Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2

8.5 Rating

An update to the popular GF1 that is smaller and features a redesigned interface with touch-screen controls.Panasonic’s Lumix DMC-GF2 arrives in retail stores in January 2011, roughly 15 months after we reviewed its predecessor, the GF1. The new model, which will be available in black or white, has the same rangefinder-like styling as its predecessor but is targeted at everyday photographers instead of photo enthusiasts. Accordingly, its user interface has been simplified and a touch-screen interface replaces many button and dial controls.

Danks Street Exhibitions

To be exhibited in three as yet unused spaces in the arts precinct of Danks Street, Waterloo, are three award winning photographers. Belinda Mason, winner of this years Moran Portrait Prize, with a selection of her best portraits, championing the lives of the handicapped and disabled. Ben Ali Ong with his black & white work, ‘Refluent Hours’ and Zorica Purlija (image right), with a collection of her delicate fine-art prints. Curated by Sandy Edwards of ARTHERE. www.arthere.com.au

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3

9 Rating

The latest addition to Panasonic’s G-series micro four thirds cameras offers higher resolution, touch screen control and a lower price tag.Panasonic has reduced the price of its latest G-series camera, the Lumix DMC-G3, which is $200 cheaper than the model is replaces was upon initial release. Sensor resolution has been increased to 16 megapixels in the new model and full HD video recording capability is a step up from the G2. The G3 is also marginally smaller and lighter than its predecessor.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18

8.5 Rating

A lightweight digicam with an optically-stabilised 18x optical zoom lens, RAW+JPEG support and a full range of adjustments.Successor to the successful FZ8 model, Panasonic’s latest long-zoom digicam, the DMC-FZ18 sports an 8-megapixel imager and a massive 18x Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens that covers an equivalent focal length range from 28mm to 504mm. Otherwise the two models are superficially quite similar, although the FZ18’s image stabiliser is accessed via the menu instead of through a dedicated button. Internally some sigificant changes have been made in the newer model.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100

8.5 Rating

A capable advanced digicam with a 24x zoom lens and support for Full HD video recording with stereo soundtracks.The Lumix DMC-FZ100 takes its place at the top of Panasonic’s FZ series of digicams, which are designed for photo enthusiasts and support raw file capture. Slotting in above the FZ35 (which we reviewed in November, 2009), it extends the zoom range and adds Full HD recording with stereophonic soundtracks.