Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera
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The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera boasts a high-powered, 25-600mm (35mm equivalent) 24x Leica optical zoom lens with fast autofocus and advanced imaging capabilities. From lush landscapes to action sport photography, this advanced point-and-shoot camera captures all of your subjects with rich color and brilliant contrast. A powerful 14.1 megapixel sensor along with the Venus Engine HD II image processor ensures high image quality, even when shooting at high ISO settings up to 6400.
AVCHD Lite file compression allows you to capture broadcast-quality HD video at reduced files sizes - saving space on your memory card for longer shooting sessions. Featuring Dolby Digital Stereo, the camera also captures dynamic, stereo sound with your HD content. Intelligent Auto Mode uses face detection autofocus, AF tracking for moving subjects, optical image stabilization, scene mode selection, and auto ISO to make great pictures and movies as simple as point-and-shoot. You also have complete manual control over both still images and video, and My Color Mode allows you to create distinctive effects, making your photos and videos stand out from the crowd.
In the field use the 3" LCD screen or electronic viewfinder to compose and review your images. Connect to your HDTV with an optional HDMI to mini HDMI cable. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 makes shooting and sharing your photos and video fun and easy.
- 25-600mm (35mm equivalent) f/2.8-5.2 Leica DC Vario-Elmarit Lens
- The DMC-FZ40 features a 25-600mm (35mm equivalent) f/2.8-5.2 Leica DC Vario-Elmarit high-quality lens. Comprising 14 elements in 10 groups, including 3 ED (Extra Low Dispersion) lenses and 2 aspherical lenses with 3 aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit realizes the outstandingly compact body while passing Leica's stringent standards to deliver exceptional optical performance suppressing distortion at the wide-end and color bleeding at the tele-end.
- This single camera lets you record both photos and movies just the way you want them, making the DMC-FZ40 twice as attractive. With a 24x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 600mm) that draws your subjects right up close, you can freely capture decisive sports scenes, along with the natural expressions of animals and details that you can't even see with your bare eyes - in both photos and movies.
- The 25mm ultra wide-angle lens has about twice the shooting area as a standard 35mm lens. This enhances all kinds of shooting situations, like when you're photographing a group of people at an indoor party or shooting a large structure or sweeping landscape while traveling.
- The 24x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 600mm) of the DMC-FZ40, with its wide-open aperture of F5.2 produces stunning portraits with softly focused backgrounds. The high-quality lenses of this lens system also ensure clear and sharp focusing of your subject in telephoto shots, and provide superb resolution and contrast for smoothly shaded facial complexions.
- 32x Intelligent Zoom / 50.6x Extra Optical Zoom
- Intelligent Zoom is available with the DMC-FZ40 which extends the zoom ratio by approx. 1.3x maintaining the picture quality even combining a digital zoom. This means the 24x optical can virtually extend to 32x equivalent. Furthermore, the extra optical zoom function extends zoom power to 50.6x by using the center part of the large CCD to bring subjects even closer.
- Sonic Speed AF
- The Sonic Speed AF system in the DMC-FZ40 includes numerous re-engineering enhancements, including a higher-speed actuator, optimized algorithms and parallel software processing. The result is fast and accurate AF performance. You can quickly get moving subjects in focus, such as when you're shooting sports scenes.
- Fast Start-up Time
- The parallel processing of software resulted in ultra high-speed start-up.
- Short Release Time Lag
- The shutter release time lag is as short as approx. 0.006 second, making it easy to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities.
- 14.1-megapixel High-resolution CCD
- Images remain clear and sharp even when they are enlarged to A2 size (594 x 420mm). An A2 photo is large enough to show a newborn baby or the head and chest of an adult in actual size. Photos in ordinary sizes (127 x 89mm or 178 x 127mm) come out beautifully at 3 megapixels. You can trim the photos any way you want.
- Venus Engine HD II
- The high-speed, high-performance Venus Engine HD II is incorporated in the DMC-FZ40 to enable the recording of beautiful photos and high-definition movies with higher quality signal processing including the Intelligent Resolution technology. The Venus Engine HD II also supports the recording of beautiful, high-definition motion images in AVCHD Lite with its higher processing speed using twin CPUs. An advanced noise reduction system in the Venus Engine HD II applies noise reduction (NR) to luminance noise and chromatic noise separately. As a result, beautiful images with minimal noise can be reproduced all the way up to ISO 1600 high sensitivity at full resolution for beautiful night shots or dimly lit indoor shots.
- High Image Quality in High Sensitivity Shooting
- The graininess that results from picture noise and the flatness that sometimes comes with noise reduction measures are major concerns when shooting at high sensitivity levels. The Intelligent Resolution minimizes noise to produce sharp, clear images.
- Extended Battery Life
- The energy-saving Venus Engine HD II image processing engine and the efficient rechargeable lithium-ion battery work together to extend the shooting time of the DMC-FZ40. This lets you take approx. 580 shots on a single battery charge.
- Intelligent Resolution
- With Intelligent Resolution technology, 3 areas - outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation areas - are automatically detected and optimum signal processes are performed to each area. Apart from the uniform enhancement of sharpness, the innovative technology Intelligent Resolution precisely performs signal processing pixel by pixel in the most effective way for it. As a result, images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and movie recording.
- iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode
- When you don't know which mode will give you the best shooting results, or when a sudden photo opportunity pops up and you don't have time to make any settings, simply choose the iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode and let the camera do it all for you. You just choose the iA Mode, aim at your subject, and shoot. 7 detection and correction functions are simultaneously activated to optimize the settings, so you get stunning photos every time. The DMC-FZ40, a hybrid still/motion image model, also lets you take beautiful HD movies in the iA Mode. In addition, newly incorporated the Intelligent Resolution technology is always activated in the iA Mode which results in the clearer and higher image quality in every photo and movie with extended zoom range equivalent to 32x optical zoom by the Intelligent Zoom.
- Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) - Shake Detection
- Everyone has had an experience of taking a photo at night and hoping to capture all the memories and beauty, only to be disappointed at the poor result. Panasonic has worked on the low-frequency vibration hand-shake component, which is physically generated when pressing the shutter button or when shooting at night with a slow shutter speed. The Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer nearly doubles the hand-shake correction power of conventional MEGA O.I.S. You get bright photos without blurring even from handheld shooting at slow shutter speeds.
- The quality of night shots is heavily influenced by the shutter speed. When the shutter speed is raised to prevent blurring, insufficient lighting can make the shot too dark. And when the shutter speed is slowed down to allow more light, hand-shake could occur. In addition to the powerful hand-shake correction of Power O.I.S., the DMC-FZ40 features the iA Mode, which intelligently determines the best shutter speed. Together, they produce dramatically beautiful night scenes.
- Face Detection AF/AE with Face Recognition
- The DMC-FZ40 features Face Recognition, a function that "remembers" faces. Register the person from the menu by taking his/her full-face portrait with his/her name. Once complete, if the familiar face appears into your frame again, the camera will display the name you specified for that person. The camera will prioritize focus and exposure so that the registered face is bright and in sharp focus. Up to 3 persons' names can be displayed at once. In playback, you can choose to display only photos that contain a specific registered face using the Category Playback. The Face Recognition features makes sorting and archiving incredibly easy.
- Intelligent Scene Selector - Scene Detection
- When the camera's in the iA Mode, the Intelligent Scene Selector automatically sets the Scene Mode to one of Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night portrait, Night scenery or Sunset. The camera judges it from the various detection results such as focusing and brightness level. You are free from annoying settings every time the scene changes when taking images with these most frequently used Scene Modes.
- Advanced Scene Mode
- The Advanced Scene Mode function lets you quickly set the frequently used Portrait, Scenery, Sports, Close-up, or Night portrait Modes with the mode dial. And each of these modes can be fine-tuned to match the shooting situation. The Creative Mode also lets you adjust the aperture or shutter speed, for easy manual control. When pressing the Motion Picture button, the optimal Movie Scene Mode is automatically selected.
- Happy Mode
- The Happy Mode, a color mode option in the iA Mode, optimizes color, saturation and brightness to make images more vivid and true to the color of the scene you remember. It can be used in combination with each Scene Mode in the Intelligent Scene Selector. The Happy Mode is also available in movie recording.
- Panorama Assist Mode
- This is a handy function for aligning panorama photos using the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition. The afterimage of each previous shot is displayed, so you can use it to precisely line up the second and third shots.
- AF Tracking - Subject Detection
- Once you focus on your subject, the AF Tracking automatically tracks it until you press the shutter. When you're taking images of an active subject, like children or pets, this function eliminates the need to press the shutter button halfway down repeatedly to readjust the focus. The AF Tracking makes sure you don't miss those once-in-a-lifetime shooting opportunities.
- Quick Auto Focus
- The DMC-FZ40 features the Quick AF. Ordinary AF is activated when the shutter button is pressed half-way, while the Quick AF starts operating as soon as the camera is pointed toward a subject. This dramatically reduces the shutter delay time and lets you take images quickly. Its super-fast focus is ideal for capturing quick images of active children and pets. By setting the camera to the Quick AF, images of sudden shooting opportunities won't be out of focus or blurry.
- Intelligent ISO Control - Motion Detection
- The Intelligent ISO Control function in the DMC-FZ40 made possible by the Venus Engine HD II, detects subject movement and automatically adjusts the ISO setting and shutter speed to best suit the movement and light conditions. When it detects subject motion, it automatically raises the ISO setting and increases the shutter speed to prevent motion blur. On the other hand, when the subject is still and no movement is detected, it takes beautifully natural photos with a low ISO setting. The Intelligent ISO Control gives you stunning images with ease because there is no need for complicated settings.
- Intelligent Exposure - Light Detection
- The Intelligent Exposure function increases the exposure only in under-exposed areas by detecting the brightness level part-by-part in the image. If the background includes the sky, which tends to be easily washed out, the camera automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed to keep the setting slightly under-exposed to prevent wash-out while brightening the darkened area by increasing the ISO only in that area. If the background of an indoor portrait receives insufficient lighting from a flash and becomes dark, the ISO sensitivity is raised in only the low-lit area to make it brighter without causing graininess in the subject's face.
- Auto Backlight Compensation
- When there is strong backlighting, the background appears nice and bright, but the subject is dark. This function detects backlight condition and compensates it automatically.
- A/S/M Mode
- Manual functions are the key to taking highly controlled and distinctive photos. Aperture-priority Mode lets you open the aperture up wide for stunning portraits with softly focused backgrounds. Shutter-priority Mode makes it possible to express the dynamic power of a flowing stream by slowing down the shutter speed. And Manual Exposure Mode gives you total control of special shots, allowing you to achieve a higher level of photographic beauty.
- Full Manual Operation with Jog Dial
- The manual control of the DMC-FZ40 is easy to use with the incorporation of a jog dial. The AF/ AF-Macro/ MF mode button lets you change setting quickly according to shooting condition. You can enjoy creative control not only in photos but also in movies, utilizing a host of options including the Creative Movie Mode and the My Color Mode.
- Direct Exposure Compensation
- In Program AE, Aperture-priority, and Shutter-priority Modes, you can retrieve the exposure compensation value and manually adjust it directly with the jog dial. With the DMC-FZ40, the exposure compensation and auto bracket range is +/- 3EV in 1/3EV steps to.
- ISO Auto Setting in Manual Exposure Mode
- In Manual Exposure Mode, you can either select ISO Auto or make settings from ISO 80 to ISO 1600. With ISO Auto, once you set the aperture and shutter speed, the camera automatically judges the ISO sensitivity and maintains the appropriate exposure. For example, you have to use a fast shutter speed to capture moving subjects, while closing down the aperture enough to extend the depth of field for focusing ease. With this kind of shot, you can set the shutter speed and aperture manually, and then leave the exposure up to ISO Auto.
- Manual Exposure Assist
- When you choose the Manual Exposure Mode, this function shows how much your setting differs from the setting the camera considers optimal. This serves as a convenient guide for anyone using the Manual Exposure Mode.
- My Color Mode
- Naturally, you want your photos and movies to be unique. The My Color Mode, is a special option that gives free reign to your creativity. With a variety of options including new Pin hole, Film grain, High dynamic and Dynamic B&W, the My Color Mode makes it easier and more fun to create interesting, expressive images by shooting images with more intensive color, brightness and saturation parameters.
- Detailed White Balance Setting / White Balance Bracket
- 2-axis adjustment feature gives you a finer white balance adjustment for Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Flash, or Halogen conditions. It can also be used when adjusting the color temperature setting or white set function. You can adjust with a reference to the horizontal axis for amber to blue and the vertical axis for green to magenta. With still image recording, you can use the White Balance Bracket setting, which automatically shoots 3 consecutive photos with slight changes to the white balance setting of each photo in both the vertical and horizontal axes, by simply pressing the shutter button once.
- AF/ AF-Macro/ MF Mode Button / Focus Button
- The AF/AF-Macro/ MF mode button lets you quickly change the focus mode. The focus button helps to achieve finer focusing during both shooting and playback. During AF operation, it serves to activate the variable AF area, and during MF operation, it changes to a handy One-shot AF to provide initial focusing. During playback, this convenient and important function gives you one-touch zoom playback of subjects in focus.
- Variable AF Area
- You can select the AF setting from Face AF, AF tracking, Multi-AF (23-area) or 1-area AF. With the 1-area AF, the position of the AF area can be freely moved. This is convenient when you want to frame a shot for a special effect, like focusing on a subject at the very edge of the frame. The AF frame size can also be selected from among Spot, Normal, L, and XL.
- Manual Focus
- Select manual focus with the AF/ AF-Macro/ MF mode button, and use the jog dial for super-smooth focusing. When you focus in the manual focus mode, not only the focus distance but also the DOF (depth of field) according to the zoom range and aperture is displayed.
- 0.39" (1cm) Macro
- The DMC-FZ40 lets you get as close as 0.39" (1cm) to your subject. Simply press AF/ AF-Macro/ MF mode button to switch to Macro Mode. Ideal for taking dynamic, intricate close-ups of flowers and insects, this feature is also great for rendering artwork and handicrafts in spectacular details
- MF Assist
- An MF Assist function enlarges the image to make focusing easier. The focusing area is movable, which also contributes to easy and comfortable manual focusing.
- AF/ AE Lock Button
- The AF/ AE Lock button lets you frame your shot freely while keeping the focus locked, or maintains the same exposure setting regardless of the subject color when taking multiple shots.
- Built-in Flash
- Select the flash synchronization you want from 1st Curtain Sync. or 2nd Curtain Sync. This is effective for capturing nightscapes with a natural flow of light. You can adjust the intensity within a range of +/- EV 2 in 1/3 EV steps, too
- Built-in Flash
- Select the flash synchronization you want from 1st Curtain Sync. or 2nd Curtain Sync. This is effective for capturing nightscapes with a natural flow of light. You can adjust the intensity within a range of +/- EV 2 in 1/3 EV steps, too
- AVCHD Lite
- In addition to Motion JPEG images, the DMC-FZ40 can record high-definition motion images in AVCHD Lite. It features almost double the recording time in HD quality compared with the conventional Motion JPEG format.
- Motion Picture Button
- Motion image recording can be started by pressing a dedicated button on the top of the camera - an extremely quick, convenient way to start motion image recording. Most of the camera's settings will be carried over when switched to motion image recording.
- 24x Optical Zoom When Shooting Movies
- The 24x optical zoom of the DMC-FZ40 lets you zoom up close to subjects that you can't actually approach, even when shooting movies. This single camera will capture both photos and movies of wild animals in highly natural poses, dynamic sports scenes and countless other situations, exactly as you see them.
- iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode for Movies
- The iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode is also available in motion image recording. The iA Mode automatically and simultaneously activates 4 advanced detection functions: The Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) to detect hand-shake, the Face Detection AF/AE to detect faces in the frame, the Intelligent Scene Selector to detect scene conditions, and the Intelligent Exposure to detect the ambient light. Since the camera automatically optimizes the settings, it lets you shoot stunning HD movies every time.
- Advanced Scene Mode for Movies
- You are naturally supposed to take the same subject in the same situation when you start recording a movie while recording photos. So you do not have to set the Advanced Scene Mode again for movie recording once you are in the Advanced Scene Mode of photo recording. The result is beautiful movies that are best optimized for the scene.
- My Color, Color Effect, & Happy Mode for Movies
- You can use the My Color Mode and Color Effect Mode for shooting movies. They render highly unique expressions by matching the colors to your subject and surroundings. In the iA Mode, you can apply Happy Mode as well, for even brighter coloring.
- Creative Movie Mode
- The DMC-FZ40 features a Creative Movie Mode, which lets you set the shutter speed and aperture manually to make even more impressive movies. Changing the shutter speed brings special effects to movies, which is especially suitable for shooting fast-moving subject. The ability to control the aperture is convenient when there are several subjects at different distances and it is desired to have each of them stand out. The Creative Movie Mode gives the user a wider range of expressive possibilities to explore.
- Video Editing
- You can divide a single video into two parts using only the camera. This is handy for compiling memorable scenes, and deleting unwanted scenes to free up space on your memory card while you are traveling. You can also cut out a clear still image from a movie in the camera thanks to Intelligent Resolution technology.
- VIERA Link/ HDMI Compatibility
- Just connect the DMC-FZ40 to an HDTV and you're ready to view your photos and movies in beautiful high-definition. Motion images recorded in AVCHD Lite on SD, SDHC, or SDXC memory cards are easy to view on a Panasonic VIERA TV. Simply insert the card into the VIERA Image Viewer (SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot) on a VIERA TV or DIGA recorder/ player to playback your content. Alternatively, you can use an optional mini HDMI cable to output the motion images you took from the DMC-FZ40 directly to the TV for VIERA Link.
- Quick Menu
- Frequently used functions can be quickly retrieved and easily switched by using the Q.MENU button. The function names are displayed in text form, making them easy for anyone to understand and use.
- Function Button
- Functions that can be assigned to the Function button include: Aspect ratio, Quality, Metering, White balance, Intelligent exposure, Color effect, Guide line, Recording area, and Remaining display.
- Custom Mode
- Your frequent setting patterns can be memorized up to three and it can be instantly applied by simply selecting this function with the camera.
- EVF (Electronic Viewfinder)
- The DMC-FZ40 has a clear 0.2" EVF (electronic viewfinder) featuring a 100% field of view, 201,600-dot equivalent, and a large, comfortable eyepiece. Located directly on top of the lens, it is easy to use and provides fast, accurate framing. Using the viewfinder also consumes no battery power.
- Large, 3.0", 230,000-dot High-resolution LCD
- The DMC-FZ40's large 3.0" LCD features a high 230,000-dot resolution, and a wide-viewing angle that lets you frame your shot in a variety of ways for both shooting and viewing. The Intelligent LCD function also automatically adjusts the brightness in 11 steps according to shooting conditions. This LCD provides sharp, clear images in virtually all shooting situations, ranging from nighttime to bright daylight scenes and from low-angle to high-angle shooting. And it lets you share the fun of viewing images with family and friends.
- Out-of-frame Display
- This function is handy when you want to concentrate on shooting without having your view blocked by information displayed on the screen.
- Select from 4 Aspect Ratios
- In addition to 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9, you can now shoot with a 1:1 aspect ratio. This unique square frame adds to your image expression possibilities. The 16:9 ratio produces images that match the aspect ratio of an HDTV screen. Being able to match the aspect ratio to your subject and shooting intent gives you even greater control.
- Optional Accessories
- A wide range of optional accessories are available, such as the DMW-LT55 Tele Conversion Lens, which allows full-resolution, ultra-zoom shooting up to 40.8x (35mm camera equivalent: 1020mm), and the DMW-LPL52 PL Filter, which renders beautiful, lifelike landscapes and skies by cutting the reflections from water and glass surfaces and random light rays from the surroundings. Enjoy customizing your own, original system, and then use it to produce highly distinctive images.
- Category Playback
- You can playback photos from a total of 10 settings, including the Face Recognition, which lets you search for and retrieve specific subjects.
- Title Edit / Text Stamp
- The Title Edit function in playback mode lets you edit the titles of any photos you want. Two of the scene modes, Baby and Pet mode, let you enter the date of birth and name of your subject in advance. You can also enter your destination and the date of travel in advance, in the Travel Date setting. The title, name, age based on the birth date, date of travel information, and date of shooting are displayed during playback, and can be printed on photos.
- PictBridge
- The PictBridge standard lets you print directly on a compatible digital printer. Print size, layout, date and other settings can be made with the camera. Of course, you can also make multiple prints of an image, or print only the ones that you have selected.
- Slideshows with Music
- The DMC-FZ40 can play a slideshow with music. Choose from 4 types of music: natural, slow, swing and urban. Then, select the transition effect to match your music. You can also use the optional mini HDMI cable to connect the camera to an HDTV for breathtaking, large-screen viewing. For musical slideshows created with the included PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition, you can choose your favorite iTunes music file as background music and burn it onto a DVD disc as a MPEG2 file. It is also possible to upload the slideshow to YouTube.
- PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition Software
- The latest version of exciting software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition comes bundled with the DMC-FZ40. With quick start-up and fast read-in of images, the PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition makes it possible to sort and organize photos not only of those newly taken but also of those stored in your computer. The Face Recognition function that recognizes the faces in the image to automatically sort the photos by the registered faces without picking out each photo one by one when you only want images of a specific person. You can also enjoy slideshows with a variety of effects and use your iTunes music library as background music and burn it onto a DVD disc in MPEG2. Motion images can be uploaded directly to YouTube using the built-in YouTube uploader even in HD (High Definition) quality. It also lets you create a 360° rotation panorama file in MOV, which is especially easy if Panorama Assist Mode in the camera is used. The software is of course compatible with the Windows 7.
- SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.1 SE Software
- The DMC-FZ40 records original image data in RAW file format, which allows images to be developed according to your intention. A number of highly advanced functions can be applied to these RAW images by using the SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.1 SE software utility, with its unique combination of high resolution and extraordinary color separation performance.
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Effective: 14.1 Megapixel, Actual Pixels: 14.5 Megapixel |
| Sensor | 1/2.33" Primary Color Filter |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MJPEG, MPEG-4 AVCHD |
| Max Resolution | 14MP: 4320 x 3240 @ 4:3 |
| Other Resolutions |
10MP: 3648 x 2736 @ 4:3 7MP: 3072 x 2304 @ 4:3 5MP: 2560 x 1920 @ 4:3 3MP: 2048 x 1536 @ 4:3 0.3MP: 640 x 480 @ 4:3 12.5MP: 4320 x 2880 @ 3:2 9MP: 3648 x 2432 @ 3:2 6MP: 3072 x 2048 @ 3:2 4.5MP: 2560 x 1712 @ 3:2 2.5MP: 2048 x 1360 @ 3:2 0.3MP: 640 x 424 @ 3:2 10.5MP: 4320 x 2432 @ 16:9 7.5MP: 3648 x 2056 @ 16:9 5.5MP: 3072 x 1728 @ 16:9 3.5MP: 2560 x 1440 @ 16:9 2MP: 1920 x 1080 @ 16:9 0.2MP: 640 x 360 @ 16:9 10.5MP: 3232 x 3232 @ 1:1 7.5MP: 2736 x 2736 @ 1:1 5.5MP: 2304 x 2304 @ 1:1 3.5MP: 1920 x 1920 @ 1:1 2.5MP: 1536 x 1536 @ 1:1 0.2MP: 480 x 480 @ 1:1 |
| Aspect Ratio | 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 16:9 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
Leica DC Vario-Elmarit, 14 elements in 10 groups 2 Aspheric, 3 ED EFL: 4.5-108 mm (35mm equivalent: 25-600 mm) Aperture: f/2.8 (W) - 5.2 (T) to f/11 1 Please Note:52mm Filter threads close |
| Zoom |
Optical: 24x Digital: 4x |
| Focus Range |
Wide: 0.98' (30 cm) - Infinity Telephoto: 6.56' (200 cm) - Infinity Wide Macro: 0.39" (1 cm) - Infinity Tele Macro: 39.37" (100 cm) - Infinity |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 80-1600 (High Sensitivity Mode: Auto, 1600-6400) |
| Shutter |
1/8 - 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: -3 EV to +3 EV (in 1/3 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes |
Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Halogen, Manual, Shade
2
Please Note:Color temperature, 2-axis adjustable, +/-9 steps each, Blue/Amber and Magenta/Green bias close |
| Burst Rate |
Up to 1.8 fps at 14 MP for up to 3 frames Up to 10 fps at 3 MP |
| 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, Flash On, Off, Red-eye Reduction, Second-curtain Sync, Slow Sync, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction |
| Effective Flash Range |
Wide: 0.98 - 31.17' (0.3 - 9.5 m) Telephoto: 3.28 - 16.73' (1 - 5.1 m) |
| External Flash Connection | None |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | 40MB |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC |
| Video | |
|---|---|
| Video Clip Length |
Up to 210 Minutes
3
Please Note:Depends on setting close |
| Audio Recording | With Video, Stereo |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100% |
| Screen | 3.0" LCD (230000 pixels) |
| Connectivity/System Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity |
USB 2.0 HDMI A (Full Size) Viera Link |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | ID-Security Li-ion Battery Pack Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 7.2VDC, 895mAh |
| AC Power Adapter | AC Adapter (Input: 110-240V AC) (Optional) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.74 x 3.14 x 3.62" / 120.40 x 79.76 x 91.95 mm |
| Weight | 1.09 lb / 494 g (Camera only) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 109 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
96%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Zoom range/performance (93)
- Easy to use (92)
- Good image quality (91)
- Large clear LCD (90)
- Image stabilization (75)
Cons
- Lag / shutter delay (10)
- Poor flash (7)
- No image stabilization (6)
- Poor image quality (6)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (80)
- Family photos (78)
- Travel (77)
- Wildlife (53)
- Low light (44)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (52), Casual photographer (37), Semi-pro photographer (17)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (89), Yes (18)
Most Liked Positive Review
Best superzoom currently on the market
This camera is lightning fast, with a regular shot-to-shot time of 1.2 seconds. Has a easy to use interface, and precise zooming. Image quality is very good in most conditions, only the Canon...Read complete review
This camera is lightning fast, with a regular shot-to-shot time of 1.2 seconds. Has a easy to use interface, and precise zooming. Image quality is very good in most conditions, only the Canon SX30 IS and this camera's predecessor, the FZ35, outperform in quality. The FZ40 also weighs 93g more than the FZ35 did, but that's the price you pay to get 24x zoom. I've made full use of the zoom and love it!
The LCD doesn't rotate out but I don't think it's worth an extra $100 for the FZ100 to get this. Even though the FZ100 also has 1080p video and 11fps continuous drive, I read that the image quality is much worse than the FZ35 and FZ40.
This is a great camera to take on vacation, where the wide zoom range will be very useful. Not so great for taking to a party, as its indoor low-light shots are pretty poor and using the built-in flash (no hot-shoe) seems to cause some exposure problems.
The user manual is pretty short, but there's an advanced one available on panasonic.com that details all the functions.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Well-Made Camera; Very "Amateurish"
Very well-made, top-quality Leica lens, but very "amateurish". Hard to see the LCD display, or even through the viewfinder, when it's very bright. A busy little thing, with lots of i...Read complete review
Very well-made, top-quality Leica lens, but very "amateurish". Hard to see the LCD display, or even through the viewfinder, when it's very bright. A busy little thing, with lots of interaction required to adjust things, accompanied by menus, inscrutable icons and mysterious beeps (sometimes one, sometimes two, ...). Loaded with "features" I'll never use – digital zoom (just cropping), scene modes (including "baby" and "pet"!), face recognition, video, not just auto but "intelligent auto" (is regular auto stupid?). Seems to be the iDrive of cameras! Power zoom much slower and less precise that the old fashioned kind. But ... the image quality is good.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 109 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 Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
I had a previous iteration of this camera that was merely adequate, so I was a little hesitant about this one since I wanted something better. The B&H salesman spent quite a bit of time with me going over various cameras that would fit my needs. The Lumix DMC-FZ40 was the best fit. I couldn't be happier! This camera is fast and easy. The battery life is amazing! Stabilization is also quite a bit better than expected. The record time seems a bit slow, but that may be due to the image size. Nonetheless, so far I'm thoroughly delighted.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
This is my second Lumix (left first in a cab - alas). This is a wonderful camera. It is lightweight, has great color and a nice zoom, especially for a lightweight camera. No RAW capability but otherwise it is grand. And the price is very reasonable. I get lots of compliments on my photos and have sold several that I took with this camera!
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Poor Flash
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
I was looking for a smaller camera to use on my vacation trips and I don´t particularly like those tiny digital cameras. FZ40 is not very small but it is so light! I´m just starting to use it but I already like it a lot!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Manual Focus Difficult
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
The art of candid photography is my passion. Often I walk around looking for images of people, places or nature worth adding to my collection. This camera's wide angle and macro capabilities lets me frame my images and adjust the exposure manually to capture the image I want. I have turned off auto functions but use the histogram and auto focus.
- Ease of Operation:
- 6
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
This camera has some really great manual settings that allow me to play with lots of different things like ISO, aperture and shutter speed.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
I have Panasonic DMC-FZ40 for a couple weeks. If you are going to use it as shot and point camera, it will exceed your expectations. But I suspect that people why buy it like to have (at least some) control on how to take pictures. Sadly, there are too many possibilities: "Mode Dial" already has 14 modes. Plus, lot parameters can be set via menu. All of that require good knowledge about your camera. If you like to take full advantage of it, read manuals. Unfortunately manual what came with camera describes just bare minimum. There are description of controls, buttons, menu items, but there is no explanation what they mean and how/when to use them. I think, CD format allows to present more information for users.
But I believe people who bought FZ40 are eager to use it immediately (I am also). What to do? Fortunately the camera is accomplished by Silkypix Developer studio. First, it reads Panasonic's raw files (RW2) and can convert them to JPEG/TIFF formats. And secondly this software allows to process raw files with almost the same settings as FZ40 has. But it is "post-processing": you can apply different settings without worry to screw up the shot or miss next one because there is no time to change mode. And it is good way to learn camera too: as I said, menu items are very close to FZ40. At least this is my plan.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Have not found any yet
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
Easy to tuck away and use at a moment's notice!
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
My friend recomded me it. And i' m gladys to buy .
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
I am an experienced photo enthusiast. I bought this camera to bring on a trip as a lightweight, versatile alternative to my digital SLR. The camera definitely met my expectations. User interface is intuitive and easy to master with a range of program options from completely auto to manual. Great zoom and macro capabilities. The feature that sets this apart from others in its class is the ability to shoot raw. Beware, when in raw mode the camera is frozen for about 5-10 seconds while it writes to memory. A bit frustrating. Also the jury is still out on image quality. While the jpgs are fine the raw images are very grainy using the provided Silky pix software. Not sure whether this is camera or software related, but will find out when I upgrade photoshop to a recent version which handles fz-40 raw files.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
Amazing value for the price, ultra zoom feature is fantastic, lots of easy to use effects
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
This camera is the ideal size with great features. We like the zoom best. Very clear. There are almost too many features to learn how to use them all effectively but the auto function alows for brain dead shots.
I would recommend this camera.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- None
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
- Poor Image Quality
Best Uses
- Paper weight
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
There is a lot of noise in the pictures. The pictures look like I used a disposible 35mm camera. There is far to much grain, such that with the 14 megapixels, I can't get a good 5x7. I wasted too much money for such a poor camera that's not as good as smaller cheaper cameras.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Poor Flash
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
Easy to use.
Great Performance.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
Camera is great good light but only but only fair in low light
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Short Lag Time
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
Only had it few weeks, fun to use.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
The 24x Zoom is fantastic!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
I am not as active as I used to be but I have used this in most cases where I used my film cameras. The sharp lens and the excellent exposure make almost everything turn out great. I found that I had to rely on downloaded manual more than the paper manual and I still need to study the manual more after four months. But it is easy to put into action for most shooting. Scenics from grand overall to macros of foliage and mixtures of near/far turn out great. Anything that sits still turns out great. But I have a lot of trouble with action shooting. I used to do sports photography fairly well. Now all the action I get is from cats chasing around the house. But the delay after the shutter is pressed is so bad I miss most of the action. I think there is a way to set up for multiple shots in sequence and that might work. Just haven't found that part of the manual yet. But this is great for shots of grandkids (when they are worn out and sitting around), and for documenting trips.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Poor Flash
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
I shoot with Nikon DSLR gear, a D90 and D50 with pro quality lenses, which take incredibly great pictures. When traveling by plane, though, it's not always fun to try to cart all this stuff around, and cumbersome to change lenses when you're traveling from place to place and taking pics as you go. I wanted a single digital camera, great zoom range, raw capable, with adjustable settings, that make it easy to travel and take photos along the way that will be useful to me. I researched a lot of independent reviews and settled on the Panasonic FZ40 as the best choice for me, and I am not dissapointed. Takes great photos with lots of detail, and adjustable re: aperature, speed, a variety of built in options, etc. The 24X zoom is a great feature to allow one camera to do it all, and it was important that the photo quality be as great as possible at all zoom selections. I expect that this camera will provide what I wanted without carrying all the load of DSLR cameras and lenses.
That said, the FZ40, nor any other point and shoot, will achieve the same results as a DSLR with pro lenses. It is unrealistic to expect that, but the FZ40 takes quality photos that will be great for personal type photography that I want to do. Would never use it for taking client sessions.
I am pleased with my purchase and would recommend to anyone who wants to just carry one all-in-one digital camera for fun photography.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Poor Image Quality
Best Uses
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
I ordered this camera after exhaustive online research. I was hoping to find a smaller camera to bring along when I didn't want to carry all my DLSR gear (Nikon D80 and assorted lenses). The specs and sample images I'd seen looked promising.
The Panasonic Lumix FZ40 seemed to have it all: RAW capability, super long zoom, relatively compact size, and reported excellent image quality. Of course whenever a tool tries to do too many things, it does none of them well.
After receiving it and trying out some sample images indoors and outdoors here are my complaints.
1. If you are used to a bright optical viewfinder you will find this EVF very difficult to get used to. It seemed very difficult to focus in on the subject. Using just the LCD makes it more difficult to steady the camera, which is a must with this mega zoom.
2. The size of the camera seemed appealing at first but now I see that it is really too big to be an easy carry-along camera, particularly once you place the lens hood on. While it approached the depth of my DSLR I found the grip to be too short compared to what I was used to. My hand kept cramping up trying to hold it with my three fingers instead of four (and I'm a woman with average sized mitts).
3. I loved being able to zoom in and got some promising photos of birds at the birdhouse. You will need to be standing pretty close for really close-up shots of birds or small animals , even with the 600mm zoom.
4. More importantly, it seems that whenever one is lucky enough to see wildlife, the lighting conditions can be less than perfect (think dawn and dusk and throw in cloudy days). When that occurs you need to up your ISO to manage sharp hand-held shots, even with image stabilization. I found the noise to be unacceptable at ISO 800 and 1600 which would be necessary for most of your long shots. I shot some comparison shots with my Nikon D80 of the same subjects at the same ISO and did not see nearly the amount of grainy noise as in the Panasonic.
5. Shooting in RAW was proposed to counter the high ISO noise issue so I was hopeful that despite reported noise, I'd be able to manage it later when editing. RAW plus Jpeg fine shooting was interminably slow. I had to wait nearly 5 seconds between shots.
I really wanted to like this camera but found that the above characteristics were deal breakers for me. I think I will save my money for another DSLR or rely on my iPhone or my small compact point-and-shoot for now.
On the other hand, if this were your first "good" camera, you would probably not notice these issues so much. Many people have posted absolutely gorgeous shots taken with the FZ40 and you will probably also get very nice shots. In my mind, I know that I can do better with my current DSLR and will carry the extra weight until something better comes along.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 Digital Camera:
This is my third Panasonic Lumix DMC camera.
My previous 5 year old camera finally wore out.
I really like all the newer refinements in this camera and am still learning how to use all the features. I used it on my recent trip to New Mexico and am pleased with the results.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $39.95
Bags & Straps
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or a strap.
- Price: $24.95
Screen Protectors
Protect your LCD screen from scratches and finger prints.
- Price: $6.95
Card Readers
Download your pictures faster and save battery life.
- Price: $6.95
Filters & Adapters
Get the desired effect with a filter and the appropriate adapter.
- Price: $15.90
- Price: $49.95
What's in the Box
- DMW-BMB9 Lithium-Ion Battery
- Battery Charger DE-A83BA
- USB Cable
- A/V Cable
- Lens Hood
- lens Cap w/ String
- Shoulder Strap
- Software CD-ROM
- 1-Year Panasonic Warranty
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