subject: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 – User's review [print this page] Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 is a prosumer level digital camera offering a massive 18x optical zoom, 12.1 mega pixel sensor and 720P HD video, all in a small and lightweight package. Although there are many other prosumer cameras on the market today, the Lumix FZ35 is certainly one of the best cameras in the $300 price range that offers an excellent image quality and DSLR-like performance.
The 27-428mm Leica tele-photo zoom lens produces great, sharp images. The optical image stabilizer works very well, especially at moderate zoom ranges for both still photography and movie modes. The menu system provides a quick and intuitive access to a multitude of features. The camera offers a very intuitive face detection and recognition mechanism that recognizes up to 3 faces simultaneously when taking photos. The excellent macro mode works very well and paired with the image stabilization mechanism allows for taking truly excellent, sharp close-up images.
The Lumix FZ35 records excellent quality HD movies in 720P format and is equipped with an HDMI output terminal for connecting the camera directly to an HD TV unit for play back.
Both the 2.7 inch LCD and the Electronic View Finder (EVF) work great for taking pictures and in play-back modes. The battery life is excellent and lasts over 300 shots even with a moderate use of flash.
The camera reacts very quickly, with the comparatively fast shutter lag and quick start-up time. The build quality of the camera is very good. Although the body is made out of plastic, it feels very solid.
The main drawback of the camera, at least for some users, is lack of a hot shoe for connecting external flash units. For users who don't find themselves needing to use flash often, the camera offers a perfect blend of functionality, options, speed, zoom range, and image quality. Given the price point of around under $300, the camera is a steam and is a must have for a wide range of photo enthusiasts.