Panasonic has unveiled a 10.1MP update to its Lumix FZ30 prosumer camera. The FZ50 features a 12x optical zoom f/2.8 Leica DC lens, a maximum sensitivity of ISO1600 and a new Intelligent ISO Control system.
Hoping to build on the success of its MEGA O.I.S. system, Panasonic has developed Intelligent ISO Control (ICC), which automatically alters ISO and shutter speed settings to suit the needs of differing shooting conditions. Looking to improve upon the usability of its predecessor, the DMC-FZ50 is also equipped with a new Function button which serves as a shortcut to access frequently used settings such as image size, light metering, AF area, white balance and ISO sensitivity.
The FZ50 features a 2inch LCD that can flip out to 180 degrees, making it easier to view when shooting from high or low angles. In terms of optional accessories, the DMC-FZ50 is now compatible with TTL external flashes.

FX3 KEY FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS:

10.1MP CCD and f/2.8 12x optical zoom LEICA DC lens
The DMC-FZ50 includes a 10.1-megapixel CCD and f/2.8 Leica DC Vario-Elemarit 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35mm to 420mm with a 35mm film camera) lens. The lens unit is comprised of 14 elements in 10 groups including three aspherical lenses and an ED lens. Extra optical zoom, made possible by using the center part of the CCD, extends 12x optical zoom to up to 21.4x for 3MP image recording.

Intensified functionality in pursuit of full manual operation
Like the FZ30, the FZ50 features both zoom and focusing rings on the lens barrel, while two dials under the index finger and thumb enable users to compensate exposure directly. A Function button serves as a shortcut to commonly used settings such as image size, light metering, AF area, white balance, and ISO sensitivity.

Faster AF
The AF mode can be selected according to the shooting situation: 9-point, 3-point high speed, 1-point high speed, 1-point normal speed and Spot. In 1-point and 1-point high speed AF modes, the AF area is selectable from the nine focusing areas with a joystick to best fit the composition of the subjects.

Wide VGA video recording for viewing on widescreen TV
In addition to standard VGA (640×480) at 30fps motion image recording, the FZ50 also records full-size movies in wide-aspect VGA (848×480) at 30fps. Zooming while recording video is also possible with the manual zoom ring, while image clarity improved through optical image stabilization.

Included software and optional accessories
To edit and develop RAW files, SILKYPIX Developer Studio 2.0SE software is bundled with the FZ50. The camera is also compatible with all existing FZ30 accessories, in addition to TTL external flash (GN50 or GN36). Further optional accessories include:

DMW-LT55 Tele conversion lens
DMW-LW55 Wide conversion lens
DMW-LND55 ND filter
DMW-LMC55 MC protector
DMW-LC55 Close-up lens
DMW-RSL1 Remote shutter
DMW-AC7 AC adaptor
CGR-S006 Lithium ion Battery (710 mAh)
DMW-FL500 External Flash (GN50)
DMW-FL360 External Flash (GN36)
DMC-CZA30 Leather Case

Find out more information at www.panasonic.co.uk