Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8

Points forts : Compact and lightweight ; Easy to use for beginners ; Advanced feature set for enthusiasts ; 12x image-stabilized optical zoom lens ; RAW mode ; White Balance can be fine-tuned ; Good speed ; Selectable AF points ; Exposure bracketing ; Live Histogram ...

Points faibles : Noise and noise suppression visible even at low ISO ; High ISO image noise and noise reduction degrades image quality ; Significant chromatic aberration at telephoto ; Digital zoom is soft due to noise suppression ; Moderate barrel distortion at wide ...

Conclusion : Following in the footsteps of the FZ7, the updated 7.2 megapixel Panasonic DMC-FZ8 is equipped with a 12x optical zoom lens that delivers a 36mm-432mm equivalent focal length. Unlike many Panasonic cameras, the FZ8's lens starts at 36mm, which about ...

Résumé : The 7.2-megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8 is an update to the company's FZ7, a former Editors' Choice winner in the budget superzoom category. The camera retains the FZ7's 12X optical zoom lens and 2.5-inch LCD, and adds a unique feature, an ...

Points forts : 12X optical zoom. Full manual capabilities. Intelligent ISO mode. Variety of flash settings.

Points faibles : Lacks wide-angle view. Nonarticulating LCD.

Conclusion : Although the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8 offers a powerful 12X optical zoom lens, manual modes, and a wealth of helpful features, its lack of a true wide-angle view prevents it from stripping the older Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ3 of its Editors' Choice crown.

Résumé : The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8 is a strong contender in the crowded ultra-zoom digital camera field.

Points forts : SLR style body, fast, improved LCD and EVF, 12X zoom, image stabilization, manual controls, sharp  images

Points faibles : Noisy images, minor chromatic aberration, smearing/blotching at higher ISO sensitivities

Conclusion : I really liked the the super compact and lightweight FZ8.  This snappy little digicam provides an SLR-like level of photographic control and creative flexibility, but without the bulky bag of lenses that would be needed to cover the same (36mm - 432mm ...

Résumé : Rather small, stabilized, and producing good shots in low sensitivities, the FZ8 will attract photographers that are looking for a versatile camera. However, you may find some weaknesses for photos indoors.

Points forts : 12x stabilized zoom, Quite reactive, Compact body, Good quality of images in low sensitivities

Points faibles : Startup time rather long, Degradation of images beyond 400 ISO, The casing looks « low quality »

Résumé : Panasonic had their hands full trying to improve upon the DMC-FZ7, but they may have done it with the Lumix DMC-FZ8. This camera was released in March of 2007, and on the surface it looks really good. Keep reading to see what we think of it.