1 megapixel MOS sensor, and the ability to record full 1080 high definition video. This camera is the company’s first hybrid compact digital camera with a MOS sensor. Additionally, the LUMIX FZ100 features incredibly fast burst shooting capabilities with the ability to record 11 frames per second at 14.1-megapixel full resolution and 60 frames per second in 3.5-megapixel recording
A more rugged model, the new LUMIX DMC-TS10 is the latest addition to Panasonic's TS-Series of rugged models. Although not as rugged as some of its predecessors, the TS10 is also not quite as expensive. For about $250, you'll be able to pick up the TS10 which is waterproof to approximately 10 feet, shockproof to 5 feet, dustproof, and freeze proof to 14°F. For even greater protection, the LUMIX TS10 comes with a silicone jacket to help prevent scratches.
Panasonic's new LUMIX DMC-FZ40 is a hybrid digital camera that combines a powerful 24x optical zoom and creative manual operations. The camera has a 14.1-megapixel sensor with a 25mm ultra-wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens and a new image processing system. The FZ40 can capture high definition videos as well as photos. With the FZ40, users can record HD movies in AVCHD Lite, providing double the recording time in HD quality compared to the conventional Motion JPEG format.
Finally, the new LUMIX DMC-LX5 is another compact model that features an ultra-bright F2.0 ultra-wide-angle 24mm LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens. This camera offers a 3.8x optical zoom, 10.1 megapixel sensor, the ability to record HD videos in AVCHD Lite, and a 3-inch LCD.
