from the lens. This model also includes a Colour Night View setting for taking shots in dim lighting (1 lux). In this mode, the LCD can be used as a light panel allowing colour images to be recorded in complete darkness.

 

: Panasonic has released three new digital camcorders with features to attract family video photographers.

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The new NV-GS11 (RRP $1,099) and NV-GS15 (RRP $1,319) have a huge 24x optical zoom – the largest currently available on a compact consumer camcorder, while the high-end NV-GS55 (RRP $1,539) features networking capabilities and can record in the high-compression MPEG4 movie format, with four modes to choose from. All three models include easy-to-access controls and new ‘direct select’ features that make it easy to capture video footage and still images. They also feature Panasonic’s Pure Colour Engine LSI signal processor and Progressive PhotoShot mode for still shots, which produces still shots with 1.5 times the resolution of standard-recorded stills. The GS15 and GS55 models are supplied with an 8MB SD Memory Card. Both models support simultaneous motion video and still picture recording and include a Consecutive PhotoShot function, which allows a burst of up to 10 VGA still images to be captured to the card. The GS55 sports a special Tele Macro Mode that allows close-ups to be captured to within 20 cm from the lens. This model also includes a Colour Night View setting for taking shots in dim lighting (1 lux). In this mode, the LCD can be used as a light panel allowing colour images to be recorded in complete darkness.

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The new camcorders also boast a ‘Soft Skin Detail’ function that detects skin tones and softens the focus in those areas, yielding more attractive portrait shots. A new Direct Mode dial includes easy-to-understand icons for both DV tape and Memory Card recording and playback and the Quick Start button activates recording within 1.3 seconds, ensuring precious moments are not missed. All three models are USB 2.0 compatible for fast data transfer to a PC. They also incorporate a Web camera function plus start-up Windows Messenger, making them ideal for teleconferencing over the Internet, or for surveillance camera use. Details can be found at www.panasonic.com.au.