Panasonic`s Lumix DMC-FZ8 - Cosmetics
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You can get the body of the FZ8 in two different colors: black or gray. Its body is very similar to its predecessor, the FZ7. The FZ8 is compact, although it is not considered a pocket camera. I would consider it to be more like an extremely small digital SLR camera. Its dimensions are 4.43x2.84x3.11 inches and it weighs in at about one pound with the battery. The camera's weight is very balanced, giving it a nice, solid feel. One-handed operation of this camera is done with relative ease, although it is recommended that you use both hands to minimize camera shake.
Upgrades to the FZ8's body include the LCD screen and the optical viewfinder improvements. The LCD screen is the same size as its predecessor, 2.5 inches, but it has increased resolution which makes it easier to view images and menus. The optical viewfinder is now bigger and has a much higher resolution than the FZ7. The optical viewfinder is one of the best ones you'll find on the market today.
Other features of the body of the FZ8 include the Leica-designed lens and the pop-up flash. The lens is incredible at 36-432mm; it is the same lens used on its predecessor. Why change a good thing? This lens is capable of zooming in 12x, which is unheard of in a camera of this class. The pop-up flash is also impressive; it is activated by a button on the rear of the camera.
The shutter button is on top of the camera. It is surrounded by the zoom controls. Also on top of the camera is the function dial where its various operations can be changed such as picture mode and video mode.
The rear of the camera sports the 2.5 inch LCD screen, as well as a four-way directional cluster and a joystick feature used to control common camera functions. The four-way directional buttons can be used to navigate menus as well as to perform specific functions while in video mode.
The overall look and feel of the FZ8 is impressive. It sits well in the user's hand and is comfortable to shoot one-handed. The FZ8 is not a pocket camera, although it is small in size. The button configuration is pretty standard, and seems to work well with this camera.
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