Lumix ZS3 Review: Get Success Upon Its Release

By Reina Mae Apaitan

Panasonic has a long reputation for making some of the best small pocket zoom cameras. The latest model from Panasonic, the Lumix ZS3, is no different. In fact, this camera may just be one of the most impressive that Panasonic has released to date. The format for this model, dating back to the Lumix TZ1, has been quite successful. So successful, in fact, that even Canon stepped into the ring when they released the SX100 series and the follow-up SX200. Still, judging by the early reaction to this camera, it would seem as though Panasonic has hit another out of the park when it comes to the Lumix ZS3.

A long line of features in the Panasonic DMC-ZS3 will certainly please consumers. The camera is also known as the DMC-TZ7 in many markets. The 10.1 megapixel sensor is one of the first things that many consumers will notice about this camera. Along with this feature, the camera also has 3" LCD as well as a 12x zoom that is capable of flattening down to a 1.29" pocket camera. Consumers who are in the market for a tremendous amount of power will find they can take this camera anywhere without sacrificing anything.

Although the ZS3 has plenty of powerful features, it is actually quite simple to use. Consumers will not feel as though they need to study the manual overly much in order to begin using this camera. There are plenty of advanced features, including movie making and scene modes, despite the camera's simplicity.

There is not actually an optical viewfinder located on the Panasonic ZS3, but the 3" LCD offers 460,000 dots of resolution, which is quite a bit more than what is offered on many cameras. As a result, this camera is capable of producing incredible images.

There is an 11-point multi-area on the autofocus system which can be used with the default focusing method. Consumers who would prefer to utilize the option of selecting from half a dozen different modes do have that freedom.

The Panasonic Lumix ZS3 does not have semi-automatic or manual modes, but does feature Intelligent Auto and Program modes along with 28 different Scene modes.

One feature that consumers are certain to like on the Panasonic ZS3 is the movie mode, which can capture HD video at 60 frames per second when the AVDHD Lite capture mode is used. The option to use Motion JPEG is available as well on this camera at 30 frames per second.

Images are stored on the Panasonic ZS3's SD/SDHC cards. This includes approximately 45MB of internal memory. The camera can be connected using a USB 2.0, standard-definition video output.

The Panasonic ZS3 uses SD/SDHC cards to store images. There is approximately 45MB of internal memory on this camera. You can also connect the camera using a standard USB 2.0. Power for the Lumix ZS3 is providing through a lithium-ion battery, offering enough power for about 300 shots.

The Lumix ZS3 comes with a range of items out of the box, including a USB cable, battery charger, wrist strap, manual, A/V cable and manual. There is also a CD-ROM that features PhotoFunStudio. Consumers who are interested in additional accessories can purchase extra items that compliment the Lumix ZS3 as well. If you are just getting started you will still find that this camera has everything you need to begin snapping shots right away.

If you are interested in finding a high quality camera that you can take practically anywhere with no concerns about complicated features, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is an option to consider. The range of features, simple interface and the reliable reputation of Panasonic all recommend this model. - 31989

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