Sunday, February 8, 2009

Lumix DMC-LX3 - It is Economic, User-Friendly, and Functional

By Matt Ryan

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 is an impressive, professional grade, point-and-shoot camera. This model can easily be concealed in a pocket or purse, yet produce photographs as high quality as the bulky professional cameras do. For everyday pictures, or professional events, the Lumix DMC-LX3 just might be the right fit.

This 10.1-megapixel camera, with 2.5x optical zoom, offers many standard features, along with a few advanced functions. Optical Image Stabilization, Intelligent Auto Mode, RAW support, and HD movies are just a few of the standard features you will find on the DMC-LX3. Like many point-and-shoot models, it will fit in your pocket with measurements of 2.34 x 4.28 x 1.06-inches. It is also lightweight, as it weighs less than a pound. Regardless of its size, you will still find a hefty 3.0-inch LCD screen, which displays images at 460,000-dot resolutions.

The DMC-LX3 would not be a Panasonic without auto face detection and autofocus tracking. A nice feature of the auto face detection, on this model, is the fact that it can detect up to 15 faces - in one shot. Moreover, it will adjust focus and exposure properly for all 15 faces. Auto focus tracking tracks moving objects and continually adjusts focus accordingly. The combination of these two features produces high quality, properly focused, and exceptionally exposed pictures.

ISO settings, on the LX3, start at 80 and can be extended up to 6,400 (with High Sensitivity Auto mode). Panasonic has incorporated 24 preset shooting modes into the LX3. This eliminates consumers from having to manually adjust ISO settings. (ISO settings are to be adjust low and high based on natural light provided in a given shot.) With numerous presets there is no need for consumers to worry about proper ISO settings. For professional photographers; however, you can manually adjust aperture and shutter-priority modes.

Not only can you capture stills, with the DMC-LX3, but you can also capture video with sound. Video outputs are high-def with a resolution of 1,280 x 720. Resolution settings can be changed; the lower the setting the higher frames per second you can capture (1,280 x 720: 24fps).

The Lumix DMC-LX3 comes with 50MB of internal storage, which typically is not enough for the avid photographer. It also accepts SD/SDHC and Multimedia cards. SD/SDHC memory cards typically work better with the LX3.

The DMC-LX3 has three connectivity ports: USB 2.0, NTSC video output, and high-def component video output. Transferring and viewing images and videos are easy with these connection options and easy access to the ports.

Not much has changed, physically, from older Lumix models. Physical appearance is not necessarily attractive, but it does fit comfortable in the palm of any hand. It also provides easy access to the majority of buttons along with the LCD screen. The DMC-LX3 offers functionality not attractiveness.

On top of being ergonomic, it has a very solid build. With a metal body, firm buttons, and hidden ports, the LX3 can definitely withstand daily usage. Its durability will allow it to hold up under pressure and even the occasional fall.

For around $500, you can pick up the exceptional Lumix DMC-LX3. It is functional and easy to use. A point-and-shoot offers professional quality images and features. It is a perfect camera for user and purpose. - 17943

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