Panasonic has posted details of 11 new Lumix digicams on the special website dedicated to Lumix products.

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February 1, 2007: Panasonic has posted details of 11 new Lumix digicams on the special website dedicated to Lumix products.
Leading the line is the 7.2-megapixel Lumix DMC-FZ8, which sports a Leica DC 12x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 36-432mm on a 35mm film camera) with a maximum aperture of f/2.8. Other features include the new Venus Engine III image processing engine and an Intelligent Image Stabilization system, which Panasonic is including in other Lumix cameras being introduced simultaneously with the FZ8. This system combines Mega O.I.S.(optical Image Stabilizer) and Intelligent ISO Control, raising the sensor’s sensitivity when moving subjects are detected. The camera features a re-designed body, 27 MB of built-in memory and the ability to use SDHC cards. It also supports Raw file capture and has a long life battery.

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The DMC-TZ3 and DMC-TZ2 models are similar, differeing mainly in sensor resolution and LCD monitor size. The TZ3 has a 7.2 megapixels and a large, 3.0-inch LCD, while the TZ2 has 6.0 megapixels and a 2.5-inch LCD. Both models are fitted with a 28mm wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmar lens (equivalent to 28-280mm on a 35mm film camera). The multi-aspect-capable CCD in both models provides a larger recording area than ordinary 7.2-megapixel or 6.0-megapixel cameras, making it possible to capture images from 28mm to 280mm with any of three aspect ratios – 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9. Clad in sturdy stainless steel, the DMC-TZ3 will be available in silver, black and blue, while the TZ2 will be offered in silver and black.

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Claimed as the world’s slimmest digicam with a 28mm (equivalent) lens, the new DMC-FX30 combines a 7.2-megapixel imager with a 3.6x optical zoom lens(equivalent to 28-100mm on a 35mm film camera) that has a maximum aperture of f/2.8. A redesigned camera body makes the FX30 slimmer and more stylish than previous models. It also boasts an approximately 27MB built-in memory and accepts large-capacity SDHC memory cards, giving users more flexibility in shooting and recording. The DMC-FX30 gives users a choice of five auto-focusing methods: 5-point, 3-point high-speed, 1-point high-speed, 1-point normal-speed, and spot. The FX30 will be manufactured in silver, black, blue and light brown with a specially textured finish.

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The new DMC-FX12 and FX10 models come with Leica DC f2.8 3x optical zoom lenses that cover the equivalent of 35-105mm in 35mm format. The DMC-FX12 boasts 7.2 megapixels and the DMC-FX10 has 6.0 megapixels and both models include a 2.5-inch LCD plus Panasonic’s Intelligent Image Stabilisation system. Both models include a new Quick Setting function that gives quick and easy access to key camera functions. The also have a Date Stamp that can insert the date of capture on snapshots. Both models include 27 MB of internal memory and both accept SDHC cards.

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Combining a 7-2pmegapicel CCD imager and 6x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 37-222mm on a 35mm film camera), the new DMC-LZ7 and DMC-LZ6 models offer convenient AA battery operation. The LZ7 is distinguished by a bright 2.5-inch LCD, while the LZ6 offers an easy-to-see 2.0-inch LCD. Both models offer a range of features that enhance usability and add convenience, including Intelligent Image Stabilisation, Quick Setting of key camera controls, a Date Stamp function and an Easy Zoom feature that shifts the lens instantly to full 6x zoom power at the touch of a dedicated button. Each camera features an approximately 27MB built-in memory and accepts large-capacity SDHC memory cards for extra shooting convenience and flexibility. Powered by two of Panasonic’s original, extended-life Oxyride dry cell batteries, the LZ7 can take around 250 shots and LZ6 can take around 260 shots (CIPA). The menu and its graphical user interface have also been redesigned, with the colours brightened for easier viewability.

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At entry level are three new models, all with 3x optical zoom lenses that range from 35-105mm in 35mm format. DMC-LS75 and DMC-LS70 have 7.2-megapixel CCD imagers, while the DMC-LS60 has a 6.0-megapixel CCD. The LS75 sports a 2.5-inch LCD while the LS70 and LS60 have 2.0-inch displays. All three models offer a similar range of easy-to-use functions to the LZ7 and LZ6 models and all include Intelligent Image Stabilisation. The LS75 will be produced in silver and black while the LS70 and LS60 will be available only in silver.
For more information, visit the Panasonic lumix website at http://panasonic.co.jp/pavc/global/lumix/index.html.