Panasonic`s Lumix DMC-FZ8 - Features

The FZ8 manages to fit a ton of features into a small body. This camera's functions are all processed through Panasonic's Venus III processor, which is an upgrade from the FZ7's Venus II processor. Also new in the FZ8 are some welcome shooting modes that are in addition to some other shooting modes present in previous models. These new shooting modes include Intelligent ISO, aerial photo, high sensitivity, beach, sunset, and pet modes.

Another new feature of the FZ8 is the inclusion of Raw mode. This allows the user to use the included SilkyPix software to adjust images to his or her liking. This software offers a ton of options and can be overwhelming at first, but once you go through it a couple of times, it becomes less complicated. This software can be very effective at treating image noise at high ISO levels that the Venus III processor does not eliminate. Speaking of ISO levels, this camera has a high sensitivity mode which is capable of ISO 3200, but the images at this level appear very noisy.

The continuous shooting mode is nothing new in this camera, but it is always good to have. The FZ8 is capable of shooting a maximum of 7 images (JPEG standard) while in continuous shooting mode.

Other features included in the FZ8 are the video option and the image stabilization system. The FZ8 has an impressive movie option that can record 848x480 video clips at 10fps, which makes movies at a 16:9 ratio. The image stabilization in this camera is Panasonic's Mega O.I.S., which does a good job of minimizing camera shake. This feature is essential in this camera with the amount of zooming power it offers.

Of course, the zoom feature of this camera is probably the most notable feature that it has to offer. The zoom feature works really well with this camera, and the Mega O.I.S feature works well in conjunction with the zoom even when it is at the highest level.

The FZ8 comes with the following accessories straight from the box:

• Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
• Battery Charger
• USB Cable
• A/V Cable
• Lens Cap
• Lens Hood
• Adapter Wrist Strap
• Software CD-ROM
• User Guide

Also integrated into this camera is 27 MB of built-in memory, which is really not enough to work with. I recommend buying a 2 or 4 GB SDHC memory card, which will provide plenty of storage space for pictures and movie clips.

Next: Performance and Image Quality >>
 

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