Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue)
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera provides easy and simple operation for users at every level of photographic expertise to enjoy taking beautiful pictures. Despite its remarkably compact and slim body, the stylish DMC-FS3 provides an impressive 1/2.5", 8.1-megapixel effective resolution CCD to capture all of the exquisite detail of the scene, and its 3x Optical Zoom (33 - 100mm equivalent) Leica DC Vario-Elmar Lens, provides a slightly wider angle of view as compared to other point-and-shoot cameras in its class so you can capture group shots, or landscapes with a bit more ease.
The telephoto end of the camera's zoom can also be extended an additional 4.8x (when shooting 3.0 megapixel or less) with minimal loss of image quality thanks to the Extra Optical Zoom feature. There is also an Easy Zoom feature that shifts the lens instantly to full zoom at the touch of a button - great for quickly capturing sudden facial expressions or close-up action. The DMC-FS3 can also record WVGA (848 x 480) motion images at 30 fps for impressive viewing on a wide-screen HDTV Display, in addition to standard VGA (640 x 480) & QVGA (320 x 240) options.
The DMC-FS3 features Panasonic's exclusive iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, which comprises 5 shooting-assist functions (Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection and Quick AF functions), to get the best results from every shooting opportunity. Once you enter iA mode, these multi-capable functions engage simultaneously and automatically so you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change, and you can enjoy the satisfaction that comes with capturing clear, beautiful images at all times. All of these great automated features are driven by the latest high performance Venus Engine IV image processor, which also provides stunning responsiveness with fast burst capability (up to 6 fps) and an almost instantaneous shutter.
The DMC-FS3 sports a 2.5-inch high resolution LCD screen with the innovative Intelligent LCD function, which detects the ambient lighting condition and controls the brightness & contrast level of the LCD so it is easy to view in any environment. Plus, the High Angle mode makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view when the camera is held high, such as when shooting over a crowd. The camera's slideshow setting comes equipped with a musical option, allowing users to listen to music while viewing their images and giving emotional impact when desired. Altogether with its attractive metal finish, and sleek and stylish design, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 is a digital camera that you'll be happy to carry with you everywhere.
- 8.1 Megapixel Resolution
- With a resolution of 8.1 Megapixels, you'll be able to produce high resolution images that can yield photo quality 20 x 30" prints. The camera also has resolution options that are available in three different aspect ratios - 16:9 for displaying on a wide screen monitor or TV, 3:2 for making standard photo album prints, and 4:3 for more traditional image dimensions common in picture frames.
- 3x Optical Zoom Lens
- The 3x optical zoom Leica DC Vario-Elmar lens takes slightly wider shots than a typical point-and-shoot camera - helpful in small rooms or crowded places, letting you fit more people into a group photo. There's also an Easy Zoom button on the camera top - just press it, and the optical zoom and Extra Optical Zoom instantly extend to full telescopic position. This quick zooming lets you catch even fleeting opportunities.
- High Sensitivity with Intelligent ISO Control
- The High Sensitivity mode increases the equivalent ISO sensitivity range of the camera to an incredible ISO 1600-6400 - making it possible to take sharp, blur-free shots of active children or pets even in indoor settings with limited light, or without a flash. The Intelligent ISO uses advanced subject-motion detection circuitry to sense when your subject is moving and raises the camera's ISO sensitivity and shutter speed settings accordingly. This suppresses motion blur and also makes it easy to shoot scenes with fast moving action.
- Intelligent Image Stabilizer
- Image blur is commonly caused by either movement of the camera or movement of the subject. Camera movement is corrected with the MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) feature which uses built-in gyro-sensors to detect the smallest camera movement and instantaneously shifts a lens element to compensate, giving you sharp, clear images without deterioration. Additionally, a Blur Indicator lets you confirm that the camera is precisely detecting and compensating for hand-shake and any motion blur.
- Face Detection for Superb Portraits
- The Face Detection function can detect up to 15 faces in a scene then automatically adjust the camera settings to make sure faces appear well-lit and in focus. This advanced technology will even automatically readjust the settings if the positions of the subjects change while you are framing the shot.
- Intelligent Scene Detection
- The Intelligent Scene Selector will sense the ambient conditions and automatically select either the Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode accordingly. With the camera choosing the settings for you, you'll get beautiful results every time you shoot, no matter what the scene or subject.
- Intelligent Auto Technology
- Just turn the dial to "iA" and say good-bye to complicated settings. The iA feature takes the four previously mentioned intelligent functions (Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Image Stabilizer, Face Detection and Intelligent Scene Detection) together to provide the best image possible. The camera will not only help eliminate blurring from hand-shake or subject movement, but it will also initialize the Face Detection system to detect up to 15 faces and automatically select the focus, exposure and scene modes for the best results. In fact, the Intelligent Auto Mode automatically begins focusing even before you press the shutter button, so you'll never miss a great shot.
- Super-Fast Shutter Response and Consecutive Shooting
- The DMC-FS3 is fast and responsive - thanks to the latest Venus Engine IV processor. The camera has an extremely fast shutter release time lag of 0.005 second, so you won't miss that "perfect" moment, while the time between shots is also very quick at 0.5 seconds (without flash). Furthermore, the advanced processor enables fast and unlimited continuous shooting, and the Hi-Speed Burst Mode provides a lightning-fast six shots per second at 2-megapixel resolution (with an aspect ratio of 4:3 or 16:9) or 2.5-megapixel resolution (3:2) mode, making it easier to catch the perfect action shot of a fast-moving subject.
- Simple Compact Design
- The DMC-FS3 is easy enough for anybody to use with its excellent ergonomic design and easy to use user interface that provides a minimal number of fine settings that need to be made with the cursor button, and its easy-to-understand settings menu.
- Record High Quality Moving Images
- Record beautiful full-size QuickTime Motion JPEG movies in 16:9 Wide VGA (WVGA) format at 30 fps or 10 fps with enhanced picture quality and brightness, and it can also shoot standard VGA and QVGA resolution for home use or e-mail/web applications. The length of recording time depends on the capacity of the SD/SDHC Memory Card (Up to 2 GB per motion image recording).
- Function Button for Quick and Easy Setting Adjustment
- The Function Button provides a shortcut to frequently used menu settings - this single button lets you turn consecutive shooting on/off, make white balance adjustments, set the ISO sensitivity and image size, and select the compression format, while you continue to view your subject on the LCD.
- Built-in and Expandable Memory
- The camera includes 27MB of built-in memory, and the memory capacity can be expanded dramatically with Secure digital (SD) or Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) memory cards. You can also copy images from a memory card or PC to the built-in memory, and view them on the LCD anytime you like.
- 2.5" High-resolution Intelligent LCD
- The DMC-FS3 features a 2.5" high-resolution (230,000 pixels) LCD monitor that adjusts Brightness and Contrast levels automatically to match your surroundings as ambient light conditions change, so images are clear, bright and easy to see day or night, indoors or outdoors. There is also a High Angle mode that makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view when the camera is held high, such as when shooting over a crowd. The display also provides many shooting assist features such as guide lines for better image framing and a histogram function to check exposure on the fly.
- Extended Battery Life
- Incorporating the latest lithium-ion battery and the Venus Engine processor that consumes less power than previous processors, the DMC-FS3 provides impressive battery life so you can take approximately 320 pictures on a charge.
- Direct Printing Capability
- Simply connect the DMC-FS3 to a PictBridge compatible printer with the included USB cable, engage the direct print feature, and print directly - without the need for a computer The direct print feature allows you to select all images or just the images you like best, and even make multiple copies to share with family and friends.
- Other Unique Features
- The Panasonic DMC-FS3 features a variety of functions which expand convenience and fun for users at every stage. It incorporates a REC/PLAYBACK mode switch to instantly switch between recording and playback modes, while always knowing which mode the camera is in, a modified GUI (Graphic User Interface) with a more futuristic in terms of design and color, a total of 21 scene modes help you to take more beautiful pictures in a wide range of situations, and the Title Edit option which allows text to be input as additional information for the picture, for example, names of children or pets, and travel places. Plus, the features mentioned above can be quickly understood with the easy to follow on-camera Demo mode.
Go To
| Camera Type | Ultra-Compact Point-and-shoot Digital Camera with Optical Image Stabilization |
| Image Quality | |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | 1/2.5" 8.32 Megapixel CCD with Primary Color Filter |
| Effective Resolution | 8.1 million pixels |
| Color Depth | 24-Bit RGB |
| Color Modes | Standard, Vivid, Cool, Warm, Natural, Black & White, Sepia |
| Image File Formats | JPEG (Fine, Standard) |
| Recorded Resolution |
4:3 Aspect Ratio 3264 x 2448 2560 x 1920 2048 x 1536 1600 x 1200 640 x 480 3:2 Aspect Ratio 16:9 Aspect Ratio |
| Video Recording |
QuickTime Motion JPEG with Audio WVGA (848 x 480 @ 30 fps or 10 fps) VGA (640 x 480 @ 30 fps or 10 fps) QVGA (320 x 240 @ 30 fps or 10 fps) Clip Length limited only by available memory |
| Audio Recording | No |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens Type | Leica DC Vario-Elmar Lens |
| Optical Zoom | 3x (up to 4.8x extra optical zoom) |
| Lens Focal Length | 5.5 - 16.5mm (33 - 100mm equivalent) |
| Digital Zoom | 4x |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 2.0" (5 cm) |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8-5.1 |
| Optical Image Stabilization | Mega O.I.S. (2 modes) |
| Accessory Lens/Filter Mount | No |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Contrast Detect AF (Face, 1-point, 1-point high speed, 9-point) with AF Assist Lamp |
| Focus Modes | Normal, Macro, Quick AF |
| Focus Range |
Normal: 19.7" (50 cm) - infinity Macro/Intelligent Auto: 2.0" (5 cm) - infinity wide |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity |
Auto ISO (100-400) Selectable ISO (100, 200, 400, 800, 1600) High Sensitivity Auto ISO (1600 - 6400) |
| Shutter Type | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Shutter Speed | 8 - 1/2000 second (Up to 60 seconds in Starry Sky mode) |
| Aperture Range | f/2.8-5.1 & f/8.0-14.0 (2 steps) |
| Exposure Metering | Intelligent Multiple AE |
| Exposure Modes | Program AE, Exposure Compensation (±2 EV in 1/3 EV Step), Backlight Compensation (Intelligent Auto mode only), Auto Bracketing AE (±1/3 EV - 1 EV step for 3 frames) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Halogen, White Set, White Balance Adjustment (only in underwater mode) |
| Scene Modes | Portrait, Soft Skin, Scenery, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Self-Portrait, Food, Party, Candle Light, Fireworks, Starry Sky, Beach, Aerial Photo, Snow, High Sensitivity, Baby 1&2, Underwater, Sunset, Pet, Hi-Speed Burst |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes (Auto, Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced Off) |
| Effective Flash Range | 1.0' (0.3m) - 20.7' (6.3m) |
| External Flash Connection | No |
| External Flash Control | Not Applicable |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Time | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Shutter Lag | 0.005 seconds |
| Time Between Shots | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Burst Capability |
2.5 fps up to 7 images (Standard) or 4 images (Fine) High-speed Burst: 10 fps (2MP image only) |
| Self Timer | 10 seconds or 2 seconds |
| Interval Recording | No |
| Date & Time Stamp | Yes |
| Memory & Power | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | 27MB |
| Compatible Memory Cards |
Secure Digital (SD/SDHC) Card MultiMediaCard (MMC) |
| Recording Capacity | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery (3.6V, 1000 mAh) |
| Power Adapter | AC Adaptor (optional) |
| Input/Output | |
|---|---|
| Computer Interface | USB 2.0 |
| Direct Print Capable | Yes (PictBridge) |
| Remote Control | No |
| Video Output | NTSC & PAL |
| Web-Cam Capable | No |
| System & Software Requirements |
Windows 2000, XP, Vista Macintosh OS X (10.1 or later) |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder | No |
| LCD Display | 2.5" Polycrystalline TFT Color LCD (230,000 dots) with Auto Power LCD mode & High angle mode |
| Language Options | English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese |
| Playback Options | Single Image, Zoomed Playback (16x max.), Thumbnail display (30 or 12 images), Calendar Display, Playback of Favorite Pictures, Category Playback, Slide Show (with music), Image Rotation, Resizing, Trimming, Protection, Aspect Conversion, DPOF Print Setting |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.1 x 3.8 x 0.9" (54 x 95 x 23mm) |
| Weight | 5.1 oz. (130 g) without battery |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 8 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Large clear LCD (8)
- Easy to setup (7)
- Simple controls (7)
- Strong construction (5)
- Easy to keep clean (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Fun (7)
- Travel (4)
- Family photos (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual photographer (4)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 8 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-8
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Easy Setup
- Easy To Use
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Poor Operation in Low Light
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue):
Bought this camera for my 9-year old daughter. First impression out of the box is that it seems well made and should hold up to a 9-year olds use. She has already taken quite a few pictures and seems to work well in point and shoot mode as she is new to photography and we have not delved into any of the manual modes. However this is a plus as there seems to be plenty of manual adjustments that can be made if the user is so inclined. So if she has interest in that regard the camera will suffice at least for the near term.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy to Keep Clean
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue):
Purchased as an alternative to my larger (long zoom) Lumix. Used for snapshots when packing light for a night out with friends. I love the Intelligent Auto setting, which provides quality images with ease of use. The software is easy to use.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy To Use
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue):
I find this to be an excellent point and shoot camera with short lag time,a good screen,a good lens,etc. The only thing I found which in my opinion is a detraction is that when you want to shoot a movie you have go into the quick menu option, scroll down and give the movie mode an o.k. where as in most other cameras the movie mode is on the main button for shooting and reviewing with immediate access when you need it.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue):
I use this product for every day shots and have occasionally used it while traveling. The screen is large and clear and the functions are so easy that any novice will be able to use the camera right out of the box. The lithium ion battery lasts much longer than those rechargeable batteries in other cameras. Also this camera is small and slick and can fit into any pocket. The downside is that a very large memory card will be needed to take 8 mega pix. pictures. This is one of the best values around for a camera in this price range!
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Quicktime Video Format
Best Uses
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue):
This camera is smaller and lighter than a pack of cards, but works like a charm. The picture quality is excellent and it does a better than average job in low light situations. The Intelligent Auto settings are perfect for a casual photographer who just wants pictures of family gatherings or vacations, and the settings can be customized for more advanced photographers. The LCD display is very bright and displays well in a variety of lighting situations. The buttons and menus are very intuitive, which was a big problem with my previous camera, I can adjust a setting as needed in just a couple of seconds. The SDHC card slot will support up to a 16 GB card, which is a lot of pictures. However, there are a few things to be aware of, which do not impact the quality or usability of the camera, and would not have impacted my final decision had I known them, but it is good to be aware of them. First, the advertised 8 MP quality is only for 4:3 pictures, which is the shape of a regular TV screen. Your regular 35 mm photographs are 2:3, and the highest quality for those on this camera is 7 MP. The difference is neglible though, but for true photo enthusiasts, it might be important. Also, the video records as a Quicktime .mov file, which most DVD burning packages, including Nero, will not work with. You'll need to get a program to convert the .mov file to an mpeg or .avi file which can then be used with Nero to create a DVD, but there are plenty of those available for free online, I recommend Cocoon Software's video converter program. Lastly, I would strongly recommend buying a second battery now. It's a proprietary battery and most camera and electronics stores do not carry them in stock. Because it's a proprietary battery, you can't just pop in AA or AAA batteries and keep shooting when it dies like you can with a camera that uses NiCad batteries. So, to avoid getting stuck with a dead battery at an important moment, I'd recommend ordering a backup with this camera just to keep with you should you need it. Other than these slight issues though, the camera works extremely well. It turns on quickly and is ready for the next picture in under a second after taking a picture. The flash recharges quickly and seems to provide just the right amount of light, the pictures are not washed out or too dark. It's an excellent camera at a great price.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy to Keep Clean
- Short Lag Time
- Strong Construction
Cons
- None yet
Best Uses
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue):
I 0NLY HAVE USED FOR SIX MONTHS BUT IS THE BEST SMOOL CAMERA I HAVE AWN AND THE COLOR ARE SOO BRIGHT AND IS SOO EASY TO USE LOVE IT.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy to Keep Clean
- Short Lag Time
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Small LCD Screen
Best Uses
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue):
I bought the camera as a pocket all around camera to take with me when I am just spending time with my kid. I liked it so much that I am now using it also along my more sophisticated cameras (also Panasonic). the camera meets all my expectations. it is easy to use, fast and with great features for its size. I regret that it has only X3 zoom and that it does not have a wide angle lens. also, I miss some manual options too.
all in all, this is a great camera. it has a great feel to it, and it fits nicely into my pocket.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
Cons
Best Uses
- Fun
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 Digital Camera (Blue):
Takes great photos, easy to download to your computer or view on your TV. Very easy to operate menu and change settings for different types of shots. Size makes it convenient to travel, all in all a great camera for those who want to take quality photos but aren't the most camera-savvy (like me!)
- Recommended:
- 2-GB SD MEMORY CARD (20MB/S CLASS 6)
Displaying reviews 1-8
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $33.95
- CAD 33.77
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or a case.
- Price: $9.95
- CAD 9.90
Screen Protectors
Protect your LCD screen from scratches and finger prints.
- Price: $9.95
- CAD 9.90
Card Readers
Download your pictures faster and save battery life.
- Price: $8.99
- CAD 8.94
Filters & Adapters
Get the desired effect with a filter and the appropriate adapter.
- Price: $13.98
- CAD 13.91
Tripod & Support
Place your camera on a tripod for the support and stability you need.
- Price: $13.79
- CAD 13.72
Books & Tutorials
Learn all that your new camera can do.
- Price: $14.24
- CAD 14.16
What's in the Box
- DMW-BCE10 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery
- Battery Charger
- Battery Carrying Case
- USB Cable
- A/V Cable
- Wrist Strap
- Software CD-ROM (PhotofunStudio viewer, ArcSoft MediaImpression, ArcSoft Panorama Maker, QuickTime, Adobe Reader, USB Driver)
- User Manual
- 90-Days Labor; 1-Year Parts Manufacturers Limited Warranty
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