Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35: Review

Posted to Digital Cameras 2010-01-27

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 review:

If you're ready to step into the world of SLR type compact digital cameras, start your preferred list with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 digital camera. This compact camera is extremely powerful and well-featured for the price, making it one of the best-valued compact models currently available. It may not be as perfect as the more expensive cameras, but it certainly overwhelms and impresses. If you're not a professional photographer, and you want a top-quality larger zoom camera without paying top-prices, then consider this model.

At just 4.6 x 3 x 3.5 inches and 12.9 ounces, the Lumix DMC-FZ35 is a compact and handy digital camera that does not fail to impress consumers. Although the photo quality is a little less than average, unless you have handled high-end digital SLRs, you won't know the difference. The features, quality, and performance that are provided come at a price that is hard to beat. So if you want a consumer-level camera that triumphs over typical digital cameras, then consider this one.

Rating:

4.4 out of 5

Quality

The majority of consumers who have purchased this camera are amazed by the photo quality, but they have been used to the substandard picture quality of traditional, more inexpensive cameras. If you are an experienced SLR user or professional photographer, then this is probably not the camera for you. There are noticeable artifacts in the JPEGs, as well as no included hotshoe. The Lumix DMC-FZ35 is more geared towards consumers who want an entry-level digital SLR.

Features

This camera takes snapshots at up to 12.1-megapixels, which is very impressive considering it is a compact digital camera. It features an 18 times optical zoom, optical image stabilizer, and ISO range of up to 6400. This model also comes with various shooting modes and colorful special effects. Operations are simple and user-friendly, so you can do everything from taking still photos to recording HD video without a problem. For connectivity, it includes a USB port, composite port, HDMI port, and SD memory card port.

Summary

As mentioned earlier, the picture quality isn't perfect, and performance lags on occasion. If you already have experience with digital SLRs, you may find this camera to be a nice backup or casual shooter. For the price, this model is an excellent value and probably one of the best compact SLR type digital cameras you can buy right now. Consumers looking to break into the digital camera market should definitely consider the 12.1-megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35.

Pros

Excellent value- perhaps the best SLR type digital camera
Easy- compact, easy to carry, and easy to operate
Exciting- features various shooting modes and special photo effects
Entertaining- fun for non-professionals

Cons

Performance lags on occasion