Panasonic DMC-FZ150 Digital Camera (Black)

The Panasonic DMC-FZ150 Digital Camera is a compact point-and-shoot that has the look of a DSLR. Obviously more than its genre suggests, however, the FZ150 also provides the user with numerous features and functions to expand their creativity - including manual control of the camera.

Before we even delve into the many shooting options on the DM-FZ150 we should pause to consider the basics. This camera has 12.1Mp built-in and is powered by a combination of the 1/2.3" CMOS sensor - called "MOS" by Panasonic - and the Venus Engine. These two work together to not only capture beautifully detailed images, but to efficiently transfer them to the inserted media. Additionally, many functions of the camera rely on the Venus Engine to operate, including the 1920 x 1080/60p high def video capture mode.

These HD videos are shot in AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4/H.264). Features like 24x optical zoom and Intelligent Auto are available for enhancing your movies, while you record. Additional functions available for use are Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector, Active Mode, and Intelligent D-range Control, among others. With this much latitude, there's no reason to just take take-point-shoot video. Another enticing video mode options include a stereo zoom microphone built-into the camera which uses Dolby Digital Stereo Creator for high-quality audio. Other features include Auto Wind Cut and simultaneous video and still capture.

The camera's LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT 25mm ultra wide-angle lens is one of its leading attributes. This lens, with the good name of Leica, features 24x optical zoom that can be expanded to a 32x Intelligent Zoom, a 52mm filter thread, and a 35mm camera equivalent focal range of 25-600mm. A Nano Surface Coating helps to reduce flare and ghosting, resulting in clear and crisp images.

Composition and review of stills and videos all takes place on the FZ150's 3.0" Free-Angle LCD screen. A 0.20" electronic viewfinder is also on the camera for distraction-free shooting. Aside from providing a 100% field of view the viewfinder also keeps glare and movement at bay, so you can focus on the shot. Another enticing feature of the camera is the built-in flash for shooting in low-light scenes with assurance.