Panasonic launches enthusiast-focused FX150 ultracompact

[David Rasnake]

The latest addition to Panasonic's formidable stable of ultracompacts, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX150, boasts full-size exposure control in a pocket-size package.

Manual exposure control and RAW shooting top the list of what makes Panasonic's newest high-end ultracompact unique. A multiple exposure option further expands creative possibilities with the FX150, allowing shooters to compose a single frame made up of up to three superimposed shots.

At 14.7 megapixels, the FX150 also ties Samsung's recently launched TL34HD for top resolution honors among point-and-shoot cameras. According to Panasonic, high-res capture on the FX150's 1/1.72-inch CCD sensor allows users plenty of flexibility to aggressively crop shots after the fact.

An optically stabilized 3.6x Leica zoom with a 28mm f/2.8 wide-angle end affords the FX150 equal flexibility where initial shot composition is concerned.

Intelligent Auto shooting, Intelligent ISO, Panasonic's shadow/highlight balancing Intelligent Exposure technology, and Venus Engine IV processing carry over from Panasonic's current models. An AF Tracking function seen in all of the Lumix fall releases locks focus onto a specific point or object within the frame, and can be used to track moving subjects as well.

Also new to Lumix cameras this time around is a Image Leveling function, which can be used to correct shots that skew slightly to one side with an in-camera tool.

High Definition 1280x720 video captured at 24 fps makes the new FX150 one of a handful of current ultracompacts capable of capturing HD-ready movie clips.

With a range of processing options, manual control and RAW shooting, and a powerful wide-angle lens, the FX150 goes beyond expectations for its class, offering a level of creative control that should have broad appeal. Priced at $399.95, the FX150 will be available for purchase in August.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX150 Specifications:

Sensor	14.7 megapixel CCD, 1/1.72"
Lens/Zoom	3.6x (28-100mm) Leica DC Vario-Elmarit, f/2.8-5.6
LCD/Viewfinder	2.7", 230K dot TFT LCD Display
Sensitivity	ISO 100-1600
Shutter Speed	60-1/2000 seconds
Shooting Modes	Intelligent Auto, Program AE, Manual, Motion Picture, Scene
Scene Presets	Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Food, Party, Candle Light, Baby1, Baby2, Pet, Sunset, High sensitivity, Hi-Speed Burst, Flash-Burst, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial photo, Film Grain, Pin Hole
White Balance Settings	Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Halogen, Color Temperature, White Set 1, White Set 2
Metering Modes	Intelligent Multiple, Center-Weighted, Spot
Focus Modes	Normal / Macro, Quick AF On/Off (On in Intelligent Auto), AF Area Select, AF Tracking
Drive Modes	Single, Burst, High-speed Burst
Flash Modes	Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Forced On, Slow Sync/Red-Eye Reduction, Forced Off
Self Timer Settings	10 seconds, 2 seconds, Off
Memory Formats	SD, SDHC, MultiMediaCard
Internal Memory	50MB
File Formats	JPEG, RAW, Motion JPEG
Max. Image Size	4416x3312
Max. Video Size	1280x720, 24 fps
Zoom During Video	Yes
Battery	Rechargeable 1150 mAh lithium-ion, 330 shots
Connections	USB 2.0, AV output, HD AV output, DC input
Additional Features	Mega OIS Image Stabilization, Venus Engine IV processor, Intelligent ISO, Intelligent Scene Selector, RAW shooting, HD video capture, Image Leveling

[putte]

You say:
Zoom during Video = YES

Is this correct ?
I have seen other saying NO to the possibility to zoom during recording a video !