Billed as ?the world?s smallest 10x optical zoom camera? the Panasonic TZ1 features a 6MP CCD.
The TZ1?s small size is possible thanks to the inclusion of the world?s first integrated lens system to use folded optics technology and featuring a prism. The zoom ratio of the Leica DC Vatio-Elmarit zoom lens can be extended to 12.5x with the camera?s Extra Optical Zoom feature.
High-sensitivity mode enables the camera to shoot at ISO 800 and the camera?s optical image stabiliser (OIS) is designed to illuminate the effects of unwanted camera shake, by shifting the CCD.
Incorporated into the camera is Panasonic?s Venus Engine III processor, which consumes 80% of the power of its predecessor ? the Venus Engine II ? and can capture 250 pictures from a single charge. Timings are fast; shutter lag is 0.006 sec, start-up 0.95 sec and shutter intervals 0.5 seconds.
As well as shooting 640×480 pixel 30fps movies, the camera can shoot 840×840 30fps, which are big enough to be viewed on a wide-screen television.
The camera incorporates a 2.5in LCD composed of 207,000 pixels, while the High Angle Mode ensures easy composition at high and low angles.
In a first for the Lumix range, the TZ1 includes a Linear AF system that works with the high-speed auto focus system to provide an industry-leading response time for high-zoom cameras. Continuous AF speed has also increased.
18 scene modes feature on the camera, including: portrait, soft skin, baby1, baby2, fireworks and aerial photo. The TZ1 includes 13.4MB internal memory, 3fps burst mode and can be used up to 40m underwater with an optional case.
Available in April, no price has been announced yet for the Lumix DMC-TZ1. Call 08705 357357 to find out more.