Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver)
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera records images at a resolution of up to 10.1 megapixel and incorporates a premium wide-angle LEICA lens with an 18x optical zoom and a focal length range equivalent to 27- 486mm, ideal for tight indoor shots and long-distance action photos. The camera's lens incorporates Panasonics MEGA O.I.S. Image Stabilization system, which helps to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image. The camera also provides an Extra Optical Zoom of up to 32.1x, and a macro capability that allows you to shoot subjects as close as 0.4" (1cm) with a Tele macro that gives you great macro shots with beautiful, softly focused backgrounds. The 1/2.33-inch CCD image sensor is a bit larger than most others in this class of camera, providing dynamic high resolution images.
The enhanced Intelligent Auto Mode (iA), with the AF (auto focus) Tracking function, makes it easier for photographers at any level to shoot sharp, well-focused photos, even when the subject is moving - making it ideal for action shots. The AF Tracking technology also improves Face Detection (up to 15 faces), by providing continuous adjustment of the focus and exposure, even if the face is turned away from the camera. Other iA technologies incorporated in the DMC-FZ28 include Intelligent Exposure to prevent photos from being under- or over-exposed even when shooting in dim lighting, or backlight conditions, Digital Red-eye Correction, Intelligent ISO, which automatically changes the ISO setting and shutter speed for blur-free photos, the Intelligent Scene Selector that automatically selects the appropriate scene mode based on the image being captured, plus many more convenient and useful functions.
The high-performance Venus Engine IV supports fast response times, allowing the camera to shoot 2.5 shots per second at full resolution and up to 13 shots per second in High-Speed Burst mode. In addition the cameras processor reduces image noise and allows for High Sensitivity of up to ISO 6400 - a powerful feature when shooting in extremely low-lit situations. The DMC-FZ28 also is equipped with a 2.7-inch high resolution LCD and a high resolution electric viewfinder to provides flexibility in framing and reviewing your shots.
The DMC-FZ28 also features High Defintion (HD) video capabilities with a resolution of 1280 x 720p at 30fps. Still photos can also be shot in a 16:9 aspect ratio for optimal full-screen viewing on a HDTV. You can even enjoy watching videos in HD quality and view still images by connecting the DMC-FXZ28 via an optional Panasonic component cable (DMW-HDC2) to any HDTV display. Plus you'll get Panasonic's SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.0 SE Software, which provides for easy editing and developing of your cameras images.
- 10.1 Megapixel CCD
- The DMC-FZ28 features a high-quality 1/2.33-inch CCD that has been designed and built by Panasonic, provides a 10.1-megapixel resolution for exquisite image quality with both excellent sensitivity and a wide dynamic range. Panasonic also minimized noise generation by using highly efficient support electronics around the CCD and a large output buffer to provide dramatically improved color reproduction in low lighting, where noise is typically a problem.
- 18x Optical Zoom with Extended Optical Zoom & Digital Zoom
- The DMC-FZ28 features a remarkable 18x optical zoom, equivalent to a 27- 486mm lens on a 35mm film camera. A film camera with an optical zoom this powerful would be so big and heavy, you couldn't handle it with one hand. The DMC-FZ28, on the other hand, is small, lightweight and easy to handle. It also has Panasonic's Extended Optical Zoom, which uses the center portion of the cameras image sensor to provide a zoom ratio up to 32.1x (35mm equivalent of 866mm) for images with 3-megapixel resolution or less. Adding the Extra Optical Zoom to the cameras 4x digital zoom further extends the total zooming power to an incredible maximum of 128x (35mm equivalent of 3,456mm).
- Leica DC Vario-Elmarit Lens
- The Leica DC Vario-Elmarit Lens of the DMC-FZ28 features 27mm equivalent wide-angle capability and is housed in a surprisingly compact camera body. The bright, large-diameter lens with f/2.8 to 4.4 aperture has minimal distortion and captures images with corner-to-corner clarity. The lens unit comprises 11 elements in 8 groups, with 2 ED (Extra Low Dispersion) lenses and 3 aspherical lenses, including a dual-sided aspherical meniscus lens, to achieve high optical performance while maintaining compactness. With its high resolution and superb contrast, this high-quality lens gives you the freedom to express yourself with the finest of nuances.
- Special Zoom Features
- The camera provides some very useful zoom features including a 2 step Zoom Speed function that allows you to control the zoom operation at two different speeds, Low and Fast, with the zoom lever. Rotate the lever a small amount for slow zooming, and a larger amount for high-speed zooming to provide for finer zooming control. The camera also provides a Zoom Resume function that lets you decide on your composition before you shoot, so you can be prepared for sudden opportunities. It stores the zoom position (magnification) in memory, so you can shoot with the same zoom setting once the power is turned on again. And the camera also allows the optical zoom to function when recording video clips - an unusual feature for a digital still camera.
- Impressive Focus Control
- The camera incorporates the latest optical focus technology to ensure that you get the sharpest and clearest shot possible - regardless of the shooting conditions or the nature of the subject. Besides having a very fast and accurate focus system for more typical shooting conditions such as posed shots or landscapes, the DMC-FX28 incorporates the impressive AF Tracking system that allows the camera to continue to automatically keep a moving subject in focus, even when you remove your finger from the AF/AE Lock button. This keeps the focus sharp and blur-free when shooting active children or pets, as well as when capturing sports scenes or subjects in a moving object. There is also the Quick AF mode, which starts operating as soon as the camera is pointed toward a subject to dramatically reduce the shutter delay time and lets you take pictures quickly - ideal for capturing quick photos of active children and pets.
- Face Detection for Superb Portraits
- The Face Detection function automatically chooses the optimal settings to make sure faces appear well-lit and in focus. This advanced technology can detect up to 15 faces in a scene, and will even automatically readjust the settings if their positions change. The DMC-FZ28 is also equipped with Digital Red-eye Correction to automatically take care of the red-eye effect that often happens when shooting with a flash.
- High-Sensitivity Mode
- This mode helps suppress motion blur by automatically setting the ISO sensitivity in the range of 1600-6400, which increases the shutter speed. It also lets you take clearer, sharper shots in dim lighting without using a flash.
- MEGA O.I.S. with Intelligent ISO Control
- The MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) system compensates for handshake - the major cause of blurred images. Every slight hand-shake movement is detected accurately and is compensated to render clear, sharp images. In addition, movement of the subject, the other major cause of blurred images, is suppressed by Intelligent ISO Control (I.I.C.) that provides for automatic adjustment of the ISO setting and shutter speed that best suits the situation by analyzing the speed of subject movement.
- Venus Engine IV Image-Processing LSI
- The Panasonic image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV, features more advanced signal processing technology for rendering even higher-quality images, including improved parallel noise reduction in both luminance signal and chromatic signal processing systems. This not only produces a clearer image in high ISO sensitivity recording, but also faithfully reproduces details in low-lit areas of pictures taken at low ISO sensitivity. The Venus Engine IV also supports sensitivity setting of up to ISO 3200 at full resolution and even up to ISO 6400 when using the high sensitivity mode, sensitive enough to capture subjects in near-total darkness without using a flash. Plus the Intelligent Exposure function now has high, standard and low settings of effect to match the shooting conditions and desired result.
- High Speed Performance
- Thanks to the Venus Engine IV, the DMC-FZ28 boasts outstanding response time with a shutter release time lag is as short as 0.006 seconds to make it easy to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment shots. The camera also provides a burst shooting mode that can snap 2.5 shots per second at full resolution, and a High-Speed Burst mode that it fires off an incredible 13 shots per second at lower resolution. Plus you'll also get unlimited consecutive shooting and a Flash Burst mode that makes it possible to take continuous shots - even with the flash on.
- Intelligent Auto (iA) Mode
- While the DMC- FZ28 allows full manual control for more advanced photography, the camera also allows user to take perfect shots with outstanding ease. This is made possible by Panasonic's Intelligent Auto (iA) mode. In the iA mode, the camera does all the work, activating Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection, and Intelligent Exposure. This leaves the user free to simply compose the shot and press the shutter button, with the assurance that the image will be clear, beautiful and properly exposed.
- Joystick-operated Intuitive Manual Control
- The DMC-FZ28 offers manual focus and manual exposure; and both are adjustable with an independent omni-directional joystick. Users can quickly shortcut to frequently used variables containing white balance adjustment, ISO setting, image size setting and compression format just by pressing and holding down the joystick, even while monitoring a subject on the LCD. There's no need to switch to the menu screen. When you focus in the Manual Focus mode, not only the focus distance but also the depth of field (according to the zoom range and aperture) is displayed. There is also a MF assist function that enlarges the center of the image to make focusing easier.
- Standard & Intelligent Scene Modes
- The DMC-FZ28 contains a host of scene modes to assist your shooting for a wide range of situations - letting the camera make the optimal settings for you automatically, so anybody can take superb photos with ease. To make it even simpler to use the scene modes, the icons and display are designed for easy visibility. The Advanced Scene Mode function lets you quickly set the frequently used Portrait, Scenery, Sports, or Night Portrait Modes with the mode dial, and each of these modes can be fine-tuned to match the shooting situation. Creative mode also lets you adjust the aperture or shutter speed, for easy manual control.
- Unique Scene Modes
- Panasonic has made some very unique Scene modes available - such as the "Baby" mode, which allows easy growth recording in which the baby's age according to the preset birthday would be automatically recorded onto the image, A Pinhole mode to emulate the look of a classic Pinhole camera, and a film Grain mode that looks like you've been shooting onto monochrome high-sensitivity film. Plus, the Tele-Macro function allows shooting the subject in the Macro mode at the telephoto end of the lens range, giving a soft-focused background to make the subject stands out.
- Intelligent Scene Detection
- With the Panasonic Lumix digital camera in Intelligent Auto Mode, 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.
- Auto Angle Detection & Leveling
- Auto angle detection records whether an image was taken horizontally or vertically, and ensures that when playing back on the LCD monitor and displaying images on your TV vertical images are automatically displayed vertically and horizontal images are automatically displayed horizontally. The leveling feature lets users fix images that were accidentally shot at a slight angle - right inside the camera. Rotational correction up to 2° is possible in either clockwise or counter clockwise direction, and even difficult corrections of straight horizons and architectural buildings can be made with excellent results.
- Versatile Video Options
- The DMC-FZ28 records dynamic HD motion pictures in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 30 fps, in addition to WVGA (848 x 480) and normal VGA (640 x 480). The DMC-FZ28 also has a slideshow function that allows users to assemble slide shows in-camera complete with music and a variety of slide change effects for emotion-filled slideshows. Both video clips and slideshows can be viewed on a standard TV with the included video cable or view them on a large-screen HDTV - thanks to the camera's HD component output capability (requires optional DMW-HDC2 component cable).
- Built-in and Expandable Memory
- The camera includes 50MB 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.
Go To
| Camera Type | Ultra-zoom Wide-Angle Point-and-shoot Digital Camera |
| Image Quality | |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | 1/2.33" 10.7 Megapixel CCD with Primary Color Filter |
| Effective Resolution | 10.1 Megapixels |
| Color Depth | 24-Bit RGB |
| Color Modes | Normal, Black & White, Sepia, Cool, Warm |
| Image File Formats |
JPEG (Fine, Standard) RAW RAW + JPEG |
| Recorded Resolution |
4:3 Aspect Ratio 3648 x 2736 3072 x 2304 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 HD (1280 x 720 pixels 30 fps) 16:9 (848 x 480 pixels @ 30fps) VGA (640 x 480 pixels @ 30fps) QVGA (320 x 240 pixels @ 30fps or 10fps) Clip length limited by available memory to a maximum of 2GB |
| Audio Recording |
QuickTime Audio Still Image with Audio up to 5 seconds record Audio Dubbing up to 10 seconds record |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens Type | Leica DC Vario-Elmarit Lens (11 elements in 8 groups with 3 Aspherical Lenses & 2 ED lenses) |
| Optical Zoom | 18x (up to 32.1x extra optical zoom) |
| Lens Focal Length | 4.8-86.4mm (27-486mm equivalent) |
| Digital Zoom | 4x |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.4" (1cm) |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8-4.4 |
| Optical Image Stabilization | Yes (Mega O.I.S.) |
| Accessory Lens/Filter Mount | 46mm for filters only (55mm for lens accessories with optional DMW-LA3 Lens Adapter) |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | TTL-AF with AF Assist lamp |
| Focus Modes | Auto Focus (Face, AF tracking, multi-area, 1-area high speed, 1-area, spot), Manual Focus, Macro, Continuous AF, AF Lock |
| Focus Range |
Normal: 11.8" (30cm) - infinity Macro: 0.4" (1cm) - infinity wide Tele Macro (approx. 11x - 18x): 39.3" (100cm) - infinity Manual/Intelligent AUTO: 0.4" (1cm) - infinity |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity |
Auto ISO High Sensitivity Auto ISO (1600 - 6400) Selectable ISO (100, 200, 400, 800, 1600) |
| Shutter Type | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Shutter Speed |
Program AE: 1-1/2000 seconds A/S Priority: 8-1/2000 seconds Manual :60 - 1/2000 seconds Starry Sky Mode : 15, 30, or 60 seconds |
| Aperture Range | f/2.8-4.4 - f/8.0 |
| Exposure Metering | TTL-AE (Intelligent Multiple, Center-weighted, Spot) |
| Exposure Modes | Program AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE, Manual, Program Shift (Program AE mode), Exposure Compensation (±2 EV in 1/3 EV steps), Backlight Compensation, Auto Bracketing AE (&A#177;1/3 - 1EV steps, 3 frames), Intelligent Exposure (Off, Low, Standard, High) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Halogen, White Set, White Balance Adjustment (±10 steps) |
| Scene Modes |
Party, Candle Light, Baby1, Baby2, Pet, Sunset, High sensitivity, Hi-Speed Burst, Flash Burst, Panning, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial photo, Pin Hole, Film Grain Advanced Scene Modes |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | (Auto, Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Slow Sync., Forced Off, Flash Synchro (1st/2nd) Flash output Adjustment (1/3EV step, -2 - +2 EV) |
| Effective Flash Range | 1.0' (0.3 m) - 27.9' (8.5 m) |
| External Flash Connection | No |
| External Flash Control | Not Applicable |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Time | 1.5 seconds |
| Shutter Lag | 0.006 seconds |
| Time Between Shots | 0.8 seconds |
| Burst Capability |
Standard Burst: 2.5 fps up to 5 images (JPEG/ Standard) Hi-speed Burst: Up to 13 fps (@ 2M - 16:9) |
| Self Timer | 10 seconds, 2 seconds, 3-image |
| Interval Recording | No |
| Date & Time Stamp | Yes (with text entry) |
| Memory & Power | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | 50MB |
| Compatible Memory Cards |
Secure Digital (SD/SDHC) Card MultiMediaCard (MMC) |
| Recording Capacity | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Battery Type | CGR-S006 Lithium-ion Battery Pack (7.2 V, 710 mAh) (included) |
| Power Adapter | DMW-AC10 AC Adapter (optional) |
| Input/Output | |
|---|---|
| Computer Interface | USB 2.0 High speed |
| Direct Print Capable | Yes (PictBridge) |
| Remote Control | No |
| Video Output |
Yes (NTSC , HD (Component)) HD-out requires optional cable |
| Web-Cam Capable | No |
| System & Software Requirements |
Windows 98SE, 2000, ME, XP, Vista Macintosh OS X (10.1 or later) |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder | 0.2" Color EVF (201,600 pixels) |
| LCD Display | 2.7" TFT color LCD Display (230,000 pixels) with AUTO Power LCD mode, Power LCD mode & High angle mode |
| Language Options | English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Russian, Chinese (Traditional), Chinese (Simplified), Netherlandic, Thai, Korean, Turkish, Portuguese, Arabic, Persian, Japanese |
| Playback Options | Image Playback, Zoom Playback (16x max), Thumbnail (12or 30-up), Auto Review (1 sec/3 sec/zoom/ Hold), Review (1x/4x/8x), Calendar Display, Image Rotation, Slide Show, Favorite Pictures, Resizing, Trimming, Protection, DPOF Print Setting, Picture Adjustment (Contrast, Sharpness, Saturation, Noise Reduction), Histogram display Playback Options |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.7 x 2.9 x 3.5" (118 x 76 x 89mm) |
| Weight | 13.1 oz. (370g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 52 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
96%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (43)
- Easy to use (41)
- Large clear LCD (40)
- Simple controls (40)
- Easy to setup (35)
Cons
- Long lag time (6)
- Poor in low light (3)
Best Uses
- Travel (43)
- Family photos (37)
- Fun (37)
- Art (15)
- Photojournalism (12)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (34), Casual photographer (15), Semi-pro photographer (3)
Most Liked Positive Review
Sets a high standard
I use the product almost daily, as well as on trips both business and pleasure. The 10 MP combined with the 18X telephoto capability alone make this unit a good purchase. The new higher...Read complete review
I use the product almost daily, as well as on trips both business and pleasure. The 10 MP combined with the 18X telephoto capability alone make this unit a good purchase. The new higher resolution video gives it more versatility. The AF Tracking function, when shooting moving subjects (such as in a sports situation), lessens the probability of missing a good shot.
Considering all it's versatility and multiple functions, this camera is an excellent choice for someone who wants to shoot high quality without having to carry multiple lenses and large, heavy SLR-like bodies. It's price, considering all it's capabilities, is a great value. Highly recommended.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Not all it's cracked up to be
I ordered this with high expectations. I chose it over the Canon SX10 IS for its HD video and Intelligent Auto.
Well, the video didn't look much better than VGA (upconverte...Read complete review
I ordered this with high expectations. I chose it over the Canon SX10 IS for its HD video and Intelligent Auto.
Well, the video didn't look much better than VGA (upconverted to 1080i through my receiver) and the sound was unusable.
The Intelligent Auto is nice if you're outdoors taking a variety of shots, but doesn't work all that well for pictures of kids. I HATE that when it recognizes a scene as a portrait it automatically puts on the red-eye reduction flash and can't be changed. I'd rather get the shot I want with 1 flash and fix the red-eye with software than to miss a potential shot because of waiting for the second flash (little kids aren't typically too cooperative).
I also didn't notice much quality difference as compared to a 5MP Canon P&S. In fact, pictures taken in sunlight at the full 10MP with ISO 100, tended to have skin that looked blotchy when zoomed in to view.
Otherwise, the features are as you'd expect. I used the high-speed burst to capture great images of a golf swing and the manual control features are great. However, for the price and with my expectations I was generally disappointed.
I returned mine and now I'm waiting for the Sony HX1.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 52 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy To Use
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Poor Operation in Low Light
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Photojournalism
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I have graduated from an ultra-compact to an ultrazoom. I mostly use the camera to take pictures of family and friends.
The Pros:
* Very easy to setup and use,
* Camera starts up almost instantly,
* I swear by the film-grain mode, you can take some truly wonderful shots in that setting. There was this one time when I was taking pictures of a live theatrical performance, the film-grain mode could capture the emotion of the play like no other setting or mode.
* Nice zoom and great lens!
The Cons:
* Noisy sensor.... Noise is quite apparent beyond ISO 400
* No stereo sound in Movie mode,
* Movie mode records only in *.mov; not really the most friendliest formats out there,
Overall, I'm impressed with the performance of the camera and I'm looking forward for the FZ35
Pros
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy to Keep Clean
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Photojournalism
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
Great for a photo enthusiast
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Easy To Use
- Great focus
- Great in low light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
This was a replacement for my on-the-go camera (throw it in the purse). On my first trip, I was able to point and click while on a walking tour and all but 1 pic of 50 came out perfectly focused. Camera also worked well in low light conditions. Adding the polarizing filter ended up being a great addition as well for pic clarity
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy to Keep Clean
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Optical viewfinderal
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Art
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I bought this for taking pictures for the net and casual photography. I wanted a camera that was light, fairly small, good quality, and had more options than the basic camera that I had, and less than the fancy "pro" camera that my husband uses. I especially wanted an optical viewfinder.
I still have a lot to learn, but so far I've been very pleased with the camera. The other day I visited a museum, where I couldn't use the flash, and the pictures came out really well, without a flash.
For taking products for the net, I have found that the quality is fine and it is easy and fast to upload to my computer for editing.
Compared to my husbands camera, the turn on and auto focus time is slower, so I have had to learn to adjust when taking quick shots.
I wish that it had a fitted, simple case, just for protection, when I don't want to carry my regular case, so am going to make one.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Built-in microphone
Best Uses
- Fun
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
The FZ28 is a wonderful camera with excellent optical zoom and image stabilizer. I was impressed with the great quality of the HD video recording.
The only thing I sort of dislike is the poor sound quality from the built-in microphone
Pros
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Art
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I have had this camera for a few weeks now and have taken a few hundred shots ranging from closeup animals at the local zoo to landscape to macro. So far all photos have been exceptional in quality. My other camera is a medium high end DSLR and this Lumix compares favorably as far as image quality.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Lens adapter not included
Best Uses
- Art
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Photojournalism
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I bought the DMC-FZ-28 as an upgrade from the DMC-FZ-7 I bought a couple of years ago. I love that camera, but wanted more megapixels and zoom. I've only had the camera for a couple of weeks, but I have taken almost 20GB of pictures and video. Overall, I am very happy with the FZ-28, especially when compared to the cost of its competition.
I often use the default settings, such as "IA" or Intelligent Auto Mode. Compared to the FZ-7, this camera takes a little longer to focus when in full zoom. However, it does a much better job of keeping a moving subject in focus in burst mode.
In bright sunlight at a beach volleyball tournament, a few photos were too white, but it was only a handful out of 1500 or so. I used both the IA setting as well as the outdoor sports setting. The quality was a little better with the sports setting, not quite as bright.
The overall quality of the photos is much better than the FZ-7, but that's comparing apples and oranges, 10 megapixils vs. 6 megapixels. The face detection technology is awesome, and helps provide great focus from a distance.
This camera also shoots HD video (720p) at 30 fps. The only drawback is you're limited to 2GB of continous video recording, or a little more than 8 minutes. The quality of the video is as good as a camcorder. The image stabilization works well shooting video in full zoom. You can also zoom in and out while shooting video.
One small complaint, I wish Panasonic had included a lens adapter with the included accessories as it did with the FZ-7.
Very pleased with the purchase, especially when compared to the price of the competition.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I ordered this camera and it arrived at my house less than 48 hours later. B&H offered the best price I could find [...]. So far the camera has been great, but as others have pointed out, the audio on the video recording leaves a bit to be desired. Other than that, its a great buy.
Pros
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
Perfect camera for my husband to carry around. Often seeing moose and elk on his drive home from work he now can capture great pics with the long zoom and ease of operation. Yet there is plenty there for those like myself who prefer to adjust the settings manually. Picture quality for this range of camera is excellent.
Pros
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I love this camera. We had an older Lumix and dropped it one too many times so had to replace it. I'm very happy with the operation of this and the pictures are phenomenal. It has a very short lag time between pictures in most of the settings.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy to Keep Clean
- Easy To Use
- Great Manual Mode
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Scene Settings
- Long Battery life
- Long Zoom
- Strong Construction
- VERY fast high speed mode
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I bought this camera to replace an old Canon we had that was a lot more of a small point and shoot with very little manual control. This camera had terrific reviews and was always on the top of the list against competitors. I mainly bought it to capture our newborn baby as she grows and changes, and a lot of the pictures would be indoors and low light for that. The camera really takes a great picture without the need for a flash unless it is very low light conditions. With a lot of manual controls you can really get a great shot, and the full auto mode is very good at adjusting if you just want to point and shoot. With spring arriving I have been using it outside a lot more and it takes an amazing picture. The zoom allows me to get great long distance shots of wildlife, and it has a LOT of great features for Sunsets and other hard to capture settings. It fits perfect in my hand and is really a nice feel and weight balance. All around I would recommend this camera to anyone that wants to take great pictures and likes to be able to adjust the camera in manual mode. I would buy it again, and my mother liked it well enough to get her own after seeing mine! Great Camera and B&H has the best price around!
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Intelligent Auto
- Poor image quality
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I ordered this with high expectations. I chose it over the Canon SX10 IS for its HD video and Intelligent Auto.
Well, the video didn't look much better than VGA (upconverted to 1080i through my receiver) and the sound was unusable.
The Intelligent Auto is nice if you're outdoors taking a variety of shots, but doesn't work all that well for pictures of kids. I HATE that when it recognizes a scene as a portrait it automatically puts on the red-eye reduction flash and can't be changed. I'd rather get the shot I want with 1 flash and fix the red-eye with software than to miss a potential shot because of waiting for the second flash (little kids aren't typically too cooperative).
I also didn't notice much quality difference as compared to a 5MP Canon P&S. In fact, pictures taken in sunlight at the full 10MP with ISO 100, tended to have skin that looked blotchy when zoomed in to view.
Otherwise, the features are as you'd expect. I used the high-speed burst to capture great images of a golf swing and the manual control features are great. However, for the price and with my expectations I was generally disappointed.
I returned mine and now I'm waiting for the Sony HX1.
Pros
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy to Keep Clean
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I bought this camera for a trip to Europe. What a surprise it was. I didn't have much time to get familiar with all of the extra goodies that the camera had to offer, but most all of the operations are intuitive. It was extremely easy to use and the pictures are great. I would highly recommend this camera to anyone.
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
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
This camera is a must have. I got this camera after recently have a baby. As a new mom I wanted to have the best pictures of my little one, while not spending to much on a professional camera but at the same time getting good quality. so if you are looking to buy a camera with great quality and awesome zoom power. Then this camera is for you! Also, this camera has awesome HD video, omg it looks so good! My Daughter looks crystal clear in each Viedo
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I bought this camera in the hopes that it would be an improvement over my Canon FX80. I was looking for a camera that would be better in regards to red eye, level of optical zoom, indoor shots in lower light, and night shots. So far I am VERY impressed. I have a few events coming up where I will really be able to put this baby to the test, but I have already taken this camera to places I have had problems getting good photos before and it has performed exceptionally. There are some inconsistencies with the shutter lag in some modes, but overall I have been happy with the shutter speed.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Stability control
- SUPER ZOOM
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I've only had it for a month so I am still learning all the bells and whistles but right out of the box I was able to start shooting great pictures. It is a lot lighter than an slr, it has both lcd and window (great when it is too bright to see the lcd) It has a threaded lens so you should be able to add filters, uv, polarizers, star etc.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Great Picture Quality
- Long Zoom
- Strong Construction
Cons
- BURST MODE
Best Uses
- Art
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Photojournalism
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I've used this product in a few different ways. I've taken pictures in several different lighting conditions- all of which this camera excells. Having the ability to change shutter speed, focus and iris quickly makes this camera stand out to me. I had, at first, purchased the s2000hd, but it was too difficult to set manual focus. I opted for the panasonic and feel better about the pictures I take. The s2000hd takes better "burst" pictures, but the controls on the panasonic are much better for me.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy Setup
- Easy to Keep Clean
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Battery card on bottom
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Fun
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I am just a casual photographer interested mainly in landscapes, nature and toss in a few people pix now and then.
This is my 5th Panasonic Lumix camera and have loved every one of them. Easy to use from total beginner to someone wanting to use more of the manual features and not have to haul a backpack of parts to get the "perfect" shot. I just love this camera.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Easy Setup
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Long Lag Time
Best Uses
- Art
- Family Photos
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
INCREDIBLE PHOTOS AND VERY SHARP WITH A GREAT DEPTH OF FIELD. A LEICA LENS CAN'T BE WRONG AT ANY TIME. GREAT FOR TAKING PHOTOS USED IN MY OIL PAINTINGS DUE TO SUCH SHARP DETAIL. SHUTTER LAG COULD BE A LOT BETTER ESPECIALLY ON LONG SHOTS. 18X IS A GREAT ZOOM BUT YOU HAD BETTER HAVE A STEADY HAND OR A PROP. IT'S A GREAT CAMERA FOR ME AND FILLS ALL OF MY NEEDS.
Pros
- Bright LCD
- Comfortable Controls
- Easy To Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera (Silver):
I mainly photograph birds, and nature scenery.
This camera has a versatile zoom range, good sensor and is very responsive.
It's a great step up from the FZ18 in terms of detail and noise.
Nice build quality as well.
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Memory Cards
Sufficient memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $9.95
- GBP 6.34
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $42.24
- GBP 26.90
Bags & Straps
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or a strap.
- Price: $39.95
- GBP 25.45
Lenses & Adapters
Capture the right view with a conversion lens.
- Price: $186.99
- GBP 119.10
Screen Protectors
Protect your LCD screen from scratches and finger prints.
- Price: $9.90
- GBP 6.31
Filters & Adapters
Get the desired effect with a filter and the appropriate adapter.
- Price: $19.95
- GBP 12.71
Tripod & Support
Place your camera on a tripod for the support and stability you need.
- Price: $28.98
- GBP 18.46
Books & Tutorials
Learn all that your new camera can do.
- Price: $17.95
- GBP 11.43
What's in the Box
- CGR-S006 Lithium-ion Battery Pack
- Battery Charger
- USB Cable
- A/V Cable
- Lens Cap with Strap
- Lens Hood & Hood Adaptor
- Shoulder Strap
- Software CD-ROM (SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.0 SE, PHOTOfunSTUDIO -viewer - 2.1E, ArcSoft MediaImpression, ArcSoft Panorama Maker, USB Driver)
- User Guide
- 90-Days Labor; 1-Year Parts U.S.A. Limited Warranty
Why Shop at B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via any UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority shipping methods by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don’t turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you’ll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We’ve made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
