Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2

The 10 mega pixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 is the latest point and shoot camera from the Panasonic stable. Its image stabilization features are no far cry from its previous models, but in DMC-LX2, they have dispensed with the long zoom of its earlier models, in order to make it more compact and stylish. However, still it is not so pocket friendly as the zoom still protrudes a good 0.75 inch off the surface when the camera is in the turn off mode. There is a lens cap, but it is not integrated into the camera body.

Compared with its predecessor, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1, which was released a year earlier, the DMC-LX2’s main update involves its resolution. The new camera takes 4224 x 2376-pixel pictures with a wide-screen ratio of 16:9 – a format that is quite unique to this camera. Further, a three position switch on the lens helps the user to jump to the DVD dimensions mode (3:2) or to the traditional 4:3 mode. In the former case, it gives 8.5 mp, while in the 4:3 mode the user could get a maximum resolution of 7.5 mp only.

With its highest resolution setting, the zoom gives 4x. However, at reduced resolutions – for example, at 2 mega pixels – the zoom lens stretches to give 6.2x.

DMC-LX2’s HD mode is suitable to snap wide angled photographs. Further, if chosen the right formats, the camera’s unusual 2.8 inch LCD screen crops the photos very much as in HDTV technology. However, for novices, it may take a while to get used to the intricacies of the HD mode as it may appear to be a bit complicated the first time.

Also, since the LCD is a bit wider than usual, the user may have to move their eyes to cover the entire screen if the camera is not held at least at an arm’s length. Another nifty feature that comes with the DMC-LX2 is the ‘high angle’ mode, which makes it easier to view shots when the camera is held at a height (for example, over the head photos).

Regarding button controls, they are easy to use and are conveniently placed on the top and back of the camera body. The mode dial and menu navigation buttons are located on the back of the camera – like in any other model – so is the DMC-LX2’s unique exposure lock button. The shutter and aperture speeds are controlled by a tiny joystick, again situated on the back of the camera (it also controls the manual focus). On the top is located the buttons for click, zoom, and image stabilization. However, on the downside, the flash must be popped up manually (it is not automated).

The image quality is simply superb, so are other aspects such as its image-stabilization modes, various scene modes (18 in all), aperture and shutter priority, and battery life. The battery life, even though it is not the best in the league, is very much ok.

Finally, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2’s guarantee, it is not so great. Even though, most parts of the camera carry a one year warranty, the same does not holds for the CCD. It is only covered for 6 months. Also, the labor warranty is for three months only.