Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver)
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By combining a high-quality lens and sensor ready for a variety of shooting conditions with a wide-range of accessories and manual controls, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera is ideal for professional photographers and serious amateurs looking for a compact digital camera that allows for a full range of creative photography capabilities.
The camera incorporates a wide angle f/2.0 aperture Leica DC Vario-Summicron lens with 2.5x wide-angle optical zoom (equivalent to 24mm - 60mm on a 35mm film camera) and the MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) system. The camera also incorporates an enhanced 1/1.63-inch CCD that is capable of capturing 10.1-Megapixels and has been designed to provide more space for each pixel to minimize image noise and optimize image quality and dynamic range. The CCD is also capable of reproducing images in three aspect ratios (4:3, 3:2 or 16:9), and the Multi Aspect mode allows the camera to take an image in all three aspect ratios simultaneously. It also boasts the Venus Engine IV high performance image processing LSI to dramatically reduce image noise (even using the high sensitivity setting of ISO 3200 at full resolution), and provide fast shooting performance with an incredibly fast shutter lag, and burst shooting capability.
The DMC-LX3 is further distinguished from other cameras by its full manual capability and extensive features that are easily accessible through the cameras joystick controller. These features include a Film mode that allows users to emulate the effects of different film types, a multiple-exposure feature for creating artistic photos by overlaying up to three consecutive images, and easy-to-use Manual modes that give the user greater shot-making flexibility and control. In addition the camera can also capture video clips in standard VGA, and HD video formats.
The camera's large 3.0-inch LCD is outstanding for both shooting and viewing. With a 3:2 aspect ratio and high 460,000-dot resolution, the LCD panel provides bright, easy-to-see images over a wider viewing angle. Furthermore, the Intelligent LCD function, assures comfortable viewing in virtually all conditions by automatically adjusting the backlighting of LCD as the ambient light level changes. The camera also provides an impressive slideshow feature where users can select the images, choose for a series of creative transitions and even add music to the presentation - all within the camera. And the camera has HD output capability (Requires an optional HD component cable) to view your images, slideshows and video clips in beautiful HD quality.
- Large 10.1-megapixel CCD
- In addition to being a large area image sensor for a Compact Digital Camera, the 1/1.63-inch 10.1-megapixel CCD of the DMC-LX3 has been designed to maximize the size of the photodiodes, and as a result, both sensitivity and saturation have been boosted by about 40% over ordinary models, giving the LX3 exquisite image quality with both excellent sensitivity and a wide dynamic range. Panasonic also minimized noise generation by using newly designed, 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.
- 24mm Ultra-Wide-Angle Leica Lens
- The camera's 24mm equivalent ultra-wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Summicron Lens provides an impressive f/2.0 aperture that allows users of the LX3 to shoot at higher shutter speeds and capture stunningly clear, sharp, blur-free images in lower lighting situations, while the 24mm ultra-wide-angle capability of the lens gives photographers a wider range of composition possibilities. The super-high-quality lens minimizes distortion with minimum artifacts such as chromatic aberrations, ghosting and flaring, so users can get stunning, true-to-life images with outstanding resolution and detail, and this advanced lens also makes it easy to produce beautiful photos with pleasing soft background focusing thanks to the shallow depth of field provided by the extra light.
- 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-LX3 boasts outstanding response time with a shutter release time lag is as short as 0.005 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 6 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.
- Shoot in Three Aspect Ratios - At the Same Time
- The DMC-LX3 can reproduce images shot in any of three aspect ratios; 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9, so you can always capture dynamic, richly expressive shots with a wide perspective, and the Multi Aspect mode allows the camera to take an image in all three aspect ratios simultaneously for the photographer to choose the one that best takes the advantage of the scene after shooting.
- Intuitive Operation
- The easy-to-use joystick control of the DMC-LX3 facilitates ease-of-use, provides the user with the ability to take full advantage of the multitude of functions offered by the camera and easy access to the manual controls of the camera including focus, aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation. In addition, the Quick Menu button provides a quick shortcut to frequently used camera functions - even while monitoring a subject on the LCD.
- Auto and Manual Focus
- A switch on the side of the lens barrel lets you quickly change the focus mode between Manual Focus, Auto Focus or Macro AF. When using the Manual Focus mode, not only the focus distance but also the DOF (depth of field) and aperture is displayed. The focus button on the top lets you directly choose the auto-focusing point freely from the entire field of view with the 1-point AF or spot AF method, and the same button works for a direct enlargement on the focused point when playing back the images. the Macro capability of the camera allows users to focus on a subject as close as 1cm away for dynamic close-up macro shots. There is also an AF Tracking function that automatically tracks the subject once the AF has been set even if the subject moves around, making it easier to capture sharp, well-focused photos.
- Film Modes
- The DMC-LX3 offers a Film mode with six color types and three types of monochrome to choose from. Much like selecting different film types with a film camera, this function gives the user the flexibility to produce more interesting and expressive images. When you use the Multi-film mode, the camera produces up to three images from a RAW file for you to enjoy different textures of a film on one same picture. Another new feature is the multiple-exposure function which lets the user create artistic photo productions, overlaying up to three consecutive images while viewing the most recent image in the monitor. The camera also provides extensive white balance control with a color temperature display that presents either a Two-Axis White Balance Adjustment control or a custom setting function that lets users store up to four sets of settings that can be accessed using the mode dial.
- Intelligent Auto (iA) Mode
- While the DMC-LX3 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 Lumix's iA (Intelligent Auto) mode. In 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.
- 23 Scene Modes & Image Leveling Feature
- The LX3 offers a total of 23 scene modes, including the unique Pin Hole and Film Grain modes that adds unique, film-camera-like effects and ambiences to images. This wide range of scene modes means that the camera has a setting for just about any shooting situation, and the actual effects of the selected scene mode can be viewed on the LCD before taking the shot. Image Leveling improves post-shooting convenience buy automatically rotating the image to straighten it and cropping the unnecessary edges.
- 3-inch High Resolution LCD
- The cameras clear, easy-to-see 3.0-inch LCD Display provides over 460,000 pixels of resolution for a comfortable view during either shooting or playback, plus the Intelligent LCD function detects the ambient light condition and automatically boosts the LCD backlighting when shooting in bright sunshine, and adjusts the frame rate when shooting in low-lit situations. This function gives the display the most appropriate clarity in any situation without using extra energy.
- Versatile Video Options
- The DMC-LX3 records dynamic HD motion pictures in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 24fps, in addition to WVGA (848 x 480) and normal VGA (640 x 480) at 10 or 30fps. The DMC-LX3 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).
- Camera System Expandability
- The DMC-LX3 is part of a larger photographic system that includes a slew of useful accessories to customize your camera's capabilities. Users can add various filters* to the camera in order to modify the optical characteristics of the camera and the optional Wide Conversion Lens (DMW-LW46*) brings the maximum wide angle all the way to an incredible 18mm. There is also an optional External Optical Viewfinder (DMW-VF1) provides bright, clear viewing without wearing down the battery, and the optional GN22 Flash mounts to the cameras hot shoe. These and other accessories let users build around the LX3 to create a powerful, versatile camera system that can take them as far into photography as they want to go.
- Built-In and Expandable Memory
- The camera is equipped with 50MB of built-in memory to serve not just as a tool of shooting images but also as a digital album, to enjoy seeing and showing your favorite pictures. The camera memory can be expanded using MultiMediaCards, Secure Digital Cards or SDHC Memory Cards that are available in capacities of 4GB and more.
- Direct Print Capable
- With PictBridge direct printing, users can make prints by just connecting the DMC-LX3 camera to a Pictbridge -compatible printer via the included USB cable. The Direct Print mode is easily accessible via the mode dial of the camera so that you can easily access the print control features.
- Extensive Software Included
-
The DMC-LX3 includes a host of editing software including ArcSoft MediaImpression, and ArcSoft Panorama Maker in addition to the USB Driver, Lumix Simple Viewer, and Photo Fun Studio. To edit and develop RAW files, SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.0SE software is included so you can freely adjust various setting such as exposure, or white balance, and take maximum advantage of the RAW file format.
* Requires optional DMW-LA4 lens adapter
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Effective: 10.1 Megapixel, Actual Pixels: 11.3 Megapixel |
| Sensor | 1/1.63" Primary Color Filter |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MJPEG |
| Max Resolution | 10MP: 3648 x 2736 @ 4:3 |
| Other Resolutions |
3072 x 2304 @ 4:3 2560 x 1920 @ 4:3 2048 x 1536 @ 4:3 1600 x 1200 @ 3:2 640 x 480 @ 4:3 3776 x 2520 @ 3:2 3168 x 2112 @ 3:2 2656 x 1768 @ 3:2 2112 x 1408 @ 3:2 2048 x 1360 @ 3:2 0.3MP: 640 x 424 @ 3:2 3968 x 2232 @ 16:9 3328 x 1872 @ 16:9 2784 x 1568 @ 16:9 2208 x 1248 @ 16:9 |
| Aspect Ratio | 3:2, 4:3, 16:9 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
Leica DC Vario-Summicron, 8 elements in 6 groups 4 Aspheric EFL: 5.1-12.8 mm (35mm equivalent: 24-60 mm) Aperture: f/2.0 (W) - 2.8 (T) to f/8 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 2.5x Digital: 4x |
| Focus Range |
Normal: 1.64' (50 cm) - Infinity Wide Macro: 0.39" (1 cm) - Infinity Tele Macro: 11.81" (30 cm) - Infinity |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 80-1600 (High Sensitivity Mode: Auto, 1600-6400) |
| Shutter |
8 - 1/2000 seconds 15 - 60 seconds in Starry Sky Mode |
| Exposure Metering | Center-weighted, Multi, Spot |
| Exposure Modes |
Modes: Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Program Shift, Shutter Priority Compensation: -2 EV to +2 EV (in 1/3 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes |
Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Halogen, Manual, Flash
1
Please Note:White Balance Adjustment (+/- 10 steps, except for auto set) close |
| Burst Rate |
Up to 2.5 fps at 10 MP for up to 8 frames Up to 2.5 fps at 10 MP for up to 4 frames Up to 2.5 fps at 10 MP for up to 3 frames |
| Self Timer | 2 Seconds, 10 Seconds |
| Interval Recording | No |
| Remote Control | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes: Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Exposure Compensation, Flash On, Off, Red-eye Reduction, Second-curtain Sync, Slow Sync, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction |
| Effective Flash Range |
Wide: 2.62 - 27.23' (0.8 - 8.3 m) Telephoto: 0.98 - 19.36' (0.3 - 5.9 m) |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | 50MB |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC |
| Video | |
|---|---|
| Video Clip Length |
Up to 210 Minutes
2
Please Note:Depends on setting close |
| Audio Recording | With Video |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | None |
| Screen | 3.0" LCD (460000 pixels) |
| Connectivity/System Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity |
USB 2.0 DC Input |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 3.7VDC, 1150mAh |
| AC Power Adapter | AC Adapter (Input: 110-240V AC) (Optional) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.28 x 2.34 x 1.06" / 108.71 x 59.44 x 26.92 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 lb / 227 g (Camera only) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 50 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
94%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Large clear LCD (33)
- Easy to use (23)
- Great picture quality (22)
- Good in low light (20)
- Strong construction (17)
Cons
- Limited zoom (15)
- Short battery life (6)
- No viewfinder (5)
Best Uses
- Travel (41)
- Family photos (34)
- Landscape/scenery (22)
- Low light (21)
- Fun (16)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (24), Pro photographer (12), Casual photographer (8), Semi-pro photographer (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (7)
Most Liked Positive Review
Point and Shoot Image Quailty Champ
Panasonic got it right, as far as my needs are concerned. I use the camera mainly for documentary and street-shooting purposes, and in the few weeks I've owned the LX3, have taken numerous ...Read complete review
Panasonic got it right, as far as my needs are concerned. I use the camera mainly for documentary and street-shooting purposes, and in the few weeks I've owned the LX3, have taken numerous front-page photos for the newspaper I work for. At long last, Panasonic/Leica designers listened to the clamor from serious photographers and opted to a) limit the mexapixel count so as to enhance image quality, b) offer true wideangle coverage (with admittedly limited telephoto reach, but not a serious shortcoming for me), and c) increase lens speed so as to make low-light shooting a practicality. The camera sets up relatively easily for basic shooting after some practice and a bit of consulting the instruction manual (which, while quite thorough, doesn't explain features as fully as I might have wished; I can foresee having to call Panasonic's customer support phone line with questions re some of the controls for advanced shooting techniques). Image quality, even for JPEGs, is superb at ISO levels through 400, and surprisingly good through ISO 800. B&W has a film-like look that I love for documentary work. For even better IQ, users should get used to shooting RAW and processing with the supplied Silky Pix program. All in all, the LX3 is fast, quiet and responsive, and it's great being able to select among three shooting aspects with the touch of a switch. And weight and compactness are very good, though some will complain the LX3 isn't truly pocketable, esp. with accessories like the external viewfinder mounted. My only serious reservations: a) They need to reduce shutter lag time so the shooter can anticipate movements, like someone dancing or tossing a ball, and b) they should have improved the custom feature so as to remember manual focus and focal length settings even when the camera is turned off. A "snap" feature similar to that of the Richoh GRD cameras would have been ideal.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Wonderful with some big drawbacks
I want to love this camera. It takes lovely photographs, has an extremely sharp, wide angle lens and is extremely light and portable. But I was one of the ones who bought it ...Read complete review
I want to love this camera. It takes lovely photographs, has an extremely sharp, wide angle lens and is extremely light and portable. But I was one of the ones who bought it for it's HD movie-shooting capabilities and I am a bit disappointed for the following reasons:
1) the aperture freaks out when you are panning over different lighting conditions. It would be one thing if it just snapped close when you move towards something brighter, but what it does is stammer for a few seconds. It's annoying and that portion of movie is absolutely unusable. I called and had a lonnnnng talk with Panasonic tech support to make sure this wasn't just a bad camera, but apparently the model they had at their test facility did exactly the same thing.
2) there doesn't seem to be a way to disable automatic aperture changes in movie mode.
3) the compression in movie mode, while there is lots of resolution, looks like it's had a strong pass of unsharp mask put on it. Very distorted and digital looking. Not pretty.'
4) the menu is extremely confusing and the manual is ever more so!
So all in all, if I had the opportunity to return this camera I probably would. Sadly, I'm just past the 15 day mark.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 50 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
I use this camera for everyday shooting.
It has great lens that allow shooting without flash in almost all circumstances, so I have natural photos and great battery life. Interface it also good.
Camera has only few cons: its noisy at big ISOs (but lens allow lower ISOs than any other camera) and lens cap is not great for pocket-size camera.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
I just recently made the move to digital after years of SLR use. I wanted to start with a more compact camera, but did not want to sacrifice quality. I have never been more impressed with a small camera. The pictures are impeccable, sharp and clear.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
I haven't gotten to play around with all the different settings, but this camera is great. It's easy to use and has really great manual capabilities. Also pretty good in low light situations.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good in Low Light
Cons
- size
Best Uses
- Architecture
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
- wide angle
- leica lenses
- verry good product for the price, if you bought the similar digital leica that is produced by panassonic, you will pay double the price.
- good low light pictures
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Lens cap
- No Wrist Strap Included
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
Aside from the standard point and shoot situations, I use this camera for landscape photography during back country excursions. Between the speed of the 24mm lens and quality of the image, by default (jpg)all the colors and tones are the best I have seen with such a small camera. The Leica lens captures the minute details. My only negative feedback would be the lens cap. But coming from 35mm SLR and realizing the quality of the lens, I can live with it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
This was my very first digital camera after decades of Nikon film-gear use. Given its sensor size it's a real gem. The multiple features from RAW to scene modes, from full auto to full manual make it extremely versatile if one can live with the zoom range (24~60 mm. equivalent) which I can though, granted, others may not. It doesn't get much better than this.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
I have Canon SX10 IS and I've bought LX3 to use it like light force camera. Photos are pretty good, RAW, really high light force (2.0!), but rather slow optical zoom. Maybe LX5 would be more interesting.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor Flash
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
What makes the Lumix DMC-LX3 so great is that it's user interface complements both the experienced and inexperienced photographer by having the simply navigated photo-options with premade settings for the beginner, while the more well traveled photographer can find, and create own solutions for an optimal picture for any situation. In short this Panasonic/Leika hybrid-camera is in my, and others opinion the best option for a compact camera. Of course, the downside to it is the quite small built in memory, making an extra purchase of a memory-card necessary for any and all who decide to make use of this specific model.
For it's kind, i will give this camera a 9/10 possible stars. Just barely misses the top grade because of the lack of storage room within it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Short Lag Time
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
I am a college student going abroad for the Fall semester and I could not be happier with my Lumix.
Being a frugal, thrifty college student, I was hesitant to make a decision to either buy the Rebel T1I (A DSLR camera) or a less cumbersome, more compact point and shoot like the LUMIX. After having had a cannon powershot that just stopped working one day, I was hesitant to buy yet another Point and Shoot. I had also vowed to myself that my next purchase (after already having 2 point and shoots), would be a more complex DSLR.
And after 3 months of research, advice from fellow enthusiasts, artists, and even professional photographers, and embarrassing indecision, I finally came to my decision...
When I thought about it and weighed the pros and cons, the Lumix reviews and the photo evidence of this model only helped make my decision that much easier. The price didn't make a huge dent in my wallet either.
Deciding factors:
-I would have to buy a lens and have all the other apparatus to go with a bulkier DSLR, and I'm not going to want to be spending my time adjusting for candid shots.
-I would stand out as a tourist if I had a bulkier camera and bring attention to myself.
-I would be too worried about losing it, taking away from my travels abroad
The Lumix allows me to be creative or, I can put it on auto if I would rather revel in the actual view and not adjust every button to get a good photo. I takes photos that are comparable to DSLRs.
I have been experimenting with this camera and am pleased to say that this is the best purchase I have made! Sure, eventually I'll make a move to a DSLR in a few more years, but this is a wonderful smaller alternative and takes beautifully clear, detailed shots. They look like DSLR quality--HONESTLY! I get compliments on all my detailed macro shots and it has cool, fun scene options such as "pinhole" and "rapid shutter speed" and "film grain" (my favorite).
BUY IT. Don't do all the months stressing about it as I did. TOTALLY worth it.
Pros
- GREAT CAMERA
- great lens
- Professional Quality
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- NATURE
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
Identical to the Leica D-LUX, and available in silver as well as black. This is a professional grade Point and Shoot Camera. The aperture speed of 2.0 - 2.8 is very fast for a point and shoot camera. It has a moderate zoom range of 24mm -60mm
which may be too short for some, but perfect for those who love a "normal" 50mm focal length, such as myself. The 24mm wide angle covers all I need for confined areas and panoramic as well. The 60mm focal length shows objects at their true distance (actually 58mm does, but who's counting).
I have used SLR's since 1974, and film only up until now. I have sold all of my film cameras and lenses, except for my Special Edition M6 Leica. So I now need only my Leica and Digital Lumix. Less sometimes is more. For anyone looking for a top grade Point and Shoot Camera wth P,S,A and M options, along with custom options I suggest reading the specs on this camera before making your decision. I think you may be as pleased as I am, plus the comfort knowing you have bought from B&H as I have for twenty years. Enjoy!!
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Long lag time shutter delay
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
Very easy to use, retro-style looking. Bright lense and wide angle permit you shoot amazing photos.
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
Manual controls very intuitive and easy to use
The menu system is somewhat tedious but the quick menu is excellent
Excellent image quality
Battery life is somewhat on the short end
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
Love this camera. It is really easy to use and has such fantastic picture quality for a point and shoot. The video feature is great - especially since you can take video and stills at the same time. The color is amazing and the clarity superb.
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Sports/Action
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
This camera does really well inside and outside. The photos are sharp and the colors turn out great. I haven't found anything I dislike about it.
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
Amazing images in low light conditions. I love the wide angle. Both these features make it a very unique P&S camera. I only wish the optical zoom was better. I do like the silver model!
Pros
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
I love the wide angle lens, and the lack of much zoom doesn't really bother me. I have two small complaints: 1 - The manual focus is the silliest thing, and is really not worth using and 2 - I wish there was a traditional view finder, as with most point and shoots, only having an lcd screen makes it really hard to see what your doing when it's bright outside.
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
I bought this camera just before going on vacation, and found it to be a great traveling camera. The picture quality is great, especially in low light conditions such as museums, aquariums. The ability to control the white balance and color balance allowed me to make some very nice pics of the colorful fish at the aquarium. Lag time is short, zoom is adequate for most scenery shots, and plenty of battery life for a long day of shooting. It really is a lot of fun to use, and I'm very happy with the photos I'm getting.
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- No Viewfinder
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
Truthfully, I got tired of carrying around the Canon 5D for family snapshots. Even my secondary cameras could be intrusive. I wanted a camera that shots RAW and something I could put in my pocket. It came down to LX3 and Canon S90. I looked at both and, frankly, it was a toss-up. Price was about same, features were about the same. Ultimately, I selected the LX-3. Very happy. Just used it at a family christening and the results were most impressive. We all know what family get togethers are like: "oh, can you take my picture!" Now, it was "oh, he only his point and shoot." They don't know the difference!
Found the resolution and quality very good when imported into Lightroom 2.6 and Photoshop CS4. Perfect pocket camera. And the video -- and for decades I have eschewed video -- worked nicely. HD video to boot.
What didn't I like. Well not having a viewfinder for the first time -- ever -- was certainly different. Cut a few heads off; but that's to be expected! Not all that happy with the battery. Spoiled again by the Canon 5Ds' batteries. Even the Canon backups cameras seemingly have a longer lifespan.
Photographically, I found the LX3 "Auto Intelligent" mode surprisingly outstanding. I bought the silver LX3. Actually, I prefer silver over black. Sorta tired of carrying black cameras! How about North Carolina blue, Panasonic!
:))
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Works great with iPod ext
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
Great for an old photographer, love the great in focus photos since my hands shake a lot, but not with this camera. Love all the features on this mini camera. I will be going to Hawaii April 2010 for 2 weeks and will leave all my heavy cameras at home as this will do everything i wish to do.
Yep, 86 years old and can use this camera like a pro, which I am.
By George
Pros
- 24mm wide angle
- Customizable auto WB
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Expeditions
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro
- Photojournalism
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Digital Camera (Silver):
I regularly shoot nature scenics, action pass-bys, macro nature shots and product photography on long hikes and self-contained expeditions up to 25 days in length. For all that, and casual or travel photography, this thing rocks.
Superb lens. REAL wide angle. Reasonably fast focus. Decent shutter lag time in manual and prefocused situations. Simple menus. RAW! Histograms! Excellent low light performance in a compact package, although it's no D3s. 720p video too...with real-time histogram onscreen!
No telephoto? Who cares! P&S telephotos are junk, so go wide and get photojournalism capability the size of a playing card deck. 10 MP is plenty for any mag layout or blow-up to 11 x 17 (double page spread). Not much to object about here. A viewfinder would be nice for bright glare light, but you can also use a removable hood. Wanna snorkel? Put it in a Ewa-Marine bag. Going polar? Get a bunch of extra batts and rotate them out of a warm pocket. Done deal.
I got the silver model to avoid solar cooking on a black body. Getting happier with this thing by the day. Even the mindless 'modes' seem pretty accurate. If it shot 1080P, took a shotgun mic, and did time lapse, I'd rarely need SLRs or HD camcorders for anything other than telephoto use. Currently (Mar 2010) it's as good as the P&S genre gets.
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Memory Cards
Required item: Sufficient memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $12.95
- GBP 8.25
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $18.00
- GBP 11.46
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- Original: $19.95
- Save: $1.99
- Price: $17.96
- GBP 11.44
Bags & Straps
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or a strap.
-
- Original: $13.95
- Save: $1.39
- Price: $12.56
- GBP 8.00
Lenses & Adapters
Capture the right view with a conversion lens.
- Price: $16.41
- GBP 10.45
Viewfinders
Refine your angle of view.
- Price: $138.55
- GBP 88.25
Flash & Accessories
Get a flash to add light to your picture.
- Price: $299.95
- Click to see current price
- GBP 191.05
What's in the Box
- CGA-S005A Lithium-ion Battery
- Battery Charger (110-240v AC)
- Battery Case
- USB Cable
- A/V Cable
- Lens Cap with Strap
- Shoulder Strap
- Software CD-ROM (PHOTOfunSTUDIO viewer, ArcSoft MediaImpression, ArcSoft Panorama Maker, SilkyPix Developer Studio 3.0SE, QuickTime, USB Driver)
- Operating Instructions
- 1-Year Parts and Labor U.S.A. Limited Warranty
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