Panasonic Introduces New Digital Compact Cameras and Lumix G Conversion Lenses

Panasonic announces six new digital compact cameras and four conversion lenses for the Lumix G Micro Four Thirds cameras. The new line-up consists of the stylish DMC-S5 and S2, the HD video recording DMC-S27 and SZ1, and the DMC-FH8 and FH6 compacts with f/2.5 bright lenses. The four conversion lenses consist of a wide, tele, macro and fisheye lens.

Here's a quick run-down on the new releases.

16.1-megapixel DMC-S5 and 14.1-megapixel DMC-S2

Equipped with 28mm wide-angle 4x optical zoom lens, these 2 cameras feature up to 8x Intelligent Zoom with the newly incorporated Intelligent Resolution technology. Fast response and high image quality can be achieved with the high performance image processor Venus Engine. Instant image sharing via Facebook or YouTube is made possible via the Lumix Image Uploader with any PC. These 2 models also feature the new Panorama Shot and Auto Retouch.

Full-HD video recording DMC-SZ7 with 14.1-megapixel MOS sensor and HD video recording DMC-SZ1 with 16.1-megapixel CCD sensor

With both models featuring newly developed 10x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens with 25mm ultra wide angle, the Mega O.I.S (Optical Image Stabilizer) effectively suppresses handshake which tend to occur while shooting in high zoom. With the iA Zoom (Intelligent Zoom), the 10x optical zoom increases to an equivalent of 20x. Both models come with a 3.0-inch large Intelligent LCD.

16.1-megapixel DMC-FH8 and 14.1-megapixel DMC-FH6

The LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens 24mm ultra wide angle 5x optical zoom with F2.5 brightness has been developed to fit in the compact lens unit enhancing the slimness of camera body. The lens especially excels not only in shooting dynamic landscapes with its wide angle of view but also in capturing moving subjects even in low-lit situations such as indoors or at night with its outstanding brightness. The 5x optical zoom increases its power to 10x equivalent with the iA Zoom (Intelligent Zoom) function with minimum deterioration of image quality thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology. The Sonic Speed AF and a quick start-up time offer super high speed response that helps to catch even the most fleeting photo opportunities.

Wide Conversion Lens DMW-GWC1, Tele Conversion Lens DMW-GTC1, Macro Conversion Lens DMW-GMC1, and Fisheye Conversion Lens DMW-GFC1

These compact, lightweight conversion lenses are for the Interchangeable Lens System Camera LUMIX G Micro System.

The official press releases follow.

Simple, Stylish Smart – New LUMIX S-Series
16.1-Megapixel DMC-S5 and 14.1-Megapixel DMC-S2
with Selected Essential Functions Featuring MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer)

Panasonic is pleased to announce an addition of new LUMIX 16.1-megapixel DMC-S5 and 14.1-megapixel DMC-S2 to simple, smart and stylish S-series. Pursuing the ultimate ease of operation, only essential functions are equipped in the DMC-S5 and S2 but which does not mean the performance of S-series are not high. For the eye of the camera, the 28mm wide-angle 4x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 28mm to 112mm on a 35mm camera) is equipped for versatility and ease of image composition. Max.8x Intelligent Zoom is available which is made possible with the newly incorporated Intelligent Resolution technology. High performance image processor Venus Engine is incorporated at the heart of camera to support the fast response and to high image quality.

The high quality 720p HD video can be recorded. The DMC-S5 and S2 come with LUMIX Image Uploader, which realizes direct, instant image sharing via Facebook (photo) or YouTube (video) with any PC on the spot.

The MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) is integrated as other step-up models, because which assures high correction performance against blur caused by a hand-shake without deterioration of image quality. In addition to the MEGA O.I.S. the popular and powerful shooting assist mode iA (Intelligent Auto) also comprehends other convenient features such as Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection, Intelligent ISO Control and so on.

Panorama Shot and Auto Retouch mode are also new on DMC-S5 / S2. Fitting in a palm with the distinct rounded edge design, users can just trust LUMIX and enjoy shooting beautiful photo and video with fun.

1. The Wide-Angle LUMIX Lens with 4x Optical Zoom, 16.1-megapixel (S5) / 14.1-megapixel (S2) High Resolution CCD and High Performance Venus Engine

The 16.1-megapixel DMC-S5 and 14.1-megapixel DMC-S2 package a 28mm wide-angle LUMIX DC VARIO lens with 4x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 28-112mm) into a compact body. Comprising 6 elements in 5 groups, including 3 aspherical lenses with 5 aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit features an exceptional optical performance yet fitting in the slim body profile. The 28mm wide angle lens is convenient for shooting group portrait, subjects indoor or dynamic landscapes. For distant subjects, the Intelligent Zoom can be used for the extended magnification to 8x thanks to the newly integrated Intelligent Resolution technology.

The high-speed, high-performance Venus Engine is incorporated in the DMC-S5 and DMC-S2 to enable the beautiful image recording with higher quality signal processing. The multi-task image-processing engine Venus Engine supports a super-fast response time. The LUMIX’s Sonic Speed AF makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities.

2. High Quality 720P Video Recording and Instant Image Sharing with Family and Friends

The DMC-S5 and DMC-S2 even record dynamic HD video in 1280 x 720p. You can enjoy high quality image playback that perfectly fits a wide-screen HDTV for full-screen viewing together with HD (High Definition) photos taken in 16:9 aspects.

Plus, LUMIX Image Uploader proposes easy way of communication by uploading photos or videos to Facebook or YouTube to share them with family or friends without needing a special software for PC.

3. The MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) and the iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode Powerfully Assists Shooting Beautiful Images

Panasonic incorporated the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode in pursuit of the ultimate ease of operation and the reduction of misshots. The user can activate all of these useful, convenient shooting-assist functions by just activating an iA mode.

The MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) is integrated in the iA mode for DMC-S5 and S2 to suppress hand-shake. Apart from the digital image correction, MEGA O.I.S. corrects a jolt of light axis by shifting the O.I.S. lens unit to offset it. Thus the image is not affected digitally nor deteriorated at all. You get clear, sharp images in exchange for nothing. In addition, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Face Detection automatically work for users to get the best result.

4. Other Features to Enhance the Performance of Cameras

• Panorama Shot (It is possible to shoot a horizontal/vertical panoramic image with consequent shots taken by overlaying the previous picture)
• Auto Retouch (Auto Retouch function that adjusts contrast and brightness to give different impression to the photo with just a press of a button to look it nicer)
• 2.7-inch LCD

Powerful 10x Optical Zoom LEICA DC Lens in Slim, Compact Body
Full-HD Video Recording DMC-SZ7 and HD Video Recording DMC-SZ1
Featuring High Image Quality and Exciting Image Effects

Panasonic is pleased to introduce the latest member of compact digital cameras full-HD video recording DMC-SZ7 with 14.1-megapixel MOS sensor and HD video recording DMC-SZ1 with 16.1-megapixel CCD sensor from the new LUMIX stylish zoom SZ series. Both models feature newly developed powerful 10x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens with 25mm ultra wide angle (equivalent to 25mm to 250mm on a 35mm camera) that fits in the slim, compact body profile. The powerful 10x optical zoom increases its power to 20x equivalent with the iA Zoom (Intelligent Zoom) function with minimum deterioration of image quality thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology. The MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) effectively suppress handshake which tends to occur when shooting with high zoom.

The 14.1-megapixel MOS sensor newly adopted to DMC-SZ7 and the advanced image processor Venus Engine feature high speed, high sensitivity image recording to realize 1,920 x 1,080 full-HD video recording and high speed burst shooting in high picture quality*1. The super fast response including approx. 0.1 sec of Light Speed AF helps catch even the most fleeting photo opportunities.

A variety of special effects that add fun to shooting experience are newly integrated – 3D Photo mode, Miniature Effect, Panorama Shot, Creative Retouch and Auto Retouch.

Also, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode lets users leave everything to the camera to take beautiful images with its new HDR, Intelligent Handheld Nightshot and Motion Deblur mode together with AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Recognition (SZ7) / Face Detection (SZ1) , Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. Once you enter the iA mode, these multi-capable functions happen automatically, so that you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change.

3.0-inch large Intelligent LCD offers clear view under any lighting situations by its automatic backlight adjustment. Both DMC-SZ7/SZ1 newly comply with USB power charging in addition to the conventional AC power supply. Users can enjoy their communication with the LUMIX Image Uploader, which realizes instant image sharing via Facebook or YouTube with any PC on the spot.

The DMC-SZ7 features the fashionable color design in that the lens barrel goes with the color of body. Packing a versatile lens, high performance signal processing mechanism, the DMC-SZ7/SZ1 boasts stunningly slim, compact body that conveys sophisticated look.

1. 25mm Ultra Wide-Angle LEICA DC Lens with 10x Powerful Optical Zoom with New Mechanical Structure and Optical System

The new high-quality LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens system is even more versatile with 25mm ultra wide-angle to powerful 10x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 25-250mm). Comprising 9 elements in 7 groups including 4 aspherical lenses with 6 aspherical surfaces, adoption of ultra thin lens for its new structure optical system makes the unit’s overall length short to fit in the slim body despite its versatile zoom range from ultra wide to telephoto. Passing Leica's stringent standards, DMC-SZ7/SZ1 boast exceptional optical performance with stunning clarity with minimum distortion and flare.

The iA Zoom (Intelligent Zoom) is also available with the DMC-SZ7/SZ1. It is an extensive zoom function using digital zoom, however, you can even draw the subject 2x closer than the original optical zoom with minimum deterioration of image quality thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology. This means the 10x optical can virtually extend to 20x equivalent.

2. 14.1-Megapixel MOS Sensor and Venus Engine for High Speed, High Sensitivity Image Recording [DMC-SZ7]

The new 14.1-megapixel MOS sensor integrated in DMC-SZ7 boasts high speed signal output and high sensitivity image recording for making many advanced features possible.

The excellent S/N ratio of MOS sensor and the Intelligent Noise Reduction system in the Venus Engine makes both photo and video shot at any sensitivity from low to high boast outstanding clearness.

The high speed digital signal output technology lets the DMC-SZ7 shoot 10 fps in 14-megapixel full resolution with mechanical shutter and 5 fps with continuous AF. It also enables the camera to record full-HD 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) smooth video. The frame rate, AF setting and the recording resolution can be easily selected according to the movement of the subject.

The DMC-SZ7 boasts approx.0.1 sec Light Speed AF that helps to catch even the most fleeting photo opportunities together with a quick start-up.

3. 1,920 x 1,080 Full-HD Video Recording in AVCHD / MP4 Format [DMC-SZ7]

Despite its compact profile of body, the DMC-SZ7 is capable of recording full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) videos in AVCHD (MPEG-4 / H.264)* format. The AVCHD format excels in the compatibility with AV equipment like HDTVs or Blu-ray Disc players. A special, separate button on the top lets the user instantly start recording videos while shooting photos without having to make any extra settings. Alternately, user can choose MP4 at 30p(NTSC) / 25p(PAL) for video recording, which has higher compatibility with PCs.

The powerful 10x optical zoom is available in video recording. With DMC-SZ7, there are always two options to record spur-of-the-moment scenes - high-quality photos or videos. The user can simply choose the one that saves precious memories most beautifully. The popular iA (Intelligent Auto) is also available in video recording.

The videos also come with the high-quality stereo sound of Dolby Digital Stereo Creator, to offer highly realistic sound to the motion images. The stereo microphone comes with zoom noise reduction system, and the Wind Cut function blocks out most of the noise from background wind.

Photos or videos recorded in AVCHD on SD Memory Cards are easy to view on a Panasonic VIERA TV by simply inserting the card into the VIERA Image Viewer (SD Memory Card slot) on VIERA TV or DIGA Blu-ray Disc Player or by using mini HDMI cable to playback your contents.

In addition, with the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 8.0 AE Edition (SZ7), it is easy to view and edit your recorded contents. You may also choose to upload your videos to YouTube.

4. Various Special Effects and iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode and for More Ease and Fun

DMC-SZ7/SZ1 comes equipped not only with strong basic performance but also with a variety of shooting options to enhance ease and fun.

Both DMC-SZ7/SZ1 feature 2 new shooting modes - Miniature Effect and Panorama Shot. The Miniature Effect mode in which the peripherals are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized to look the picture like a diorama. The video recorded in this mode is played back in 10x fast-forwarding making it more comical to watch. Panorama makes it is possible to shoot a horizontal/vertical panoramic image with consequent shots taken by overlaying the previous picture.

Furthermore, DMC-SZ7 newly offers Creative Retouch that comprehends 6 attractive filters -Toy Effect, Soft Focus, Dynamic Monochrome, Expressive, High Key and Retro- to look the picture you shot even more artistic. DMC-SZ7/SZ1 also comes with Auto Retouch function that adjusts contrast and brightness to give different impression to the photo with just a press of a button. Appropriate retouch is automatically applied depending on the image – if the image was shot too dark, it can be clear and bright to look it nicer with this function.

Panasonic incorporated the Intelligent Auto mode in pursuit of the ultimate ease of operation and the reduction of misshots. DMC-SZ7 newly integrates HDR (High Dynamic Range), Intelligent Handheld Nightshot and Motion Deblur mode in addition to AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Recognition(SZ7) / Face Detection(SZ1), Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. The user can activate all of these useful, convenient shooting-assist functions by just activating an iA mode.

All these make the DMC-SZ7/SZ1 the ultimate, super-versatile automatic camera for capturing clear, beautiful, mistake-free photos with ease.

5. Other Options for Upgrading Photographic Enjoyment

• 3.0-inch large Intelligent LCD with High Angle Mode
• 3D Photo Mode
• AC/USB Power Charging
• LUMIX Image Uploader

F2.5 Bright 24mm Ultra Wide Angle 5x Optical Zoom LEICA DC Lens
16.1-Megapixel DMC-FH8 and 14.1-Megapixel DMC-FH6
Featuring HD Video Recording, iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode and Exciting Image Effects

Panasonic is pleased to introduce new 16.1-megapixel DMC-FH8 and 14.1-megapixel DMC-FH6 with even slimmer, more compact stylish profile.

The LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens 24mm ultra wide angle 5x optical zoom (equivalent to 24mm to 120mm on a 35mm camera) with F2.5 brightness has been developed to fit in the compact lens unit enhancing the slimness of camera body. The lens especially excels not only in shooting dynamic landscapes with its wide angle of view but also in capturing moving subjects even in low-lit situations such as indoors or at night with its outstanding brightness. The 5x optical zoom increases its power to 10x equivalent with the iA Zoom (Intelligent Zoom) function with minimum deterioration of image quality thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology. The Sonic Speed AF and a quick start-up time offer super high speed response that helps to catch even the most fleeting photo opportunities.

The high quality 720p HD video can be recorded in MP4(FH8/FS45) or in Motion JPEG(FH6/FS40). Zooming in video recording is available with DMC-FH8/FS45.

The iA (Intelligent Auto) mode lets users leave everything to the camera to take beautiful images with its MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer), AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. Once you enter the iA mode, these multi-capable functions happen automatically, so that you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change.

Also, a variety of image effects are newly incorporated – Miniature Effect(FH8/FS45), Panorama Shot, Beauty Retouch and Auto Retuch – to add fun in the photographic experience.

3.0-inch(FH8) / 2.7-inch (FH6) large Intelligent LCD offers clear view under any lighting situations by its automatic backlight adjustment. The DMC-FH8 newly compatible with USB power charging in addition to the conventional AC power supply. Users can enjoy their communication with the LUMIX Image Uploader, which realizes instant image sharing via Facebook or YouTube with any PC on the spot.

Packing a host of functions, the new slim and compact DMC-FH8 and FH6 let any user to enjoy shooting beautiful images anytime.

1. Super Bright F2.5 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT Lens with 24mm Ultra Wide-Angle and 5x Optical Zoom

The DMC-FH8 and FH6 incorporate high quality LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens that boasts excellent brightness of F2.5. The F2.5 lens is even brighter by approx. 25% than the F2.8 lens which is generally considered a bright lens. It allows the use of higher shutter speed but captures stunningly clear, sharp, blur-free images even in lower lighting situation. Together with the MEGA O.I.S. in the iA mode, DMC-FH8 and FH6powerfully suppress blur caused by the movement of subjects. Also, the 24mm (35mm camera equivalent: 24-120mm ) ultra-wide-angle lens - rare on a compact camera - gives photographers a wider range of composition possibilities with approx. 213% larger viewing space compared to that of 35mm camera. The super-high-quality LEICA DC VARIO- SUMMARIT lens minimizes distortion at the wide end.

Comprising of 6 elements in 5 groups with 3 aspherical lenses with 5 aspherical surfaces, the lens unit in DMC-FH8 and FH6 realized downsizing of both total length and diameter to fit in the slim, compact body of the camera.

This advanced lens unit passes Leica's stringent standards and delivers an exceptional optical performance with its minimal distortion and chromatic aberrations while suppressing ghosting and flaring.

The iA Zoom (Intelligent Zoom) is also available with the DMC-FH8 and FH6. It is an extensive zoom function using digital zoom, however, you can even draw the subject 2x closer than the original optical zoom with minimum deterioration of image quality thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology. This means the 5x optical can virtually extend to 10x equivalent.

The multi-task image-processing engine Venus Engine supports a super-fast response time which makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities together with the Sonic Speed AF (Auto Focus) that lets you lock on the subject. The LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens, high resolution CCD and the high performance Venus Engine assures high quality image rendering.

2. HD Video Recording Taking Advantage of the Bright Lens

The new DMC-FH8 and FH6 even record dynamic HD video in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 30p(NTSC) 25p(PAL) in MP4(FH8) or Motion JPEG(FH6). The recorded videos can be directly uploaded to YouTube. Or you can enjoy high quality image playback that perfectly fits a wide-screen HDTV for full-screen viewing together with HD (High Definition) photos taken in 16:9 aspects. The DMC-FH8 newly incorporates dedicated video button to switch photo/video recording quickly. Zooming in video recording is also available with DMC-FH8.

3. iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode and Various Special Effects for More Fun and Ease in Photography

Panasonic incorporated the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode in pursuit of the ultimate ease of operation and the reduction of misshots. All of thse useful, convenient shooting-assist functions - MEGA O.I.S., AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure - are automatically activated by just activating an iA mode.

DMC-FH8 and DMC-FH6 comes equipped not only with strong basic performance but also with a variety of shooting options to enhance ease and fun. DMC-FH8 features Miniature Effect mode in which the peripherals are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized to look the picture like a diorama. The video recorded in this mode is played back in 10x fast-forwarding making it more comical to watch.

In both DMC- FH8 and FH6, Panorama Shot and Beauty Retouch are also available. It is possible to shoot a horizontal/vertical panoramic image with consequent shots taken by overlaying the previous picture. Beauty Retouch, which is popular on FX series, offers a variety of cosmetic effect on the portrait photos.

4. Other Options for Upgrading Photographic Enjoyment

• 3.0-inch Intelligent LCD with High Angle mode (FH8) / 2.7-inch LCD (FH6)
• AC/USB Power Charging (FH8)
• Auto Retouch
• LUMIX Image Uploader

Introducing LUMIX G Micro System Conversion Lenses
To Experience the Fun of Switching Lenses
Wide Conversion Lens DMW-GWC1, Tele Conversion Lens DMW-GTC1
Macro Conversion Lens DMW-GMC1 and Fisheye Conversion Lens DMW-GFC1

Panasonic is pleased to introduce a variety of conversion lenses for the Interchangeable Lens System Camera LUMIX G Micro System. Compact, lightweight conversion lenses propose users to experience the fun of switching lens and enjoy the different angle of view casually.

Wide Conversion Lens DMW-GWC1

Attachable to H-PS14042 and H-H014 *As of January 9, 2012

• Enables capturing dynamic scenery in wider angle of view
• Extends the focal length of wide-end from 14mm to 11mm by just attaching it to the front of the lens.
• Compact, lightweight design featuring high mobility
• Included Adaptor Ring for the use on H-PS14042 and H-H014
• Helpful in shooting from dynamic landscapes to indoor group portraits

Tele Conversion Lens DMW-GTC1

Attachable to H-PS14042 *As of January 9, 2012

• Enables capturing distant subject up close
• Extends the focal length of tele-end from 42mm to 84mm by just attaching it to the front of the lens.*
• Compact, lightweight design featuring high mobility
• Included Adaptor Ring for the use on H-PS14042
• Helpful in shooting from travel to street snapshots

*Attachable when the lens is at tele-end

Macro Conversion Lens DMW-GMC1

Attachable to H-PS14042 and H-H014 *As of January 9, 2012

• Enables shooting macro shot easily
• Features closest focusing distance of 0.14m by just attaching it to the front of the lens.*
• Compact, lightweight design featuring high mobility
• Included Adaptor Ring for the use on H-PS14042 and H-H014
• Helpful in shooting delicate, descriptive subject such as flowers or insects

*Closest focusing distance is 0.14m with H-H014 and 0.16m with H-PS14042. Longest Focusing Distance is 0.23m with H-H014 and 0.26m with H-PS14042.

Fisheye Conversion Lens DMW-GFC1

Attachable to H-PS14042 and H-H014 *As of January 9, 2012

• Enables shooting unique images with rounded effect
• Features 120-degree angle of view by just attaching it to the front of the lens.
• Compact, lightweight design featuring high mobility
• Included Adaptor Ring for the use on H-PS14042 and H-H014
• Suitable for shooting characteristic, impressive images unique to the fisheye lens

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