DMC-ZS3 Offers Power in a Compact Size

By Reina Mae Apaitan

Consumers who have been looking for a camera with all of the power of a larger unit but with the compact size small enough to fit into a pocket have finally been granted their wish. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is not an extremely compact camera in the traditional sense, particularly when compared to the G10 from Canon, but in comparison to the competition it is twice as light and compact. This camera also has all of the features that one would expect to find in a high quality camera without sacrificing the lightweight and compact size. Overall, the ZS3 delivers excellent results while being able to fit inside any pocket. Featuring a stabilized 25-300mm lens, this camera delivers a superior range for its size.

The main two advantages of this camera, beyond its compact size, are the 12x zoom and the AVCHD video. Most users will find that this camera is quite versatile and can actually replace a camcorder in many situations. The 25-300mm lens really kicks the number of benefits up a notch, making it possible to shoot everything from landscapes to family portraits.

Perhaps the only drawback to this camera is the lack of manual modes. Still, the fact that you can shoot in auto with the ZS3 makes this one little handy camera to have. Furthermore, the camera also provides the ability to operate using intelligent auto mode. Through the Intelligent Exposure mode you also receive the ability to enlighten shades as well as improve sensitivity as a result of the Intelligent ISO. When using the camera in portrait mode, you can take advantage of the auto correction red eye feature. An extremely smart camera, the ZS3 allows you to photograph anything you might want.

You may notice right away that the ZS3 features a wide angle lens, compliments of Leica, and is actually one of the best on the market at this time for this particular class of camera. The 25mm lens is able to hold up on its own quite well without compromising quality in the slightest.

Of course, the video mode is what really makes the Lumix DMC-ZS3 stand out from the competition. This camera is perfectly capable as acting as a two-in-one device, giving you the ability to record in a host of different manners. If you are looking for a single device that will allow you to do everything and save money at the same time, this is it.

If you have been shopping around and comparing the DMC-ZS3 to other models produced by Panasonic or even other cameras produced by other companies, you may find yourself wondering which camera will provide you with the best features.

While Panasonic has a reputation for producing excellent cameras, the ZS3 appears to be one of the best produced thus far. Previous models from Panasonic have included a variety of notable features. This model takes those features and builds upon them while also including a host of new features as well, including increased power for the zoom lens, a new image processor and the HD movie mode and face detection ability. When comparing all of the benefits that were already offered by models from Panasonic and tossing in the new features, this model is definitely one that will be hard for the competition to beat.

Compared to the SX200 IS from Canon, the ZS3 has a lot of features to recommend it over the Canon PowerShot. Perhaps the only area where the SX200 is able to come out over the ZS3 is in regards to the matter of manual controls. If the ability to tweak the controls manually is not that much of a concern to you then the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is the winner hands down. - 30452

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