Panasonic announces 24x super-zoom Bridge camera with constant maximum aperture of f/2.8

Panasonic LUMIX FZ200 Highlights:

12MP MOS sensor
25-600mm f/2.8 optical zoom
ISO 100-6400
3in, 460k-dot free-angle screen
1080p HD video capture
12fps burst mode

The FZ200 is more than just a subtle upgrade to the FZ150. While the 25-600mm 24x optical zoom range is the same, the maximum aperture is a constant f/2.8 through the entire focal range.

This means you’ll be able to shoot wide open at f/2.8 at 600mm – something that’s never been possible before on a Bridge camera, while even DSLR users would have to invest in very expensive glass if they wanted to get close to matching that. Very impressive stuff.

To help reduce the effects of camera shake the lens features Panasonic’s Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilisation) anti-shake system.

Panasonic’s also improved the performance of the 12MP MOS sensor, with the FZ200 now capable of shooting up to IS 6400, while a rapid burst of 12fps at full resolution is possible.

For video recording, the FZ200 can capture footage at 1080p at 50fps with Dolby Digital audio. There’s also a choice of AVCHD Progressive or MP4 recording options.

The FZ200 will be available at the end of August, beginning of September, priced at £499.